Global Pulse

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  • Close Maduro ally pardoned by Biden once again a target of US criminal investigation

    Close Maduro ally pardoned by Biden once again a target of US criminal investigation

    MIAMI — In a significant reversal, the U.S. Justice Department has reignited its investigation into Alex Saab, a prominent businessman and close associate of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, according to an Associated Press report. This development comes less than three years after President Joe Biden granted Saab a presidential pardon as part of a prisoner exchange agreement.

    The renewed probe, conducted by federal prosecutors, focuses on Saab’s alleged involvement in a bribery conspiracy related to Venezuelan government contracts for food imports. Two former law enforcement officials, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation, revealed that prosecutors have been examining Saab’s activities for several months.

    Saab, a 54-year-old Colombian-born entrepreneur who amassed considerable wealth through government contracts, was previously described by U.S. authorities as Maduro’s primary financial conduit. His situation deteriorated significantly following the recent political transition in Venezuela that saw Maduro replaced by acting President Delcy Rodríguez, who subsequently removed Saab from her cabinet and stripped him of his influential position.

    The current investigation originates from a 2021 case brought by the Justice Department against Saab’s longtime business partner, Alvaro Pulido. The case centers on Venezuela’s CLAP program, a social welfare initiative established by Maduro to provide essential food items to impoverished citizens struggling amid hyperinflation and economic collapse.

    This renewed scrutiny represents a dramatic turnaround for Saab, who had previously avoided prosecution for an unrelated bribery scheme thanks to Biden’s 2023 pardon, which secured the release of several Americans imprisoned in Venezuela. Legal experts note that bringing fresh charges against pardoned individuals is unusual and only permissible for crimes falling outside the specific scope of the original pardon.

    Frank Bowman, professor emeritus at the University of Missouri School of Law, emphasized that Saab’s pardon was specifically tailored to a 2019 indictment and included conditions requiring him to remain outside the United States and refrain from committing further crimes against the country. “This is a voidable pardon,” Bowman noted.

    The investigation unfolds against the backdrop of shifting U.S.-Venezuela relations and the Trump administration’s efforts to stabilize ties with the oil-rich nation. Should Saab be returned to U.S. custody, former law enforcement officials suggest he could become a valuable witness against Maduro, given his extensive knowledge of corruption within Maduro’s inner circle and previous cooperation with the Drug Enforcement Administration.

    Neither U.S. officials nor Venezuela’s acting government have commented on the ongoing investigation. Saab’s current whereabouts remain unknown following conflicting reports about his possible detention in Venezuela.

  • Iran security chief meets Oman ruler after US talks

    Iran security chief meets Oman ruler after US talks

    Iran’s Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani conducted high-level meetings with Omani leadership in Muscat on Tuesday, marking a significant diplomatic movement following the resumption of indirect negotiations between Tehran and Washington. The discussions with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq focused on recent developments in Iranian-American relations, with both parties emphasizing the critical importance of sustained dialogue to achieve a balanced and mutually acceptable agreement.

    The Oman News Agency confirmed the diplomatic engagement, noting that the conversations explored pathways toward constructive negotiations. Larijani additionally met with Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who facilitated Friday’s groundbreaking talks—the first direct engagement between the two nations since the brief Iran-Israel conflict in June 2025 that involved US military participation.

    In a parallel development, Larijani held discussions with Mohammad Abdulsalam, spokesperson for Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who maintain close ties with Tehran. This multifaceted diplomatic mission continues as Larijani prepares to travel to Qatar, according to statements from Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei.

    The United Arab Emirates has publicly expressed support for these diplomatic efforts, hoping they yield positive regional outcomes. The renewed dialogue represents a potential thaw in longstanding tensions, with Oman continuing its traditional role as mediator in complex Middle Eastern geopolitics.

  • This Dubai-based designer is building a sustainable fashion label between Italy, India, and the UAE

    This Dubai-based designer is building a sustainable fashion label between Italy, India, and the UAE

    Dubai-based fashion innovator Shivin Singh is redefining sustainable luxury through his transnational label Absent Findings, which seamlessly merges Italian craftsmanship with Indian cultural heritage while maintaining its operational base in the United Arab Emirates. The brand has rapidly gained international recognition for its distinctive approach to contemporary fashion that prioritizes environmental consciousness without compromising aesthetic excellence.

