作者: admin

  • Israel bans Sudanese refugee protests against UAE’s support for RSF

    Israel bans Sudanese refugee protests against UAE’s support for RSF

    Israeli authorities have prohibited two demonstrations organized by Sudanese refugees aimed at condemning the atrocities committed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan, a paramilitary group allegedly supported by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). One protest was planned outside the Emirati embassy in Herzliya, north of Tel Aviv, to highlight the UAE’s backing of the RSF, which has been accused of genocide. The Israeli police justified the cancellation by claiming the demonstrations could jeopardize national security and public order. The Association for Civil Rights in Israel challenged the decision in the Supreme Court, arguing it violated freedom of expression. However, the court upheld the police’s stance after the National Security Council warned that the protests could harm Israel’s foreign relations. Anwar Suliman, a Sudanese asylum seeker and organizer, revealed that the UAE had requested the protest be halted, raising concerns about Israel’s alignment with the UAE. Despite the cancellations, Suliman vowed to continue raising awareness about the RSF’s crimes, which include widespread killings, sexual violence, and expulsions in Sudan. The RSF’s recent capture of el-Fasher in Darfur has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, with reports of 27,000 deaths in just three days. Suliman criticized the lack of Israeli media coverage, attributing it to fear or censorship. Israel’s treatment of Sudanese asylum seekers has also been contentious, with many facing legal and social obstacles despite their refugee status. The Hotline for Refugees and Migrants has documented systemic discrimination against asylum seekers, who are often stigmatized as security threats. The incident underscores the complex interplay between domestic policies, international relations, and human rights advocacy in Israel.

  • What is the Tejas? Inside India’s fighter jet that crashed at Dubai Airshow

    What is the Tejas? Inside India’s fighter jet that crashed at Dubai Airshow

    The Tejas, India’s indigenously developed single-engine, delta-wing combat aircraft, has been a symbol of the nation’s growing defense manufacturing capabilities. However, the aircraft made headlines for tragic reasons during the Dubai Airshow 2025 when one of the jets crashed shortly after take-off, resulting in the death of its pilot, Namansh Syal. The incident occurred around 2:10 pm on Friday, leading to a suspension of the flying display for over two hours. The Tejas, designed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has been operational since 2016 and was a centerpiece of India’s participation at the airshow. The jet, known for its compact design, agility, and high-performance maneuvers, had been showcasing its capabilities throughout the event, including high-G turns, rapid climbs, and signature orange smoke trails. The crash has raised questions about the aircraft’s safety and the circumstances leading to the accident. Despite the tragedy, India’s presence at the airshow remained significant, with the Indian Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, leading the official delegation and inaugurating the Indian pavilion. The event also saw key industry announcements, including a technology transfer agreement between HAL and German conglomerate Hensoldt AG for advanced sensors and guidance systems. This deal aligns with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aimed at strengthening domestic manufacturing and technological independence. The Tejas crash has cast a shadow over what was otherwise a successful showcase of India’s aerospace innovations, but it also underscores the challenges and risks inherent in defense aviation.

  • FAA warns all pilots of risks of flying over Venezuela over ‘worsening security situation’

    FAA warns all pilots of risks of flying over Venezuela over ‘worsening security situation’

    The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a stern advisory on Friday, urging pilots to exercise heightened vigilance when navigating Venezuelan airspace. This warning stems from the deteriorating security landscape and increased military operations in the region, which could jeopardize aircraft at all altitudes, including those taking off, landing, or stationed on the ground. The FAA’s alert underscores the volatile environment surrounding Venezuela, where unspecified threats loom large. This development coincides with the Trump administration’s intensified pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom the U.S. does not recognize as the legitimate leader. Maduro faces narcoterrorism charges in the U.S., further complicating bilateral relations. In a show of force, the U.S. military has deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and several destroyers to the Caribbean Sea, marking the largest U.S. military presence in the region in decades. Additionally, the U.S. has conducted bomber flights near Venezuela’s coast, simulating attack scenarios as part of training exercises. The Trump administration has also targeted small boats allegedly involved in drug trafficking, resulting in over 80 fatalities since early September. Mary Schiavo, former inspector general for the Department of Transportation, noted that such FAA warnings are common during military conflicts but emphasized the importance of pilots adhering to them. While the Pentagon redirected inquiries to the FAA, the agency confirmed the warning’s issuance and its 90-day validity, leaving the underlying motivations for the alert open to interpretation.

