Global Pulse

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  • Middle East airports closed and thousands of travelers stranded after attack on Iran

    Middle East airports closed and thousands of travelers stranded after attack on Iran

    A severe aviation crisis has gripped the Middle East following military strikes by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets, triggering unprecedented regional airspace closures that have stranded hundreds of thousands of travelers worldwide.

    The coordinated offensive, launched Saturday, prompted immediate shutdowns of airspace across Iran, Israel, Qatar, Syria, Iraq, Kuwait, and Bahrain. The United Arab Emirates implemented a partial airspace closure while Dubai’s Emirates Airlines suspended all operations until at least Sunday afternoon. Qatar Airways extended its closure through Monday morning, creating massive disruptions at three of the world’s busiest aviation hubs in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha.

    According to aviation analytics firm Cirium, these airports typically handle approximately 90,000 daily passengers through Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad. The conflict has resulted in the cancellation of over 1,800 flights, with major carriers including Air India, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and Air France suspending regional operations through the weekend.

    The aviation chaos extended beyond cancellations as at least 145 aircraft en route to Middle Eastern destinations were diverted to alternative airports in Athens, Istanbul, and Rome. One transatlantic flight from Philadelphia spent nearly 15 hours airborne before returning to its origin point after reaching Spanish airspace.

    Aviation experts warn travelers to expect prolonged disruptions. ‘There’s no way to sugarcoat this,’ said Henry Harteveldt, president of Atmosphere Research Group. ‘Prepare for delays or cancellations for the next few days as these attacks evolve.’

    The crisis has also produced tragic consequences on the ground. Dubai International Airport reported four injuries from attacks, while Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport confirmed one fatality and seven injuries from a drone strike. Kuwait International Airport also experienced strikes, though Iran hasn’t publicly claimed responsibility for these specific incidents.

    Airlines now face substantial operational challenges, having to reroute flights south over Saudi Arabia—adding hours to travel time and significantly increasing fuel consumption. These added costs may quickly translate to higher ticket prices if the conflict persists.

    Mike McCormick, former FAA air traffic control official and current Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University professor, suggested partial airspace reopenings might occur within 24-36 hours as military operations become more defined and Iran’s missile capabilities diminish. However, the situation remains highly volatile, with the previous June 2025 conflict between Israel and Iran having lasted 12 days.

    Travelers like Jonathan Escott, whose Emirates flight from Newcastle to Dubai was canceled, expressed widespread frustration: ‘No one knows what’s going on with the conflict. Not Emirates, Emirates don’t have a clue. No one has a clue.’

    With India’s civil aviation agency designating most Middle Eastern airspace as high-risk and numerous airlines suspending operations indefinitely, aviation authorities recommend passengers verify flight statuses directly with carriers and explore flexible rebooking options during this unprecedented regional aviation crisis.

  • Navarrete stops Nunez to unify super-featherweight titles

    Navarrete stops Nunez to unify super-featherweight titles

    In a spectacular display of boxing prowess, Mexican champion Emanuel Navarrete forcefully unified the IBF and WBO super-featherweight titles with a commanding performance against countryman Eduardo Nunez. The highly anticipated bout concluded before the eleventh round when ringside medical personnel intervened due to Nunez’s deteriorating condition.

    Navarrete, the 31-year-old three-division world champion, systematically dismantled his previously undefeated opponent throughout the contest at Glendale’s Desert Diamond Arena. The victory marks Navarrete’s 40th professional win in 43 appearances, simultaneously ending Nunez’s impressive 19-fight winning streak.

    The tactical battle saw Navarrete establish early dominance before delivering devastating blows in the ninth round that prompted the first medical examination of Nunez. By the conclusion of the tenth round, Nunez displayed significant facial damage including deep lacerations and a severely swollen right eye that rendered him unable to continue safely.

    Reflecting on the stoppage, Navarrete expressed mixed emotions: ‘It’s difficult to witness your opponent in distress, but the uncertainty of boxing necessitates caution. Those final rounds present unpredictable dangers where a single punch could alter everything.’

    With this unification victory, Navarrete positions himself for potential undisputed championship opportunities against WBC titleholder O’Shaquie Foster and WBA champion Lamont Roach, setting the stage for further consolidation in the super-featherweight division.

  • Lyse Doucet: This is an extraordinary moment Iran has been preparing for

    Lyse Doucet: This is an extraordinary moment Iran has been preparing for

    In a seismic development that has reshaped the Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape, coordinated military strikes by United States and Israeli forces have resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. The 86-year-old cleric, who ruled Iran for 36 years, was reportedly killed during targeted attacks on his compound, though Iranian officials initially denied the reports before confirming his “martyrdom” through tearful state television announcements.