    Singh’s creative journey began with formal training at Florence’s prestigious Polimoda institute, followed by professional experience in Gucci’s Women’s Handbags merchandising department. This European foundation profoundly shaped his design sensibilities before he returned to Dubai to establish his own venture. Absent Findings distinguishes itself through its commitment to circular fashion principles, utilizing exclusively deadstock fabrics from European luxury houses and repurposing heirloom saris from his family archive.

    The designer’s multicultural background plays a pivotal role in the brand’s identity. His Bengali and Punjabi heritage informs the brand’s distinctive draping techniques and structural elements, particularly inspired by Chandigarh’s architectural legacy. Meanwhile, Dubai’s cosmopolitan environment provides the perfect incubator for his global perspective, allowing him to develop what he describes as a ‘cohesive visual language’ that resonates across international markets.

    Recent milestones include successful presentations at Dubai Fashion Week and upcoming digital showcases at Milan Fashion Week FW26/27. The brand has earned recognition from established institutions including Lineapelle and the Black Carpet Awards, while maintaining strong connections to Middle Eastern platforms like BRED Abu Dhabi and Sole DXB.

    Singh emphasizes that his production remains entirely UAE-based, with all design, pattern making, and sampling conducted in-house at his Dubai studio. This local commitment reflects his confidence in the region’s emerging fashion ecosystem and its growing community of creative talent. Looking forward, the designer maintains that his primary objective remains staying true to his distinctive vision rather than pursuing mass appeal, focusing on creating meaningful work that resonates with ‘creatives and obsessives’ who share his values.

  • India look forward to Pakistan ‘challenge’ after T20 World Cup U-turn

    India look forward to Pakistan ‘challenge’ after T20 World Cup U-turn

    In a dramatic reversal that has electrified the cricketing world, Pakistan’s government has rescinded its boycott order for the highly anticipated T20 World Cup match against arch-rivals India, scheduled for February 15th in Colombo. The decision ends a week-long standoff that had threatened to cancel what is widely considered the most lucrative and passionately followed contest in international cricket.

    The breakthrough came following intensive diplomatic efforts involving multiple cricket boards and governments. International Cricket Council officials and Bangladesh Cricket Board representatives engaged in urgent talks with the Pakistan Cricket Board in Lahore on Sunday. This was complemented by formal appeals from both the Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan governments urging Pakistan to reconsider its position.

    India’s coaching staff expressed measured enthusiasm about the development. Assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate acknowledged the competitive challenge, noting: ‘We are delighted to have another opportunity to face a quality side in the tournament’s initial phase. Our preparation remained consistent throughout the uncertainty, though the quick turnaround presents a logistical challenge as we complete our match against Namibia in New Delhi before traveling to Sri Lanka.’

    The geopolitical dimensions of the decision were acknowledged by the Islamabad government, which cited ‘multilateral discussions and requests from friendly nations’ as factors in their reversal. Their official statement emphasized protecting ‘the spirit of cricket’ as a central motivation.

    Cricket legends and analysts universally welcomed the resolution. Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal described it as ‘beneficial for cricket’s global appeal,’ while veteran journalist Pradeep Magazine noted that ‘sound judgment ultimately prevailed on all sides.’ Financial considerations undoubtedly played a role, as the India-Pakistan match generates hundreds of millions in broadcasting rights, advertising revenue, sponsorship deals, and tourism income that would have been lost to all ICC member nations.

    The tournament has been shadowed by political tensions since Bangladesh withdrew citing security concerns, being replaced by Scotland. Pakistan’s initial boycott order was positioned as a protest gesture, though forfeiture would have cost them two critical points in Group A standings.

    Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav had previously maintained his team’s readiness to travel to Colombo regardless of the outcome, demonstrating the squad’s commitment to the competition structure. With the match now confirmed, fans worldwide can anticipate the spectacle that defines cricket’s most intense rivalry.

  • Why are most of Dubai’s off-plan property owners holding onto their assets?

