Global Pulse

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  • ‘Jaws’ harpoon gun and ‘Star Wars’ treasures lead LA film and TV auction

    ‘Jaws’ harpoon gun and ‘Star Wars’ treasures lead LA film and TV auction

    LOS ANGELES – A monumental collection of cinematic artifacts valued at approximately $9 million is set for auction next month, featuring iconic props from legendary films including “Jaws,” “Star Wars,” and “The Terminator.

    The three-day auction event, organized by Propstore and commencing March 25 at the Petersen Automotive Museum, will showcase approximately 1,550 pieces of film and television history. A special preview exhibition will be held at The Maybourne Beverly Hills hotel on March 11.

    Among the most anticipated items is the original fibreglass C-3PO head worn by Anthony Daniels in “The Empire Strikes Back” (1980), carrying a pre-sale estimate of $350,000–$700,000. The piece features illuminated eyes, original wiring, and a distinctive forehead antenna.

    Equally significant is the legendary “Skywalker” lightsaber hilt from “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” (2015), valued at up to $100,000. Used by both Mark Hamill’s Luke Skywalker and Daisy Ridley’s Rey, Propstore’s UK consignments manager Ibrahim Faraj described it as “arguably one of the most important pieces in ‘Star Wars’ history.”

    From the depths of cinematic terror comes the harpoon gun wielded by Quint (Robert Shaw) and Matt Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss) in Steven Spielberg’s 1975 classic “Jaws.” The prop, expected to fetch up to $500,000, is offered alongside Quint’s Fenwick fishing rod and reel (estimated at $150,000), which Propstore has branded “the most significant artifacts to ever surface from the movie.”

    The auction also features the leather jacket worn by Arnold Schwarzenegger’s T-800 cyborg in “The Terminator” (1984), complete with stage blood, rips, and mock bullet holes ($75,000–$150,000). Additional highlights include Russell Crowe’s helmet and mask from “Gladiator” (up to $250,000) and the Marauder’s Map from the “Harry Potter” franchise (up to $80,000).

    Faraj noted the growing global interest in film memorabilia, stating, “We’re seeing 20 to 30 percent more engagement, more registration, more people bidding. It’s growing bigger and it’s the new, modern thing people are collecting now.”

  • Rescuers search for missing after deluge kills 30 in Brazil

    Rescuers search for missing after deluge kills 30 in Brazil

    Southeastern Brazil faces a devastating humanitarian crisis following catastrophic rainfall that has claimed at least 30 lives, with rescue teams urgently searching for 39 individuals still missing. The state of Minas Gerais experienced unprecedented flooding and massive landslides after a river burst its banks during an overnight deluge, transforming streets into raging torrents of brown water.

    In the hillside neighborhood of Parque Burnier within Juiz de Fora, a devastating landslide swept away 12 homes while residents slept. Major Demetrius Goulart of the fire brigade confirmed the tragedy occurred during nighttime hours when families were indoors. Rescue operations involving firefighters, sniffer dogs, and civilian volunteers continue amid the rubble, where personal items including children’s toys and teddy bears have been unearthed, highlighting the human toll of the disaster.

    Juiz de Fora’s Mayor Margarida Salomao has declared a state of emergency, reporting the municipality’s wettest February on record with 584 millimeters (23 inches) of accumulated rainfall. The extreme weather has isolated neighborhoods, triggered at least 20 landslides, and forced approximately 3,000 residents from their homes. State authorities have suspended classes in all municipal schools as the region focuses on recovery efforts.

    President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has pledged federal support, emphasizing the priority of humanitarian assistance, restoration of basic services, and aid to displaced citizens. This tragedy marks another chapter in Brazil’s recent history of climate-related disasters, following the 2024 southern floods that claimed over 200 lives and the 2022 Petropolis deluge that killed 241 people. Climate experts consistently link these increasingly frequent extreme weather events to the broader impacts of climate change, highlighting a pattern of intensifying natural disasters across the country.