    The operation unfolded with precision strikes that caused significant damage to the Supreme Leader’s residence visible in satellite imagery. Following hours of conflicting reports and official denials, the confirmation came only after former US President Donald Trump broke the news on his social media platform. The Iranian government has declared forty days of mourning, with pro-government gatherings already emerging to grieve the leader’s passing.

    Contrasting reactions have emerged globally. While government loyalists mourn, verified videos show celebrations erupting in Tehran, Karaj, and among Iranian diaspora communities worldwide, with many expressing hope that this marks the end of hardline Islamic rule. The dramatic events cap years of escalating tensions between Iran and Western powers, particularly following last June’s 12-day conflict that saw Israel eliminate nine nuclear scientists and numerous security officials.

    Historical context reveals this contingency was long anticipated. Khamenei had reportedly prepared succession plans, including identifying three senior clerics as potential replacements and instructing the Assembly of Experts to be ready for any eventuality. Speculation about successors includes his son Mojtaba and other senior figures, though the ruling establishment will likely prioritize continuity and seamless transition to maintain their grip on power.

    The Supreme Leader’s death represents the culmination of growing challenges to his rule, including massive protests against severe security crackdowns that killed thousands of Iranians. His deeply anti-Western, anti-Israel ideology shaped decades of regional policy, suppressing reform movements and confronting international powers.

    As the Islamic Republic enters its most precarious period since the 1979 revolution, questions emerge about whether this leadership change could signal broader directional shifts for the 47-year-old theocratic state. Regardless of who emerges as successor, the primary objective will remain preserving the clerical establishment and powerful Revolutionary Guards control amid a rapidly escalating conflict that continues to unfold in unpredictable and dangerous ways.

  • Trump says Iran’s Supreme Leader killed in US-Israeli strikes, Tehran insists Khamenei is ‘safe and sound’

    Trump says Iran’s Supreme Leader killed in US-Israeli strikes, Tehran insists Khamenei is ‘safe and sound’

    In a controversial social media post on Saturday, former U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been killed during joint U.S.-Israeli military operations. Utilizing his Truth Social platform, Trump declared this development represented “justice for the people of Iran and all Great Americans,” while praising the effectiveness of American intelligence and tracking systems developed in collaboration with Israel.

    The former president characterized the situation as a pivotal opportunity for Iranian citizens to reclaim their nation, simultaneously claiming that numerous members of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and security forces had lost their will to combat. Trump indicated his willingness to grant these individuals immunity while promising continued “heavy and pinpoint bombing” operations throughout the coming week “or as long as necessary to achieve our objective.

    These assertions were promptly contradicted by multiple sources. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated to NBC News that, to his knowledge, “almost all officials are safe and sound and alive,” acknowledging only minimal commander casualties. Iranian state media agencies Tasnim and Mehr similarly refuted the claims, describing the Supreme Leader as remaining “steadfast and firm in commanding the field.

    An official from Khamenei’s office denounced the allegations as enemy “mental warfare,” urging public vigilance against psychological operations. The conflicting narratives emerged amid reports of significant military engagements, with Iranian media citing Red Crescent figures indicating Saturday’s strikes affected 24 provinces and resulted in at least 201 fatalities. Iran subsequently launched counterattacks targeting Israeli and U.S. military assets across the Middle East, further escalating regional tensions.

    Middle East Eye noted the inability to independently verify Trump’s claims, particularly as the former president provided no substantiating evidence for his assertions regarding the Iranian leader’s status.

  • Algerians struggle to afford Ramadan feasts as prices rise despite government pledges

    Algerians struggle to afford Ramadan feasts as prices rise despite government pledges

    ALGIERS, Algeria — The sacred month of Ramadan, traditionally marked by spiritual reflection and communal feasting, has become a period of financial anxiety for many Algerians grappling with severe economic pressures. Despite Algeria’s substantial oil and gas reserves, declining purchasing power has pushed numerous families below the poverty line, transforming what should be a time of celebration into one of calculation and sacrifice.

    At Algiers’ bustling Clauzel market, the commercial epicenter of the capital, stalls overflow with vibrant fruits and vegetables artfully displayed. Yet beneath this appearance of abundance lies a harsh reality: essential food items have experienced dramatic price surges. Onions doubled from 45 to 100 dinars (approximately $0.35 to $0.77) per kilogram within days, while carrots reached 150 dinars, peppers 200 dinars, and green beans an astonishing 550 dinars per kilogram.

