Global Pulse

作者： admin

  • Trump announces 25% tariff on countries doing business with Iran

    Trump announces 25% tariff on countries doing business with Iran

    Aboard Air Force One on January 11, 2026, President Donald Trump announced the immediate imposition of a comprehensive 25% tariff on all nations maintaining commercial relations with Iran. This decisive economic measure represents a significant escalation in U.S. pressure against Tehran as anti-government demonstrations continue into their third consecutive week.

    President Trump utilized his Truth Social platform to declare the tariff enforcement “effective immediately,” though the administration provided no specific criteria defining what constitutes “doing business” with Iran. The presidential order stated unequivocally that “Any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America,” adding that “This Order is final and conclusive.

    The White House, through spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt, declined to elaborate on implementation details or identify which trading partners would be most severely affected. China, Iran’s largest trading partner, appears particularly vulnerable to these measures, followed by Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and India.

    This economic offensive follows Trump’s earlier warnings of potential military intervention should Iranian authorities respond with lethal force against protesters. Leavitt confirmed that military options, including targeted airstrikes, remain “on the table” as viable contingencies.

    The current wave of civil unrest began in late December, triggered by widespread anger over the catastrophic collapse of Iran’s national currency. The protests have evolved into a profound challenge to the legitimacy of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s government.

    According to documentation from the U.S.-based Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA), the conflict has resulted in nearly 500 protester fatalities and 48 security personnel deaths, with thousands more detained. Independent sources suggest the actual casualty figures may substantially exceed these verified numbers.

    In a notable development, Trump revealed that Iranian officials had attempted to initiate negotiations, though he emphasized that the United States “may have to act before a meeting” given the urgency of the situation.

  • Anushka Sharma pens a thoughtful birthday post for daughter Vamika

    Anushka Sharma pens a thoughtful birthday post for daughter Vamika

    Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma delivered a poignant tribute to her daughter Vamika on the occasion of her birthday, sharing an intimate reflection on motherhood through her social media platforms. The celebrity, known for maintaining a relatively private public profile, made an exception to express profound maternal affection for her firstborn child.

    In her emotionally charged Instagram post dated January 11, Sharma articulated the transformative experience of motherhood, stating she would never revert to any previous version of herself that existed before her daughter’s arrival. The actress captioned her post with powerful words: ‘And I would not go back to any version of me that did not know you, my child. 11 January 2021.’

    The renowned actress married Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli in a December 2017 ceremony held in Italy. Their family expanded with Vamika’s birth on January 11, 2021, followed by the arrival of their son Akaay on February 15, 2024.

    While Sharma has maintained a hiatus from acting for over six years since her appearance alongside Shah Rukh Khan in the 2018 film ‘Zero’, she has been involved in select projects including an unreleased biopic based on former Indian women’s cricket team player Jhulan Goswami.

    Meanwhile, Virat Kohli continues to demonstrate exceptional form in international cricket, recently scoring 93 runs from 91 deliveries during the first ODI match against New Zealand in Vadodara.

  • UK pays Guantanamo detainee Abu Zubaydah ‘substantial’ sum over torture complicity

    UK pays Guantanamo detainee Abu Zubaydah ‘substantial’ sum over torture complicity

    The United Kingdom has reached a substantial financial settlement with Abu Zubaydah, a Guantanamo Bay detainee held without charge for over two decades, resolving allegations of British complicity in his torture and extraordinary rendition. The agreement concludes years of litigation that exposed the UK’s involvement in the CIA’s post-9/11 interrogation program.

    While the exact settlement figure remains confidential, legal representatives for Zubaydah characterized the payment as a de facto acknowledgment of Britain’s role in facilitating his abuse at secret CIA “black site” prisons between 2002 and 2006. The Palestinian national, captured in 2002, endured extreme interrogation techniques including 83 waterboarding sessions in one month, prolonged sleep deprivation, and confinement in coffin-sized boxes.

