作者: admin

  • Anupam Kher’s IndiGo flight cancelled on trip to Khajuraho International Film Festival

    Anupam Kher’s IndiGo flight cancelled on trip to Khajuraho International Film Festival

    Prominent Indian actor Anupam Kher found himself among the thousands of travelers affected by IndiGo’s massive flight cancellation crisis in early December 2025. The veteran Bollywood star’s journey to the Khajuraho International Film Festival was abruptly interrupted when his connecting flight from Varanasi to Khajuraho was unexpectedly canceled.

    Kher took to Instagram to voice his frustration with the travel disruption, revealing that he might now need to resort to train travel to reach the festival venue. The actor is scheduled to present his film ‘Tanvi The Great’ at the prestigious week-long event running from December 16-22, 2025.

    The incident occurred amidst India’s largest airline’s operational meltdown that saw hundreds of flights canceled nationwide, creating chaos at airports and leaving passengers stranded. IndiGo subsequently issued multiple apologies, provided refunds, and offered travel vouchers to affected customers.

    The airline described December 5 as a “reboot” day with the highest number of cancellations, after which operations gradually stabilized. By December 13, the carrier had restored its network with over 2,000 scheduled flights and resumed its standard on-time performance levels according to official statements.

  • RSISX Index records solid 5.0% growth in November, outperforming regional markets

    RSISX Index records solid 5.0% growth in November, outperforming regional markets

    Iraq’s capital markets demonstrated remarkable resilience in November 2025 as the Rabee Securities Iraq Stock Exchange Index (RSISX) posted a robust 5.0% gain, significantly outperforming regional counterparts that experienced declines during the same period. This market strength emerged following Iraq’s parliamentary elections on November 11, which recorded a 56.11% voter turnout and resulted in the Reconstruction and Change coalition securing approximately 370,000 more votes than its nearest competitor.

    The banking sector emerged as a primary driver of this growth, with National Bank of Iraq, Asiacell, Baghdad Soft Drinks, Bank of Baghdad, and Al-Mansour Bank leading the index’s advancement. According to Aysegul Ozge Ozgur, Head of Research at Rabee Securities, ‘November reflected stronger investor confidence in Iraq’s capital markets, supported by post-election stability and broad-based contributions from leading sectors. The RSISX Index’s outperformance relative to regional peers underscores the market’s resilience.’

    Despite the index’s strong performance, trading volumes presented a contrasting picture. Total trading volume on the Iraq Stock Exchange declined 34% month-on-month to $26.5 million, while non-cross trading volumes decreased 14% to $16.5 million. The banking sector maintained its dominance with 62.6% of total trading activity, followed by industry (20.5%), telecom (8.7%), and services (5.8%).

    Rabee Securities expanded its analytical capabilities with the launch of two specialized indices: the RS Iraq Halal Companies Index (RSIHX) and the RS Iraq Banking Index (RSIBX), which advanced 4.4% and 5.0% respectively during the month. Additionally, 37 companies recorded share-price increases, with Babil Animal & Vegetable Production and Tourist Village of Mosul Dam emerging as standout performers with gains of 161.7% and 146.6% respectively.

    The positive market sentiment was further bolstered by broader economic developments, including Fitch Ratings’ reaffirmation of Iraq’s Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating at ‘B-‘ with a Stable Outlook, and regulatory cooperation efforts advanced through the Iraqi Securities Commission’s participation in the Market 2.0 Conference in Bahrain.

  • Watch: What to know about the growing US military presence in Puerto Rico

    Watch: What to know about the growing US military presence in Puerto Rico

    A significant strategic military enhancement is underway in the Caribbean as the United States substantially increases its defense assets in Puerto Rico. This buildup, analyzed by a retired U.S. vice admiral, involves the deployment of advanced military hardware and personnel to the island territory over recent months.

