Global Pulse

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  • Trump administration ends temporary protected status for Yemen

    Trump administration ends temporary protected status for Yemen

    The Trump administration has officially terminated Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Yemeni nationals residing in the United States, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced on Friday, February 13, 2026. This decision marks the latest in a series of immigration policy shifts by the current administration.

    Secretary Noem stated that the determination to revoke humanitarian protections for approximately 1,380 Yemeni immigrants followed extensive review and interagency consultation. The administration concluded that maintaining TPS designation for Yemen conflicted with U.S. national interests, despite ongoing concerns about the country’s stability.

    The TPS program, established to provide temporary refuge for individuals whose home countries experience natural disasters, armed conflicts, or other extraordinary circumstances, has faced systematic reduction under Trump’s presidency. Administration officials have consistently argued that the program’s expansion contradicts American immigration priorities.

    According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services data, Yemen’s TPS designation was last extended in 2024 and scheduled to expire on March 3, 2026. The termination means affected Yemeni nationals will lose protection from deportation and work authorization privileges unless they secure alternative immigration status.

    The decision comes amid ongoing humanitarian concerns in Yemen, where conflict and economic instability have persisted for years. Immigration advocates have criticized the move, arguing that returning individuals to Yemen could expose them to dangerous conditions, while administration officials maintain that the program was never intended as a permanent immigration solution.

  • Why writer Arundhati Roy’s cult classic film is still relevant in India

    Why writer Arundhati Roy’s cult classic film is still relevant in India

    A landmark piece of Indian cinema history is poised for a remarkable renaissance as the restored version of Arundhati Roy’s 1989 television film “In Which Annie Gives It Those Ones” prepares for its world premiere at the 2026 Berlin International Film Festival’s Berlinale Classics section. Nearly four decades after its initial broadcast on India’s state broadcaster Doordarshan, this cult classic capturing the anarchic spirit of Delhi’s architecture students will finally receive global recognition.

    The Film Heritage Foundation, spearheading the restoration initiative, has announced concurrent theatrical releases across India in March 2026, with strategically discounted ticket pricing aimed at attracting younger audiences. Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, filmmaker and Director at Film Heritage Foundation, emphasized the film’s enduring significance: “We wanted it to be accessible. In its dialogue, portrayal of college life, and character development, it achieved something truly unusual for its time.”

    Set against the backdrop of late-1980s Delhi, the film presents an unvarnished portrait of final-year architecture students navigating institutional absurdities and personal aspirations. Centered around the endearing fifth-year student Anand “Annie” Grover—a character suspended between idealism and chronic distraction—the narrative unfolds through witty dialogue and situational comedy derived from Roy’s own campus experiences at the School of Planning and Architecture.

    The production boasts historical significance as both Roy’s screenwriting debut and the first screen appearance of Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan. Roy herself appears as Radha, a sharp-witted student embodying the film’s carefree defiance against authority. The ensemble cast delivers authentic performances that capture the specific dialect of English-Hindi hybrid language spoken among Delhi’s student population at the time.

    What makes Annie particularly remarkable is its prescient examination of systemic issues that remain relevant decades later. The film’s debates about hierarchy, bureaucracy, and institutional power mirror India’s transition toward economic liberalization, capturing a generation’s simultaneous optimism and apprehension about their future. Dungarpur notes: “The issues the film speaks about are still prevalent. That’s why it resonates. It hasn’t dated in the way you might expect.”

    The restoration process itself involved forensic-level reconstruction after the original materials were nearly discarded during a house move by director Pradip Krishen. The team faced significant technical challenges, from color correction (particularly in scenes featuring Roy’s red sari) to audio restoration, requiring meticulous attention to historical accuracy.

    As contemporary audiences prepare to experience this cinematic time capsule, they’ll discover not just a period piece with flared trousers and drafting tables, but a surprisingly relevant commentary on educational systems and youthful resistance that continues to echo across generations.

  • Officials investigating DNA found in Nancy Guthrie’s home

    Officials investigating DNA found in Nancy Guthrie’s home

    A significant development has emerged in the investigation into the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC News anchor Savannah Guthrie. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed the discovery of unidentified DNA evidence within her Tucson, Arizona residence, which authorities confirm does not match the missing woman or any individuals known to be in close contact with her.

    The evidence, collected from Ms. Guthrie’s home, has been submitted for comprehensive laboratory analysis. While officials declined to specify the exact location of the DNA find within the property, they did clarify earlier media reports, stating that no gloves were discovered inside the home or on its immediate grounds. However, investigators have recovered several gloves in the wider vicinity, with one located approximately two miles from the residence.