  • Drones hammer Sudan’s gold and oil zone – the pivotal new front line

    Drones hammer Sudan’s gold and oil zone – the pivotal new front line

    The strategic Kordofan region has emerged as the devastating new frontline in Sudan’s protracted civil war, where daily drone strikes are inflicting massive civilian casualties and reshaping the conflict’s trajectory. Since both warring factions solidified their positions across other battlefields in this nearly three-year confrontation, the south-central area has become the epicenter of violence.

    The brutal conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has escalated into one of Africa’s deadliest confrontations for civilians, continuing unabated despite international peace initiatives. Recent weeks have witnessed near-daily aerial assaults targeting markets, healthcare facilities, humanitarian convoys, and residential neighborhoods throughout Kordofan, drawing sharp condemnation from United Nations officials and humanitarian organizations.

    UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk recently demanded an immediate cessation of attacks on civilian infrastructure, emphasizing that ‘the parties must take urgent measures to protect civilians, including by refraining from the military use of civilian objects.’ This appeal followed reports of over 50 civilian fatalities within just 48 hours from separate drone strikes across North and West Kordofan.

    The strategic significance of Greater Kordofan—comprising three states—cannot be overstated, as it forms the crucial corridor connecting the RSF-controlled western Darfur region to the SAF-held capital of Khartoum in the eastern Nile Valley. The region’s substantial gold and oil resources further intensify its strategic value, with control over Kordofan potentially enabling the RSF to seize Sudan’s central corridor and solidify its parallel administration in western Sudan.

    The RSF has forged alliances with the rebel Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-Army North (SPLM-N), based in South Kordofan, gaining access to experienced combatants and strategic border territories. However, recent weeks have seen the SAF achieve significant strategic advances, breaking the RSF and SPLM-N blockade imposed on South Kordofan’s primary urban centers—Kadugli and Dilling—where two-year sieges had created famine conditions according to UN-backed food monitors.

    The technological dimension of the conflict has evolved dramatically, with both sides deploying sophisticated drone capabilities. The RSF reportedly utilizes Chinese-manufactured CH-95 long-range drones allegedly supplied by the United Arab Emirates, while the SAF employs Turkish Baykar drones, potentially including advanced Akinci combat models. Recent operations have targeted aerial defense systems, with the Sudanese military claiming successful strikes against RSF air defense infrastructure in both Kordofan and Darfur regions.

    International involvement has complicated the conflict further, with investigations revealing Egypt’s increased engagement over the past six months, reportedly alarmed by RSF advances in Darfur. Meanwhile, recent attacks in Blue Nile State threaten to expand the conflict regionally, with Sudan accusing neighboring Ethiopia and South Sudan of permitting RSF operations from their territories—allegations both nations deny.

    Despite US envoy Massad Boulos expressing optimism about securing a truce agreement before Ramadan, the Muslim holy month began with another devastating drone strike on families gathering at a water collection point in West Kordofan, resulting in numerous child fatalities. The continued violence underscores the immense challenges facing peace efforts and the horrific humanitarian cost of this protracted conflict.

  • Suspect discovered in trash bin after evading police during traffic stop

    Suspect discovered in trash bin after evading police during traffic stop

    A routine traffic stop evasion in Ohio culminated in an unexpected discovery when a fugitive was located hiding inside a public trash bin. The incident, captured on official dashcam footage, unfolded after law enforcement officers initiated a pursuit of a suspect who fled during a standard vehicle inspection.

    Following an intensive search of the vicinity, authorities were alerted to a remarkable discovery made by a municipal sanitation employee during trash collection duties. The worker observed unusual movement within a large commercial waste container, leading to the immediate identification and apprehension of the hidden individual.

    The Ohio Police Department has informally dubbed the suspect ‘Oscar the Grouch’ in reference to the iconic Sesame Street character known for residing in garbage receptacles. This humorous moniker belies the serious nature of the offense, though police confirmed the suspect was taken into custody without further incident following the sanitation worker’s alert.

    Law enforcement officials have praised the sanitation employee’s vigilance and prompt reporting, highlighting how community awareness assists police operations. The suspect now faces multiple charges including evasion of law enforcement and obstruction of justice, with additional charges potentially pending further investigation into the initial traffic stop circumstances.