    The expansion includes sophisticated defense systems, surveillance technology, and logistical support units designed to bolster regional security. Military analysts interpret this move as a strategic response to multifaceted challenges, including transnational criminal operations, potential adversarial activities in the Western Hemisphere, and natural disaster response preparedness.

    Puerto Rico’s geographical position makes it a crucial hub for U.S. Southern Command operations, serving as a strategic vantage point for monitoring maritime routes and airspace. The military official elaborated that this reinforcement enhances rapid response capabilities while strengthening deterrence measures in the region.

    This development occurs amid evolving global security dynamics that have increased the Caribbean’s strategic importance. The infrastructure improvements and personnel deployments represent one of the most substantial military enhancements in the territory in recent decades, signaling a renewed focus on Caribbean security as part of broader national defense strategy.

  • How the India-Oman FTA will redefine a strategic partnership

    How the India-Oman FTA will redefine a strategic partnership

    The upcoming signing of the India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Muscat represents a transformative moment in bilateral relations that extends far beyond conventional trade diplomacy. This landmark free trade agreement culminates decades of deepening trust and shared economic aspirations between the two nations, positioning Oman as India’s strategic gateway between Eastern and Western markets.

    Historical ties between India and Oman, rooted in centuries of commercial and maritime engagement, have evolved into a robust modern economic relationship. Recent bilateral trade figures demonstrate remarkable growth, with total exchange reaching approximately $10.61 billion in fiscal year 2024-25—an impressive 18.6% year-on-year increase. India exported $4.07 billion in goods to Oman while importing $6.55 billion worth of Omani products, reflecting a balanced economic interdependence.

    The CEPA framework addresses longstanding trade barriers that previously hindered optimal commercial exchange. By eliminating varying duties and streamlining regulatory hurdles, the agreement creates enhanced market access across critical sectors including engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, textiles, and value-added agricultural products. This comes as particularly timely support for India’s engineering goods sector, which has recently faced global economic headwinds despite being India’s second-largest export category to Oman.

    Oman’s significance extends beyond trade volumes, with India ranking among Oman’s top trading partners and serving as the fourth-largest source of imports. The relationship is further strengthened by more than 6,000 India-Oman joint ventures representing billions in capital commitments and a substantial Indian expatriate community that contributes significantly to Oman’s economic and cultural landscape.

    The agreement aligns strategically with Oman’s Vision 2040 national transformation program, which seeks to diversify the economy beyond hydrocarbon resources. The FTA facilitates foreign investment, technology transfer, and entrepreneurial development while leveraging Oman’s petrochemical resources, logistics infrastructure, and access to crucial maritime routes.

    This partnership emerges amid shifting global economic alignments, with nations increasingly pursuing regional agreements to enhance supply chain resilience and strategic autonomy. Building on the success of India’s 2022 UAE CEPA, the Oman agreement establishes a new model for deeper economic collaboration across the Gulf Cooperation Council region, potentially reshaping regional trade dynamics for years to come.

  • Goumbook drives regenerative agriculture forward to strengthen food security in the MENAT Region

    Goumbook drives regenerative agriculture forward to strengthen food security in the MENAT Region

    In response to mounting environmental pressures threatening food security across the Middle East, North Africa, and Türkiye (MENAT), social enterprise Goumbook is spearheading a transformative shift toward regenerative agricultural practices. Founded in 2009, the organization has established itself as a pivotal force in sustainability innovation, addressing critical challenges posed by climate change, severe water scarcity, and progressive land degradation through cross-sector collaboration.

    The region’s unique combination of ancient agricultural heritage and extreme environmental conditions necessitates tailored solutions. Goumbook’s strategy focuses on developing locally adapted regenerative techniques that restore soil vitality, enhance water efficiency, and strengthen climate resilience. Their approach brings together governmental bodies, private sector entities, academic institutions, and civil society to create an enabling ecosystem for sustainable food systems.

