The 36th edition of the International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2024) has brought together researchers around the world to explore the role of robotics in achieving sustainable development goals.
Running from Monday to Friday in UAE's Abu Dhabi, the IROS 2024 presents various events including forums and workshops under the theme of "Robotics for Sustainable Development". Visitors can also find smart robots in the exhibition area performing all kinds of tasks from making drinks to playing soccer.
Khalifa University, the organizer of this year's convention, brought the IROS to the Middle East for the first time in the event's 36 years run.
"Our planet is under increasing threats, from more population, from habitat destruction, pollution, many, many areas. So I think robotics and AI, they are at the forefront of trying to solve these challenges and to address the sustainability development issues. And we are very, very proud to be hosting this event now," said Dr. Lakmal Seneviratne, director of the KU Center for Robotics and Autonomous Systems at Khalifa University.
IROS 2024 explores robotics' role in sustainable development
IROS 2024 explores robotics' role in sustainable development
U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday that he is considering "winding down" the U.S. military strikes against Iran, claiming the United States is "getting very close to" meeting its objectives.
"We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East" with respect to Iran, Trump said on Truth Social.
The objectives Trump outlined include degrading Iran's missile capabilities, destroying its defense industrial base, eliminating its navy and air force, preventing it from ever approaching nuclear capability and protecting U.S. allies across the region.
Also on Friday, Trump said that he does not want a ceasefire with Iran.
"We can have dialogue, but you know, I don't want to do a ceasefire," Trump told reporters before he departed the White House for Florida, noting "You don't do a ceasefire when you're literally obliterating the other side."
"U.S. government says one thing, reality says another," Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said Friday on X, questioning White House's repeated claims that Iran's air defenses and Navy have been destroyed.
Trump on Truth Social also said that the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy waterway, should be secured by the countries that rely on it and Washington would assist if asked.
"The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it -- The United States does not! If asked, we will help these Countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn't be necessary once Iran's threat is eradicated," Trump added.
The United States and Israel launched joint military strikes on Iran on Feb 28, disrupting global shipping, sending oil prices soaring and shaking the global economy.
Trump says considering "winding down" strikes on Iran