  • SpiceJet Jaipur–Dubai flight cancelled after 11-hour delay; passengers left stranded

    SpiceJet Jaipur–Dubai flight cancelled after 11-hour delay; passengers left stranded

    A major operational disruption unfolded at Jaipur International Airport on Tuesday as SpiceJet Flight SG-57 to Dubai was abruptly cancelled following an extensive 11-hour delay, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded without adequate support. The incident has sparked serious concerns regarding airline communication protocols and passenger welfare management during service interruptions.

    The flight was originally scheduled for a 9:40 AM IST departure but underwent multiple rescheduling throughout the day before ultimately being canceled around 8:30 PM IST. This left travelers, including vulnerable groups such as elderly passengers, women, and children, in a state of uncertainty and discomfort. Numerous passengers reported spending the entire day within airport premises, with some forced to wait outside terminal buildings due to insufficient facilities.

    Affected traveler Ankur expressed his frustration: ‘I have been here since morning. Had they provided timely information about the cancellation, I would have returned home instead of enduring this prolonged wait.’ The lack of transparent communication from airline representatives emerged as a primary complaint among stranded passengers, who also reported insufficient assistance during the extended delay period.

    While unofficial sources cited operational and technical challenges as contributing factors, SpiceJet had not issued an official statement regarding the incident at the time of reporting. Flight tracking platforms including FlightRadar confirmed the eventual cancellation of the Dubai-bound service.

    The incident occurs amid ongoing analysis of the India-UAE air corridor’s capacity challenges, with recent studies indicating potential service gaps affecting significant portions of passengers by 2035. This event raises pertinent questions about airline accountability and emergency response mechanisms in the rapidly expanding aviation market between the two nations.

  • Poll: US tariffs on Chinese goods ‘too high’

    Poll: US tariffs on Chinese goods ‘too high’

    A comprehensive survey conducted by the Council on Foreign Relations in partnership with Morning Consult reveals significant American opposition to current tariff levels on Chinese imports. The study, conducted January 7-8 among 2,203 nationally representative adults, found that 49% of respondents consider existing tariffs “too high,” while only 6% believe they are too low.

    The research emerges amid escalating trade tensions, with a new 10% universal tariff implemented this Tuesday through Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. According to White House officials cited by the Financial Times, this temporary levy is scheduled to increase to 15% within 150 days.

    Political affiliation substantially influences tariff perceptions, with 67% of Democratic supporters viewing current Chinese tariffs as excessive compared to 46% of Republicans who consider them “about right.” The survey indicates three-fifths of Americans believe even a modest 10% tariff increase would adversely affect consumers, middle-class households, small businesses, and the broader economy.

    The report cites Yale Budget Lab data showing peak tariff rates reached 135% in April 2025 before moderating to 24% by January. Other analyses from the Center for Strategic and International Studies estimate combined sectoral and IEEPA tariffs currently average 47.5%.

    Despite divided opinions on trade volume with China—over one-quarter of respondents expressed no clear preference—the survey reveals strong bipartisan support for cooperation on specific issues. Sixty-five percent of Americans endorse collaborative efforts in technological innovation, educational exchanges, poverty reduction, manufacturing modernization, and global health research.

    The findings suggest generational differences in China perceptions, with 38% of adults aged 18-34 describing China as a friend or ally compared to just 11% of those aged 65 and above.

    China’s Ministry of Commerce responded to developments by calling for revocation of unilateral tariffs and expressing willingness to engage in candid consultations during upcoming sixth-round economic talks. This follows last week’s Supreme Court ruling that President Trump exceeded authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act when imposing sweeping tariffs.

  • Iran ready to take necessary measures for deal with US: deputy FM

    Iran ready to take necessary measures for deal with US: deputy FM

    Iran has formally communicated its preparedness to implement essential steps toward finalizing a nuclear agreement with the United States, according to statements from a senior Iranian diplomat. Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi, in a Tuesday interview with National Public Radio (NPR), articulated Tehran’s position that it stands ready to “reach an agreement as soon as possible” regarding the long-standing nuclear negotiations.