    Why are most of Dubai’s off-plan property owners holding onto their assets?

    Dubai’s real estate market is experiencing a significant behavioral shift as the majority of off-plan property investors are choosing to retain their assets rather than pursue immediate resale opportunities. This trend emerges despite the market showing signs of normalization following five years of unprecedented growth.

    According to Cavendish Maxwell’s comprehensive 2025 Dubai Residential Market Performance Report, the emirate’s property sector achieved historic milestones with over 200,000 transactions totaling Dh541.5 billion. Sales volume increased by 19% compared to 2024, while transaction values surged by 27%. The off-plan segment continued to dominate, accounting for 73% of all sales activity and generating Dh395.7 billion in value—a 32% year-on-year increase.

    Market experts identify multiple factors influencing investor behavior. Zacky Sajjad, Director and Head of Business Development at Cavendish Maxwell, notes that only 10-20% of off-plan unit owners are currently pursuing resales. This retention strategy appears driven by investors awaiting optimal returns that continue to outperform many global markets, despite recent modest price adjustments.

    The market’s underlying fundamentals remain robust. Geopolitical stability continues to attract international buyers, while record tourism numbers and population growth sustain demand. The Property Monitor Index, tracking 41 freehold communities, indicates three consecutive months of marginal decline, suggesting a controlled cooling period rather than a sharp correction.

    Supply dynamics also play a crucial role. While 110,500 new units are forecast for delivery in 2026, historical completion rates suggest actual deliveries may range between 33,000-50,000 units—a significant reduction from initial projections that could support property values.

    Ronan Arthur, Head of Residential Valuation at Cavendish Maxwell, characterizes the current phase as a transition toward market normalization. ‘After another record-breaking year, rising supply and slowing price growth indicate more balanced conditions emerging in 2026,’ Arthur observed. ‘Future performance will increasingly depend on absorption rates, buyer sentiment, and the market’s ability to digest upcoming completions.’

    This holding pattern among investors reflects a maturation of Dubai’s property market, with participants demonstrating increased sophistication and long-term perspective compared to previous market cycles.

  • Palestinian citizens of Israel rally against state inaction as crime surges

    Palestinian citizens of Israel rally against state inaction as crime surges

    Thousands of Israeli citizens of Palestinian descent converged on Jerusalem in a motorized procession this Sunday, staging one of the largest demonstrations in recent history to protest escalating violent crime and perceived state indifference toward their communities. The protest marks the culmination of weeks of nationwide activism that began last month in Sakhnin and Tamra before gaining momentum across the country. Last week’s gathering in Tel Aviv drew approximately 100,000 participants—an unprecedented mobilization highlighting the community’s growing desperation.

    The crisis has reached alarming proportions with at least 36 Palestinian citizens of Israel killed in crime-related incidents since January, maintaining a near-daily fatality rate. This disturbing trend follows 2025’s record violence that claimed 252 lives across 218 separate incidents according to monitoring by the Abraham Initiatives NGO. Criminologist Dr. Walid Haddad notes that fatalities have quadrupled over the past decade, with 2016 recording approximately 50 victims compared to projections exceeding 300 this year.

    Protesters and experts alike accuse Israeli authorities of systematic neglect and discriminatory enforcement. They argue that law enforcement agencies respond decisively to criminal networks in Jewish communities while demonstrating ineffective interventions in Palestinian areas. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir—previously convicted of inciting racism against Arabs—has overseen continued violence since assuming office in 2023. The community also recalls former police commissioner Kobi Shabtai’s controversial 2023 statement suggesting crime in Arab communities was “in their nature.”

    Beyond organized crime, many perceive the violence as part of broader systemic discrimination. Palestinian citizens of Israel—descendants of those who remained after the 1948 Nakba—constitute approximately 20% of Israel’s population yet face decades of discriminatory practices. During Israel’s recent military operations in Gaza, expressions of solidarity were heavily restricted, and historical precedents show violent state responses to Palestinian protests.

