Archive: 3 August 2026
Showing 1,401-1,450 of 1,519 articles
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:28 WIB
Five Harrods Abuse Victims Recognised by UK as Victims of Modern Slavery
The UK Home Office has formally recognised five female victims of the late Mohamed Al Fayed as victims of modern slavery and human trafficking. The decision, made through the National Referral Mechanism, is seen as a significant legal validation that could bolster witness credibility in ongoing criminal investigations. The Metropolitan Police are currently investigating whether other parties facilitated Al Fayed's crimes, with over 150 victims having come forward.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:26 WIB
37,367 Foreign Tourists Use Train Services in Bandung's Operational Area 2 During First Half of 2026
PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Operational Area 2 in Bandung recorded 37,367 foreign passengers using its train services between January and June 2026. Bandung Station alone accounted for 28,078 of these passengers, representing 75 percent of the total. The company attributes the railway's growing popularity among international tourists to improved safety, comfort, punctuality, and better connectivity to various destinations.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:25 WIB
Asian Markets in the Red, Kospi Plunges 4% Despite Trump Delaying Iran Attack
Asia-Pacific stock markets opened sharply lower on Monday as geopolitical uncertainty in the Middle East continued to weigh on investor sentiment. South Korea's Kospi index led the losses with a plunge of over 4%, despite US President Donald Trump announcing the cancellation of a planned attack on Iran. The cautious mood reflects ongoing concerns about global trade routes and energy security, even with signs of potential de-escalation.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:24 WIB
BRPT Posts Revenue of US$5,686 Million in First Half of 2026
PT Barito Pacific Tbk reported consolidated revenue of US$5,686 million for the first half of 2026, driven by strong performance in its refinery and renewable energy segments. The company's integrated portfolio helped it navigate global volatility, with EBITDA reaching US$1,084 million and net profit after tax at US$518 million. Barito Pacific also highlighted progress on its domestic CA-EDC project and geothermal expansion, reinforcing its long-term commitment to Indonesia's energy infrastructure.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:22 WIB
Bandung Mayor Furious After Trees Felled in Front of Padel Court, Management Summoned
The management of a padel court in Bandung will be summoned by authorities after trees were illegally felled in front of their premises. Mayor Muhammad Farhan expressed his fury during an impromptu inspection, prompting the Public Order Agency to investigate the violation. Offenders face a fine of Rp 10 million and are required to plant 100 replacement saplings under local regulations.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:21 WIB
27,000 Litres of Clean Water Distributed to Combat Drought in Banyumas
The National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has confirmed the distribution of 27,000 litres of clean water to drought-stricken areas in Banyumas Regency, Central Java. The aid, delivered by the local disaster agency (BPBD) and volunteers, targeted several villages and two Islamic boarding schools in the Cilongok and Ajibarang districts. Officials have urged local governments to monitor water supplies and educate residents on conservation during the dry season.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:20 WIB
Indonesia's Manufacturing PMI Rebounds in July, Firms Begin Hiring Again
Indonesia's manufacturing sector showed signs of recovery in July 2026, with the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) rising to 50.2 after a sharp contraction in June. The improvement was driven by stabilising new orders and renewed customer confidence, prompting factories to hire staff for the first time in five months. However, rising raw material costs and weak export orders continue to pose challenges to a stronger recovery.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:18 WIB
Paramount Petals Introduces Shuttle Bus Service to West Jakarta
Paramount Land has partnered with White Horse Group to launch a shuttle bus service connecting its Paramount Petals township in Tangerang to the DayTrans transit point in Grogol, West Jakarta. The service aims to enhance mobility for residents by providing seamless access to intercity travel networks and Jakarta's broader transport system. Urban planning expert Yayat Supriatna noted that such connectivity is crucial for transforming new townships into successful growth centres.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:18 WIB
Legal roundup: Food task force names suspects, Kepri fishermen detained in Malaysia
A series of legal and security incidents marked the weekend, including the death of a university student in Gorontalo and the naming of 39 suspects in a rice distribution scandal. Authorities also coordinated aid deliveries to drought-hit Papua and are working to assist fishermen detained in Malaysia.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:14 WIB
BNPB: 'Fire breaking' technique used to combat forest fires in Pinrang
Indonesia's National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) has deployed a 'fire breaking' technique to contain forest and land fires in the hilly terrain of Pinrang Regency, South Sulawesi. The method, which involves creating containment lines, successfully prevented the blaze from spreading further after it scorched approximately five hectares of vegetation. Officials suspect the fire was ignited by dry leaves and branches combusting under intense sunlight.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:13 WIB