    The declaration comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, which has faced significant challenges since the US withdrawal from the accord in 2018. Takht-Ravanchi, who previously served as Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, emphasized Iran’s willingness to take necessary measures to facilitate a mutual understanding.

    This development represents a notable shift in diplomatic positioning as both nations navigate complex negotiations surrounding Iran’s nuclear program and corresponding sanctions relief. The deputy foreign minister’s comments suggest a potential breakthrough in the stalled talks that have involved multiple international parties including European nations, Russia, and China.

    The timing of this announcement carries particular significance as it follows several rounds of indirect negotiations between US and Iranian officials in various European capitals. Diplomatic analysts suggest that Iran’s public statement through Western media indicates a strategic effort to communicate flexibility directly to American audiences and policymakers.

    Previous sticking points in negotiations have included the scope of sanctions relief, verification mechanisms for Iran’s nuclear activities, and guarantees against future US withdrawal from any agreement. Takht-Ravanchi’s statement does not specify what “necessary measures” might entail, leaving room for interpretation regarding potential compromises from Tehran.

  • James Yeomans wins EGC’s Men’s Club Championship following thrilling 36-hole duel

    James Yeomans wins EGC’s Men’s Club Championship following thrilling 36-hole duel

    Emirates Golf Club witnessed a spectacular display of golfing excellence as James Yeomans emerged victorious in the 2026 Men’s Club Championship on February 21st. The prestigious tournament, featuring a competitive field of 80 golfers, culminated in a dramatic finish across the club’s renowned Faldo and Majlis courses.

    Yeomans demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout the two-day stroke play event, posting a combined score of 146 (+2) to claim his inaugural championship title. His victory was sealed with exceptional composure during the final holes on the Majlis course, where he delivered two crucial birdies on the seventeenth and eighteenth holes to overcome strong competition.

    Runner-up Ross Jones finished three strokes behind at 149 (+5), showcasing impressive recovery skills after an initial challenging start. Jones battled back from four consecutive opening bogeys with strategic play that included birdies on the tenth and twelfth holes during his final round.

    The championship highlighted exceptional performances across multiple categories. Sanjay Dhandsa secured third place with 150 (+6), while defending champion Pontus Fredriksson finished fifth at 151 (+7). The tournament also recognized outstanding achievements in net and gross categories, with Arda Obuz recording an impressive net 63 (-9) on the Faldo Course and Arjun Manghnani claiming the best net round on the Majlis with 70 (-2).

    Division honors were awarded to Ewan Cameron in Division A (Handicap Index 5.1 and below) with a net score of 143 (-1), while Tirth Shergill dominated Division B (Handicap Index 5.2 and above) with an exceptional 137 (-7) net performance.

    Club Captain Scott Campbell praised the exceptional quality of competition and sportsmanship displayed throughout the event. The championship once again demonstrated Emirates Golf Club’s status as a world-class golfing destination, home to the DP World Tour’s Hero Dubai Desert Classic and the region’s exclusive 18-hole night golf facility on the Faldo Course.

  • Moroccan footballer Achraf Hakimi faces trial over alleged rape

    Moroccan footballer Achraf Hakimi faces trial over alleged rape

    Moroccan international footballer Achraf Hakimi will stand trial following a judicial order related to rape allegations dating back to February 2023. The Parisian court’s decision comes after a prolonged investigation into accusations made by a woman who reported being assaulted at the athlete’s residence.

    According to initial reports from AFP, the complainant approached authorities in Val-de-Marne, east of Paris, alleging non-consensual sexual contact after meeting the PSG defender through Instagram. The woman detailed how Hakimi had arranged chauffeur transportation to bring her to his home, where she claims he initiated unwanted physical contact that escalated to sexual assault. She reported managing to escape the situation with assistance from a friend who came to retrieve her.

    Hakimi, who maintains his innocence, responded to the development via social media platform X, stating: “Today, a rape accusation is enough to justify a trial, even though I contest it and everything proves that it is false.” The athlete added that he awaits the judicial process calmly, believing it will reveal the truth while acknowledging the complexity such cases present for both accused individuals and genuine victims.