    The situation has created tense confrontations between vendors and consumers, with occasional eruptions of violence in marketplaces. Ahmed Messai, a retired railway worker, reflects on the stark contrast: “In the 1970s, we didn’t earn much, but we could stock up for Ramadan and afford fresh meat, fruit, and vegetables.”

    President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s administration has attempted to address the crisis through measures including the importation of 144,000 sheep and 46,000 cattle to improve meat accessibility. However, even with government intervention, locally sourced mutton from the High Plateaus and cattle from the Kabyle mountains remain prohibitively expensive for middle-income professionals.

    The growing economic distress has catalyzed a remarkable solidarity movement. Restaurant owners across the country have converted their establishments into “mercy restaurants” serving free meals to those in need. The Algerian Red Crescent operates one of the largest such initiatives in Algiers, serving up to 800 meals daily in a massive tented community space.

    Academic Hocine Zairar notes that while these efforts demonstrate “solidarity and civic awareness,” their proliferation signals a troubling societal shift: “Poverty is gaining ground in our country.” Indeed, mercy restaurants—once frequented primarily by singles, homeless individuals, and travelers—now regularly serve entire families.

    President Tebboune acknowledged the profound economic transformation during a recent television interview, stating that “the middle class, once the pride of Algeria, is now being decimated by the crisis.” His administration has promised wage increases, raised the minimum wage from 20,000 to 24,000 dinars, and increased retirement pensions by 5-10%.

    According to Professor Redouane Boudjema of the Institute of Journalism in Algiers, these Ramadan assistance measures represent a governmental effort to maintain “social peace” and mitigate political discontent arising from restrictions on civil and trade union freedoms. With the average Algerian salary equivalent to approximately $330 officially (and less than $235 on the informal market), the economic challenges extend far beyond the holy month, threatening the nation’s social fabric.

  • World leaders react cautiously to US and Israeli strikes and death of Iran leader Ali Khamenei

    World leaders react cautiously to US and Israeli strikes and death of Iran leader Ali Khamenei

    BRUSSELS (AP) — The international community responded with measured apprehension this weekend following coordinated military strikes by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets, an operation that reportedly resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and triggered immediate regional retaliation.

    Unverified reports from multiple sources indicate the 86-year-old Iranian leader may have been killed during strikes on his compound early Saturday. U.S. President Donald Trump declared on social media that Khamenei’s apparent demise presented “the single greatest chance for the Iranian people to take back their Country.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu subsequently acknowledged “growing signs” supporting these claims, though Iranian state media offered only minimal confirmation without detailing circumstances.

    The potential loss of Iran’s second revolutionary leader—who had not publicly designated a successor—casts immediate uncertainty over the Islamic Republic’s political future while dramatically heightening concerns about broader regional conflict. In response to the escalating situation, the U.N. Security Council convened an emergency session to address the crisis.

    Global reactions revealed a complex diplomatic landscape. European powers including Britain, France, and Germany issued joint statements condemning Iranian retaliatory strikes while carefully avoiding explicit endorsement of the U.S.-Israeli operation. French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that France was “neither warned nor involved” in the military action, advocating instead for intensified diplomatic efforts.

    The Arab League denounced Iranian counterstrikes as “a blatant violation of the sovereignty of countries that advocate for peace,” though historically critical of both Iranian and Israeli policies. Several Arab states, including Morocco, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, specifically criticized Tehran’s attacks on U.S. bases throughout the region.

    Russia and China delivered more direct criticisms, with Moscow’s Foreign Ministry labeling the strikes “a pre-planned and unprovoked act of armed aggression” and Beijing calling for immediate cessation of military actions. Conversely, Canada and Australia expressed open support for the operation, with Canadian leadership describing Iran as “the principal source of instability and terror throughout the Middle East.”

    Regional observers noted palpable tension across conflict zones. In the West Bank, Palestinians continued daily life despite audible missile interceptions, while authorities prepared for potential supply disruptions. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide voiced concerns about the “failure of negotiations” potentially leading to “a new, extensive war in the Middle East.”

    The International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons issued a stern warning that the attacks “risk provoking further escalation as well as increasing the danger of nuclear proliferation.” EU leadership and the Arab League jointly appealed for de-escalation and a return to diplomatic channels to prevent further regional destabilization.

  • AFL 2026: Carlton defender Jacob Weitering is closing in on a swift return from injury

    AFL 2026: Carlton defender Jacob Weitering is closing in on a swift return from injury

    Carlton Football Club is maintaining a guarded yet hopeful stance regarding the fitness of vice-captain Jacob Weitering, with his availability for the highly anticipated Opening Round clash against Sydney hanging in the balance. The key defender suffered a significant setback last month, sustaining a broken rib during the revived State of Origin event, casting immediate doubt on his participation in the season’s commencement.

