Global Pulse

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  • Watch: Snow in the desert? Saudi Arabia has a white winter in some areas

    Watch: Snow in the desert? Saudi Arabia has a white winter in some areas

    In an extraordinary meteorological phenomenon, the arid landscapes of northwestern Saudi Arabia experienced a rare blanket of snowfall on Thursday, December 18th, 2025. The majestic Jabal Al Lawz mountain region witnessed desert dunes transformed into winter wonderlands as temperatures plummeted across the Arabian Peninsula.

    Social media platforms circulated captivating visuals depicting local residents, clad in winter attire, celebrating the unprecedented weather event with traditional songs and dances. Vehicle rooftops and desert surfaces alike disappeared beneath a layer of white precipitation, creating surreal contrasts against the region’s characteristic terrain.

    This exceptional weather occurrence stems from an extended period of low-pressure systems dominating Middle Eastern atmospheric conditions throughout the previous week. Meteorological authorities from BBC Weather indicated further intensification throughout Thursday, with anticipated thunderstorms progressing eastward toward the United Arab Emirates and Qatar by nightfall.

    The Saudi government, alongside neighboring Gulf nations, has issued comprehensive safety advisories urging citizens to exercise caution during these unusual weather patterns. While residents expressed awe and jubilation at the natural spectacle, authorities emphasized preparedness for continued precipitation and potentially hazardous travel conditions.

    This event marks one of the most significant winter weather occurrences in recent Arabian meteorological history, highlighting changing climate patterns across traditionally arid regions. Scientists and climate observers are particularly interested in documenting the duration and environmental impact of these unusual precipitation events.

  • What the US wants from Canada on trade

    What the US wants from Canada on trade

    In the most explicit articulation of American negotiating positions to date, United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer presented a comprehensive set of demands to a Congressional committee on Wednesday. This testimony forms a critical part of the ongoing review process for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the North American free trade pact whose future hangs in the balance. While both Canada and Mexico advocate for its extension, former President Donald Trump has previously suggested a potential US withdrawal, adding urgency to the proceedings.

    Greer characterized the USMCA as only “successful to a certain degree,” asserting that specific changes are prerequisites for its continuation. The American demands center on three primary areas of longstanding contention.

    Foremost is Canada’s protected dairy sector, governed by a supply-management system that imposes production quotas and strict import controls to bolster domestic farmers. The U.S. contends this framework creates an unfair market, citing Canadian tariffs on American dairy that can soar as high as 400%. Although a limited volume of U.S. dairy enters Canada tariff-free, the designated quota has never been fully utilized. Despite Canada being a top importer of U.S. dairy, purchasing over $1.1 billion in 2024, American officials are pushing for significantly expanded market access. A further grievance involves accusations that Canada is “dumping” specific dairy products, like nonfat milk solids, into international markets at artificially low prices.

    A second major point of friction is Canada’s Online Streaming Act, legislation enacted in 2023 under the previous Trudeau administration. This law mandates that foreign streaming giants, including Netflix and Spotify, financially contribute to and promote Canadian content on their platforms, with a regulator empowered to levy penalties for non-compliance. The U.S. Trade Representative’s office has decried the act as discriminatory against American technology and media corporations, demanding its revision. Greer also cited the separate Online News Act, which prompted Meta to block news content for Canadian users on Facebook and Instagram, as another policy requiring resolution.

    The third key demand addresses the retaliatory bans on American liquor sales enacted by most Canadian provinces earlier this year. These boycotts were a direct response to the sweeping 35% tariffs imposed on Canadian goods by the Trump administration. The move has significantly impacted American producers, and the U.S. is now insisting these products be returned to provincial shelves as a condition for the trade pact’s future.

    Additional, though briefly mentioned, irritants include alleged “discriminatory procurement measures” in Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia, cumbersome customs procedures for U.S. exports, and a dispute over market access for Montana-based power providers into Alberta’s electrical grid, which the Alberta government firmly denies.

  • HR exec in viral Coldplay clip speaks of abuse, threats and trying to find a new job

    HR exec in viral Coldplay clip speaks of abuse, threats and trying to find a new job

    A seemingly innocent moment captured on camera during a Coldplay concert has spiraled into a life-altering ordeal for a former HR executive, demonstrating the devastating power of viral public shaming in the digital age. Kristin Cabot, 53, has broken her silence regarding the July incident at a Boston show where cameras captured her embracing her then-boss, Andy Byron, CEO of tech firm Astronomer.

