Global Pulse

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  • French police conduct searches over ex-minister Jack Lang’s links to Epstein

    French police conduct searches over ex-minister Jack Lang’s links to Epstein

    Parisian authorities have executed search operations at the prestigious Arab World Institute (IMA) as part of an expanding judicial examination into connections between the institution’s former president Jack Lang and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The investigation follows the discovery of Lang’s name appearing approximately 700 times in recently unsealed Epstein documents.

    The 86-year-old former Socialist culture minister, who resigned from his IMA leadership position just over a week ago, now faces scrutiny from French financial prosecutors for alleged “laundering of the proceeds of tax evasion.” Lang has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, characterizing the accusations as entirely unfounded.

    During a meeting with IMA staff members on Monday, Lang maintained his innocence, stating: “I am completely serene because I have nothing to conceal. This investigation will ultimately vindicate me.”

    The probe has expanded to include Lang’s daughter, Caroline Lang, 64, following revelations about their involvement with an offshore entity established jointly with Epstein in the US Virgin Islands. This company, ostensibly created for art acquisition purposes, was never declared to French tax authorities.

    Additional complications emerged with reports identifying Caroline Lang as a named beneficiary in Epstein’s will, though she has publicly denied any knowledge of such inheritance arrangements. French media also note her previous employment with Robert Maxwell, father of Epstein’s convicted associate Ghislaine Maxwell.

    Further investigation centers on a $50,000 payment Epstein allegedly made toward production costs for a documentary film chronicling Jack Lang’s political career. Lang served as culture minister under President François Mitterrand and is widely credited with establishing France’s celebrated Fête de la Musique.

    The Paris prosecutor’s office emphasizes that current proceedings represent a preliminary enquiry based on unverified information, which may not necessarily result in formal charges. French investigators continue examining multiple French connections within the Epstein documents, including deceased modeling agent Jean-Luc Brunel, who died by suicide in Paris custody in 2022 while facing allegations of procuring minors for Epstein.

    The Arab World Institute, inaugurated in 1987 as a major cultural center promoting Arab-French relations, remains operational despite the investigation into its former leadership.

  • AX Premium Properties secures 2nd position in top sales at DAMAC Annual Awards 2025

    AX Premium Properties secures 2nd position in top sales at DAMAC Annual Awards 2025

    AX Premium Properties has solidified its standing as a premier real estate brokerage firm in the United Arab Emirates after achieving second position in Top Sales at the acclaimed DAMAC Annual Awards 2025. This distinguished accolade highlights the company’s consistent market excellence and robust operational capabilities within the competitive UAE property sector.

    The DAMAC Annual Awards represent one of the region’s most esteemed recognitions in real estate, honoring agencies that demonstrate exceptional sales performance and industry leadership. Placing second among numerous prominent brokerages signifies AX Premium Properties’ strategic execution and sustained growth trajectory in a dynamic market environment.

    Nadeem Sufy, Chief Executive Officer of AX Premium Properties, remarked on this accomplishment: ‘Attaining second position in Top Sales at the DAMAC Annual Awards 2025 constitutes a significant achievement for our entire organization. This recognition validates our methodical approach, profound market knowledge, and relentless dedication to client value creation. Our continued presence among elite agencies underscores the robustness of our collaboration with DAMAC and our pursuit of excellence.’

    The company has maintained consistent performance through strategic expansion initiatives, client-focused advisory services, and a results-driven sales culture. Its enduring partnership with DAMAC has been instrumental to its success, founded on mutual trust, operational transparency, and aligned objectives for market leadership.

    Looking forward, AX Premium Properties remains committed to enhancing its market position, broadening its operational scope, and establishing new industry standards for performance and client satisfaction throughout the UAE’s real estate landscape.

  • Ramadan in UAE: Retailers have high levels of food reserves, says minister

    Ramadan in UAE: Retailers have high levels of food reserves, says minister

    The United Arab Emirates has confirmed its strategic food reserves are at peak readiness levels, ensuring long-term continuous supply capacity as the holy month of Ramadan approaches. Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Higher Committee for Consumer Protection, emphasized that retailers maintain substantial inventories of essential consumer goods.

