Global Pulse

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  • Former Inner Mongolia Party chief under investigation

    Former Inner Mongolia Party chief under investigation

    China’s top anti-corruption authorities have launched a formal investigation into Sun Shaocheng, former Communist Party secretary of Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, for alleged serious violations of Party discipline and national laws. The announcement was made public through an official online statement released by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and the National Commission of Supervision on Thursday, January 29, 2026.

    The brief notification provided no specific details regarding the nature of the alleged violations, maintaining the characteristic opacity typical of such high-level disciplinary investigations within the Chinese political system. The development marks another significant case in China’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign that has persisted for over a decade.

    Sun Shaocheng, a 65-year-old native of Shandong province, boasts an extensive political career spanning more than four decades. His professional journey began in July 1984, with his Party membership commencing in May 1986. His administrative experience includes substantial tenure at the Ministry of Civil Affairs, where he ascended to vice-ministerial rank in 2009. Subsequent postings saw him serve as deputy governor of Shandong province in 2012, followed by a transfer to Shanxi province where he assumed deputy gubernatorial responsibilities in 2016.

    His portfolio later expanded to include roles within the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, demonstrating his broad administrative capabilities. Most recently, in October 2025, Sun was appointed deputy head of the 14th National People’s Congress Social Development Affairs Committee, a position he held concurrently with his Party responsibilities until the investigation was announced.

  • ‘Alien’: Australia exposed to brutal batting conditions in Pakistan defeat, but Adam Zampa predicts things to improve in the World Cup

    ‘Alien’: Australia exposed to brutal batting conditions in Pakistan defeat, but Adam Zampa predicts things to improve in the World Cup

    Veteran Australian spinner Adam Zampa has moved to quell concerns following the national team’s 22-run defeat to Pakistan in a T20 World Cup warm-up match in Lahore. While the loss exposed batting vulnerabilities on a challenging pitch, Zampa emphasized the unique and alien nature of the conditions, particularly for the squad’s younger members.

    The match saw Australia restricted to 8-146 while chasing Pakistan’s total. Zampa himself was a standout with the ball, delivering impressive figures of 4-24. However, the team’s momentum was derailed by an untimely run-out involving Cameron Green and Matt Renshaw, allowing Pakistan’s spinners to seize control of the game’s middle overs.

    Zampa provided a candid assessment of the playing surface, describing it as unusually dry and inconsistent with previous tours. “The wicket got lower and slower throughout the match,” he noted, suggesting the optimal batting period was confined to the early phases of each innings. He framed the difficult conditions as a valuable learning experience, especially for the three T20 debutants in the side, stating that such exposure would benefit their long-term development.

    The spinner also addressed the broader strategy for the upcoming World Cup, highlighting the critical role spin bowling will play in the initial stage in Sri Lanka. He predicted a significant shift in conditions upon moving to India for the latter stages of the tournament, anticipating higher-scoring games on more batsman-friendly wickets.

    In a personal triumph, Zampa discussed the satisfaction of dismissing Pakistani batting maestro Babar Azam, who was recently subdued in the Big Bash League. Zampa acknowledged Azam’s caliber but expressed confidence in his ability to claim such key wickets, affirming that it is his primary role within the team.

  • England ‘off the pace’ in defeat by South Africa

    England ‘off the pace’ in defeat by South Africa

    In a tense Johannesburg showdown on January 29, 2026, England’s Netball Roses suffered a narrow 52-48 defeat against South Africa in the opening match of their three-game international series. The contest served as crucial preparation for both teams ahead of this summer’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

    The match began promisingly for England as they established an early 6-3 advantage. However, South Africa demonstrated remarkable resilience, steadily overturning the deficit to claim a 16-12 lead. The host nation continued to build momentum, entering halftime with a 29-25 advantage.

    England displayed significant determination after the break, mounting an impressive comeback that saw them briefly take a 39-38 lead during the final quarter. Despite this resurgence, South Africa capitalized on critical unforced errors from the Roses, ultimately securing their victory before a jubilant home crowd.