    A pivotal 2018 parliamentary report revealed that British intelligence agencies had submitted questions to the CIA knowing Zubaydah was being tortured, failing either to seek assurances about his treatment or to prevent further abuse. This constituted a violation of both domestic and international law according to legal experts.

    The settlement emerged just before a scheduled UK Supreme Court ruling in 2023, avoiding a potentially damaging public judgment. Helen Duffy, Zubaydah’s international counsel, noted that while the payment provides symbolic recognition, it falls short of full justice, emphasizing that Zubaydah remains detained at Guantanamo as one of three designated “forever prisoners” held indefinitely without trial.

    The case coincides with the 24th anniversary of Guantanamo’s opening and follows similar rulings by the European Court of Human Rights against Lithuania and Poland for hosting CIA black sites. A 2023 UN report found seven nations, including the US and UK, responsible for Zubaydah’s torture and unlawful imprisonment, describing Britain as having “aided and assisted” American violations.

    Legal analysts observe that the settlement highlights both the persistence of torture victims seeking accountability and the continued failure of governments to fully reckon with post-9/11 human rights abuses, particularly as no senior officials have faced consequences due to claims of state secrecy.

  • Trump has options on Iran, but first must define goal

    Trump has options on Iran, but first must define goal

    The United States administration faces complex strategic considerations regarding potential intervention in Iran’s escalating civil unrest, with President Donald Trump weighing options that span from economic pressure to military engagement. As protests continue across numerous Iranian cities, the White House must determine its ultimate objective before selecting an appropriate course of action.

    Ten days after Trump declared the U.S. “locked and loaded” and prepared to assist Iranian demonstrators, the administration maintains its rhetorical pressure despite mounting casualties among protesters. The historical context remains crucial: Iran has stood as a principal adversary since the 1979 Islamic revolution overthrew the Western-aligned monarchy. A potential collapse of the current clerical regime would fundamentally reshape Middle Eastern geopolitics.

    Current administration measures include economic leverage through recently imposed 25% tariffs on Iran’s trading partners and discussions about restoring internet access restricted by Tehran. Behind the scenes, diplomatic channels remain active through Trump’s personal envoy Steve Witkoff, indicating continued communication between the two governments.

    Expert analysis reveals divergent perspectives on potential intervention outcomes. Reza Pahlavi, exiled son of the former Shah, has publicly encouraged stronger U.S. involvement, contrasting Trump’s approach with Obama’s hesitation during the 2009 protests. Council on Foreign Relations senior fellow Ray Takeyh suggests targeted actions against specific regime elements, particularly the Revolutionary Guards leading protest suppression, could influence undecided citizens to join demonstrations.

    However, Chatham House expert Sanam Vakil warns that external intervention might strengthen regime cohesion and justify intensified crackdowns. The scale of current protests—spanning 130-150 urban centers—presents operational challenges that exceed limited airstrikes, according to Johns Hopkins professor Vali Nasr, who suggests Trump may prefer symbolic military actions rather than comprehensive engagement.

    Foundation for Defense of Democracies researcher Behnam Ben Taleblu emphasizes the risk that military action could disperse protesters rather than amplify their efforts, particularly if intelligence and targeting prove inadequate. Meanwhile, alternative perspectives suggest many Iranians would welcome diplomatic solutions that ease sanctions and reduce war threats, potentially creating pathways for gradual political transformation rather than immediate regime collapse.

  • Watch: Dubai to get fire-resistant robots, faster drones to help tackle blazes

    Watch: Dubai to get fire-resistant robots, faster drones to help tackle blazes

    Dubai’s emergency response capabilities are undergoing a revolutionary transformation with the introduction of cutting-edge firefighting technology. The Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) unveiled its advanced arsenal at Intersec 2026, the premier global security and safety exhibition, showcasing significant upgrades to its robotic emergency response systems.

