China’s electricity consumption, a critical indicator of economic vitality, demonstrated consistent growth in September 2025, increasing by 4.5 percent year-on-year to reach 888.6 billion kilowatt-hours, as reported by the National Energy Administration. This upward trend was particularly notable in the primary and secondary industries, which saw rises of 7.3 percent and 5.7 percent, respectively. The tertiary sector also experienced a significant boost, with a 6.3 percent increase in power usage. However, residential electricity consumption declined by 2.6 percent, totaling 128.7 billion kilowatt-hours. The China Electricity Council attributed the overall growth to a combination of unusually hot summer weather and government initiatives aimed at stabilizing industrial output. Jiang Debin, deputy director of the council’s statistics and data center, highlighted the sustained impact of robust macroeconomic policies supporting economic recovery, which drove high electricity consumption levels in July and August. From January to September, China’s total electricity use climbed 4.6 percent to nearly 7.77 trillion kilowatt-hours. Notably, the rapid expansion of mobile internet, big data, and cloud computing fueled a 33.8 percent year-on-year surge in electricity consumption by the internet and related services sector during the third quarter. Additionally, the electric vehicle industry continued its rapid growth, with electricity consumption for charging and battery swap services skyrocketing by 49.6 percent year-on-year.
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Indian rupee shows modest recovery; should expats remit now?
The Indian rupee has recently displayed a modest recovery against the US dollar, sparking discussions among Indian expatriates in the UAE about the optimal timing for remittances. Over the past month, the rupee has shown resilience, climbing from a peak of 88.87 to 87.80 against the dollar, marking its longest stretch of gains since June. This uptick has been bolstered by the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) proactive interventions in the foreign exchange markets, aimed at stabilizing the currency. As of October 23, 2025, the rupee was trading at 23.92 per UAE dirham, up from 24.20 earlier in the month. Despite these gains, analysts caution that the rupee remains vulnerable to persistent macroeconomic challenges, including a widening trade deficit and geopolitical uncertainties. The RBI’s strategic interventions, including dollar-selling operations and liquidity infusions, have provided short-term support, but the currency’s medium-term outlook remains uncertain. With forecasts predicting continued volatility, expats are advised to consider remitting funds while the rupee shows signs of strength, before potential further depreciation.
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Dinosaurs were thriving in North America before the mass-extinction asteroid strike, study suggests
The long-standing debate among scientists about whether dinosaurs were already in decline before the catastrophic asteroid impact 66 million years ago has taken a new turn. Recent research indicates that dinosaur populations in North America were flourishing right up until the asteroid struck, which triggered a mass extinction event. However, experts caution that this finding represents only a fragment of the global scenario. The study, published in the journal Science, focuses on the Kirtland Formation in northern New Mexico, a site renowned for its dinosaur fossils for over a century. Analysis of fossils and surrounding rocks suggests these remains date back to approximately 400,000 years before the asteroid impact—a brief period in geological terms. The dating was achieved by examining volcanic glass particles in sandstone and magnetic minerals in mudstone. Daniel Peppe, a paleontologist at Baylor University and co-author of the study, emphasized that the findings reveal diverse dinosaur communities thriving shortly before their abrupt extinction. The fossils discovered include species like Tyrannosaurus rex, a long-necked dinosaur, and a Triceratops-like herbivore. However, independent experts like Mike Benton from the University of Bristol warn that evidence from a single location may not reflect broader trends across North America or globally. Andrew Flynn, a paleontologist at New Mexico State University and study co-author, highlighted the challenges of accurately dating fossils, as carbon-based materials do not survive in them. Further research is needed to paint a comprehensive picture of dinosaur diversity worldwide on the eve of the asteroid impact.