    The announcement followed Minister Al Marri’s comprehensive field inspection of major retail outlets including Emirates Co-operative Society and Spinneys across the UAE. The tour aimed to verify market price stability and adequate product availability to meet consumer demand throughout Ramadan.

    In parallel, the Ministry of Economy reinforced mandatory pricing regulations requiring both physical and digital retailers with spaces exceeding 1,000 square meters to display unit prices clearly using standardized measurement units for each item. These regulations, established under Cabinet Resolution No. 120 of 2022, empower authorities to monitor compliance and enable consumers to file complaints against violators.

    The ministry has specifically prohibited unauthorized price increases for essential commodities including cooking oils, eggs, dairy products, rice, sugar, poultry, legumes, bread, and wheat without prior approval. Minister Al Marri highlighted that the unit price policy provides consumers with accurate information to rationalize spending and make informed choices among alternatives, while ensuring fair competition based on unit pricing rather than promotional offers.

    The Ministry will intensify monitoring of promotional offers and discounts during Ramadan to prevent unjustified price increases and ensure sufficient quantities of key consumer goods remain available.

  • A mediterranean Iftar experience at Ancora

    A mediterranean Iftar experience at Ancora

    InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay’s Ancora restaurant is elevating Ramadan traditions with a distinctive Mediterranean-inspired Iftar experience. Throughout the holy month, guests can partake in sunset gatherings at the venue’s outdoor terrace, which offers panoramic vistas of the Dubai Water Canal and the iconic Burj Khalifa.

    The culinary journey features expertly curated live barbecue stations preparing dishes to order, complemented by an extensive selection of both Mediterranean specialties and traditional Ramadan favorites. This alfresco dining experience capitalizes on Dubai’s pleasant evening climate during this period, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. Enhancing the ambiance are live harp performances that provide serene musical accompaniment throughout the evening.

    Priced at 225 AED per person, the Iftar service operates daily from sunset until 9:00 PM. The restaurant extends special rates for corporate groups, offering an exclusive price of 165 AED per person for bookings of eight or more guests. Children aged 6-12 dine at half price (112.50 AED), while those under six enjoy complimentary dining. IHG One Rewards members receive an additional 25% discount on the standard rate.

    This culinary offering combines Mediterranean gastronomic excellence with Ramadan traditions against the backdrop of Dubai’s glittering skyline. The experience is designed to accommodate various gathering types including family celebrations, friendly gatherings, and corporate functions.

    Reservations are available through multiple channels: the official website at ancoradubai.com, via Instagram direct messages to @ancoradubai, or through WhatsApp at +971 52 620 0344.

  • 2 years on, Navalny’s death still casts a shadow over Russia and wider Europe

    2 years on, Navalny’s death still casts a shadow over Russia and wider Europe

    MOSCOW — Two years after the controversial death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny in an Arctic penal colony, international tensions have reached new heights following a groundbreaking forensic revelation. European laboratories have conclusively identified epibatidine—a rare neurotoxin derived from poison dart frogs—in samples from Navalny’s body, according to joint statements from five European governments.

    The second anniversary of Navalny’s death on February 16, 2024, witnessed emotional gatherings at Moscow’s Borisovsky Cemetery, where the activist’s mother Lyudmila Navalnaya publicly accused Russian authorities of orchestrating her son’s murder. The memorial events occurred under intense security surveillance, with diplomatic representatives from several European embassies joining mourners amid growing geopolitical tensions.

    France’s President Emmanuel Macron issued a stark condemnation, stating Navalny’s death “revealed the Kremlin’s weakness and fear of opposition.” Meanwhile, Navalny’s widow Yulia Navalnaya, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, declared she now possessed irrefutable proof that “Putin killed Alexei with a chemical weapon.”

    The Kremlin maintains its consistent denial of involvement, with presidential spokespersons dismissing the allegations as “biased and unfounded.” Russian officials continue to assert that Navalny died of natural causes following a walk in the penal colony.