122 Survivors of KMP Mutiara Sentosa II Fire Reach Shore, 5 Confirmed Dead
A total of 122 survivors from the KMP Mutiara Sentosa II ferry fire have been evacuated to Surabaya and Sumenep, with five fatalities confirmed. The victims arrived at Tanjung Perak Port and Kalianget Port in the early hours of Monday, where they underwent medical checks and data collection. Search and rescue teams have now accounted for 234 people, while three more vessels carrying evacuees are still en route to Surabaya.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:12 WIB
Update on KMP Mutiara Sentosa: Hundreds Evacuated, Five Dead
A fire aboard the KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 ferry off the coast of Sumenep, Madura, has resulted in five confirmed fatalities. Rescue teams have evacuated 331 people from the vessel, which was travelling from Surabaya to Makassar with 275 passengers and crew, plus hundreds of vehicles. The joint search and rescue operation is ongoing, with survivors being transported to Surabaya and Sumenep for medical treatment and identification.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:12 WIB
YouTuber Bigmo Reported to Police Over Alleged Child Exploitation in Vape Promotion
Indonesian YouTuber Muhammad Jannah, known as Bigmo, has been reported to the Jakarta Metropolitan Police for allegedly involving minors in a live-streamed promotion of vape liquid. The Ministry of Communication and Digital has also issued a formal warning to YouTube, demanding the removal of the content and stronger moderation to protect children. Bigmo has publicly apologised, but the complainant insists the legal process should continue out of concern for child protection.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:12 WIB
Visible Double Standards, Hidden Order
An Indonesian diplomat argues that Western double standards in international relations, such as differing approaches to Iran and Israel's nuclear capabilities, are a symptom of a deeper power imbalance rather than mere hypocrisy. The article suggests that all nations prioritise strategic interests over universal principles, and that Indonesia must understand this dynamic to formulate a more realistic foreign policy.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:06 WIB
Zulhas: KNMP Bilelando records revenue of Rp133 million in 3.5 months
The Kampung Nelayan Merah Putih (KNMP) Bilelando in Central Lombok has generated approximately Rp133 million in revenue within its first three and a half months of operation. Coordinating Minister for Food Zulkifli Hasan stated that the integrated facilities are designed to reduce operational costs and improve the quality and income of local fishermen. The government is targeting the construction of 5,000 such fishing villages by 2029 to support coastal economic ecosystems.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:04 WIB
DPR: Restorative Justice Must Be an Integral Part of Case Handling
A member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission III has urged the police to strengthen legal services by prioritising restorative justice and the protection of citizens' rights. The call was made during a meeting with the Karangasem Police Chief, where various local disputes, including boundary and customary conflicts, were discussed. The legislator highlighted that the new Criminal Procedure Code reinforces restorative justice, ensuring criminal cases do not always end in imprisonment.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:03 WIB
Latest US Survey: Trump's Immigration Overreach and Economic Weakness Erode Public Support
A new AP-NORC survey reveals that while immigration remains President Trump's strongest issue, a majority of Americans now believe he has gone too far in restricting legal immigration. His overall approval has declined since the start of his second term, with only 32% approving of his economic management and seven in ten describing the national economy as poor.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:02 WIB
122 Passengers Evacuated from KMP Mutiara Sentosa II Fire Arrive Safely in Surabaya and Sumenep
A total of 122 survivors from the KMP Mutiara Sentosa II ferry fire have been successfully evacuated to land, with 113 arriving at Tanjung Perak Port in Surabaya and nine at Kalianget Port in Sumenep. All evacuees are receiving medical examinations, and search and rescue operations are continuing for remaining passengers. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 08:01 WIB
Alta Citra Bintaro introduces modern premium residences in strategic location
Alta Citra Bintaro has launched a new premium housing development in South Tangerang, featuring 141 residential units and 41 commercial spaces with classic European architecture. The development, with houses starting from Rp1.2 billion and shop-offices from Rp3 billion, is positioned to capitalise on Bintaro's growth as a promising property hub. The company inaugurated its Marketing Gallery to strengthen its presence in the premium housing market, citing robust infrastructure and sustained demand for quality residences.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:58 WIB
PLN Reveals Cause of South Jakarta-Tangsel Blackout, Power Gradually Restored
State electricity firm PLN has attributed a power outage affecting parts of South Jakarta and South Tangerang to a supply disruption from the Gandul substation. The incident occurred early Monday morning, with restoration efforts beginning shortly after technical safety checks. Power was gradually restored to all affected customers by 7:00 AM local time.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:56 WIB