    The defense team, led by attorney Fanny Colin, has announced plans to appeal the committal order, characterizing the case as relying solely on the accuser’s testimony without supporting forensic evidence. Colin emphasized that the complainant allegedly obstructed investigations by refusing medical examinations, DNA testing, and analysis of her mobile device.

    Conversely, Rachel-Flore Pardo, representing the civil party, expressed relief at the indictment decision after three years of legal proceedings. Pardo noted the alignment of the court’s decision with prosecution requests and highlighted persistent challenges in addressing sexual violence allegations within certain social circles, specifically mentioning men’s professional football.

    The 25-year-old athlete, captain of Morocco’s national team and key contributor to their historic 2022 World Cup semi-final appearance, continues his professional duties with Paris Saint-Germain. The club has declined commentary, with coach Luis Enrique stating the matter remains “in the hands of the justice system” as Hakimi prepares for upcoming Champions League fixtures.

  • Paramount boosts Warner Bros offer to rival Netflix in takeover bid

    Paramount boosts Warner Bros offer to rival Netflix in takeover bid

    In a dramatic escalation of the media industry’s most consequential takeover battle, Paramount Skydance has substantially enhanced its acquisition proposal for Warner Bros Discovery, potentially undermining Netflix’s competing bid. The revised offer represents a strategic maneuver to position Paramount as the preferred suitor in this high-value corporate contest.

    The intensified negotiations follow Warner Bros’ decision to explore sale options last year, with Paramount now consenting to augment its purchase price by one dollar per share. This improved bid has been formally recognized by Warner Bros’ board as potentially constituting a ‘superior proposal’ that could justify abandoning its pre-existing arrangement with Netflix.

    According to corporate disclosure documents, Warner Bros intends to conduct additional discussions with Paramount before rendering a definitive verdict regarding the December agreement with Netflix. The streaming giant maintains a four-day window to submit a counter-proposal, though company representatives declined immediate commentary regarding the heightened bidding competition.

    Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos previously characterized the negotiation dynamics as ‘part of the process’ during a BBC interview, emphasizing the company’s disciplined acquisition philosophy. ‘We’re very disciplined buyers and we always have been,’ Sarandos remarked prior to Paramount’s improved offer, while acknowledging the inherent ‘price-discovery’ nature of major media acquisitions.

    Paramount Skydance, backed by technology billionaire Larry Ellison and helmed by his son David Ellison, has pursued an aggressive acquisition strategy throughout the past year. The company aims to establish itself as a dominant Hollywood entity through the Warner Bros purchase, though its previous offers were consistently rejected.

    The existing Netflix arrangement, valued at $27.75 per share or approximately $82 billion including debt obligations, would transfer Warner Bros’ film production assets and streaming services including HBO to the streaming platform. Under this scenario, Warner Bros would spin off its remaining operations—encompassing traditional television networks and CNN news division—as an independent corporate entity.

    Paramount’s revised proposal now offers $31 per share in cash compensation, supplemented by additional financial considerations for transaction delays. The sweetened deal includes a substantial $7 billion breakup fee provision should regulatory intervention prevent acquisition completion, alongside coverage of Warner Bros’ $2.8 billion termination penalty payable to Netflix if their merger agreement dissolves.

    The escalating bidding war has attracted regulatory scrutiny, with lawmakers expressing concerns about potential market consolidation effects and broader entertainment industry implications. During recent Congressional hearings, Netflix executives faced questioning regarding potential consumer price increases and cinematic exhibition industry consequences.

    Additional political dimensions have emerged through the Ellison family’s connections to the Trump administration, drawing attention from Democratic legislators. Warner Bros’ board maintains that no final determination has been reached, with further negotiations planned to evaluate whether Paramount’s proposal indeed qualifies as a definitively superior offer.

    Industry analysts suggest Warner Bros may be strategically orchestrating competitive bidding dynamics. Madison and Wall managing director Luke Stillman predicted prior to the latest offer revelation that acquisition values might ultimately reach $33 per share, indicating significant remaining negotiation leverage.