    Central to this mission is the MENAT Regenerative Agriculture Venture Programme, now entering its second year. This initiative has demonstrated remarkable reach, attracting 510 registrations from 65 countries and engaging over 80 academic and research institutions. The program identifies and nurtures early-stage, research-driven innovations addressing the region’s most pressing agricultural challenges.

    Shortlisted innovations encompass diverse solutions including organic bio-fertilizers, synthetic pesticide alternatives, soil regeneration technologies, crop diversification methods, and advanced agricultural technologies. These innovations collectively target drought resistance, soil degradation reversal, salinity management, biodiversity conservation, and desertification mitigation while supporting sustainable rural economies.

    The program provides comprehensive support through structured bootcamps, expert mentorship, specialized training, financial grants, and incubation opportunities. This enables participants to develop entrepreneurial skills, refine scalable business models, and access essential networks for implementation and growth.

    Beyond innovation development, Goumbook actively engages policymakers and private sector leaders to promote supportive regulatory frameworks, investment mechanisms, and market demand for regenerative practices. This multi-stakeholder approach was prominently showcased at the inaugural MENAT Regenerative Agriculture Summit in Riyadh on May 15, held under the patronage of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Environment, Water & Agriculture. The summit convened regional and international stakeholders to advance partnerships and scale regenerative solutions across food systems.

    According to Samantha Kayruz, Strategy & Sustainability Impact Director at Goumbook, ‘With the right enabling ecosystem, the region has the potential to become a center of excellence for climate-resilient and desert agriculture, with solutions that are both regionally grounded and globally relevant.’

  • Rob Reiner’s son Nick arrested for murder after director and wife found dead

    Rob Reiner’s son Nick arrested for murder after director and wife found dead

    A tragic incident has shaken the Hollywood community as renowned film director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were discovered deceased in their Los Angeles residence on Sunday. Law enforcement authorities have arrested their 32-year-old son, Nick Reiner, on suspicion of murder following the gruesome discovery.

    According to official reports from the Los Angeles Police Department, emergency responders were dispatched to the Reiners’ Brentwood home at approximately 3:38 PM local time after receiving a distress call. Upon arrival, medical personnel pronounced both victims dead at the scene. The couple’s 28-year-old daughter, Romy, reportedly discovered her parents with multiple stab wounds, as confirmed by CBS News, the BBC’s US news partner.

    Nick Reiner was taken into custody several hours later at around 9:15 PM Sunday and is currently being held without bail. While investigators have confirmed they are treating the case as a homicide, they have not disclosed any potential motive for the alleged crime. The investigation remains active and ongoing.

    Rob Reiner, 78, enjoyed a distinguished career spanning over five decades, having directed iconic films including “When Harry Met Sally,” “This Is Spinal Tap,” “Stand By Me,” “Misery,” and “A Few Good Men.” The son of comedy legend Carl Reiner, he first gained fame portraying Michael “Meathead” Stivic in the groundbreaking television series “All in the Family” during the 1970s.

    Michele Reiner, 68, was an accomplished actress, photographer, and producer who founded Reiner Light, a photography agency and production company. The couple married in 1989 after meeting during the production of “When Harry Met Sally” and shared three biological children together.

    Court records and previous interviews reveal that Nick Reiner had publicly discussed his struggles with substance abuse and homelessness. These experiences inspired the semi-autobiographical 2015 film “Being Charlie,” which he co-created with his father. The project explored themes of addiction and recovery within privileged environments.

    The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief from Hollywood figures and political acquaintances alike. President Donald Trump generated controversy by referencing the director’s criticism of his administration, attributing the deaths to what he termed “Trump Derangement Syndrome.” This characterization drew immediate condemnation from several Republican figures, including Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, who emphasized that the incident represented a “family tragedy, not about politics or political enemies.”

    Celebrity friends including Sir Elton John, Maria Shriver, John Cusack, and Elijah Wood expressed profound sorrow, describing the couple as devoted parents and beautiful people who deserved better. The Reiners were remembered as passionate advocates for their children despite the challenges they faced.

