Global Pulse

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  • Syria to start replacing currency from January 1: Central bank chief

    Syria to start replacing currency from January 1: Central bank chief

    Damascus announces a comprehensive monetary transformation as Syria prepares to introduce a redesigned national currency beginning January 1, 2026. Central Bank Governor Abdul Qadir Al Hasriya confirmed the currency replacement initiative marks a fundamental shift in Syria’s economic trajectory following the nation’s political transition.

    The currency revitalization represents a critical component of Syria’s economic reconstruction strategy, with authorities planning to remove two zeros from the existing currency denominations. This structural adjustment aims to streamline financial transactions while maintaining the currency’s intrinsic value. The central bank intends to circulate six new banknote denominations that will gradually replace current notes featuring images of former leaders Bashar Al Assad and his father Hafez.

    Governor Hasriya characterized the monetary overhaul as occurring at a ‘pivotal national juncture that reflects the beginning of a new economic and monetary era.’ He further described the new currency as ‘a symbol of our financial sovereignty after the liberation’ and ‘a firm step towards stability and economic recovery.’

    The Syrian pound has experienced catastrophic devaluation since the outbreak of civil war in 2011, plummeting from approximately 50 to 10,000-11,000 against the US dollar. This hyperinflation has forced citizens to carry substantial bundles of banknotes for routine purchases, severely hampering daily economic activity.

    The currency transition coincides with significant international developments, including the United States’ permanent removal of Caesar Act sanctions this month. This diplomatic shift potentially opens Syria to foreign investment after years of economic isolation. Banking officials will provide detailed implementation guidelines during a press conference scheduled for Sunday, outlining the technical parameters of the currency conversion process.

  • New York Post slammed for smearing Ms Rachel after Mamdani inauguration pick

    New York Post slammed for smearing Ms Rachel after Mamdani inauguration pick

    The appointment of children’s content creator Ms. Rachel to New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s inaugural committee has ignited significant controversy, revealing deep divisions over Palestinian solidarity discourse in American politics. The New York Post’s characterization of Ms. Rachel as a ‘controversial YouTube star’ has drawn widespread criticism from activists and parents who argue that humanitarian advocacy for Gazan children is being deliberately misrepresented.

    Ms. Rachel (Rachel Griffin Accurso), an educational content creator with 18 million followers, has utilized her platform to call for an end to child casualties in Gaza. Her inclusion on the 400-member transition team—one of the largest in NYC history—alongside figures like actor Cynthia Nixon and Jewish Voice for Peace’s Beth Miller, reflects Mamdani’s commitment to a progressive coalition that propelled his electoral victory.

    The controversy extends beyond media framing to institutional responses. Both Ms. Rachel and Nixon were previously named finalists on StopAntisemitism’s ‘Antisemite of the Year’ list, a designation critics argue is increasingly weaponized against voices critical of Israeli policy rather than addressing genuine antisemitism. Ms. Rachel revealed on Instagram that resulting harassment forced her to hire personal security due to false allegations supporting Hamas.

    While pro-Israel organizations like the Anti-Defamation League have criticized the appointments, claiming 20% of transition team members have anti-Zionist affiliations, supporters maintain the selections reflect humanitarian principles rather than religious hostility. One appointee, Catherine Almonte Da Costa, resigned after decade-old antisemitic posts surfaced, which she disavowed as no longer reflecting her views.

    Mamdani has defended the selections as representative of diverse viewpoints within his progressive coalition, emphasizing that advocacy for Palestinian rights and opposition to Israeli government violence are legitimate political positions. The inauguration, scheduled for January 1, 2026, will feature a public block party in downtown Manhattan framed as an inclusive civic celebration rather than an exclusive political ceremony.

    This confrontation over a routine political process has evolved into a significant flashpoint, exposing fundamental tensions regarding Middle East discourse, media representation of dissent, and the boundaries of acceptable political speech in American public life.

  • Should a top Russian archaeologist face trial for digging in occupied Crimea?

    Should a top Russian archaeologist face trial for digging in occupied Crimea?

    The arrest of Russian archaeologist Alexander Butyagin in Warsaw has become a focal point in the escalating tension between cultural preservation and geopolitical conflict. Butyagin, a senior scholar at St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum, faces potential extradition to Ukraine over allegations of conducting illegal excavations in Crimea since Russia’s 2014 annexation of the peninsula.