    The footage showed the pair swaying to music before abruptly ducking away when they realized they appeared on the giant screen—a reaction that prompted Coldplay frontman Chris Martin to quip to the audience: ‘Either they’re having an affair, or they’re just very shy.’ This offhand comment ignited an internet firestorm that would ultimately cost both individuals their careers and subject Cabot to relentless harassment.

    In her first extensive interviews with both The Times and The New York Times, Cabot revealed the profound personal and professional consequences she has endured since the viral moment. Despite maintaining that no sexual relationship existed between her and Byron—and that they had never kissed prior to that evening—Cabot acknowledges having a ‘crush’ on her boss and making ‘a bad decision’ after consuming alcohol at the concert.

    The aftermath proved swift and severe: Byron resigned from Astronomer following an internal investigation, while Cabot stepped down from her position as chief people officer. More devastating than the career loss, however, has been the unceasing harassment that has followed. Cabot reports being deemed ‘unemployable’ in her field, receiving up to 600 threatening calls daily, and enduring vicious personal attacks that scrutinized her appearance, character, and professional integrity.

    The abuse extended to her family, with her children facing embarrassment at school and fearing for their safety after receiving death threats. Cabot noted the particular cruelty of female critics and highlighted the disproportionate backlash she received compared to her male counterpart, suggesting gender played a significant role in the intensity of the public response.

    While beginning to tentatively rebuild her life through therapy and gradual reengagement with social activities, Cabot emphasizes that the digital footprint of her humiliation continues to haunt her. The case raises urgent questions about workplace relationships, public shaming culture, and the gendered dimensions of professional accountability in the era of viral content.

  • Ultra-luxury Sky Villa project in RAK to target billionaire buyers?

    Ultra-luxury Sky Villa project in RAK to target billionaire buyers?

    Ras Al Khaimah is poised to enter the ultra-prime real estate market with an unprecedented residential development targeting the world’s wealthiest individuals. Dubai-based developer Innovate Living, in collaboration with luxury hospitality brand Omoria, is preparing to unveil a limited collection of Sky Villas on Al Marjan Island, with industry speculation indicating price points reaching approximately $100 million per residence.

    The project represents a strategic move to capture a previously unaddressed market segment—billionaire buyers whose requirements extend beyond conventional luxury properties. The development is expected to feature exclusive beachfront positioning with panoramic sea views, offering exceptional privacy, substantial scale, and long-term asset value preservation.

    This initiative emerges as Ras Al Khaimah undergoes significant transformation, attracting global hospitality brands, large-scale entertainment operators, and international investors. The emirate’s coastline is rapidly evolving into one of the UAE’s most closely monitored property destinations, yet until now, no developer has delivered residences specifically designed for the ultra-wealthy segment.

    Industry analysts note that Innovate Living and Omoria envision Ras Al Khaimah developing into a coastal enclave comparable to Europe’s most refined Riviera destinations, characterized by concentrated wealth, seclusion, and highly selective real estate offerings. The developer has previously demonstrated expertise in this niche market through successful ultra-prime projects on Palm Jumeirah and other premium locations.

    While official specifications remain undisclosed, market sources anticipate a meticulously controlled launch process with ownership opportunities restricted to a small, pre-qualified buyer pool. This approach aligns with the project’s targeting of individuals operating beyond traditional high-net-worth parameters and reflects the exceptional exclusivity of the development.

  • Police identify person of interest in Brown University shooting, sources say

    Police identify person of interest in Brown University shooting, sources say

    Federal investigators have pinpointed a person of interest connected to the devastating mass shooting that occurred at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. The tragic incident on December 16th, 2025, resulted in two fatalities and left nine individuals wounded with varying degrees of injuries.

    According to confidential sources within the investigation who spoke with CBS News, law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing this unidentified individual. The FBI Evidence Response Team has been meticulously processing the crime scene while authorities maintain a tight veil of secrecy regarding the suspect’s identity or potential motives.

    The investigation has now entered its sixth day with no arrests made, marking one of the most extensive manhunts in recent Rhode Island history. Investigators have employed multiple strategies including door-to-door inquiries, requests for home security footage from residents, and public appeals for information that might lead to a breakthrough in the case.

    In a significant development on Thursday, authorities released a photographic image of an individual believed to have been in immediate proximity to their primary person of interest. This tactical move suggests investigators are pursuing multiple angles and potentially exploring whether the shooting involved accomplices or additional witnesses.

    The Brown University campus remains under heightened security as students and faculty continue to grapple with the aftermath of the violence that has shaken the prestigious Ivy League institution. Counseling services have been made available to those affected by the traumatic event as the community seeks to heal while awaiting justice.