    In a crucial step forward, the FBI has disseminated a physical description of a primary suspect, derived from analysis of doorbell camera footage captured outside the Guthrie home on the night of the disappearance. The individual is described as a male standing between 5’9″ and 5’10” (175-177 cm) with an average build. A key identifying detail is the backpack he was wearing—a 25-litre Ozark Trail Hiker Pack.

    The release of this footage has generated an overwhelming public response, with investigators receiving more than 13,000 tips, including 4,000 within a single 24-hour period. Consequently, the reward for information leading to a resolution in the case has been doubled from $50,000 to $100,000.

    Authorities maintain that the suspect description is a key focus but emphasize that no possibilities are being ruled out. A broader appeal has been issued for additional video footage from neighbors in the area. With the investigation now entering its second week, concerns are heightened for Ms. Guthrie’s welfare, as she requires daily medication and has limited mobility. Her children have made public appeals, expressing their belief that she is alive and their willingness to negotiate for her safe return.

  • Chinese robots and culture converge at UN’s Year of the Horse celebration

    Chinese robots and culture converge at UN’s Year of the Horse celebration

    The United Nations headquarters in New York transformed into a showcase of technological innovation and cultural diplomacy during Thursday’s Chinese New Year gala. Organized by the UN Chinese Book Club, the event featured an unprecedented performance where robotic lion dancers, panda-shaped robots, and humanoid dancing machines shared the stage, captivating hundreds of UN staff members, diplomats, and international visitors.

    The celebration marked a significant milestone as the Spring Festival now holds official recognition as a floating holiday on the United Nations calendar and appears on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. China’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Fu Cong, emphasized the festival’s global significance, stating that ‘Spring Festival conveys to the world the values of harmony in diversity and peaceful coexistence, and embodies people’s shared aspiration for a better life.’

    Fu Cong called for strengthened cooperation between China and the United Nations, urging all parties to move forward ‘with unstoppable momentum and tireless vitality’ in the Year of the Horse. The event occurred against the backdrop of broader UN challenges addressed by Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, who noted the organization faces ‘unprecedented challenges’ including raging conflicts, declining mutual trust, and widening poverty gaps.

    The technological demonstration represented more than entertainment, appearing for the second time within a week at UN headquarters. Cuban Deputy Permanent Representative Yuri Gala Lopez acknowledged China’s technological leadership, expressing admiration for the display. Dima Al-Khatib, Director of the UN Office for South-South Cooperation, found the performance ‘very impressive’ and indicated interest in exploring technology transfer opportunities to Global South countries.

    The convergence of robotics and traditional celebration highlighted China’s growing role in both technological innovation and cultural diplomacy. Khaled Khiari, UN Assistant Secretary-General for multiple regions, recognized China’s substantial contributions to UN peacekeeping operations, where China remains one of the largest troop contributors among Security Council permanent members.

  • Appeal rejected: Ex-Philippine leader Rodrigo Duterte to stand trial on Feb 23

    Appeal rejected: Ex-Philippine leader Rodrigo Duterte to stand trial on Feb 23

    The International Criminal Court has definitively rejected former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s appeal to avoid trial proceedings, setting the stage for a landmark hearing on February 23rd. This decisive ruling marks a significant development in the long-running investigation into Duterte’s controversial anti-narcotics campaign that resulted in thousands of fatalities.

    ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I, comprising judges Iulia Antoanella Motoc, Reine Adélaïde Sophie Alapini-Gansou, and María del Socorro Flores Liera, issued a comprehensive dismissal of all defense arguments on Friday. The judicial panel determined that Duterte’s legal team had ‘misrepresented relevant findings’ from the court’s January 26th decision that initially declared the former leader fit for trial.

    The court’s assessment relied heavily on evaluations from three independent medical experts who thoroughly examined Duterte’s health condition and capacity to participate in legal proceedings. These specialists, chosen for their expertise in international tribunal fitness assessments, incorporated defense-submitted medical reports into their analysis before reaching their conclusive determination.

    The judicial chamber specifically addressed defense concerns about potential health deterioration during trial, characterizing such arguments as ‘speculative in nature.’ The ruling emphasized that the fitness determination remains subject to reassessment should circumstances change, ensuring procedural fairness throughout the judicial process.

    The upcoming confirmation of charges hearing, scheduled to commence at 10:00 AM Hague local time on February 23rd, will feature oral submissions from prosecution, defense, and victim representation teams across four days of proceedings. Following these hearings, the Chamber will deliver its decision within 60 days regarding whether the case will advance to trial phase.