    Ukrainian authorities accuse Butyagin of violating international protocols by continuing archaeological work at the ancient Greek site of Myrmekion without proper authorization. The 6th-century BC settlement, where Butyagin has led expeditions since 1999, contains artifacts dating to Alexander the Great’s era. A Kyiv court issued an arrest warrant in April 2025, charging him with ‘illegal partial destruction’ of an archaeological complex and unauthorized excavations.

    The case highlights a fundamental conflict: Butyagin’s supporters claim he has protected Crimea’s heritage from looting, while critics argue his work legitimizes Russia’s occupation. Under the Hague Convention’s 2nd Protocol, which both Poland and Ukraine have ratified, occupying powers must prevent archaeological excavations except in narrowly defined circumstances. Russia, not a party to the protocol, has permitted continued work through its Ministry of Culture.

    Evelina Kravchenko of Ukraine’s National Academy of Sciences asserts that any excavation during armed conflict without permission constitutes destruction, regardless of ethical intentions. The Hermitage maintains Butyagin complied with all legal norms, transferring finds to Crimea’s Eastern Crimean Museum rather than removing them to Russia—though this still violates Ukrainian law requiring artifacts to remain in Ukraine’s national museum fund.

    The extradition decision carries significant implications for European courts’ handling of similar cases. Previous requests have been denied citing the European Convention on Human Rights, which prohibits politically motivated persecution. Legal expert Gleb Bogush suggests that primary responsibility lies with Russian state officials rather than individual archaeologists, though this distinction may not shield Butyagin from prosecution.

    The case has drawn unusual alliances, with both Kremlin supporters and Russian anti-war figures defending Butyagin’s work. Meanwhile, cultural property experts like Samuel Andrew Hardy contend that official excavations don’t necessarily prevent looting and should not excuse violations of international law during occupation.

  • ALA Developments signals entry into Dubai’s luxury real estate market with Dh1 billion development pipeline

    ALA Developments signals entry into Dubai’s luxury real estate market with Dh1 billion development pipeline

    Dubai’s luxury property sector welcomes a sophisticated new player as ALA Developments announces its strategic entry with a Dh1 billion development pipeline targeting the city’s discerning high-end market. Established in early 2025 and headquartered in Dubai, the developer brings together decades of cross-sector business expertise to create exclusive residential communities prioritizing architectural excellence, privacy, and enduring value.

    The company emerges during a significant market evolution where buyer preferences have shifted toward quality-driven properties rather than volume-based development. Founded by UAE-based entrepreneurs with over thirty years of multifaceted business experience, ALA Developments represents the formal consolidation of operational and investment expertise into a dedicated real estate platform.

    Chairman Hassan Raza emphasized the changing market dynamics: ‘Dubai’s real estate landscape has matured beyond mere scale. Contemporary buyers are globally aware and particularly attentive to design quality and long-term performance. Our development philosophy directly addresses this paradigm shift.’

    Under the leadership of Zaman Abbas, the company leverages deep expertise spanning hospitality, retail, consumer electronics manufacturing, and real estate through established ventures including Iraz Developments, Star Track, Alfstar, and Kobe Sizzlers. This diverse background informs the company’s disciplined, design-first methodology anchored in sustainable fundamentals rather than short-term market fluctuations.

    The flagship project, Creek Views at Jaddaf Waterfront, currently under development with anticipated completion by Q4 2026, exemplifies the company’s commitment to architectural refinement and lifestyle-oriented planning. Simultaneously, three additional luxury residential projects valued collectively at approximately Dh1 billion are advancing through design and planning stages, all scheduled for launch in 2026.

    ALA Developments operates through a design-centric philosophy, collaborating with prominent architects and consultants to deliver residences characterized by thoughtful layouts, material sophistication, and timeless aesthetics. The company integrates privacy-focused planning, gated environments, and sustainable standards as core components of its development approach.

    Positioning itself as a next-generation luxury developer, ALA Developments enters the market with focus on disciplined growth, architectural integrity, and legacy-oriented value creation as Dubai continues to attract long-term residents and global investors seeking refined living experiences.

  • Sharjah Ruler announces govt employee status, pay for imams, muezzins

    Sharjah Ruler announces govt employee status, pay for imams, muezzins

    In a landmark decision that recognizes the vital role of religious leaders, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has officially designated all imams and muezzins throughout the emirate as government employees. This transformative policy shift, announced on December 25, 2025, grants these religious figures the complete spectrum of benefits and privileges enjoyed by public sector staff.