  • Heavy rains in Dubai: Police deploy 22 rescue teams; 120 cranes on standby for emergencies

    Heavy rains in Dubai: Police deploy 22 rescue teams; 120 cranes on standby for emergencies

    Dubai authorities have initiated a massive emergency preparedness operation as unstable weather conditions approach the emirate. The comprehensive safety deployment includes 22 specialized land and marine rescue teams strategically positioned across Dubai, complemented by 120 heavy-duty cranes placed on standby for potential emergency operations.

    The emergency framework establishes 13 land-based rescue stations, including dedicated units in the Hatta region, alongside nine marine response points along Dubai’s coastline. This geographical distribution ensures rapid intervention capabilities for weather-related incidents including flash flooding, vehicular accidents, or structural damage caused by strong winds.

    Colonel Khalid Al Hammadi, Director of the Search and Rescue Department at the General Department of Transport and Rescue, clarified the operational strategy. The crane deployment, coordinated through Emirates Auctions, provides critical heavy-lift capacity for complex scenarios requiring vehicle extraction or infrastructure stabilization.

    Land rescue units are equipped with specialized 4×4 vehicles, rescue trucks, and advanced hydraulic equipment including cutters and saws designed for complex emergency extraction. Marine teams maintain continuous coastal and valley surveillance supported by rescue boats, jet skis, and professional divers trained for maritime emergencies.

    Authorities have issued renewed calls for residents to monitor official weather advisories and adhere to safety protocols. Emergency services emphasize the importance of providing precise location details when contacting the 999 emergency number to facilitate rapid response times during critical situations.

  • Dubai: Hatta Winter Festival to be shut on Thursday, Friday due to unstable weather

    Dubai: Hatta Winter Festival to be shut on Thursday, Friday due to unstable weather

    Dubai’s popular Hatta Winter Festival has been temporarily closed as a precautionary response to unstable weather conditions affecting the UAE. The closure, effective Thursday and Friday, was announced following coordinated meetings between Hatta Police Station, government agencies, and private sector partners.

    Colonel Ali Obaid Al Badwawi, Acting Director of Hatta Police Station, confirmed that security forces are operating at maximum readiness to address potential emergencies. Authorities have issued strong advisories urging residents and visitors to avoid mountain areas, watercourses, and valley crossings during the rainfall period. The public has been instructed to contact the Command and Control Center at 999 for emergencies, with emphasis on providing precise location details to facilitate rapid response.

    The comprehensive safety operation involves multi-agency coordination with Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, Civil Defence, and Ambulance Services. This marks the ninth consecutive implementation of the rain safety campaign titled ‘Rain is a blessing, do not turn it into harm,’ designed to enhance preparedness for weather-related incidents including water-trapped vehicles, falls from heights, and traffic accidents.

    Major Ghdayer Mohammad bin Suroor, Head of the Traffic Registration Section, detailed that patrol deployments intensify immediately with rainfall onset. All roadways are being monitored with activated electronic message boards alerting drivers to reduce speed. Specialized patrol units equipped for rugged terrain and modern communication systems are focusing on valley flow areas and mountainous routes, with the Brave Team rescue unit maintaining 24/7 emergency readiness.

  • Germany approves $3.1bn Israel arms deal despite Gaza genocide

    Germany approves $3.1bn Israel arms deal despite Gaza genocide

    Germany has authorized a contentious $3.1 billion weapons agreement with Israel, approving the acquisition of Arrow 3 missile defense systems despite ongoing international legal proceedings against Israel for alleged genocide in Gaza. The Israeli defense ministry confirmed the transaction on Thursday, marking one of Israel’s largest-ever arms exports.

    This latest deal follows a previous $3.5 billion agreement signed between the two nations in 2023, bringing their total defense cooperation to over $6.6 billion. The arrangement provides significant financial reinforcement to Israel’s defense industry while the country faces International Criminal Court arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza.

    The approval comes despite Germany’s temporary arms embargo imposed in summer 2024 in response to Israel’s planned full occupation of Gaza, which was reversed by November. Germany remains Israel’s second-largest weapons supplier after the United States, providing approximately 30% of Israel’s defense imports.

    Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz characterized the approval as “a clear expression of the deep trust that Germany places in the State of Israel.” Defense Ministry Director-General Major General Amir Baram noted the deal would accelerate Arrow production and channel billions into strengthening Israel’s defense industries.

    The transaction occurs against the backdrop of South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, which in January 2024 recognized a plausible risk of genocide in Gaza. This recognition created legal obligations for states to avoid aiding Israel’s actions against Palestinians.