  • Serbian president denies involvement in alleged Bosnia ‘sniper tourism’

    Serbian president denies involvement in alleged Bosnia ‘sniper tourism’

    Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has vehemently denied allegations of his involvement in ‘sniper tourism’ during the siege of Sarajevo, labeling the claims as a ‘lie.’ The accusations stem from a complaint filed by Croatian journalist Domagoj Margetic with Italian prosecutors, who cited 1990s video footage and testimonies from Bosnian officials suggesting Vucic was a ‘war volunteer’ with Bosnian-Serb forces. Vucic, speaking at a UK-Western Balkans business conference in Belgrade, asserted that he had ‘never killed anyone, wounded anyone, or done anything similar,’ and clarified that images purportedly showing him with a sniper rifle actually depicted him carrying a camera tripod. He accused the journalist of attempting to portray him as a ‘monster’ and a ‘cold-blooded murderer.’ The siege of Sarajevo, which lasted from 1992 to 1996, claimed over 11,000 lives as the city was encircled by Serb forces and subjected to relentless shelling and sniper fire. Italian prosecutors recently launched an investigation into claims that wealthy foreigners paid to shoot at civilians during the siege, following a complaint by Italian writer Ezio Gavazzeni, who referenced the 2022 Slovenian documentary ‘Sarajevo Safari.’ Vucic’s spokesperson, Suzana Vasiljevic, dismissed the allegations as ‘malicious disinformation’ aimed at undermining Serbia’s institutional credibility. She emphasized that Vucic was working as a journalist and translator in Pale during the conflict, with no involvement in military activities. While similar allegations of ‘human hunters’ have surfaced over the years, the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals in The Hague has stated it lacks information on the matter, and Bosnia’s war crimes prosecutor has yet to issue any indictments. UK special forces veterans who served in Sarajevo have also dismissed the claims as an ‘urban myth.’

  • From injuries to fatalities: Top 10 deadliest Airshow disasters in history

    From injuries to fatalities: Top 10 deadliest Airshow disasters in history

    Airshows, often celebrated for their breathtaking aerial displays and thrilling performances, have a darker side marked by tragic accidents that have left indelible scars on aviation history. While these events are designed to entertain and inspire, they have occasionally turned into scenes of devastation, claiming lives and leaving communities in mourning. Here, we revisit the ten most catastrophic airshow disasters that have shaped the narrative of aviation safety and risk management.

    1. **Sknyliv Airshow (2002, Ukraine)**: The deadliest airshow accident occurred when a Ukrainian Air Force Sukhoi Su-27 crashed during a low-altitude maneuver, killing 77 spectators, including 28 children, and injuring 543. Both pilots survived but faced legal consequences.

    2. **Ramstein Airshow (1988, West Germany)**: A mid-air collision involving Italian Air Force jets resulted in a fiery crash that killed 70 people, including three pilots, and injured hundreds more.

    3. **Golden West Sport Aviation Show (1972, USA)**: A Canadair Sabre Mk. 5 failed to gain altitude, crashing into an ice cream parlor and killing 22 people, including members of a Little League football team.

    4. **Reno Air Races (2011, USA)**: A modified racing aircraft lost control, crashing into spectators and killing 10 people. Investigations revealed structural failures caused by excessive modifications.

    5. **Ostend Airshow (1997, Belgium)**: A Royal Jordanian Falcons pilot lost control, crashing near spectators and killing nine people, including the pilot.

    6. **Paris Airshow (1973, France)**: The Tupolev Tu-144 supersonic airliner broke apart mid-flight, killing all five crew members and eight people on the ground.

    7. **Canary Islands Airshow (1984, Spain)**: A Spanish aerobatic team pilot lost control, crashing and killing five people, including himself.

    8. **Royal Air Force Station Crash (1952, UK)**: A prototype Avro Vulcan bomber crashed during a test flight, killing all four crew members and three spectators.

    9. **Bartlesville Biplane Exposition (1996, USA)**: A mid-air collision between two biplanes resulted in an explosion that killed all four pilots.

    10. **Indian Air Force Day (1989, India)**: A Mirage 2000 crashed during a low-altitude maneuver, killing the pilot and one spectator.