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‘Disappointing’: ICJ grants Israel another extension in South Africa genocide case
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague has granted Israel a second extension to submit its evidence in response to South Africa’s allegations of genocide in Gaza. In an order dated 20 October and published recently, the ICJ accepted Israel’s request to extend its deadline by two months to 12 March 2026, following an earlier extension to 12 January. The original deadlines for South Africa and Israel to file their written arguments were 28 October 2024 and 28 July 2025, respectively. While South Africa adhered to its deadline, Israel sought a six-month extension in April, which South Africa opposed. The ICJ compromised by granting a five-and-a-half-month extension to 12 January 2026. Israel then requested a second extension of at least five months on 14 October, citing unresolved evidentiary issues related to South Africa’s submission and its focus on the ICJ’s Advisory Opinion on Israel’s humanitarian obligations. South Africa urged the court to reject the request, arguing it contradicted the case’s urgency and the principle of equality between the parties. Gerhard Kemp, a professor of international criminal law, criticized the ICJ’s decision as ‘disappointing,’ emphasizing that Israel had ample time to prepare its response and that the alleged genocide’s structure remains unchanged. The ICJ has previously issued provisional measures against Israel on three occasions, and a recent UN report found Israel responsible for genocide in Gaza. The case, which began with South Africa’s accusation in December 2023, is expected to conclude by early 2028.
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Eddie Murphy reflects on his comedic career in documentary ‘Being Eddie’
Netflix is set to release a groundbreaking documentary titled ‘Being Eddie,’ offering an intimate look into the life and career of comedy legend Eddie Murphy. Directed by two-time Academy Award winner Angus Wall, known for his work on ‘The Social Network’ and ‘The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo,’ the film promises to capture the essence of Murphy’s unparalleled journey in entertainment. The documentary traces Murphy’s rise from a teenage stand-up comedian sharing stages with Jerry Seinfeld to his iconic roles on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and in blockbuster films. Netflix unveiled the trailer on Instagram, describing the project as ‘raw, real, and unapologetic,’ with Murphy telling his story like never before. The film highlights Murphy’s versatility, from playing a cop, a doctor, and even a donkey, to maintaining his A-list status for over four decades without succumbing to Hollywood’s darker temptations. ‘Being Eddie’ features testimonials from Hollywood heavyweights like Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, Jamie Foxx, and Tracy Morgan, celebrating Murphy’s nearly 50-year career. Director Angus Wall noted that while Murphy has portrayed countless characters, this marks the first time he reveals his true self on screen. The documentary premieres on Netflix on November 12, offering fans a rare glimpse into the life of one of comedy’s most enduring icons.
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James Gunn has discussed ‘Constantine 2’ with Keanu Reeves
Filmmaker James Gunn has revealed discussions with Keanu Reeves about a potential sequel to the 2005 supernatural superhero film ‘Constantine.’ Directed by Francis Lawrence and loosely based on the Hellblazer comic book series, the original film starred Reeves as John Constantine, a cynical exorcist. In a recent interview on the BobaTalks podcast, Gunn confirmed that while he has not yet read a script, he has engaged in ongoing conversations with Reeves about the project. Reeves, who has long expressed interest in reprising his role, shared that the team has been working on the sequel for over a decade. After pitching a story to DC Studios, they received approval to move forward with scripting. Director Lawrence also hinted at a ‘great idea’ for the sequel, developed over years of revisiting the comics and brainstorming. However, the project faced delays due to the 2023 writer’s strike and challenges in regaining control of the character. Despite these hurdles, the team remains committed to bringing the sequel to life.
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What to know about the French militants who clashed with Syrian forces in Idlib
Tensions escalated in northern Syria’s Idlib province this week as Syrian government forces clashed with fighters in Al-Fardan camp, led by Omar Diaby, a French militant with an international arrest warrant. The camp, located near the Turkish border, houses a small group of French and Francophone militants and their families. The confrontation began after residents reported severe violations, including the kidnapping of a girl by an armed group under Diaby’s command. Syrian security forces surrounded the camp, demanding Diaby’s surrender, but he refused, barricading himself and initiating gunfire, which led to intense exchanges and drone strikes. Videos on social media depicted damaged structures and civilians fleeing for safety. Diaby’s son, Jibril, appealed for mercy, emphasizing the presence of families and children in the camp. The arrival of Uzbek militants to defend the camp and fears of political fallout prompted a truce, with Diaby agreeing to surrender heavy weapons. Diaby, also known as Omar Omsen, is a Senegal-born French citizen notorious for recruiting jihadists via YouTube. Designated a terrorist by the U.S. in 2016, he previously led French fighters aligned with the Nusra Front, al-Qaida’s Syrian affiliate. His history includes faking his death in 2015 and conflicts with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the militant group that controlled northwest Syria before Assad’s fall. The presence of foreign fighters in Syria remains a contentious issue, with many Syrians opposing their extremist views. While some foreign fighters have been integrated into the new national army, their future remains uncertain, posing challenges for Syria’s interim government and its relations with Western nations.
