作者: admin

  • ‘Heist made it more exciting to go to the Louvre’: Tourists react as museum reopens

    ‘Heist made it more exciting to go to the Louvre’: Tourists react as museum reopens

    The Louvre Museum in Paris resumed operations on Wednesday, just three days after a brazen daylight robbery saw millions of euros worth of jewelry stolen from its premises. The incident, which has captivated global attention, has surprisingly added an unexpected layer of intrigue for visitors. ‘The heist made it more exciting to go to the Louvre,’ remarked one tourist, reflecting a sentiment shared by many who flocked to the iconic museum upon its reopening. The theft, executed with remarkable audacity, has not only heightened public interest but also raised questions about security measures at one of the world’s most renowned cultural institutions. Despite the breach, the Louvre’s reopening signals a return to normalcy, with officials emphasizing enhanced security protocols to prevent future incidents. The event has sparked conversations about the intersection of art, security, and public fascination, as the museum continues to draw crowds eager to witness its treasures firsthand.

  • Maine Senate candidate apologises for tattoo that resembles Nazi symbol

    Maine Senate candidate apologises for tattoo that resembles Nazi symbol

    Graham Platner, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Maine, has issued a public apology following backlash over a tattoo on his chest that resembles a Nazi symbol. The 41-year-old Marine Corps combat veteran and oyster farmer stated he was unaware of the tattoo’s association with Nazi imagery and has pledged to have it removed. The tattoo, resembling the Totenkopf (German for “death’s head”), became visible in a social media video showing Platner dancing at his brother’s wedding. Platner explained that he got the tattoo in 2007 while serving in Croatia with fellow Marines, choosing the design from a parlor wall during a night of drinking. He emphasized his lifelong commitment to antifascism and expressed regret for the oversight. Genevieve McDonald, his former political director, criticized the tattoo as antisemitic, stating that Platner should have addressed it earlier. Platner has since covered the tattoo with a new design and is seeking removal. The controversy has intensified scrutiny of his social media history, including past Reddit posts downplaying sexual assault in the military and self-identifying as a communist. Platner apologized for these remarks, attributing them to post-war depression and isolation. Senator Bernie Sanders, a prominent supporter, defended Platner, emphasizing his apology and confidence in his campaign. The incident has added complexity to Platner’s bid to unseat Republican Senator Susan Collins in Maine.

  • First domestic flight lands in Sudan’s capital Khartoum since war began

    First domestic flight lands in Sudan’s capital Khartoum since war began

    In a significant development amid Sudan’s protracted civil war, a domestic passenger flight touched down at Khartoum International Airport on Wednesday, marking the first such arrival since the conflict erupted over two years ago. The flight, operated by Badr Airlines, originated from Port Sudan and was confirmed by Sudan’s Ministry of Media and Culture. This event signals a potential reopening of air traffic in the war-torn nation, though challenges remain. The airport, previously a battleground, was captured by the Sudanese military in March from the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group that continues to control parts of the western Darfur region and other areas. The conflict, which began as a power struggle between the military and the RSF, has resulted in catastrophic humanitarian consequences, including at least 40,000 deaths and the displacement of 12 million people, according to the World Health Organization. Additionally, over 24 million Sudanese face acute food insecurity, as reported by the United Nations. Despite the tentative reopening, the RSF has vowed to target the airport, as evidenced by a drone attack intercepted by the military on Tuesday. RSF leader Mohammad Hamdan Daglo, also known as Hemedti, reiterated this threat in a video statement, declaring any aircraft or drone operating from the airport as legitimate targets. Sudanese military leader Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, who toured the airport ahead of its reopening, pledged to protect citizens from RSF aggression. The Sudan Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the resumption of domestic flights after completing necessary operational and technical procedures, though the extent of airline participation remains uncertain. Sudanese officials have yet to provide further details.