    Despite the severity of the injury, club sources indicate Weitering has remained firmly within selection calculations. Teammate George Hewett provided insight into the cautious optimism permeating the club, stating the defender must successfully navigate this week’s training sessions to be considered. “He’s got to get through this week,” Hewett emphasized. “We hope he’s a good chance, but he’s got to train today and we play Thursday, so (train again on) Tuesday, and hopefully he’s right to go. He’s been doing as much as he can… he looks in good shape.”

    The potential absence of Weitering would deliver a substantial tactical blow to Carlton’s defensive structure, particularly in their mission to contain former teammate Charlie Curnow. The star forward sought a move to Sydney at the conclusion of last season, setting the stage for a compelling narrative in Thursday’s encounter.

    Hewett, who himself transitioned between these two clubs in 2021, downplayed any extra motivation in facing a former teammate. “(We’re) just going to treat it like another game,” he remarked. “He’s in a different team now, he was a great servant at this club, but things move on quickly. Six months ago, some players in the AFL wouldn’t have thought they’d be at certain clubs, and it happens, so you’ve just got to move on very quickly.”

    The midfielder emphasized focus on fundamental responsibilities rather than personal narratives, adding: “I think if you worry about that, you’re not worrying about the ball and your role, so once the ball bounces, you get pretty fixated on what you need to do. It’s going to be an exciting game and it will be good for the viewers to watch, which is cool.”

  • At least 23 protesters killed in Pakistan after killing of Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

    At least 23 protesters killed in Pakistan after killing of Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

    Pakistan witnessed a day of widespread violence and civil unrest on Sunday as mass protests erupted in response to the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a reported US-Israeli operation. The demonstrations turned deadly across multiple cities, resulting in at least 23 confirmed fatalities and numerous injuries.

    In Karachi, the nation’s commercial capital, hundreds of protesters stormed the US consulate complex, with several managing to breach the outer perimeter and inflict damage on the main building’s windows. The confrontation turned lethal as security forces employed live ammunition, tear gas, and rubber bullets against the crowds. According to Sindh’s chief police surgeon Sumaiyya Syed, at least ten individuals lost their lives in Karachi alone, with approximately 60 others sustaining injuries.

    The capital city Islamabad became another focal point of violence, where thousands gathered to express outrage over Khamenei’s death. At least two protesters were killed during demonstrations near the heavily fortified “Red Zone” that houses parliament buildings and diplomatic compounds, including the US embassy.

    The mountainous northern region of Gilgit-Baltistan emerged as a particularly violent flashpoint, with eleven fatalities reported in the city of Skardu. Protesters set fire to the office of the United Nations Military Observer Group, prompting authorities to impose a three-day curfew in the area.

    The widespread unrest stems from Pakistan’s significant Shia Muslim population, which constitutes approximately 20 percent of the country’s 200 million inhabitants. Many Pakistani Shias regarded Khamenei as their spiritual leader and regularly undertake pilgrimages to holy sites in Iran.

    In response to the security crisis, the US embassy in Islamabad announced the cancellation of all visa appointments and consular services for American citizens. Embassy officials advised US nationals in Pakistan to monitor local news, avoid large gatherings, and ensure their registration with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) remained current.

    Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi addressed the nation, acknowledging the shared grief with Iran while urging citizens to “not take the law into their hands” and protest peacefully. The government has condemned what it characterized as “unwarranted attacks” against Iran, noting that these developments occurred amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to achieve peaceful solutions in the region.

    The violence highlights Pakistan’s delicate geopolitical position, caught between its western neighbor Iran and its historical allies in the Gulf region. This balancing act became particularly complex following Pakistan’s recent mutual defense agreement with Saudi Arabia, which commits both nations to treat aggression against one as aggression against both.

  • Trump’s bet on Iranian regime change could be his biggest gamble yet

    Trump’s bet on Iranian regime change could be his biggest gamble yet

    In a dramatic escalation of Middle East tensions, President Donald Trump has authorized joint US-Israel military strikes against Iran, resulting in the death of the regime’s Supreme Leader. Dubbed Operation Epic Fury by Pentagon officials, this unprecedented action represents Trump’s bold attempt to achieve what previous administrations failed to accomplish: the complete dismantling of Iran’s nuclear program and potential regime change through aerial power alone.