    The directive mandates the placement of mosque leaders on the emirate’s general government payroll, making them eligible for career promotions, comprehensive health insurance coverage, and various financial allowances. A significant component is a specialized work nature allowance of Dh3,000, acknowledging the unique demands of their spiritual duties.

    A particularly notable provision addresses periodic leave management. Imams and muezzins will retain their accrued leave balance indefinitely if they choose not to utilize it. In coordination with the Department of Islamic Affairs, they will receive monetary compensation equivalent to the value of this unused leave.

    This initiative represents a formal institutional recognition of the essential services provided by these religious leaders in maintaining places of worship and serving community spiritual needs. The policy underscores Sharjah’s commitment to supporting those who serve in houses of God, ensuring their dedication is met with appropriate professional and financial security.

  • Saudi Arabia: Man jumps from upper floor of Masjid Al Haram, ‘attempts to take own life’

    Saudi Arabia: Man jumps from upper floor of Masjid Al Haram, ‘attempts to take own life’

    A distressing incident unfolded at Islam’s holiest site on December 25, 2025, when an individual attempted suicide by jumping from an upper floor of Masjid Al Haram in Mecca. According to Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior, security personnel from the Special Force for the Security of the Grand Mosque immediately responded to the emergency situation.

    During the intervention, a security officer sustained injuries while attempting to break the fall of the individual. Both the would-be suicide victim and the injured officer were promptly transferred to medical facilities for emergency treatment. Authorities confirmed that all necessary legal procedures have been completed following the incident.

    The Haram security forces issued an official statement clarifying: ‘There was an incident of a person attempting to take his own life from the upper floors of the Grand Mosque. A security officer was injured while trying to prevent him from hitting the ground at the moment of his fall.’ The statement emphasized that both individuals received immediate medical attention and that official protocols were followed.

    This event marks a rare security and humanitarian challenge at one of the world’s most frequently visited religious sites, which typically sees millions of worshippers annually during pilgrimage seasons. The incident highlights both the ongoing mental health challenges in society and the dedication of security forces tasked with protecting visitors to the holy site.

  • UAE: 3 types of official New Year holidays announced to welcome 2026

    UAE: 3 types of official New Year holidays announced to welcome 2026

    The United Arab Emirates has taken a decisive step toward safeguarding its younger generation with the introduction of comprehensive legislation designed to protect children from digital risks. This pioneering law establishes a robust framework to ensure the secure and responsible use of technology among minors, addressing growing concerns about online safety in an increasingly digital world.

    The legislation mandates strict guidelines for technology providers, educational institutions, and parents to collaboratively create a protected digital environment. It encompasses measures against cyberbullying, inappropriate content exposure, data privacy violations, and other potential threats that children might encounter online. The law also emphasizes digital literacy programs to empower children with the knowledge to navigate the digital landscape safely.

    Concurrently, Dubai continues its tradition of spectacular celebrations with announcements of an expansive New Year’s Eve display for 2026. The emirate plans to illuminate the sky with 48 synchronized fireworks displays across 40 different locations, creating a breathtaking panorama that will be visible throughout the city. This ambitious project underscores Dubai’s position as a global hub for tourism and grand-scale events, combining technological innovation with cultural celebration.

    The simultaneous revelation of these developments presents a striking contrast between the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to digital child protection and its commitment to maintaining its reputation for world-class entertainment and tourism experiences.

  • Fathima Healthcare Group celebrates Christmas with employees at FMC Network corporate office

    Fathima Healthcare Group celebrates Christmas with employees at FMC Network corporate office

    Fathima Healthcare Group transformed its FMC Network corporate office in Bur Dubai into a vibrant holiday venue, hosting an elaborate Christmas celebration that emphasized organizational unity and employee appreciation. The December gathering served as both a seasonal festivity and a strategic reinforcement of the Group’s corporate values.

    The event featured meticulously orchestrated team dance performances, musical presentations, and extensive festive decorations that created an atmosphere of genuine camaraderie. Employees from various departments and hierarchical levels participated enthusiastically, demonstrating their creative talents while building cross-functional relationships in an informal setting.

    Dr K P Hussain, Founder Chairman, and Dr Beena Hussain, Executive Director, personally addressed the assembled staff, extending Christmas greetings and emphasizing the organization’s foundational principles of joy, unity, and togetherness. Their presence underscored leadership’s commitment to maintaining a people-centric culture that aligns with the Group’s long-term vision.