    Human rights advocate Ahmed Khalifa describes the situation as “deliberate negligence” aimed at internally dismantling the community. Rawyah Handaqlu, founder of the Center for Advancing Security in Arab Society, warns that the crisis threatens to displace families seeking safety, potentially creating lasting social fragmentation. As armed gangs operate with impunity and illegal weapons proliferate, many neighborhoods have transformed into virtual battlefields, forcing citizens to confront both criminal elements and what they perceive as institutional complicity.

  • Dubai introduces region’s first system for 15-minute health inspections for ships

    Dubai introduces region’s first system for 15-minute health inspections for ships

    Dubai has pioneered a groundbreaking maritime health inspection system that dramatically reduces vessel clearance times from two hours to just 15 minutes. The Health Inspection Management Application (HIMA), unveiled at the World Health Expo, represents the region’s first integrated digital solution for combating cross-border health threats through advanced automation and data analytics.

    The innovative system operates through pre-arrival digital integration, where ship tracking technologies provide comprehensive data including the vessel’s last ten ports of call and medical logs before docking. According to Ali Thani Al Mehairi, Consultant at Dubai Health Authority’s Public Health Protection Department, this preemptive data collection enables inspectors to conduct risk assessments prior to physical arrival, transforming the inspection process into a verification procedure rather than a discovery mission.

    HIMA’s intelligent alert system automatically flags vessels with medical incidents exceeding 3% of personnel, prioritizing high-risk ships while expediting clearance for others. The completely digitized workflow eliminates traditional paperwork, allowing ship agents to submit requests and receive approvals through a seamless online platform.

    The phased implementation commenced immediately at Port Rashid and Al Shindagha Port, with comprehensive coverage across all Dubai maritime ports scheduled by late 2026. Authorities confirmed expansion plans for land border crossings by 2027 and are exploring adaptations for air travel security.

    Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of DHA, characterized HIMA as “a qualitative leap in the emirate’s public health framework” that reinforces Dubai’s leadership in deploying digital solutions for community safety. The system’s Arabic namesake, meaning “securing your borders,” reflects its core mission of strengthening public health defenses while ensuring uninterrupted commercial operations through smart data utilization and automated risk management.

  • Iconic P-pop legends SB Girls to bring world tour to Abu Dhabi; tickets now on sale

    Iconic P-pop legends SB Girls to bring world tour to Abu Dhabi; tickets now on sale

    The iconic Filipino pop ensemble SexBomb Girls, widely recognized as SB Girls or SBG, has officially confirmed Abu Dhabi as a destination on their highly anticipated worldwide reunion tour. The legendary group, which dominated Asian music charts throughout the 2000s, will perform at 321 Sports, Al Hudayriyat open grounds on March 28, 2026.

    Tickets for the historic concert became available on February 8 through organizer ProXperts UAE, with pricing structured across three tiers: General Admission at AED 299, Golden Circle at AED 499, and VIP experiences at AED 899. The premium VIP package guarantees front-stage proximity, while Golden Circle offers placement within the high-energy audience section nearest the performance area.

    Founded in 1999 by choreographer Joy Cancio, SexBomb Girls initially gained prominence as featured dancers on the popular variety program ‘Eat Bulaga!’ before transitioning into recording artists. The collective achieved extraordinary commercial success with four multi-platinum studio albums, establishing themselves as the Philippines’ preeminent girl group years before K-pop’s international breakthrough.

    The group’s signature performance style, characterized by infectious choreography and their legendary ‘Get Get Aww’ catchphrase, remains deeply embedded in Filipino popular culture. While rumors suggest potential additional performances in Dubai, no official dates have been confirmed through authorized ticketing platforms.

    For the substantial Filipino expatriate community residing in the UAE, particularly millennials who grew up with the group’s music, this concert represents a profound nostalgic experience. The international tour provides overseas fans with a rare opportunity to reconnect with a foundational element of their youth culture.

    Ticket registration and purchases are being processed exclusively through the Festival AccessPass portal at https://festival.accesspass.ae/, where registered users receive direct purchase links.

  • Ramadan 2026: How UAE schools adjust timetables to support fasting students

    Ramadan 2026: How UAE schools adjust timetables to support fasting students

    Educational institutions across the United Arab Emirates are implementing comprehensive adjustments to academic schedules and activities in preparation for Ramadan 2026, anticipated to commence around February 19 subject to moon sighting confirmation. These strategic modifications prioritize the physical and emotional wellbeing of fasting students while maintaining educational continuity.