Papuan Separatists Shoot Road Project Workers, Five Killed
Armed separatists in Papua's Tolikara Regency attacked workers from PT SHJ, killing five people in the early hours of Monday. The attack extends a recent spate of violence in the highland region, following the evacuation of another shooting victim by security forces just days earlier. Authorities are currently working to recover and identify the victims.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:55 WIB
Facts About the KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 Fire: Evacuation Process and Casualties
A major fire broke out on the passenger ferry KMP Mutiara Sentosa 2 in the waters north of Madura, triggering a large-scale rescue operation. Five passengers were confirmed dead while 227 others were evacuated, with many jumping into the sea to escape the flames. Minister of Transportation Dudy Purwagandhi visited the survivors at the port and expressed his condolences, stating that data matching is underway to confirm the final number of people onboard.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:55 WIB
Foreign Investors Dump Commodity Shares, NSSS Leads Weekly Net Sell
Despite a headline net buy figure of Rp7.10 trillion, foreign investors were net sellers in Indonesia's regular market last week, driven by a massive negotiated transaction in Mitra Adiperkasa. The palm oil producer Nusantara Sawit Sejahtera led the sell-off, with commodity and banking stocks facing significant profit-taking. The Jakarta Composite Index still managed a weekly gain, supported by select banking and industrial shares.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:54 WIB
Indonesian govt deploys patrol ships after ferry fire kills five
The Indonesian government has deployed patrol ships and coordinated rescue efforts after a fire broke out on the KM Mutiara Sentosa II ferry in waters north of Sumenep, East Java, resulting in five fatalities. The Transportation Ministry's immediate priority was the safe evacuation of all passengers and crew, with 232 people accounted for by Sunday evening. An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway while authorities continue to monitor the situation.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:51 WIB
KPK Chief Haunted by Harun Masiku's Elusive Status, Former Investigator Proposes Special Task Force
Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) Chairman Setyo Budiyanto has admitted that the ongoing failure to arrest fugitive Harun Masiku weighs heavily on the leadership. Former KPK investigator Yudi Purnomo Harahap has urged the anti-graft body to form a special task force to intensify the manhunt. Critics have also warned the KPK against resorting to an in absentia trial, arguing it would represent a moral failure and potentially grant the fugitive impunity.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:50 WIB
Tesla's Self-Driving Safety Under Scrutiny as Former Manager Alleges Negligence in Lawsuit
A former Tesla manager has filed a lawsuit alleging the company ignored his safety concerns regarding its Full Self-Driving feature. Javier Medrano claims he was fired after raising issues about understaffing and a lack of resources for the safety testing team. The lawsuit seeks reinstatement and financial damages, adding a managerial dimension to the ongoing technical criticisms of Tesla's autonomous driving technology.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:49 WIB
Tears of Joy as Families Reunite with Survivors of KMP Mutiara Sentosa Ferry Fire
Survivors of the KMP Mutiara Sentosa ferry fire arrived at Gapura Surya Nusantara Port in Surabaya, where they were met with emotional reunions and immediate medical attention. Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi was present to oversee the evacuation process. Authorities confirmed that 231 people survived the incident, while five were reported dead.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:47 WIB
Explosion Heard Near Oil Tanker Off Oman Coast, Crew Reported Safe
An explosion was reported near an oil tanker off the coast of Oman, though all crew members are confirmed safe. The incident occurred as Iran announced progress in talks with Oman over a new transit route through the Strait of Hormuz. The UK Maritime Trade Operations has advised vessels in the area to exercise caution.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:46 WIB
KKN Students Complain About Dangerous, Dark Village Roads, DPR's Rajiv Promises Street Lighting Repairs
Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) Rajiv has pledged to address the lack of public street lighting in West Bandung Regency after receiving direct complaints from university students conducting community service. The Nasdem Party politician stated that the issue of dark and unsafe village roads would be a priority for coordination with relevant agencies. Rajiv made the commitment during his recess period, which he is using to gather public aspirations on various issues including agricultural infrastructure and food security.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:45 WIB
Official: Fuel Prices at Pertamina, Shell, BP, and Vivo Petrol Stations as of 3 August
Indonesian fuel providers, including state-owned Pertamina and private companies Shell, BP-AKR, and Vivo, have adjusted their non-subsidised fuel prices effective 1 August 2026. The price reductions, seen in products like Pertamax Turbo which fell to Rp18,300 per litre, follow global oil price trends and rupiah exchange rate considerations. The adjustments aim to maintain supply stability while considering public purchasing power.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:44 WIB
Rohul Ranks 9th Nationally in Investment Services, Proof of Friendlier Business Climate