    Team captain Fran Williams acknowledged England’s performance shortcomings, stating: ‘Our start lacked intensity, particularly in offensive execution and ball reception. The South African defense consistently punished these technical deficiencies.’ Williams nevertheless praised her team’s second-half tenacity, emphasizing her pride in their persistent fighting spirit and calling for a strong response in the upcoming weekend double-header.

    With both nations ranked closely internationally—England fourth and South Africa fifth worldwide—the series represents vital competitive preparation. The teams share a Commonwealth Games pool alongside four other nations, adding strategic importance to these encounters.

    The squads will reconvene for their second match on Saturday at 15:00 GMT, followed by the series finale on Sunday at 14:00, providing both coaches valuable opportunities to refine tactics and roster selections ahead of the Glasgow competition.

  • Israel holds first morning prayer at West Bank’s Joseph’s Tomb in 25 years

    Israel holds first morning prayer at West Bank’s Joseph’s Tomb in 25 years

    In a significant escalation of military presence in the occupied West Bank, Israeli forces established an extensive security perimeter east of Nablus early Thursday to facilitate a large-scale operation at Joseph’s Tomb. The operation enabled Jewish worshippers to conduct morning prayers at the contested site for the first time since 2000, marking a substantial shift in access policies.

    The raid involved participation from members of the Israeli parliament, far-right officials, and settler leaders, all operating under substantial armed protection. This event follows last month’s agreement by Israeli authorities to permit daylight prayers at the location, despite the tomb’s position within an area nominally under Palestinian Authority administrative control.

    Eyewitness footage from Amman Street and surrounding eastern neighborhoods documented military personnel expelling journalists from the area and compelling families to evacuate their homes to accommodate the operation. Residential buildings near the tomb were converted into temporary military installations, with sniper positions established on rooftops. Medical teams were systematically denied access to the area during the events.

    The historical context reveals deepening tensions surrounding the site. Since October 2023, settler-led incursions have increased in both frequency and scale, with groups entering under religious justification alongside military escort. UN data indicates that settler violence and access restrictions have displaced approximately 2,200 Palestinians from their homes over the past two years, with an additional 6,000 displaced through home demolitions and 40,000 from northern West Bank refugee camps during military operations.

    Joseph’s Tomb represents a focal point of Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with both communities maintaining competing historical narratives and religious claims. Israelis venerate the site as the burial place of the Prophet Joseph, a figure significant in both Islamic and Jewish traditions. Palestinians identify it as the tomb of Sheikh Yousef Dweikat, a local cleric from the early 20th century. The site has been a persistent flashpoint since Israel established a yeshiva there in the 1980s, with regular protected settler visits often triggering Palestinian protests that have frequently resulted in lethal military responses.

  • Police identify Ajit Pawar’s body with wristwatch, special seat after deadly crash

    Police identify Ajit Pawar’s body with wristwatch, special seat after deadly crash

    In a tragic aviation incident that has shocked the Indian political establishment, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four companions perished when their chartered Learjet crashed during landing attempts at Pune’s Baramati airport on Wednesday, January 28. The aircraft, originating from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, erupted into flames upon impact, completely incinerating the craft and rendering all victims unrecognizable. Aviation authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. Initial reports suggest challenging weather conditions may have contributed to the disaster, though official findings remain pending. The severity of the impact necessitated extraordinary identification measures, with forensic teams relying on personal artifacts and seating arrangements to establish identities. Pawar’s remains were specifically identified through his distinctive wristwatch and his preferred seating configuration aboard the aircraft, according to Pune Rural Police Superintendent Sandeep Singh Gill. The victims included Pawar’s personal security officer, an attendant, and both pilots, none of whom survived the catastrophic incident. Multiple agencies including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, forensic specialists, and National Disaster Response Force personnel have converged on the crash site to determine the exact cause of the tragedy. The state government has declared three days of official mourning following the passing of its longest-serving deputy chief minister, whose funeral proceedings were conducted with full state honors on Thursday.

  • Exclusive: Meet the frontrunners to be Green candidate in crucial UK by-election

    Exclusive: Meet the frontrunners to be Green candidate in crucial UK by-election

    The upcoming parliamentary by-election in Greater Manchester’s Gorton and Denton constituency, scheduled for February 26th, has emerged as a critical juncture in British politics. This contest represents a significant referendum on Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership while simultaneously testing the electoral viability of both the anti-immigration Reform UK party and the left-wing Green Party.