    The operation unfolded after the White House issued ultimatums demanding Iran abandon its nuclear weapons program, cease ballistic missile production, and withdraw support for proxy groups including Hamas and Hezbollah. President Trump monitored the strikes in real-time from his Mar-a-Lago estate while advisors convened in the White House Situation Room.

    This military campaign marks a significant departure from Trump’s previous non-interventionist stance and campaign promises to end ‘forever wars.’ The administration now faces critical questions about long-term strategy and potential regional blowback. Military experts warn that eliminating Iran’s leadership without ground forces could spark a broader regional conflict, particularly given Iran’s retaliatory strikes against US allies including Bahrain, UAE, and Qatar.

    Domestically, the operation has triggered sharp political divisions. While Republican leadership largely supports the action, Democratic leaders condemn what they characterize as an unauthorized war of choice. House Democrats are preparing measures to constrain presidential war powers, setting the stage for a contentious political battle as midterm elections approach.

    The administration’s unconventional approach to foreign policy faces its ultimate test as Iran vows aggressive retaliation. With global energy markets watching nervously and the potential for prolonged conflict looming, Trump’s gamble could either redefine Middle East geopolitics or plunge the region into unprecedented instability.

  • Explosion, gunfire as Afghan forces shoot at aircraft over Kabul

    Explosion, gunfire as Afghan forces shoot at aircraft over Kabul

    Kabul was thrust into a state of high alert on Sunday as the sound of explosions and sustained anti-aircraft gunfire echoed through the city center. According to reports from AFP journalists on the ground, the Taliban-led government confirmed its forces were engaging Pakistani aircraft in a significant escalation of ongoing border hostilities.

    The current crisis represents a dangerous intensification of cross-border tensions that have been building for months. The situation deteriorated dramatically on Thursday when Afghan forces initiated an offensive along the contentious frontier, prompting Pakistan to respond with both ground operations and aerial bombardments.

    Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid stated Sunday that “anti-aircraft fire is being directed at Pakistani aircraft in Kabul,” confirming the defensive measures being taken in the capital. Pakistan has acknowledged conducting bombing campaigns on Friday targeting key Afghan cities including Kabul and Kandahar—the latter being home to Afghanistan’s supreme leader.

    Civilian casualties have become a central point of contention in the conflict. Afghan authorities have accused Pakistan of killing non-combatants in multiple attacks, allegations that Islamabad has not directly addressed. In rural southern Kandahar, construction workers reported being hit by two airstrikes on Sunday, with site managers confirming three fatalities.

    “Everything went dark before our eyes,” recounted 20-year-old Enamullah, who provided only one name. “I came from Kabul just to earn a piece of bread.”

    According to Afghan government deputy spokesman Hamdullah Fitrat, Pakistani fire has killed 30 civilians across eastern Khost, Kunar, and Paktika provinces since Thursday, in addition to those killed in Kandahar. These casualty figures, like many claims from both sides, remain difficult to verify independently.

    The conflict has expanded beyond aerial engagements. An AFP journalist in Jalalabad reported hearing a jet and two explosions on Saturday, with Afghan security forces claiming they downed a Pakistani fighter jet and captured its pilot—an assertion Islamabad dismissed as “totally untrue.”

    Diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire have thus far proven unsuccessful. Saudi Arabia and Qatar have engaged in mediation attempts, while China has stated it is “working with” both countries and called for calm. The United States has expressed support for “Pakistan’s right to defend itself against Taliban attacks,” according to Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker.

    The fundamental dispute centers on Pakistan’s accusation that Afghanistan has failed to act against militant groups conducting attacks within Pakistani territory—a charge the Taliban government rejects. Many recent assaults have been claimed by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a militant group that has intensified operations since the Taliban returned to power in Kabul in 2021.

    Analysts note that this week’s escalation marks a strategic shift, with Pakistan focusing airstrikes on Afghan government facilities rather than solely targeting militant positions as in previous operations.

    Pakistan’s information minister reported that 37 locations across Afghanistan had been hit by airstrikes since operations began, while Islamabad earlier stated that 12 of its soldiers had been killed. Meanwhile, Afghan officials claim to have killed more than 80 Pakistani soldiers and captured 27 military posts.

    The defense ministry in Kabul has also asserted it conducted air strikes on Pakistani territory over the past two days, which observers believe may have been drone operations.

    With Islamabad declaring “open war” on Friday and the Afghan government calling for “dialogue,” the current violence represents the worst outbreak since October fighting that killed more than 70 people on both sides. Land borders between the neighboring nations have remained largely closed since that time, further complicating the humanitarian and diplomatic situation.