    These tragedies serve as stark reminders of the inherent risks in aviation displays, prompting ongoing efforts to enhance safety protocols and prevent future disasters.

  • Family of missing Colombian seek answers after US strike on alleged drug boat

    Family of missing Colombian seek answers after US strike on alleged drug boat

    The serene fishing village of Taganga on Colombia’s Caribbean coast has become a focal point of international tension following US military strikes targeting alleged drug-trafficking vessels. Lizbeth Perez, the niece of missing fisherman Alejandro Carranza, recalls her last conversation with her uncle in September, describing him as a kind and cheerful man who loved his work. Carranza, a father of five, disappeared after setting out on his boat from La Guajira, Venezuela, on September 14. The next day, US President Donald Trump announced a strike on a vessel departing Venezuela, killing three individuals he labeled as ‘narco-terrorists.’ Carranza’s family remains in anguish, uncertain if he was among the victims. The US has conducted at least 21 strikes in the Caribbean and Pacific since September, resulting in 83 deaths. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defends the campaign as a necessary measure to combat drug trafficking and protect American lives. However, the strikes have drawn condemnation from regional leaders, including Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who accused the US of ‘murder’ and suspended intelligence sharing with Washington. Petro claims Carranza was transporting drugs to fund his daughter’s education but argues that such actions do not warrant a death sentence. Carranza’s family denies his involvement in drug trafficking and has enlisted US lawyer Daniel Kovalik to sue the US government, citing violations of international law. The Trump administration justifies the strikes by invoking war-time powers, claiming the US is in a ‘non-international armed conflict’ with drug cartels. Meanwhile, local fishermen like 81-year-old Juan Assis Tejeda live in fear of being mistakenly targeted. The strikes have also fueled speculation about US intentions to pressure Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, whom the US accuses of leading a criminal trafficking organization. As tensions escalate, Caribbean fishing communities brace for an uncertain future, questioning whether diplomacy or conflict lies ahead.

  • UAE launches Thai Select’s Culinary Trail ahead of 2025 festival

    UAE launches Thai Select’s Culinary Trail ahead of 2025 festival

    In anticipation of the Thai Select Festival 2025, the UAE has launched an innovative digital campaign titled ‘Tastes of Thailand: The Road to the Festival.’ This initiative, spearheaded by Thai Select—a certification by Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce—aims to highlight authentic Thai cuisine across the Emirates. From November 18 to November 27, over 30 influencers in food, travel, and lifestyle will visit Thai Select-certified restaurants, documenting their unique dishes, chef stories, and cultural elements. The campaign, under the hashtag #RoadToThaiSelectFestival2025, invites the public to explore these culinary gems and prepare for the grand festival in November 2025. The festival, set to take place at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, promises an immersive experience with authentic Thai food, live performances, and cooking demonstrations. Pitichai Ratananaka, director of Thai Trade Centre Dubai, emphasized the campaign’s goal to deepen cultural ties and showcase Thailand’s culinary excellence.

  • ‘Beetlejuice’ musical brings Broadway-scale spectacle and local jokes to Abu Dhabi

    ‘Beetlejuice’ musical brings Broadway-scale spectacle and local jokes to Abu Dhabi

    The globally acclaimed ‘Beetlejuice’ musical has made its dazzling debut in Abu Dhabi, bringing Broadway-level theatrics and a touch of local humor to the UAE capital. Staged at the Etihad Arena on November 20, 2025, the production, based on Tim Burton’s iconic 1988 film, has been lauded for its high-energy comedy, stunning visual effects, and audience engagement. Producer Michael Cassel emphasized Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a hub for world-class musicals, praising the city’s enthusiastic and receptive audience. The show, which has previously captivated audiences in the US, Korea, Japan, and Australia, remains faithful to its Broadway roots while incorporating subtle nods to Emirati culture, such as references to ‘Lulu Express’ and Arabic phrases like ‘shukran.’ The cast, including Andy Karl as Beetlejuice and Elise McCann as Barbara Maitland, highlighted the show’s blend of humor and heartfelt themes of family and loss. The production’s success underscores Yas Island’s ambition to become a premier destination for live entertainment, with plans to host more Broadway hits like ‘Mary Poppins’ in the near future. The musical’s irreverent humor and bold jokes have resonated deeply with Abu Dhabi audiences, solidifying its status as a must-see spectacle.