    Brentwood, the affluent neighborhood where the tragedy occurred, remains under heightened security as media continue to gather outside the family estate. The case continues to develop as investigators work to establish a comprehensive timeline of events leading to the couple’s untimely deaths.

  • Brand Lounge wins “Branding Agency of the Year” award

    Brand Lounge wins “Branding Agency of the Year” award

    Dubai-based strategic brand consultancy Brand Lounge has achieved a landmark industry recognition by securing the coveted ‘Branding Agency of the Year’ title at the Campaign Middle East Agency of the Year Awards 2025. This prestigious accolade arrives as the firm prepares to commemorate its 20th anniversary in 2026, solidifying its position as the regional benchmark for comprehensive brand development.

    The award serves as validation of the agency’s holistic methodology spanning Strategy & Insights, Design & Creative Impact, Culture & People, and Innovation & Experience practices. This victory follows an exceptionally productive year featuring several high-profile international projects that demonstrated the agency’s expanding global footprint.

    Founder & CEO Hasan Fadlallah characterized the recognition as meaningful validation of the consultancy’s long-term vision. ‘Our growth has always been grounded in differentiation, powered by a team that consistently raises industry standards,’ Fadlallah stated. ‘This achievement fundamentally stems from our people and partners—their passion, discipline, and belief in our mission propel everything we accomplish. As we approach our twentieth anniversary, this award energizes our commitment to broadening our regional influence and developing brands that generate tangible, measurable value.’

    Chief Operating Officer Zak McKinven emphasized the award’s significance in reinforcing the agency’s strategic trajectory. ‘This honor validates our unique business transformation methodology that consistently delivers client growth through strategic and creative excellence,’ McKinven noted. ‘It provides additional momentum as we continue expanding our presence and ambitions across the region and internationally, with further developments anticipated throughout 2026.’

    The award-winning year featured several signature projects including the comprehensive relaunch of Makarem Hotels for Taiba in Saudi Arabia, the rebranding of Vallé Advenature™ Park in Mauritius, the successful market introduction of Yemelix in Turkey, and ongoing identity development for the culturally significant Oman Cultural Complex—one of the most anticipated cultural initiatives in the Gulf Cooperation Council region.

  • Israeli army to demolish 25 residential buildings in West Bank refugee camp: Local authorities

    Israeli army to demolish 25 residential buildings in West Bank refugee camp: Local authorities

    The Israeli military has issued demolition orders for 25 residential buildings in the Nur Shams refugee camp located in the northern West Bank, according to statements from local authorities on Monday. The planned destruction, scheduled for December 18, 2025, is expected to impact approximately 100 family dwellings within the camp.

    Abdallah Kamil, Governor of Tulkarem governorate where Nur Shams is situated, confirmed receiving official notification from COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories), the Israeli defense ministry body responsible for civilian coordination in occupied Palestinian territories. Faisal Salama, head of the popular committee for the nearby Tulkarem camp, provided additional details regarding the scale and timing of the planned demolition operation.

    This development occurs within the context of an extensive Israeli military operation initiated in early 2025 that remains ongoing. The operation, described by Israeli authorities as targeting Palestinian armed groups, has focused on refugee camps throughout the northern West Bank region, including Nur Shams, Tulkarem, and Jenin camps.

    The military campaign has already resulted in significant displacement, with over 30,000 residents unable to return to their homes since the operation began. Israeli forces have systematically destroyed hundreds of houses within the camps’ dense alleyway networks to facilitate troop movement and military access.

    Nur Shams refugee camp, like similar camps throughout the West Bank, originated following the establishment of Israel in 1948, which precipitated the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. These camps have evolved into densely populated neighborhoods that maintain distinct administrative status separate from adjacent cities, with refugee status perpetuated across generations.

    The Israeli military declined to provide immediate comment when contacted by news agencies regarding the demolition orders.