    Duterte faces allegations of crimes against humanity, specifically murder and attempted murder, connected to his administration’s aggressive narcotics crackdown. While official Philippine National Police records acknowledge approximately 6,000 deaths during the campaign, independent human rights organizations estimate the actual death toll may reach 30,000.

  • Sabalenka, Swiatek withdraw from Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

    Sabalenka, Swiatek withdraw from Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships

    In a significant blow to the upcoming Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, the world’s top two ranked players have announced their withdrawal from the prestigious WTA 1000 event. Aryna Sabalenka (World No. 1) and Iga Swiatek (World No. 2) will both be absent from the tournament commencing February 15th.

    Sabalenka, the four-time Grand Slam champion who recently reached her fourth Australian Open final, expressed deep regret over her decision. The Belarusian star has maintained a perfect attendance record at the Dubai event for the past nine consecutive years. ‘I’m really sorry I have to withdraw from Dubai,’ Sabalenka stated. ‘I have such a special connection with the tournament, the fans and the city. Unfortunately, I am not feeling 100 per cent. But I hope to be back next year and wish the tournament a great event.’

    World No. 2 Iga Swiatek, who reached the Dubai final in 2023, also withdrew citing scheduling changes. The Polish player announced, ‘I am sorry to announce that I will not be playing Dubai this year due to a change of schedule. I hope I will come back next year to experience the great tournament. See you guys in Indian Wells.’

    Tournament organizers expressed disappointment while extending their support to both athletes. An official statement read: ‘We are sorry that Aryna and Iga have both withdrawn from this year’s tournament. They both have huge amounts of followers here in Dubai, and we were looking forward to seeing them competing on our courts once again. We wish them continued success for the season and look forward to seeing them back in Dubai next year.’

    Despite these high-profile withdrawals, the 26th edition of the tournament still features a strong field with 16 of the top 20 and 33 of the top 40 ranked female players expected to compete. The women’s event from February 15-21 will be followed by Dubai’s ATP 500 men’s tournament from February 23-28.

  • UAE influencers defend Emiratis mentioned in Epstein files

    UAE influencers defend Emiratis mentioned in Epstein files

    Prominent voices within the United Arab Emirates have mounted a vigorous defense of two state-affiliated individuals referenced in the recently unsealed Jeffrey Epstein court documents. The case involves Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, former chairman and CEO of DP World, and Hind al-Owais, a government official and former diplomat, both of whom faced scrutiny following the disclosure of their email communications with the convicted sex offender.

    Bin Sulayem’s abrupt departure from his leadership role at DP World—the UAE-owned global logistics giant handling approximately 10% of worldwide container trade—came after sustained criticism regarding his association with Epstein. The 71-year-old executive, who hailed from an influential Dubai family with close ties to the ruling Al Maktoum dynasty, had maintained email correspondence with Epstein from 2007 until weeks before the financier’s death in August 2019.

    Despite thousands of email exchanges covering topics ranging from business and politics to discussions about women using sexist and degrading language, authorities have not alleged any criminal wrongdoing by bin Sulayem. Following his exit, senior Emirati figures publicly praised his legacy. Prominent academic Abdulkhaleq Abdulla, often viewed as reflecting official establishment positions, celebrated bin Sulayem as “a source of appreciation and respect from all” in social media tributes.

    Simultaneously, Emirati social media influencers launched a coordinated defense of Hind al-Owais, whose hundreds of messages with Epstein included personal invitations for him to meet her sister. The communications continued after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor, though no evidence suggests al-Owais participated in criminal activities.

    Influencer Ahmed Sharif al-Ameri argued that al-Owais’ communications represented normal professional interaction within New York’s investment circles, stating that “professional contact is not criminal participation” and that lighthearted remarks should be understood as ice-breaking tactics in business environments. Another influencer account produced extensive video content attempting to contextualize the exchanges and counter what they described as misinformation spread by “electronic trolls.

    The unified response from UAE commentators highlights the complex intersection of global business networking, reputational management, and cultural interpretation of professional relationships in the wake of the Epstein document disclosures.