    The political landscape intensified when Labour’s National Executive Committee blocked Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham—widely perceived as a potential challenger to Starmer—from contesting the seat. This development occurred alongside Reform UK’s nomination of GB News presenter Matt Goodwin as their candidate, a figure whose history of controversial statements regarding ethnicity and Islam has drawn sharp criticism from Green Party leader Zack Polanski, who accused Goodwin of demonstrating ‘a track record of anti-Muslim bigotry.’

    These dynamics hold particular significance in a constituency where demographic data reveals more than 25% of voters identify as Muslim and approximately 44% belong to ethnic minority groups.

    The Green Party’s selection process has narrowed to two prominent figures: Hannah Spencer, a plumber and Trafford council leader, and Fesl Reza-Khan, a former soldier and party international coordinator. Spencer, a lifelong Manchester resident who entered politics post-COVID due to frustration with wealth inequality, emphasizes representing working-class voices. Reza-Khan, who joined the Greens following Israel’s military actions in Gaza, cites his personal journey from Pakistani immigrant to British army officer as foundational to his political perspective.

    Both candidates frame the election as a pivotal opportunity to challenge divisive rhetoric and offer an alternative to established political narratives. They specifically position their campaign against Reform UK’s messaging, which they characterize as scapegoating immigrants and minority communities. The election now serves as a microcosm of broader national debates surrounding identity, representation, and the future direction of British politics.

  • Octogenarian honored in Chongqing for five decades of relic preservation

    Octogenarian honored in Chongqing for five decades of relic preservation

    In a remarkable celebration of cultural dedication, octogenarian Guo Xiangying has been formally recognized as one of Chongqing’s Top 10 Inspirational Figures for her extraordinary five-decade commitment to preserving and promoting the Dazu Rock Carvings. This prestigious honor highlights a lifetime of unwavering devotion to one of China’s most significant cultural treasures.

    The Dazu Rock Carvings, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, represent one of humanity’s most remarkable artistic achievements. The site encompasses an astonishing collection of 144 grottoes containing approximately 50,000 statues and 100,000 inscriptions that visually document the philosophical and religious evolution of Chinese civilization. These magnificent carvings chronicle the harmonious integration of Confucian, Buddhist, and Taoist influences that flourished from the early Tang Dynasty (618-907) through the Song Dynasty (960-1279), forming an essential chapter in the history of Chinese cave art.

    Guo Xiangying’s recognition comes as cultural preservation efforts gain increasing importance worldwide. Her half-century of service demonstrates the critical role that individual dedication plays in maintaining cultural heritage for future generations. The award not only honors Guo’s personal commitment but also draws attention to the ongoing preservation needs of ancient sites amid modern development pressures.

    The Chongqing government’s recognition of Guo’s efforts underscores China’s growing emphasis on cultural conservation and the value placed on citizens who dedicate their lives to protecting national treasures. This honor serves as both acknowledgment of past achievements and inspiration for continued stewardship of China’s rich cultural legacy.

  • How Trump’s demands on Iran have shifted over time

    How Trump’s demands on Iran have shifted over time

    Former U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified his confrontational stance toward Iran through a series of escalating threats delivered via his Truth Social platform. On Wednesday, he declared that a substantial naval fleet was en route to Iranian waters, prepared to execute military operations with “speed and violence” if Tehran refuses to negotiate a nuclear agreement.

    Drawing parallels to recent U.S. operations targeting Venezuelan leadership, Trump asserted this naval presence surpassed the scale of forces deployed in South America earlier this month. His statements emphasized readiness for rapid military engagement while simultaneously urging Iranian officials to return to diplomatic negotiations for a “fair and equitable” agreement prohibiting nuclear weapons development.

    This latest threat represents another evolution in Trump’s longstanding adversarial position toward Iran. His justification for potential military action has shifted repeatedly—from opposing Iran’s nuclear program to condemning its domestic crackdown on protesters—creating confusion among observers. The nuclear weapons reference appears particularly noteworthy given that Iran’s current uranium enrichment remains below weapons-grade levels according to international monitors.