  • ICC rejects Israel’s appeal that sought to invalidate Netanyahu arrest warrant

    ICC rejects Israel’s appeal that sought to invalidate Netanyahu arrest warrant

    In a landmark ruling with profound implications for international justice, the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Court (ICC) has decisively rejected Israel’s legal challenges to the court’s investigation into alleged crimes committed in Gaza following the October 7, 2023 attacks. This judgment represents a critical validation of the ICC’s jurisdictional authority and investigative procedures in the ongoing Palestine situation.

    The judicial panel dismissed Israel’s central argument that Prosecutor Karim Khan was required to issue a fresh formal notification after seven nations—South Africa, Bangladesh, Comoros, Bolivia, Djibouti, Chile, and Mexico—filed additional referrals concerning post-October 7 events. The court determined that the original 2021 notification, triggered by Palestine’s initial referral, sufficiently covered the scope of the investigation, including subsequent developments.

    Israel’s legal team had contended that the Hamas-led attacks and their aftermath constituted an entirely new situation necessitating separate procedural steps under Article 18(1) of the Rome Statute. This provision requires the Prosecutor to formally notify states concerned when opening an investigation, allowing them to demonstrate their own domestic proceedings addressing the same alleged crimes—a principle known as complementarity.

    Despite receiving the original notification in 2021, Israeli authorities opted not to invoke complementarity provisions at that time, instead maintaining their position that the ICC lacked jurisdiction over Israeli nationals entirely. This stance shifted only after the Prosecutor sought arrest warrants against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2023.

    International law experts have characterized the ruling as a robust affirmation of judicial independence. Professor Kevin Jon Heller of the University of Copenhagen, who also serves as special advisor on war crimes to the ICC Prosecutor, commended the Appeals Chamber for ‘being brave enough to follow the law’ despite potential political repercussions. Heller noted that Israel had previously forgone its right to challenge the investigation under complementarity principles, only raising procedural objections after high-ranking officials faced actual charges.

    The decision ensures that the arrest warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant remain valid, avoiding what would have been a significant procedural setback requiring renotification and potentially delaying justice. The ruling occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions between the ICC and certain nations, including the United States, which imposed sanctions on court officials following the issuance of the warrants.

  • Chongqing hosts Silver Age fashion model competition

    Chongqing hosts Silver Age fashion model competition

    Chongqing’s Nan’an district became the epicenter of age-defying elegance on Friday as the Silver Age Fashion Model Competition (Group Category) concluded with remarkable displays of style and sophistication. The event showcased how China’s senior population is embracing vibrant lifestyles through fashion and cultural expression.

    Twenty-five modeling troupes from community and senior organizations across the municipality participated in the competition, with eighteen teams advancing to the final round. The participants, averaging over sixty years of age, demonstrated extraordinary versatility in their presentations, featuring everything from traditional Chinese garments to contemporary fashion and innovative costume designs.

    Mao Yuanyuan, the competition’s founder, emphasized the event’s significance in challenging stereotypes about aging. The runway presentations captivated both live audiences and online viewers with meticulously choreographed performances that highlighted the contestants’ confidence and artistic flair.

    Jian Daisheng, chairman of the Nan’an Elderly Care Association, noted the competition’s role in enhancing senior quality of life. “This public welfare initiative creates essential cultural platforms for our elderly community, expanding their social engagement opportunities and revitalizing community interactions,” he stated.

    The term ‘Silver Age’ typically describes individuals aged 60 and above, particularly those engaged in social volunteer activities through programs like Silver Age Action. This demographic, generally spanning ages 55 to 70, represents a significant policy consideration nationwide.

    Recent statistics from the Chongqing Civil Affairs Bureau reveal striking demographics: by the end of 2024, the municipality hosted approximately 8.01 million residents aged 60 and above, constituting 25.11% of the total population. This figure exceeds the national average by 3.11 percentage points, underscoring the growing importance of senior-focused cultural initiatives in the region.