    The newly enhanced Shaheen 2 drone represents a quantum leap in aerial firefighting technology. Unlike its predecessor which carried 1,200 liters of firefighting agents, the new model features dramatically extended operational endurance. Through innovative integration with electric vehicle power systems, the drone’s flight time has been expanded from a mere 20 minutes to an impressive 10 hours of continuous operation. Each unit, valued at approximately $136,000 (500,000 dirhams), incorporates sophisticated safety mechanisms including an automatic parachute system that activates during operational errors or adverse weather conditions.

    Complementing the aerial fleet, DCD introduced the upgraded B2-W robot, engineered with exceptional fire-resistant properties and an integrated cooling system. The quadrupedal robotic unit can conduct preliminary assessments of burning structures before human firefighters enter, significantly enhancing crew safety. Its reinforced structure withstands high-pressure hose operations while specialized sensors provide critical environmental data.

    For post-incident analysis, smaller reconnaissance robots equipped with advanced cameras and sensors will perform detailed field surveys of fire-damaged areas. These units provide comprehensive situational awareness without exposing personnel to potential hazards.

    The technological showcase included a new all-terrain vehicle specifically designed for desert rescue operations. Colonel Sulaiman Al Balushi emphasized the vehicle’s importance during winter months when desert camping incidents frequently occur, requiring enhanced mobility across sandy and rocky terrain.

    According to Commander-in-Chief Rashid Al Matrooshi, these technological advancements reflect Dubai’s commitment to leveraging innovation for public safety, establishing new benchmarks in emergency response capabilities worldwide.

  • FAB, T. Rowe Price forge alliance to enhance investment solutions

    FAB, T. Rowe Price forge alliance to enhance investment solutions

    In a significant development for the Gulf region’s financial sector, First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) has established a comprehensive strategic partnership with renowned global asset management firm T. Rowe Price. This alliance, formally announced in Abu Dhabi on Monday, represents a major advancement in investment capabilities available throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

    The collaboration strategically positions T. Rowe Price as FAB’s primary investment partner, granting the bank’s diverse client base unprecedented access to sophisticated investment strategies. These encompass global equities, fixed income securities, alternative investments, and multi-asset solutions curated by one of the world’s most respected asset managers.

    This partnership is specifically engineered to enhance FAB’s investment offerings across all client segments, including retail investors, private banking clients, and institutional organizations. By integrating T. Rowe Price’s extensive global research infrastructure and proven active management expertise, FAB aims to deliver more sophisticated, internationally calibrated investment products tailored to regional market dynamics.

    The synergy combines FAB’s extensive regional presence, deep market understanding, and substantial client network with T. Rowe Price’s decades of global investment experience and product innovation. This fusion of capabilities will facilitate the development of customized investment solutions addressing the evolving requirements of GCC investors while promoting international standards within the region’s financial ecosystem.

    Hana Al Rostamani, Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank, emphasized that this partnership demonstrates FAB’s ongoing commitment to enhancing investment sophistication and expanding solution diversity. She noted that collaborating with a globally recognized asset manager reinforces FAB’s position as a premier financial partner dedicated to delivering exceptional value across client segments.

    Rob Sharps, Chair, CEO and President of T. Rowe Price, expressed enthusiasm about expanding the firm’s Middle Eastern presence through this long-term strategic alliance. He highlighted that the partnership reflects T. Rowe Price’s commitment to developing innovative global collaborations and delivering world-class investment solutions specifically designed for GCC public and private market investors.

  • Dubai retail and warehouse markets surge amid tight supply and rising demand

    Dubai retail and warehouse markets surge amid tight supply and rising demand

    Dubai’s commercial property sector demonstrated exceptional resilience during the third quarter of 2025, with both retail and warehouse markets experiencing unprecedented growth driven by robust demand and severely constrained supply. According to Cavendish Maxwell’s comprehensive market analysis, retail sales transactions shattered records by exceeding Dh1 billion in a single quarter for the first time in the emirate’s history.