    Beyond seasonal merriment, the celebration represented a deliberate investment in organizational culture—reinforcing Fathima Healthcare Group’s dedication to creating an inclusive workplace environment where professional excellence coexists with strong community bonds. The event successfully translated corporate values into tangible experiences, highlighting how the organization celebrates both diversity and shared achievement.

    This gathering exemplifies contemporary corporate approaches to employee engagement, where festive celebrations serve dual purposes: acknowledging cultural diversity within multinational workforces while strengthening the social fabric that supports operational excellence throughout the year.

  • Trump-backed candidate of Palestinian origin wins Honduras presidential election

    Trump-backed candidate of Palestinian origin wins Honduras presidential election

    After a protracted month-long tabulation process marred by technical complications and allegations of electoral misconduct, Honduras has officially declared Nasry ‘Tito’ Asfura as its next president. The announcement on Christmas Eve concludes a highly polarized electoral period that saw unprecedented involvement from the United States.

    Asfura, a 67-year-old conservative former mayor of Tegucigalpa and established business figure, secured victory with a razor-thin margin of 0.74 percentage points over centrist rival Salvador Nasralla. The electoral council reported that approximately 15 percent of ballots required manual counting due to disputes and technical challenges, ultimately delivering Asfura just over 40 percent of the total vote.

    The Trump administration had positioned itself decisively behind Asfura’s candidacy, with President Donald Trump threatening to切断 all American aid to Honduras if Asfura failed to prevail. This extraordinary intervention marked a significant elevation of Asfura’s profile and underscored Washington’s strategic priorities in the region.

    Secretary of State Marco Rubio promptly extended congratulations, stating the United States looks forward to collaborating with Asfura’s administration on bilateral security cooperation, curbing illegal immigration, and strengthening economic ties. Rubio further urged all parties to respect the officially confirmed results.

    Despite these calls for acceptance, both Nasralla and the president of the Honduran Congress have rejected the outcome, alleging that legitimate ballots were improperly discarded during the counting process. Nevertheless, with international recognition already extending to the declared winner, challenges to the result appear unlikely to alter the final outcome.

    This development represents another strategic victory for the Trump administration’s foreign policy reorientation toward the Western Hemisphere. The pattern of supporting conservative leaders across Latin America includes backing Nayib Bukele in El Salvador, congratulating Chile’s recently elected conservative José Antonio Kast, and endorsing Argentina’s far-right president Javier Milei.

    Asfura’s victory ensures Honduras will transition from left-wing leadership under Xiomara Castro to a government aligned with Washington’s geopolitical interests. The incoming administration has pledged to oppose Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and counter China’s expanding influence in the region—both key objectives of current U.S. foreign policy.

    Notably, many prominent political figures across Central and South America, including Asfura, Nasralla, and Bukele, trace their ancestry to Palestinian Christian families who immigrated during the early 20th century. This demographic phenomenon has produced the ironic circumstance of leaders with Middle Eastern heritage frequently aligning with Israeli interests to maintain favorable relations with Washington and secure vital economic assistance.

  • Dubai Courts to close payment operations on December 31, 2025

    Dubai Courts to close payment operations on December 31, 2025

    Dubai Courts has officially declared a temporary suspension of all in-person payment processing services on December 31, 2025, in observance of New Year’s Eve celebrations. The closure will affect both morning and evening operational periods, marking a strategic pause to accommodate the extensive festivities planned throughout the emirate.

    While traditional payment counters will remain inactive during this period, the judiciary body emphasized that digital payment channels will maintain uninterrupted service. Litigants and legal representatives can continue to process court fees and settlements through the official Dubai Courts website, ensuring minimal disruption to judicial proceedings.

    This operational adjustment reflects Dubai’s continued commitment to digital transformation in its judicial services. The announcement, made on December 25, 2025, provides ample notice for court users to plan their transactions accordingly, either utilizing the electronic platforms or scheduling in-person payments outside the specified closure window.

    The digital payment infrastructure has become increasingly sophisticated, building upon previous innovations such as Abu Dhabi’s pioneering adoption of AE Coin digital currency for judicial services. This stablecoin, regulated by the UAE Central Bank, represents the region’s progressive approach to integrating blockchain technology into governmental operations, though Dubai Courts’ current electronic systems utilize more conventional digital payment methods.