In a significant move, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he has signed a bill mandating the release of all documents related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The legislation, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, requires the Justice Department to make the information from its Epstein investigation available in a searchable and downloadable format within 30 days. This decision marks a reversal from Trump’s previous stance, as he had initially opposed the release of these files. However, mounting pressure from Epstein’s victims and members of his own Republican party prompted the president to change course last week. In a post on Truth Social, Trump accused Democrats of using the issue to divert attention from his administration’s accomplishments, suggesting that the released files might expose Democratic associations with Epstein. Despite the bill’s passage, concerns remain about the potential withholding of certain documents, particularly those that could infringe on personal privacy or pertain to ongoing investigations. Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, one of the bill’s architects, expressed apprehension that the administration might use active investigations as a pretext to withhold some files. The release of these documents could shed further light on Epstein’s extensive network and his connections to high-profile figures, including Trump, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein.
作者： admin
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She plays ‘Amazing Grace’ in the most remote practice room on Earth
In the icy expanse of Antarctica, where the frigid air bites at exposed skin, Natalie Paine, a French horn player in New Zealand’s navy, has found an unlikely stage. Since October, Paine has been stationed at Scott Base, one of 21 military members supporting scientific research on the frozen continent. Her melodies, carried across the Ross Sea, emerge from what might be the most remote practice room on Earth. ‘It’s beautiful and very inspiring,’ Paine shared with the Associated Press. ‘I’ll sit by the window, play music in my limited free time, and let the surroundings fuel my creativity.’
Paine’s journey to Antarctica is as unconventional as her current role. Growing up in the arid climate of Adelaide, Australia, she once dreamed of visiting the frozen continent as a scientist. However, her path led her to study music at university, temporarily shelving her Antarctic aspirations. Years later, as a musician in New Zealand’s navy, she discovered that military personnel, including musicians, could be stationed in Antarctica. ‘My eyes lit up,’ Paine recalled. ‘I asked, even a musician? And my instructor said, heck yeah, why not?’
Realizing this dream was no easy feat. It took four years of persistent applications before Paine secured a posting as a communications operator. Her demanding job, involving six-day shifts monitoring radio, phone, and email communications, leaves little time for music. Yet, Paine carves out moments to practice, often retreating to a historic hut built in 1957 under the leadership of explorer Sir Edmund Hillary. There, she plays her jHorn, a lightweight, durable plastic instrument designed for children, which is better suited to the harsh Antarctic climate than her traditional French horn.
Despite the challenges, Paine’s presence has brought joy to Scott Base. She has performed live at ceremonies, replacing the usual recorded music, and even braved sub-zero temperatures to deliver a solo concert at minus 21 degrees Celsius. ‘Music is the universal language,’ Paine reflected. ‘It reminds us that we’re all connected, whether we’re on the ice or back home.’ Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and the unifying force of music in even the most extreme environments.
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Next year’s UN climate talks set for Turkey, as Australia backs out of bid in compromise
In a significant development at the ongoing United Nations climate talks in Belem, Brazil, Turkey has been selected to host next year’s COP31 climate conference in the coastal city of Antalya. This decision came after Australia officially withdrew from the bidding process, ending a prolonged stalemate. Australian Climate and Energy Minister Chris Bowen made the announcement on the sidelines of the conference, emphasizing that while it would have been ideal for Australia to host, compromises were necessary. Under the agreement, Bowen will serve as the president of the COP31 negotiations, wielding full authority to manage discussions, appoint co-facilitators, draft texts, and issue final decisions. Environmental advocacy group Greenpeace described the arrangement as “highly unusual” but stressed the importance of maintaining urgency and focus on phasing out fossil fuels and halting deforestation. Meanwhile, Ethiopia has been confirmed as the host for COP32, with other nations, including India, already expressing interest in hosting subsequent conferences. The announcement underscores the growing global commitment to addressing climate change, even as logistical challenges and geopolitical considerations shape the hosting landscape.
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Northern Warriors clinch last-ball thriller in Abu Dhabi T10
In a heart-stopping finish at the Zayed Cricket Stadium, the Northern Warriors emerged victorious in a last-ball thriller against the Aspen Stallions in the 2025 Abu Dhabi T10 tournament. The Warriors, determined to recover from their initial defeat, posted a competitive total of 114/1, anchored by Johnson Charles’ unbeaten 55 off 34 balls. The Stallions, despite a spirited chase, fell short by four runs, ending their innings at 110/6. The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams showcasing exceptional skill and determination. The Warriors’ bowlers, particularly Taskin Ahmed and Shahnawaz Dahani, played pivotal roles in restricting the Stallions’ batting lineup. Dahani’s final over was a masterclass in pressure bowling, conceding just two runs and taking two crucial wickets to seal the win for the Warriors. This victory not only bolstered the Warriors’ campaign but also highlighted the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of T10 cricket.