    This development marks the second confirmed poisoning attempt against Navalny, who survived a 2020 nerve agent attack that he attributed to Kremlin operatives. His subsequent return to Russia resulted in immediate imprisonment on what supporters claim were politically motivated charges.

    The Russian opposition movement now faces critical challenges, with key figures operating from exile and receiving lengthy prison sentences in absentia. Despite the recent establishment of the Platform for Dialogue with Russian Democratic Forces by the Council of Europe’s PACE assembly, the opposition remains fragmented without its most charismatic leader.

    European nations emphasized that epibatidine—a substance not naturally occurring in Russia—represents further evidence of state-sponsored assassination. The joint investigation by the UK, France, Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands concluded that “Russia had the means, motive and opportunity to administer this poison.”

  • Under the Ramadan sky: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

    Under the Ramadan sky: JW Marriott Marquis Dubai

    As Dubai enters the holy month of Ramadan, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai has unveiled an extensive program of curated culinary and cultural experiences designed to foster community connection and spiritual reflection. The hotel’s 2026 Ramadan offerings transform its premium venues into spaces for traditional celebration and contemporary contemplation.

    The hotel’s lobby sets the tone with ‘House of Light,’ an immersive installation by Studio Morcos that creates a serene environment for reflection and spiritual contemplation. This artistic intervention captures the essence of Ramadan through light and space, offering guests an elevated experience from the moment of arrival.

    Across its dining establishments, the hotel presents diverse Iftar experiences catering to different preferences and budgets. Al Qamar Iftar takes place on The Terrace with breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa, where guests break their fast beneath the crescent moon to the accompaniment of live oud music. The international buffet spans Asian wok stations, Middle Eastern grills, Indian tandoors, and Western favorites, featuring show-stopping live cooking stations including whole lamb ouzi and traditional shawarma.

    Kitchen6 offers a warm, communal Iftar setting centered around its six interactive kitchens where chefs prepare international dishes live. The extensive buffet combines Middle Eastern specialties with global flavors and an impressive dessert display.

    Rang Mahal presents a distinctive approach with a three-course, family-style sharing menu inspired by historic spice routes. The restaurant reinterprets India’s diverse culinary traditions through a contemporary lens, balancing heritage flavors with modern finesse.

    For the late-night Suhoor meal, Nomadia Lounge & Terrace provides a relaxed social setting where guests can extend their evening with an à la carte selection in a sophisticated atmosphere.

    The comprehensive Ramadan program demonstrates the hotel’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences that honor tradition while providing modern luxury comforts throughout the holy month.

  • 10-month-old dies in car crash, gives life to 5 becoming Kerala’s youngest donor

    10-month-old dies in car crash, gives life to 5 becoming Kerala’s youngest donor

    In a profound act of compassion amidst unimaginable tragedy, a 10-month-old infant from Kerala has become the state’s youngest organ donor following a fatal road accident. Alin Sherin Abraham sustained catastrophic injuries on February 5 when the vehicle carrying her collided with another in Kottayam district, ultimately resulting in brain death declaration.

    Despite their devastating loss, parents Arun Abraham and Sherin Ann John made the courageous decision to donate their daughter’s organs through Kerala’s State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (K-SOTTO). The infant’s medical legacy includes her liver, both kidneys, heart valves, and corneal tissues—gifts that would ultimately transform five lives.

    The complex logistical operation involved multiple medical institutions across Kerala. Alin’s heart valves were transported to Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute in Thiruvananthapuram, while her liver was allocated to KIMS Hospital. Both kidneys were designated for transplantation at Government Medical College Thiruvananthapuram, with her corneas preserved at the Eye Bank for future vision restoration procedures.

    Medical authorities revealed specific recipient details: both kidneys would benefit a 10-year-old girl undergoing treatment at Government Medical College, while a six-month-old infant from Thiruvananthapuram would receive the liver transplant. Though initial plans involved aerial transport, the organs were ultimately conveyed via road due to nighttime flight restrictions, with local police and medical teams coordinating the critical transfer.

    Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced official honors for the infant donor, stating: “Little Alin has granted a new lease of life to five others, a monumental act of compassion that reflects the true spirit of Kerala.” The Chief Minister further acknowledged healthcare professionals, police personnel, and support teams whose coordinated efforts enabled the successful transplants.

    This case represents both the heartbreaking realities of road safety challenges and the extraordinary potential of organ donation systems. Alin’s story has sparked renewed discussions about pediatric organ donation protocols and infrastructure capabilities within India’s public healthcare framework.

  • A season of reflection at Ajman Hotel & Villas by Blazon Hotels

    A season of reflection at Ajman Hotel & Villas by Blazon Hotels

    Blazon Hotels’ Ajman Hotel & Villas has unveiled its meticulously crafted Ramadan program for 2026, offering guests an elevated spiritual retreat combining coastal tranquility with traditional hospitality. The property transforms into a sanctuary for reflection and communal connection throughout the holy month, emphasizing understated elegance in both ambiance and service.

    The culinary experience forms the centerpiece of the Ramadan offering. At sunset, guests are invited to a sophisticated Iftar spread that harmoniously blends authentic regional specialties with international cuisine. A dedicated Emirati station highlights local culinary heritage through carefully prepared dishes that balance traditional flavors with contemporary presentation techniques. The dining experience extends from sunset until 8:30 PM, with à la carte service available until 1:00 AM for those seeking to prolong their evening in the property’s serene environment.

    For corporate and private gatherings, the hotel provides tailored Iftar solutions across multiple venue options. The Al Zawraa Ballroom offers formal elegance while more intimate meeting rooms cater to smaller groups. Pricing begins at AED 195 per person for unlimited buffet access including traditional Ramadan beverages, water, and all applicable charges. Volume discounts apply for group bookings, with rates descending to AED 180 for groups of ten and AED 160 for parties exceeding fifty guests.

    The nocturnal Suhoor service operates from 9:00 PM through 2:30 AM, available both in dedicated dining spaces and through in-room dining. Priced at AED 125 per person, the set menu emphasizes quiet indulgence while traditional hubbly-bubbly services provide social enhancement after Iftar.

    Throughout Ramadan, the property maintains its coastal setting as a backdrop for spiritual contemplation, positioning itself as a destination where modern hospitality standards enhance rather than overshadow traditional Ramadan values.

  • Vision and devotion: A comprehensive guide to eye care

    Vision and devotion: A comprehensive guide to eye care

    As Muslim communities worldwide prepare for Ramadan 2026, leading ophthalmologists from Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Abu Dhabi have issued comprehensive guidance for maintaining optimal eye health during the holy month. The period of spiritual reflection brings significant changes to daily routines—including altered sleep patterns, fasting, and extended nighttime activities—that necessitate special consideration for ocular wellness.

    Retinal Health Considerations
    According to Medical Director Dr. Nicola Ghazi, MD, fasting can potentially enhance metabolic health, creating an opportunity for physical renewal. However, the retina—the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye—requires particular attention for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes. While fasting may improve metabolic control, the manner of breaking the fast at Iftar becomes critically important for maintaining stable blood glucose levels.

    Dr. Ghazi emphasizes that dramatic fluctuations in sugar levels between fasting hours and heavy Iftar meals can adversely affect the delicate blood vessels supplying the retina. This is especially concerning for those with diabetic retinopathy, a condition that threatens vision. The specialist advises against consuming sugary foods when breaking the fast, as they trigger rapid blood sugar spikes that may exacerbate diabetes and increase hunger. Instead, balanced meals containing complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats are recommended. A protein-rich Suhoor combined with adequate hydration may help maintain steadier glucose levels throughout daylight hours.

    Glaucoma Management Protocols
    Dr. Jason Goldsmith, MD, Head of Glaucoma Service, addresses concerns regarding intraocular pressure control during Ramadan. Often termed the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma involves elevated eye pressure that damages the optic nerve. Dr. Goldsmith stresses that consistent adherence to prescribed treatment remains paramount for glaucoma patients during the fasting period.