Rokan Hulu Regency in Riau has achieved a top-ten national ranking for its investment services, securing 9th place in a performance assessment by the Ministry of Investment. The Bupati hailed the result as evidence of successful collaboration and a commitment to transparent, efficient public service. The local government aims to leverage this recognition to attract more domestic and foreign investors to boost economic growth and create jobs.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:42 WIB
Indonesia probes detention of Riau fishermen in Malaysia
Indonesian authorities are investigating the detention of several fishermen from the Riau Islands by Malaysian officials, with preliminary reports suggesting their vessels drifted into Sarawak waters after anchor failures. The provincial government is coordinating with the Indonesian Consulate General in Kuching to verify the exact number of detainees and their condition. This incident highlights ongoing border management challenges and the need for consular support for Indonesian citizens working in contested maritime areas.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:39 WIB
Truck Drivers Jump into Sea to Escape Burning KM Mutiara Sentosa 2 Ferry
Three logistics truck drivers were forced to jump into the sea to escape a fire aboard the KM Mutiara Sentosa 2 ferry off the coast of Madura. The evacuation was hampered by bad weather and high waves, preventing rescue vessels from coming alongside. A total of 236 passengers were evacuated, with 231 surviving and five confirmed dead.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:39 WIB
Pupuk Kaltim to Represent Indonesia at ICRS 2026, Showcasing Bontang Coral Restoration
PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur (Pupuk Kaltim) will present its 15-year coral reef restoration programme in Bontang at the 16th International Coral Reef Symposium in Auckland. The state-owned fertiliser company is the sole Indonesian industry representative at the global scientific forum, highlighting its integration of ecological rehabilitation with coastal community empowerment. The initiative has restored 2.23 hectares of reef, significantly increasing marine biodiversity and serving as a collaborative conservation model.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:38 WIB
Joint search team rescues 4 missing hikers on Mount Lokon
A joint search and rescue operation successfully located four missing hikers on Mount Lokon in North Sulawesi, with all found safe at the summit early Sunday morning. The Manado Search and Rescue Office coordinated with police, the Indonesian Red Cross, and local volunteers after receiving a distress call late Saturday night. Officials have urged hikers to prioritise safety by carrying essential gear and monitoring volcanic activity before attempting climbs.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:37 WIB
Pupuk Kaltim Rehabilitates 2.23 Hectares of Coral Reef in Bontang
State-owned fertiliser company PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur has successfully rehabilitated 2.23 hectares of coral reef in Bontang, East Kalimantan, through a conservation programme running since 2011. The initiative, which uses artificial reef modules and community empowerment, was presented at the 16th International Coral Reef Symposium in New Zealand. The company reports a significant recovery in marine biodiversity, with 57 fish families and 69 coral genera now recorded in the area.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:33 WIB
ELSA share buyback plan strengthens shareholder value - BCA Sekuritas
PT Elnusa Tbk (ELSA) has announced a share buyback plan worth up to Rp100 billion, signalling management's confidence in the company's solid business fundamentals and future prospects. The buyback, to be conducted between August and November 2026 using internal cash reserves, aims to stabilise the share price amid market volatility and enhance shareholder value. The company assured that its healthy financial position ensures the corporate action will not disrupt operational activities or business development plans.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:33 WIB
Indonesia's Food Task Force names 39 suspects in rice fraud crackdown
Indonesia's Food Task Force has named 39 suspects in a major crackdown on rice fraud, following a directive from President Prabowo Subianto to dismantle food cartels. The alleged irregularities, involving fortified and premium rice, are estimated to have caused public losses of up to 98 trillion rupiah. The government is expanding nationwide inspections to ensure food quality and fair pricing, with youth and student organisations pledging their support for the initiative.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:32 WIB
MSMEs Must Adapt Amidst the Storm of Efficiency and VAT Burden
Indonesian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are facing a critical juncture as they navigate the pressures of a fast-paced digital market and evolving economic regulations. The article argues that reliance on conventional operational methods is no longer sufficient, with inefficiencies in supply chains and manual financial record-keeping eroding profit margins. It emphasises that embracing digital ecosystems and artificial intelligence is essential for MSMEs to achieve operational efficiency, expand market reach, and ensure long-term sustainability.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:30 WIB
Jababeka (KIJA) Posts Rp6.44 Billion Loss in First Half of 2026
PT Kawasan Industri Jababeka Tbk. (KIJA) swung to a net loss of Rp6.44 billion in the first half of 2026, a sharp reversal from a Rp627.56 billion profit a year earlier. The downturn was driven by a 10.6% drop in revenue and a surge in other expenses linked to the one-off refinancing of its Senior Notes. Excluding these non-operational charges, the company maintained an operational profit, albeit 36% lower, and reported a positive operating cash flow.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:30 WIB