  • A timeline of the jewel heist at the Louvre in Paris

    A timeline of the jewel heist at the Louvre in Paris

    In a brazen daylight heist that has stunned the world, thieves made off with crown jewels valued at 88 million euros ($102 million) from the Louvre Museum in Paris. The audacious robbery unfolded in less than eight minutes on Sunday morning, October 19, leaving authorities and the public in disbelief. The thieves, posing as renovation workers, used a stolen basket lift to scale the museum’s facade, forced open a window, and smashed display cases to seize the priceless treasures. They spent less than four minutes inside the museum before fleeing on scooters, leaving behind equipment and a yellow construction jacket. The stolen items included eight historically significant objects, though the emerald-set imperial crown of Empress Eugénie, wife of Napoleon III, was later found outside the museum. French officials revealed that the thieves had stolen the basket lift on October 10, using threats to obtain it from a company in Louvres, a town coincidentally named similarly to the museum. The Louvre, the world’s most visited museum, reopened on October 22 as investigators, including forensics experts, analyzed surveillance footage and collected evidence from the scene. Culture Minister Rachida Dati confirmed the robbery on social media, praising security officers for preventing the thieves from setting the truck on fire. The incident has raised questions about the museum’s security measures and the audacity of the criminals involved.

  • Chess federation looking into Vladimir Kramnik’s attacks on grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky

    Chess federation looking into Vladimir Kramnik’s attacks on grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky

    The chess world is in mourning following the unexpected death of Daniel Naroditsky, a prominent US grandmaster, just two weeks before his 30th birthday. Naroditsky, affectionately known as ‘Danya’ to his online followers, was a celebrated player, teacher, and commentator who played a pivotal role in popularizing chess through his YouTube and Twitch channels. His death has sparked a wave of grief and controversy, particularly surrounding public accusations of cheating made by former world champion Vladimir Kramnik. The International Chess Federation (Fide) has announced it is investigating Kramnik’s comments, which Naroditsky vehemently denied before his passing. In his final Twitch broadcast, Naroditsky hinted that the relentless scrutiny had taken a toll on him. Kramnik, who has accused multiple players of cheating, described Naroditsky’s death as a ‘tragedy’ and suggested that police should investigate the circumstances. He also indicated plans to take legal action against those blaming him for the situation. Naroditsky’s family, through the Charlotte Chess Center, announced his death without specifying the cause. The chess community, including luminaries like Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura, has condemned Kramnik’s conduct, with many calling for accountability. Fide has expressed condolences and plans to honor Naroditsky with a special award, recognizing his immense contributions to the game.

  • Huanglong scenic area in SW China’s Sichuan witnesses first snowfall

    Huanglong scenic area in SW China’s Sichuan witnesses first snowfall

    The Huanglong scenic area, located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province, Southwest China, experienced its first snowfall of the autumn season on October 21, 2025. This picturesque event transformed the region into a winter wonderland, with snow blanketing the iconic colorful pond clusters that Huanglong is renowned for. A stunning drone photograph captured the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscape, highlighting the vibrant hues of the ponds juxtaposed against the pristine white snow. The Huanglong scenic area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is celebrated for its unique karst formations, hot springs, and diverse ecosystems. The early snowfall not only enhances the area’s natural allure but also signals the onset of the colder months, potentially attracting more visitors eager to witness this rare spectacle. Local authorities have assured that necessary measures are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of tourists during this period.

  • IOC to tell members not to host events in Indonesia

    IOC to tell members not to host events in Indonesia

    The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has taken a firm stance against Indonesia following its decision to deny visas to Israeli athletes participating in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships in Jakarta. This move, prompted by Indonesia’s objection to Israel’s military actions in Gaza, has led the IOC to sever discussions with Indonesia regarding future Olympic events and recommend that international sports federations avoid hosting events in the country. The IOC emphasized that this ban will persist until Indonesia ensures unrestricted access for all participants, regardless of nationality. Among the affected athletes is Artem Dolgopyat, a two-time Olympic floor medallist and defending world champion, who was unable to compete due to the visa restrictions. The Israeli Gymnastics Federation (IGF) had sought urgent intervention from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas) to either guarantee Israeli participation or relocate the event, but their request was denied. The IOC has also summoned Indonesia’s Olympic committee and the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) to its headquarters in Lausanne to address the issue. This incident underscores the IOC’s commitment to maintaining sports as a ‘safe space’ free from political interference.