    The retail segment witnessed remarkable transaction volume increases, surging 78.7% quarter-on-quarter and 27.2% year-on-year. Off-plan deals emerged as the primary growth catalyst, skyrocketing 133% compared to the previous quarter and 64.7% from the previous year. Approximately 400 retail sales transactions were finalized during this period, reflecting intense investor appetite fueled by Dubai’s expanding population and record-breaking tourism numbers.

    Leasing markets experienced a paradigm shift as prime retail space became increasingly scarce. Tenants demonstrated a clear preference for renewing existing leases rather than relocating, with renewal contracts increasing 6.1% annually while new rental agreements plummeted 32.2%. This supply-demand imbalance triggered substantial rental growth across key commercial districts, with rates escalating between 7% and 15% in premium locations including Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Business Bay. Citywide retail rents advanced 7.7% year-on-year.

    The warehouse market mirrored this trend of constrained supply and rising costs. Although overall rental transactions decreased 8.3% year-on-year to approximately 4,200 deals, renewal activity surged dramatically by 62.2%, indicating occupiers’ strong preference for operational continuity. Industrial rental rates achieved double-digit growth, averaging 16.8% year-on-year across major logistics hubs including Jebel Ali, Dubai Investment Park, and Ras Al Khor, with increases ranging from 12% to 21%.

    Market experts attribute this sustained growth to structural factors including e-commerce expansion, Dubai’s consolidating position as a regional logistics hub, and unprecedented tourism performance. Major mall operators Emaar and Majid Al Futtaim reported average portfolio occupancies of 98%, with flagship destinations continuing to attract substantial footfall.

    Future development strategies are evolving to address market dynamics, focusing on smaller community shopping centers catering to daily needs alongside mega-expansions such as the Dh5 billion upgrade at Mall of the Emirates. The warehouse sector shows no indications of cooling, with persistent supply constraints and escalating demand from logistics and online retail expected to maintain upward pressure on rental rates. Industry analysts conclude that location security and long-term stability now carry greater strategic value than cost considerations in Dubai’s rapidly evolving commercial landscape.

  • UAE: 70,000 eco-friendly balloons released into the sky at Winterland Al Ain

    UAE: 70,000 eco-friendly balloons released into the sky at Winterland Al Ain

    AL AIN – The night sky above Winterland Al Ain transformed into a breathtaking canvas of color as 70,000 biodegradable balloons ascended in a carefully orchestrated spectacle near Hazza bin Zayed Stadium. The event, designed to deliver joy while demonstrating environmental responsibility, attracted multitudes of families seeking unique entertainment experiences.

    Event organizers prioritized ecological considerations despite facing significant logistical challenges and compressed timelines. All balloons deployed were manufactured from specially formulated biodegradable materials that decompose without harming the environment, representing a growing trend toward sustainable event management in the region.

    Moayed, Administrative Director of the event, explained the vision behind the initiative: ‘Our objective was to create an extraordinary moment of collective happiness while maintaining our commitment to sustainable practices. This demonstration proves that spectacular entertainment and environmental stewardship can coexist harmoniously.’

    The balloon launch served as both a visual celebration and a symbolic statement about Winterland Al Ain’s evolving identity. ‘We consistently embrace challenges as opportunities for growth,’ Moayed added. ‘Each event represents another step in our continuous improvement journey, always striving to deliver enhanced experiences for our visitors.’

    Attendees expressed overwhelming enthusiasm for the eco-conscious spectacle. Rashid Al Mansoori described the scene as ‘visually stunning and emotionally uplifting,’ noting that the event generated equal excitement among children and adults.

    Abdullah Al Mazmi commended the organizational precision and environmental awareness: ‘The deliberate selection of biodegradable materials reflects maturing sustainability consciousness within large-scale event planning. This sets a commendable precedent for future public gatherings.’

    Afraa Al Rashidi highlighted the family-friendly atmosphere: ‘This created magical memories for our children within a secure and joyful environment. We enthusiastically support more events that combine entertainment value with environmental responsibility.’