  • Ramadan 2026: Why sighting crescent, not moon, matters, UAE astronomy centre clarifies

    Ramadan 2026: Why sighting crescent, not moon, matters, UAE astronomy centre clarifies

    The UAE-based International Astronomical Centre (IAC) has released crucial guidance regarding celestial observations for the anticipated commencement of Ramadan 2026, emphasizing the critical distinction between moon presence and crescent visibility. According to astronomical calculations, the parameters on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, will not permit the crescent’s sighting despite the moon’s presence in the sky. The center cited findings from prominent Saudi researcher Mulhim Hindi of King Abdulaziz University, indicating the moon’s elevation above the horizon will be insufficient for visual detection across Arab nations. The maximum elevation of approximately half a degree in Saudi Arabia’s Jizan region falls below the one-degree threshold established by Islamic scholar Ibn Taymiyyah for reliable crescent observation. The IAC further clarified that while the moon exists daily, the crescent represents a specific lunar phase marking Islamic months. Astronomical conditions reveal the moon will set simultaneously with or before the sun across most Islamic countries, with West Africa experiencing merely minutes of separation. This minimal interval prevents the transition from astronomical conjunction to visible crescent formation. Additionally, the center issued serious safety warnings as the moon’s proximity to the sun during sunset creates dangerous viewing conditions. Using optical instruments like binoculars or telescopes toward the sun-adjacent moon risks permanent eye damage due to solar exposure within the field of view. The occurrence of a solar eclipse on the same date further signifies the peak of the new moon phase, reinforcing the impossibility of crescent sighting. Astronomical experts anticipate Ramadan will likely commence on February 19 based on these scientific observations.

  • Qatar lobbying UK government through Mandelson firm linked to Epstein

    Qatar lobbying UK government through Mandelson firm linked to Epstein

    Qatar continues to employ Global Counsel, a strategic advisory firm co-founded by disgraced former UK politician Peter Mandelson, for lobbying senior UK government officials despite recent disclosures about the company’s connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The firm remains officially registered under the UK’s Foreign Influence Registration Scheme as a Qatari government representative through August 2026.

    The revelation follows major client departures from Global Counsel, including Barclays and the Premier League, after US Department of Justice files exposed extensive ties between Mandelson and Epstein. Documents indicate Mandelson sought Epstein’s business counsel even after his 2008 conviction for child sex offenses, with correspondence showing more than 800 instances of Mandelson’s Global Counsel email address in the released files.

    Global Counsel’s lobbying activities for Qatar include communications with “senior UK government officials with an interest in technology and infrastructure policy” and providing guidance on “macro-economic and political trends.” The relationship predates its official December 2025 registration, with evidence of undisclosed lobbying for Qatari entities as early as 2023.

    The firm underwent significant leadership changes recently, with co-founder Benjamin Wegg-Prosser resigning as CEO last week following revelations of his March 2010 meeting with Epstein. Mandelson, who stepped down from the board in 2024, only divested his shares in the company last week amid the growing scandal.

    Released correspondence reveals Epstein actively advised Mandelson on business strategy, including targeting Qatari clients and recommending private equity partnerships. Additional files show Epstein facilitated high-level meetings between Qatari and Israeli officials, further complicating the geopolitical implications of these connections.

    Global Counsel previously faced investigation for undeclared lobbying activities but was cleared in February 2025 due to a legal loophole permitting unregistered lobbying by overseas subsidiaries of consultancy firms. The firm has maintained a Doha office since 2021.

  • Gasps and disbelief at Malinin’s home rink as Olympic dream falters

    Gasps and disbelief at Malinin’s home rink as Olympic dream falters

    A palpable atmosphere of shock and devastation descended upon the Virginia-based training rink of figure skating phenom Ilia Malinin, famously dubbed the ‘Quad God,’ during what was anticipated to be a victorious Olympic broadcast. The BBC, capturing the scene firsthand, documented the raw emotional collapse among Malinin’s most dedicated supporters—his closest friends, teammates, and coaches—as his performance at the Winter Games dramatically veered off its predicted golden course.

    The gathering, meticulously organized to celebrate an expected triumph, transformed instantaneously into a vigil of shared disbelief. The air, once buzzing with excited anticipation, was pierced by gasps and fell into a heavy silence as the competition unfolded contrary to all forecasts. This was not merely a competition loss; it was the shattering of a widely held certainty within his inner circle, a testament to the immense pressure and unpredictable nature of elite sports.

    Malinin, renowned for his unprecedented ability to land quadruple jumps, had carried the heavyweight of immense expectation into the games. The scene at his home rink serves as a powerful, microcosmic study of the immense psychological burden shouldered by athletes and the profound emotional investment of those who support them behind the scenes. The incident transcends a simple sports report, morphing into a human-interest story about resilience, expectation, and the fragile line between perceived destiny and competitive reality.