  • Watch: Trump joins Diwali celebration in White House, calls Modi ‘great friend’

    Watch: Trump joins Diwali celebration in White House, calls Modi ‘great friend’

    US President Donald Trump marked Diwali with a grand celebration at the White House on Tuesday, extending heartfelt greetings to the people of India and Indian-Americans. During the event, Trump lauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a ‘great person’ and a ‘great friend,’ emphasizing the strengthening ties between the United States and India in trade and regional peace. Trump revealed that he had a productive phone conversation with Modi earlier in the day, discussing trade relations and the importance of maintaining peace with Pakistan. ‘We talked about trade… and let’s have no wars with Pakistan. That was a very, very good thing,’ Trump stated. He also highlighted the symbolic significance of Diwali, describing it as a festival that celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. Following his remarks, Trump lit traditional diyas (lamps) to commemorate the occasion. In response, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude on social media, thanking Trump for his warm wishes and reaffirming the shared commitment of both nations to combat terrorism. The event was attended by senior officials from the Trump Administration, including FBI Director Kash Patel and ODNI Director Tulsi Gabbard, as well as a delegation of prominent Indian-American business leaders. The celebration underscores the cultural importance of Diwali in American society and the deepening relationship between the US and India. Earlier, US Congressmen Raja Krishnamoorthi and Brian Fitzpatrick introduced a bipartisan resolution in the House of Representatives to recognize the religious and historical significance of Diwali, reflecting the growing influence of the Indian diaspora in the US. Diwali, a five-day festival, is celebrated with rituals, prayers, and family gatherings, symbolizing prosperity, unity, and the victory of good over evil.

  • St. James’s Place Middle East: Helping people take control of their financial futures

    St. James’s Place Middle East: Helping people take control of their financial futures

    Dubai’s vibrant economy and modern infrastructure have positioned it as a hub for global professionals and high-net-worth individuals, making it an ideal location for financial advisory services. Anish Devkaran, Partner at St. James’s Place Middle East (SJP), relocated from the UK to the UAE in November 2024, driven by the region’s emergence as a global wealth centre. With over 20 years of experience in financial services, Anish saw an opportunity to bring world-class financial advice to the UAE, where demand for regulated and qualified financial advisers is on the rise. SJP, a FTSE 100 advisory giant with $245 billion in assets under management, established its Middle East office two years ago to cater to the growing need for tailored wealth management services, including tax advice, retirement planning, and estate planning. Since receiving regulatory approval from the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA), SJP has been raising the bar for financial advice in the region. Anish highlights Dubai’s dynamism, safety, and collaborative professional environment as key factors that make it an exciting place to live and work. He balances his UAE client list with his UK business, advising clients on complex financial plans as they relocate between the two countries. Anish’s approach to financial planning is deeply personal, treating each client like family and ensuring transparency and trust. He emphasizes the importance of helping clients gain peace of mind and equipping them with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their financial futures. SJP’s presence in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) reflects its commitment to elevating financial advice in the region, fostering trust and professionalism in the sector.

  • China’s flaring struggles reignite heated US rate debate

    China’s flaring struggles reignite heated US rate debate

    As Wall Street’s rally shows signs of fatigue and gold loses its shine, global attention is increasingly drawn to China’s economic slowdown. Despite not being in a state of collapse, China’s 4.8% growth rate in the third quarter of 2025—the slowest this year—has raised red flags worldwide. External demand has kept China on track to meet its 5% annual growth target, but mounting trade tensions, including a threatened 130% U.S. tariff, have positioned China as a significant downside risk to U.S. economic growth. Stephen Miran, a Federal Reserve governor, has expressed concerns about China’s potential use of its rare earths monopoly as a retaliatory measure against U.S. tariffs, urging policymakers to consider new tail risks. Miran advocates for a 125 basis point rate cut to mitigate economic vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, global debt has surged to a record $337.7 trillion, with China, the U.S., and other major economies contributing significantly to this increase. The Institute of International Finance (IIF) warns that rising military spending and geopolitical tensions will further strain government finances. In the Eurozone, industrial production has weakened, and Japan faces challenges from trade uncertainties and domestic demand stagnation. China’s ambitious 5% growth target is increasingly threatened by U.S. tariffs, prompting calls for urgent fiscal stimulus and measures to boost domestic consumption. As Chinese Communist Party officials gather for the Fourth Plenum, the focus is on devising strategies to transition China into higher-value-added industries and strengthen social safety nets to encourage spending. The global economic outlook remains fraught with risks, with policymakers worldwide bracing for potential shocks as 2026 approaches.