    Security expert Andreas Krieg of King’s College London warned that “the scale of reported harm [in Gaza], the legal warnings and the live ICJ case raise the risk level to a point where continued transfers and major deals become hard to square with Germany’s own stated standards.”

    Palestinian journalist Hebh Jamal, based in Germany, criticized Berlin’s reliance on the concept of “Staatsrason”—the doctrine that Israel’s security constitutes Germany’s “reasons of state”—arguing that “the protection of a foreign state is more important for the German political establishment than their responsibility to the public and the ICC.”

    The agreement reflects Germany’s most substantial rearmament initiative since World War Two, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz approving nearly $60 billion in military spending this week. Independent analyst Ori Golberg observed that “Germany, under [Merz], is building a war machine and Israel stands ready to supply the war machines,” characterizing the arrangement as “a smart business deal” for both parties despite the controversial timing.

  • Wiz Khalifa sentenced to nine months jail in Romania for smoking cannabis on stage

    Wiz Khalifa sentenced to nine months jail in Romania for smoking cannabis on stage

    A Romanian appellate court has delivered a custodial sentence against American rapper Wiz Khalifa for cannabis consumption during a live performance, overturning an earlier financial penalty. The artist, legally named Thomaz Cameron Jibril, acknowledged smoking a marijuana joint while performing at the Beach, Please! festival in Costinesti during July 2024.

    The Constanța Court of Appeal justified its decision to replace the initial 3,600 lei (approximately $829) fine with a nine-month prison term by citing the performer’s influential status. Judicial authorities characterized his actions as an “ostentatious act” that promoted drug normalization among youth audiences. Court documents specified that Jibril possessed over 18 grams of cannabis and consumed additional quantities during his performance before a predominantly young audience.

    Despite the conviction, the rapper was sentenced in absentia and his current whereabouts remain uncertain. Following his recent appearance with collaborator Gunna in California, legal experts indicate minimal likelihood of actual imprisonment. Romanian criminologist Vlad Zaha noted the extreme improbability of extradition from the United States, citing jurisdictional limitations and contrasting cannabis policies between the nations.

    In response to the incident, Jibril previously expressed on social media platform X that no offense toward Romania was intended, humorously noting future visits would occur “without a big ass joint.” The Grammy-nominated artist, renowned for cannabis-themed branding and lyrical content, established his own marijuana brand in 2016. While recreational cannabis enjoys legal status in numerous American states, it remains prohibited under federal law and within Romanian jurisdiction.

  • ‘Dark turn of events’: Met Police under fire for intifada chant arrests

    ‘Dark turn of events’: Met Police under fire for intifada chant arrests

    British law enforcement agencies are confronting significant criticism following their controversial decision to criminalize the use of the Arabic term ‘intifada’ during protests. The Metropolitan Police and Greater Manchester Police announced they would arrest individuals chanting ‘globalise the intifada’ or displaying the phrase on placards, claiming the phrase could incite violence following recent international events.

    The policy implementation occurred during a Wednesday protest outside the Ministry of Justice, where four individuals were detained for racially aggravated public order offenses related to their use of the term. Police authorities justified their position stating, ‘Violent acts have taken place, the context has changed – words have meaning and consequence. We will act decisively and make arrests.’

    This enforcement approach emerged shortly after the Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney, where attackers targeted a Hanukkah celebration, resulting in 15 fatalities. Several public figures, including British Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, attempted to connect the tragedy to Palestinian activism, specifically referencing the controversial chant. Rabbi Mirvis declared the phrase ‘unlawful’ and suggested Australians had ‘discovered what is meant by those words’ after the attacks.

    However, Palestinian rights advocates and civil society organizations have vigorously challenged the characterization of ‘intifada’ as inherently antisemitic or violent. They emphasize the word’s linguistic meaning as ‘uprising’ or ‘shaking off’ in Arabic and note its historical usage across various peaceful and resistance movements in the Arab world.

    Journalist Asa Winstanley condemned the policy as ‘pure anti-Palestinian racism,’ while foreign policy analyst Jasmine el-Gamal described it as ‘a dark, dark turn of events.’ Social media users and free speech advocates have raised concerns about the implications for democratic rights, questioning whether Arabic terms are being disproportionately targeted and whether English equivalents like ‘globalise the revolution’ would face similar restrictions.

    Critics argue that the policy represents concerning government overreach, noting that no official reports have linked the Sydney attacks to Palestinian activism. The debate has expanded beyond immediate concerns about Palestinian expression to broader anxieties about increasing infringement on protest rights and freedom of speech in the United Kingdom.