    Addressing common concerns about medication invalidating fasts, Dr. Goldsmith clarifies that medicated eye drops do not provide nutrition and typically do not break the fast. However, skipping even a single dose can precipitate dangerous pressure spikes. The expert recommends using the “punctal occlusion” technique—applying gentle pressure to the inner eye corner for one to two minutes after administering drops—to minimize systemic absorption. Maintaining treatment consistency is essential to prevent irreversible vision deterioration.

    Corneal Hydration Strategies
    Dr. George Corrent, MD, PhD, Head of Cornea and Refractive Service, highlights the importance of ocular surface hydration in the arid UAE climate. The cornea, being the eye’s outermost protective layer, becomes vulnerable to dehydration during fasting hours. Reduced bodily hydration levels diminish tear production, leading to symptoms including burning sensations, grittiness, and intermittent blurred vision.

    To counteract dehydration-related dry eye syndrome, Dr. Corrent advocates for “pre-emptive hydration”—consuming sufficient water between Iftar and Suhoor to maintain healthy tear film integrity. For individuals spending prolonged periods in prayer or engaging with digital screens, preservative-free artificial tears can provide supplementary relief. Proper corneal hydration ensures sustained visual clarity and comfort throughout daily activities.

    All specialists concur that any sudden visual changes—including vision decrease, new floaters, or shadow-like appearances across the visual field—require immediate medical evaluation rather than waiting until Eid celebrations conclude.

  • Ramadan appeal: UNHCR seeks Zakat, Sadaqah as funding cuts hit refugee aid

    Ramadan appeal: UNHCR seeks Zakat, Sadaqah as funding cuts hit refugee aid

    With humanitarian budgets facing unprecedented constraints, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) is intensifying its call for Zakat and Sadaqah donations during Ramadan to address critical gaps in refugee assistance programs worldwide. The appeal comes as funding reductions force suspensions of essential services including medical care, education, child protection, and shelter provisions across multiple crisis zones including Egypt, Afghanistan, Lebanon, and Bangladesh.

    The agency’s recently released 8th Islamic Philanthropy Annual Report reveals that nearly 60% of all Zakat and Sadaqah contributions in 2025 originated from MENA region donors, with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia emerging as leading contributors. The report highlights how faith-based giving is increasingly serving as a vital humanitarian lifeline amid tightening budgets.

    Notable initiatives include the Dubai-based Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, which supported approximately 70,000 forcibly displaced people across seven nations through country-wide fundraising campaigns. The Refugee Zakat Fund demonstrated significant impact, raising over $23 million in Zakat contributions—surpassing previous records—while assisting more than 579,000 refugees and internally displaced persons across 17 countries. Complementary Sadaqah contributions reached nearly $16 million, supporting over 453,000 individuals across 18 nations.

    Collectively, strategic partnerships and campaigns generated $39 million in 2025, enabling assistance to more than one million people across 25 countries. This effort was bolstered by 45 major donors and Islamic institutions alongside tens of thousands of online supporters who entrusted UNHCR with their charitable distributions.

    Dr. Khaled Khalifa, Senior Advisor to the High Commissioner for Refugees for Islamic Philanthropy and Regional Representative to GCC countries, emphasized the tangible consequences of funding reductions: ‘Amidst a year of unprecedented budget cuts, the humanitarian lifeline has been left fraying with millions of displaced families hanging on by a thread. These cuts are not abstract figures—they are felt in the lives of real people who, after being forced to flee their homes, are being pushed to the edge of survival every day.’

    The report also documents expanded geographical reach, with Islamic philanthropy extending to four new countries in 2025: Brazil, Colombia, the Central African Republic, and Botswana. Sadaqah Jariyah activities reached Bangladesh, where 280,000 people gained improved access to clean water for communities, agriculture, and livestock.

    Since its establishment in 2017, the Refugee Zakat Fund has raised over $300 million from more than 70,000 donors, supporting nearly 10 million beneficiaries across 36 countries. Endorsed by 18 fatwas, the Fund stands as a legitimate mechanism for mobilizing Islamic charitable resources to address global displacement crises.