  • The calm after the digital gold rush: Why trust matters more than technology

    The calm after the digital gold rush: Why trust matters more than technology

    In the UAE, a transformative shift is reshaping the gold investment landscape. Once confined to traditional gold souks and large upfront purchases, gold ownership has now entered the digital age. With platforms like the Just Gold App, investors can start with as little as AED 10, marking a significant departure from conventional methods. Dubai’s $3 billion retail bullion market is transitioning from physical displays to digital wallets, driven by technology and a growing demand for transparency and trust.

    Digital platforms have democratized gold ownership, enabling users to purchase small quantities of 24-karat gold stored securely in insured vaults. This innovation eliminates concerns about physical storage while allowing investors to build real assets gradually. The Just Gold App exemplifies this new era of responsible investing, blending technology, ethics, and transparency to foster confidence among users.

    According to the World Gold Council (WGC), investment demand for gold in the Middle East surged by over 30% in the first half of 2025, fueled by digital accessibility and younger investors. Globally, gold investment remains above its five-year average as consumers seek stability amid economic uncertainty.

    Trust has emerged as the cornerstone of digital gold investing. Investors prioritize knowing where their gold is stored, how it is insured, and who oversees the process. JustGold addresses these concerns by linking every purchase to the official UAE gold rate and storing gold in Loomis International’s insured vaults in Dubai. The platform is ISO 27001:2022 certified for information security and adheres to Islamic finance principles, ensuring Shariah compliance and real ownership without speculation.

    Since mid-2025, JustGold has experienced consistent growth, with transaction values increasing significantly. The average buy transaction value rose from AED 192 in July to AED 1,032 in October, a 440% increase. Similarly, the average sell transaction value nearly doubled, reflecting growing investor confidence. User behavior indicates habit formation, with nearly two-thirds of customers making multiple transactions and over 20% completing three or more trades.

    To further enhance investor protection, JustGold is appointing an independent trustee to safeguard customer assets and maintain verified records of vault holdings. This measure aligns with the Islamic concept of Amānah, emphasizing trust and responsibility. In the unlikely event of operational disruption, the trustee ensures customers receive their gold or its equivalent value directly.

    Dubai’s status as a global gold trading hub, handling 20-30% of global gold trade annually, provides a secure foundation for digital gold custody. The future of digital gold lies in platforms that prioritize accountability, physical backing, and compliance. For investors valuing security and opportunity, digital gold offers a transparent and trustworthy path to ownership.

    JustGold’s success underscores the UAE’s evolving investment culture, where technology and ethics converge to redefine gold ownership. By combining real assets with independent oversight and secure digital access, the platform empowers investors to hold something timeless in a modern way.

  • UK regulator issues warning to charity accused of fundraising for Israeli army

    UK regulator issues warning to charity accused of fundraising for Israeli army

    The Charity Commission of the United Kingdom has issued a formal warning to Mizrachi UK, a British charity accused of fundraising for the Israeli military and hosting speakers associated with hate speech. This action follows a seven-month investigation prompted by a complaint from the International Centre of Justice of Palestinians (ICJP). The commission has mandated Mizrachi UK to implement corrective measures, keeping the case open until full compliance is achieved. The investigation revealed that Mizrachi UK promoted fundraising appeals on its website and Facebook page for organizations providing equipment to foreign military personnel, which contradicted the charity’s public benefit objectives. Although no evidence was found that Mizrachi UK used its own funds for these appeals, the commission deemed the promotion of such activities inappropriate and damaging to the charity’s reputation. The ICJP’s complaint highlighted instances where Mizrachi UK solicited donations for Israeli soldiers, including combat equipment, which is not considered charitable under UK law. Additionally, the charity hosted speakers known for inflammatory rhetoric, such as former Likud Knesset member Yehuda Glick and journalist Sivan Rahav-Meir, whose statements were deemed to promote hate speech. The Charity Commission’s warning underscores the importance of maintaining public trust in charitable organizations and ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards. This development also aligns with the commission’s broader stance against fundraising for foreign militaries, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The ICJP has expressed its commitment to continuing its scrutiny of UK-based charities to uphold Palestinian human rights.