    The successful execution demonstrates increasing regional commitment to integrating sustainable practices into public entertainment while maintaining spectacular visual impact and emotional resonance.

  • How Turkey sees the protests in Iran

    How Turkey sees the protests in Iran

    Turkish officials are monitoring the protest movement in Iran with significant concern, emphasizing the critical importance of regional stability while acknowledging the legitimate grievances of Iranian citizens. Despite historical rivalries between Ankara and Tehran across multiple Middle Eastern theaters including Syria, Iraq, and Lebanon, Turkey maintains that preserving Iran’s territorial integrity remains a paramount priority.

    Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan provided a comprehensive assessment during recent televised remarks, characterizing the current demonstrations as smaller in scale than the 2022 protest movement—though this evaluation is contested by some Iranian analysts who consider them the most significant since 1999. Fidan asserted that Iran is experiencing the consequences of its ambitious foreign policy decisions over the past three decades, which have resulted in severe Western economic sanctions that disproportionately affect the country’s young, vibrant population.

    The Foreign Minister notably addressed external influences, stating that Iran’s rivals are actively manipulating the protests from abroad. “Mossad doesn’t hide it; they are calling on the Iranian people to revolt against the regime through their own internet and Twitter accounts,” Fidan revealed, while simultaneously expressing doubt that these demonstrations would achieve Israel’s desired outcome of governmental collapse.

    Analysts from the SETA think tank and the Center for Iranian Studies in Ankara provide additional context for Turkey’s cautious approach. Mustafa Caner emphasized that despite underlying tensions, Turkey prioritizes Iran’s stability, while Serhan Afacan noted that recent demonstrations have included provocative acts such as mosque attacks that complicate Ankara’s position.

    Turkey’s concerns extend beyond ideological considerations to practical security implications. The country fears potential refugee flows similar to those experienced during the Syrian civil war, which resulted in Turkey hosting 4-5 million refugees. Additionally, Turkey worries about increased activity by Kurdish militant groups, particularly the PJAK (Kurdistan Free Life Party), which operates along the Iranian border and could exploit any instability.

    Fidan proposed diplomatic solutions, suggesting that Iran pursue a reset with Western powers and engage in genuine regional cooperation. He indicated that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan could facilitate this recalibration of Iran’s regional relationships, emphasizing that a negotiated agreement involving key international actors would create a “win-win situation” essential for regional stability.

  • Guardiola downplays trophy talk as he focuses on Manchester City growth

    Guardiola downplays trophy talk as he focuses on Manchester City growth

    Pep Guardiola has redefined success metrics for Manchester City, emphasizing developmental progress over silverware accumulation as his squad prepares for Tuesday’s League Cup semi-final against Newcastle. The Catalan manager’s philosophical shift comes after City concluded the previous season without a major trophy for the first time since 2018, despite securing the Community Shield through penalty shootout victory against Manchester United.

    During Monday’s pre-match press conference, Guardiola dismissed notions of heightened pressure following last season’s comparatively modest trophy cabinet. ‘The true measure isn’t trophies won or lost, but how the team evolves and enhances its capabilities,’ asserted the decorated manager. ‘Last season, our performances merited only one trophy because we weren’t playing excellently. While knockout competitions sometimes permit fortunate victories, that’s not our focus.’

    Guardiola’s perspective emerges during a transitional phase for the club, which has undergone significant roster reconstruction following departures of cornerstone players. The manager articulated his fundamental philosophy: ‘We exist to elevate the team’s performance level. The genuine satisfaction derives from delivering exceptional displays for ourselves and our supporters.’

    This process-oriented approach previously propelled unprecedented success, with City capturing four consecutive League Cups from 2018 onward—a competition that served as springboard for their domestic dominance. Currently, the Citizens trail Premier League leaders Arsenal by six points, having been dethroned last season by Liverpool.

    The other semi-final fixture pits Chelsea against Arsenal on Wednesday, setting the stage for potential high-stakes Manchester derby or London showdown in the final.