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Turkey set to host COP31 after reaching compromise with Australia
In a surprising turn of events, Turkey has been selected to host the 2026 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP31) in Antalya, following Australia’s decision to withdraw its bid. The announcement came during the ongoing COP30 summit in Belém, Brazil, where negotiations led to an unprecedented compromise. Under UN regulations, the hosting rights for COP31 were to be awarded to a group of countries including Western Europe and Australia, but neither party was initially willing to concede. After intense discussions, Australia agreed to support Turkey’s bid in exchange for its climate minister, Chris Bowen, chairing the talks. This arrangement marks a departure from the traditional practice of the COP president being from the host country, raising questions about how this partnership will function in practice. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed the agreement as an ‘outstanding result,’ emphasizing the importance of Pacific issues in the global climate agenda. However, some Pacific leaders, including Papua New Guinea’s Foreign Minister Justin Tkatchenko, expressed disappointment over Australia’s withdrawal. The compromise ensures that a pre-COP meeting will be held on a Pacific island, while the main event takes place in Turkey. The decision has been welcomed by delegates at COP30, who were concerned about the potential embarrassment of failing to reach an agreement. Turkey’s bid was bolstered by its decision to step aside in 2021, allowing the UK to host COP26 in Glasgow. If no compromise had been reached, the event would have been held in Bonn, Germany, the headquarters of the UN’s climate body. The agreement is expected to be ratified by the 190+ countries attending COP30, with no significant objections anticipated.
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Video: Indian Gangster Anmol Bishnoi in NIA custody after extradition from US
Anmol Bishnoi, a key associate of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has been extradited from the United States and placed in the custody of India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) for an 11-day remand. The special NIA Court at Patiala House granted the remand on Wednesday, and Bishnoi is scheduled to reappear before the court on November 29. Bishnoi, who had been absconding since 2022, is the 19th accused in a terror-gangster conspiracy case led by his brother Lawrence Bishnoi. The NIA alleges that Anmol Bishnoi played a pivotal role in coordinating terrorist activities from abroad, providing logistical support to gang operatives, and engaging in extortion. He is also linked to high-profile crimes, including the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique and the shooting outside Bollywood actor Salman Khan’s residence. Special Public Prosecutor Rahul Tyagi emphasized Bishnoi’s involvement with the Babbar Khalsa International gang and their efforts to revive the Khalistan Movement. Bishnoi’s legal team has pledged full cooperation with the investigation while denying any involvement in terrorist activities. Security was heightened around the court complex during the proceedings, and the NIA discreetly transported Bishnoi from Delhi Airport to avoid potential threats. The case underscores India’s ongoing efforts to dismantle the nexus between organized crime, terrorism, and arms smuggling.
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Design your own masterpiece at the Dubai Watch Week
The Dubai Watch Week, a premier event for watch enthusiasts and collectors, has kicked off its grandest edition yet, marking its 10th anniversary. Spanning an impressive 200,000 square feet at Burj Park, the exhibition showcases over 90 global watch brands, offering everything from quirky everyday timepieces to exquisite handmade creations worth millions of dirhams. The event, which runs until November 23, is free to the public upon online registration.
On the opening day, Ahmed Seddiqi unveiled ten limited-edition watches, crafted in collaboration with renowned watchmakers to commemorate the company’s 75th anniversary. Among these, one platinum-crafted edition is limited to just three pieces, though prices remain undisclosed. The event also features the Studio Underdog pavilion, where visitors can design their own watches, with winning designs to be released in limited quantities next year.
For the first time, Swiss watchmakers Rexhep Rexhepi are exhibiting, offering a behind-the-scenes look at their meticulous craftsmanship. Each watch takes approximately a year to create, with every detail handcrafted, from the leather straps to the intricate mechanisms. Despite the secrecy surrounding their prices, these timepieces are highly sought after and difficult to source.
The Dubai Watch Week continues to be a hub for innovation and tradition in the watchmaking industry, attracting horophiles from around the globe.