Malaysian Pilot Smuggled Drugs and Carried 'Clean' Urine to Cheat Tests
A Malaysia Airlines pilot has been arrested at Soekarno-Hatta Airport for attempting to smuggle crystal methamphetamine. Police revealed the suspect also carried a bottle of clean urine intended to falsify a drug test. The airline has stated it will cooperate with Indonesian authorities and does not tolerate such violations.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:30 WIB
BRIN Professor: Super El Niño Has Formed, Temperatures Rising 0.1°C Weekly
A researcher from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has confirmed the formation of a 'Super El Niño' at the end of July 2026, with sea surface temperatures rising by 0.1 degrees Celsius each week. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) corroborated the strong El Niño phase, warning of heightened risks of drought and forest fires across the archipelago.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:27 WIB
Grandeur That Paves the Way
The transformation of vacant land in Kedung Cowek, Surabaya, into a modern integrated educational complex represents a strategic shift in Indonesia's approach to poverty alleviation. The Sekolah Rakyat programme moves beyond social assistance, focusing on long-term human capital investment by providing comprehensive boarding school facilities for children from the poorest families. The initiative aims to break the cycle of poverty by addressing complex barriers to education, not just school fees.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:25 WIB
Pertamina strengthens local MSME empowerment through Rumah BUMN
State-owned energy company Pertamina is intensifying its support for local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through its Rumah BUMN programme, focusing on sustainable mentoring and market access. The initiative recently facilitated 13 MSMEs from Tojo Una-Una Regency, Central Sulawesi, to participate in a provincial-level bazaar. The programme aligns with the government's Astacita vision for inclusive economic growth by promoting digital transactions and enhancing product quality.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:24 WIB
KMP Mutiara Sentosa II Fire: Ministry of Transport to Evaluate Operator and Safety Systems
The Indonesian Ministry of Transport will evaluate the operator of KMP Mutiara Sentosa II following a fire in the waters north of Sumenep, East Java. The evaluation will be based on the findings of the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT) investigation, particularly as the vessel has reportedly caught fire twice. Authorities are also prioritising the reconciliation of passenger manifests with evacuee data, noting discrepancies due to unrecorded cancellations and children not listed on the manifest.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:20 WIB
Power Outages Hit Parts of South Jakarta and South Tangerang on Monday Morning
Several areas in South Jakarta and South Tangerang experienced power cuts on Monday morning, with state electricity company PLN confirming repair works are underway. Affected locations include Ciledug, Pondok Aren, Pamulang, and Bintaro, with some residents reporting the blackout began at dawn. A school in Pondok Cabe was also impacted by the disruption.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:17 WIB
Kemkomdigi Reprimands YouTube, Toyota Land Cruiser Hybrid Debuts
Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi) has issued a first warning letter to YouTube over live-streamed content promoting e-cigarettes involving children. In automotive news, Toyota introduced the Land Cruiser 300 Hybrid EV at the GIIAS 2026 motor show. Other stories include fashion designers being urged to preserve cultural heritage and a K-pop solo debut announcement.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:15 WIB
Coordinating Minister: Housing Sector Improves Public Welfare
Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono has emphasised that the housing sector is a national priority with broad impacts on public welfare. He highlighted that cross-ministerial collaboration is key to accelerating the provision of quality, affordable homes. The government's subsidised mortgage programme has seen significant uptake, with over 121,000 units realised by July 2026, predominantly benefiting private sector workers and younger generations.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:15 WIB
Gold Price Forecast This Week: Beware of a Plunge Below US$4,000!
Gold prices are under renewed pressure as a strengthening US dollar and expectations of sustained high interest rates from the Federal Reserve weigh on the precious metal. Despite a slight rebound on Monday, analysts warn that a failure to hold the psychological support level of US$4,000 could trigger a deeper sell-off. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have failed to boost safe-haven demand for gold, as investors currently favour the US dollar.
Mon, 03 Aug 2026, 07:11 WIB
When Migration Becomes a Weapon: The Geopolitical Calculus Behind the Ceuta Crisis
The recent surge of migrants breaching the Spanish exclave of Ceuta is not merely a humanitarian crisis but a calculated instance of 'weaponised migration'. While the immediate trigger appears to be a Spanish Supreme Court ruling and the exploitation of human smuggling networks, the underlying motive is likely Morocco's localised territorial pressure on Spain regarding Ceuta, Melilla, and the Western Sahara dispute, rather than a broader alignment with Middle Eastern geopolitics.