    Central to Trump’s Iran policy remains his alignment with Israeli interests. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has consistently reinforced Trump’s hostility toward Iran, reportedly sharing intelligence regarding alleged assassination plots and nuclear advancements. This alliance culminated in coordinated airstrikes last June targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, which Trump publicly celebrated as exceptional military achievements.

    The former president’s approach contrasts sharply with the Obama administration’s diplomatic efforts, having unilaterally withdrawn from the 2015 nuclear agreement to implement a “maximum pressure” campaign featuring extensive sanctions. Despite this abandonment of diplomatic channels, Trump continues demanding renegotiation of nuclear terms while increasing military posturing.

    Regional stability concerns have occasionally tempered Trump’s rhetoric, as evidenced by his abrupt January reversal on military intervention following appeals from Middle Eastern allies. However, his latest ultimatum returns focus exclusively to nuclear capabilities without reference to human rights issues, suggesting strategic prioritization of nonproliferation objectives in current threat formulations.

  • Yunnan’s white plum blossoms create a cozy counter to the seasonal chill

    Yunnan’s white plum blossoms create a cozy counter to the seasonal chill

    In the mountainous region of Shidian county, Yunnan province, an extraordinary natural spectacle unfolds each winter as countless white plum blossoms burst into full bloom, creating a stunning visual contrast to the seasonal cold. The Jiutiaogou village has become the epicenter of this floral phenomenon, with delicate petals shimmering under sunlight and soft yellow stamens creating a mesmerizing display against the winter landscape.

    The meticulously arranged village cottages provide a perfect architectural backdrop to the natural beauty, seamlessly blending with the blossoming trees against crystal-clear azure skies. This harmonious integration of human settlement and natural wonder has transformed the area into an unexpected winter destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

    Tourists visiting the site have expressed awe at the breathtaking scenery. “I had heard about the legendary beauty of Jiutiaogou’s plum blossoms, but witnessing them personally exceeds all expectations,” remarked Yang Yingxin, one of the visitors. “Each individual bloom appears as if carefully crafted by nature’s most skilled artist—a true masterpiece of botanical perfection.”

    The annual blossoming has gained significant attention through coverage by Shidian County’s Integrated Media Center, which has documented the phenomenon’s ability to create warmth and comfort despite the winter chill. The white plum blossoms not only serve as a visual delight but also symbolize resilience and natural beauty thriving in adverse conditions, offering both aesthetic pleasure and metaphorical inspiration to those who witness them.

  • Sichuan prefecture launches lifetime scenic spot passes to attract tourists

    Sichuan prefecture launches lifetime scenic spot passes to attract tourists

    In an unprecedented move within China’s tourism sector, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province has unveiled a groundbreaking lifetime access program for its scenic attractions. The initiative, launched January 28, 2026, in Chengdu, introduces two distinctive pass options: single-attraction lifetime access and a comprehensive pass covering 14 premier destinations.

    The comprehensive lifetime pass, priced strategically at either 317 or 318 yuan (approximately $46), represents exceptional value compared to the standard cumulative entry fee of 1,091 yuan for individual visits to all included sites. Among the participating attractions are world-renowned natural wonders including Hailuogou Glacier and the spectacular Daocheng Yading nature reserve.

    Prefecture Governor Feng Fagui characterized the program as a transformative approach to tourism accessibility. Immediately following the official launch ceremony, sales commenced through digital platforms including a dedicated WeChat mini-program and Douyin (China’s version of TikTok). The market response proved overwhelming, with travel agencies securing 600,000 lifetime passes in initial bulk purchases.

    Complementing the access program, Ganzi has appointed 150 professional photographers as official tourism ambassadors, granting them complimentary entry to all scenic areas. These visual artists will document the region’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage, sharing their work globally to enhance international awareness.

    According to Liu Hong, Director of Ganzi’s Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism Bureau, the multifaceted strategy aims to position the prefecture as a premier international eco-cultural tourism destination. The initiative builds upon the region’s growing tourism momentum, which saw 260,000 visitor arrivals in the previous year.