    In Dubai, numerous schools have established a framework limiting instructional hours to approximately five per day. Credence High School CEO-Principal Deepika Thapar Singh emphasized the institution’s adherence to KHDA guidelines, noting that while academic lessons continue through engaging classroom activities, fasting students receive exemptions from physical education. These students instead participate in supervised alternatives including library sessions, reflective activities, and light academic support.

    Abu Dhabi institutions are adopting similarly flexible approaches. GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi offers families multiple timetable options to accommodate individual health requirements, sleep patterns, and family circumstances. Principal Shahina Ahmad OBE clarified that while daily duration is reduced, the exact cap remains fluid and aligned with official guidance. Notably, the school maintains physical education participation through adapted programming focusing on theoretical components and non-strenuous activities rather than complete exemption.

    Dewvale School has implemented a condensed schedule from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM, with Principal Seema Umar emphasizing the balance between academic rigor and student welfare. The institution will maintain in-person learning on Fridays throughout Ramadan, with Abu Dhabi schools potentially reducing Friday schedules to approximately four hours to accommodate family routines and declining energy levels late in the week.

    Beyond schedule adjustments, schools are creating dedicated quiet spaces for rest and reflection, while enhancing communication with families through workshops, newsletters, and circulars. These resources provide practical guidance for supporting first-time fasters, including nutritional advice, sleep management strategies, and emotional reassurance techniques. Institutions like Diyafah International School offer exempt students alternative activities including quiet reading, academic assignments, and supervised study sessions in designated calm environments.

    The comprehensive approach demonstrates the UAE education sector’s commitment to cultural sensitivity, student welfare, and academic continuity during the holy month, fostering environments of empathy and inclusivity for all students regardless of their fasting status.

  • Malinin, Minion and Milan’s most emotional moment

    Malinin, Minion and Milan’s most emotional moment

    MILANO ICE SKATING ARENA – The men’s figure skating short program at the Winter Olympics delivered a spectacular blend of athletic brilliance and profound human emotion on Tuesday evening, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion on Friday.

    American phenom Ilia Malinin, known globally as the ‘Quad God,’ delivered a commanding performance that solidified his gold medal aspirations. Despite opting out of his signature quad axel, Malinin executed a technically sublime routine featuring a quad flip and quad lutz – two of the sport’s most challenging elements. His flawless execution earned a dominant score of 108.16, establishing a significant five-point lead over his closest competitor. The 21-year-old champion entered the rink with palpable intensity, shadowboxing toward cameras before delivering what commentators described as his most complete Olympic performance to date.

    Japan’s Yuma Kagiyama, widely considered Malinin’s primary rival for the podium, encountered a critical slip during his triple axel attempt. The error proved costly, leaving him in second position with 103.07 points. France’s Adam Siao Him Fa delivered an impressive performance to claim third with 102.55 points, while Italian hopeful Daniel Grassl remained in medal contention with 93.46 points.

    The evening’s most poignant moment came from American skater Maxim Naumov, who channeled personal tragedy into an inspirational Olympic debut. Just over one year after losing both parents in a devastating plane crash that claimed 67 lives, including 28 members of the U.S. skating community, Naumov delivered a technically solid performance despite a minor error on his triple axel. The 24-year-old concluded his routine on his knees, tearfully gazing skyward as the arena erupted in applause. His season-best score of 85.65 secured his advancement to Friday’s free skate. Naumov emotionally displayed a childhood photograph with his parents – both former world champion pairs skaters – explaining the image remains constantly with him as a source of strength.

    In a lighter Olympic moment, Spain’s Tomas-Llorenc Guarino Sabate brought his signature Minion-themed routine to the Games following resolved copyright disputes. Despite the enthusiastic crowd response to his yellow T-shirt and blue overalls, the fan-favorite skater encountered technical difficulties that resulted in a 25th-place finish with 69.80 points.

    The competition concludes Friday with Malinin positioned as the final skater in the free program order, seeking to extend his undefeated competitive streak that has spanned nearly two and a half years.