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An anti-migrant group in South Africa is blocking foreigners from health clinics
In the early hours of the morning, Tholakele Nkwanyana and members of Operation Dudula, a South African anti-immigrant group, gather at the Diepsloot public health clinic in Johannesburg. Their mission is not to seek medical care but to prevent foreigners from accessing it. Dressed in military-style attire, they block the clinic’s entrance, demanding identity documents and turning away mothers with children and the sick, directing them to private hospitals that charge fees. This scene has become increasingly common across Gauteng, South Africa’s most populous province, as healthcare becomes the latest flashpoint in the nation’s contentious immigration debate. Despite a Johannesburg High Court order to cease harassing migrants, Operation Dudula vows to appeal, claiming their actions prioritize South Africans amid a perceived overburdening of resources. South Africa, Africa’s most developed economy, attracts migrants from neighboring countries like Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Lesotho, as well as from Nigeria and Ethiopia. In the year ending March 31, nearly 47,000 undocumented migrants were deported, an 18% increase from the previous year. Operation Dudula, which has grown in visibility, has also targeted foreign-owned businesses and schools, accusing migrants of exacerbating South Africa’s 31% unemployment rate. The group’s organized structure, including regional leaders and public engagements, hints at potential political ambitions. South Africa’s government condemns these actions, emphasizing that healthcare is a universal right. However, police resources are stretched thin in a country with high crime rates, limiting their ability to protect clinics. Recent arrests of Operation Dudula members in Soweto highlight the group’s aggressive tactics. The South African Human Rights Commission warns of a global rise in anti-immigrant sentiment, urging against scapegoating migrants for systemic healthcare failures. South Africa spends 8.5% of its GDP on healthcare, yet faces overcrowded hospitals, medication shortages, and crumbling infrastructure. Meanwhile, migrants like Blessing Tizirai and Nonhlanhla Moyo, who fled Zimbabwe’s collapsed public health system, face life-threatening barriers to care. As tensions escalate, Zimbabwe’s government refuses to fund its citizens’ treatment in South Africa, even as its political elite seek medical care abroad.
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Emirates, Air Canada extend codeshare partnership until 2032
In a significant move to bolster their strategic collaboration, Emirates and Air Canada have announced the extension of their codeshare partnership until December 2032. This decision comes on the heels of a highly successful three-year partnership that has already served over 550,000 passengers across 56 codeshare destinations, connecting Canada, the United States, Dubai, and other major global hubs. The renewed agreement, formalized through a memorandum of understanding, aims to deepen cooperation between the two aviation giants, enhance passenger and cargo services, and explore new Canadian gateways within their shared network. Additionally, the airlines are considering a joint cargo project to optimize the global movement of goods. Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized that the partnership will strengthen the airline’s capabilities, offering customers a more seamless travel experience and expanded connectivity. Mark Galardo, Air Canada’s Executive Vice President, highlighted the success of the collaboration, which prompted the early renewal and extension of the agreement. This partnership is expected to significantly boost tourism and trade between Canada and the UAE, while providing travelers with greater flexibility and supporting efficient cargo operations across the Americas, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent.
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Ukrainian teen saboteurs recruited on Telegram to attack their own country
In a chilling revelation, a Ukrainian teenager, now 18, has confessed to attempting to plant a bomb in a military conscription van under the direction of Russian handlers. The young man, identified only as Vlad to protect his identity, was promised $2,000 for the act of sabotage. However, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) had been monitoring him, ultimately thwarting the attack. Vlad is now awaiting trial on terrorism charges, which could result in a 12-year prison sentence.
Vlad’s case is part of a broader pattern of Russian recruitment of Ukrainian minors for sabotage and attacks against their own country. According to the SBU, over 800 Ukrainians, including 240 minors, have been recruited by Russia in the past two years. Some of these recruits are as young as 11, with reports of attempts to recruit children as young as nine.
The recruitment primarily occurs on platforms like Telegram, TikTok, and even video game platforms. The handlers exploit financial desperation, offering payments for increasingly dangerous tasks. Vlad, for instance, was initially reluctant but was persuaded to undertake a series of assignments, culminating in the bomb plot. He was paid a fraction of the promised cryptocurrency, highlighting the manipulative nature of these recruitments.
Ukrainian officials have publicly named suspected Russian intelligence agents involved in these operations. While the BBC has not independently verified the Russian state’s direct involvement, several European governments have reported evidence of Russian agents recruiting young men for acts of vandalism, arson, and surveillance.
The SBU has been proactive in countering these threats, conducting awareness campaigns in schools and removing some of the recruitment channels on Telegram. However, many of these channels remain active, with some even growing in subscribers. Telegram has stated that calls to violence are explicitly forbidden and removed when discovered, but the persistence of these channels suggests a significant challenge.
Vlad’s story serves as a stark warning to others tempted by such offers. ‘It’s not worth it,’ he says. ‘They will either cheat you, and then you will end up in prison just like me, or you can take a bomb in your hands and it will simply blow you up.’