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Bangladesh court to deliver verdict against Hasina on November 13
A Bangladesh court is set to deliver its verdict on November 13 in the high-profile crimes against humanity case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been tried in absentia. The trial, which concluded on Thursday, October 23, 2025, accused Hasina of orchestrating a deadly crackdown during a student-led uprising in July and August 2024, resulting in the deaths of up to 1,400 people, according to the United Nations. Hasina, 78, has defied court orders to return from India to face charges, including failure to prevent murder, which prosecutors argue constitute crimes against humanity under Bangladeshi law. The prosecution has demanded the death penalty if she is found guilty. Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman emphasized that Hasina’s refusal to return to Bangladesh undermines her claims of innocence, stating, ‘If she believed in the justice system, she should have returned.’ The trial, which began on June 1, 2025, included months of testimony and evidence, including audio tapes allegedly showing Hasina ordering security forces to use lethal force against protesters. Hasina, represented by a state-appointed lawyer, has refused to recognize the court’s authority, while her defense claims she was forced to flee the country. Her now-banned political party, the Awami League, has denounced the trial as a ‘show trial’ and maintains her innocence. The verdict comes ahead of Bangladesh’s first elections since Hasina’s overthrow, scheduled for early February 2026.
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A fashion show in Mali’s ancient city of Timbuktu promotes peace and local talent
In a remarkable display of resilience and cultural pride, the ancient city of Timbuktu, Mali, hosted a vibrant fashion event titled the ‘Caravan for Peace.’ The two-day showcase, held in an open field on the city’s outskirts, featured young models adorned in colorful traditional attire, symbolizing hope and unity in a region long plagued by jihadi violence. Renowned African fashion designer Sidi Ahmed Seidina Ali, popularly known as Alphadi, spearheaded the event, urging Timbuktu natives to return and contribute to the city’s revival. ‘Let us all come! All those born in Timbuktu, return to your homeland, return to your hometown to work and show that this city is magical,’ Alphadi passionately declared. The event, organized in collaboration with local authorities, highlighted the creativity of dozens of local designers and models, many of whom have endured the scars of conflict. Timbuktu, once a pre-colonial hub of Islamic learning, has faced years of attacks by the al-Qaida-linked JNIM militant group. While authorities report improved security, sporadic violence persists, as evidenced by a recent attack on Malian army positions. Alphadi, a native of Timbuktu and a celebrated figure in African fashion, emphasized the importance of peace and the potential of young talents. ‘Modernity is not only in Paris, not only in New York, not only in Japan. Modernity is also here at home,’ he asserted, calling for mutual understanding and harmony. Local officials lauded the event as a step toward restoring Timbuktu’s former glory. Issaka Nazoum, president of the Regional Council of Timbuktu, described the caravan as a call for ‘social cohesion and living together.’ The fashion show not only celebrated Mali’s rich cultural heritage but also served as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of its people.
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Ben Gvir calls for death penalty as he faces bound Palestinian prisoners
Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has sparked widespread controversy after being filmed advocating for the execution of Palestinian detainees during a visit to an Israeli prison. In a now-viral video, Ben Gvir, a far-right politician, is seen standing in front of a cell, declaring that Palestinian prisoners ‘deserve a death penalty law.’ The footage also shows several Palestinian detainees shackled and kneeling in stress positions, their backs to the camera. This incident coincides with the Israeli parliament’s preparation to debate a series of contentious bills, including one that would impose the death penalty on individuals convicted of terrorism. Ben Gvir, who oversees prison affairs, has long championed harsher measures against Palestinian detainees, including the death penalty and severe prison conditions. Under his supervision, reports of abuse, torture, starvation, and sexual assault against Palestinian prisoners have surged, particularly since the onset of Israel’s war on Gaza in October 2023. Recent accounts reveal that 80 Palestinians have died in Israeli custody since the conflict began. Despite opposition from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Ben Gvir’s death penalty bill received preliminary approval last month. On Saturday, he reiterated his demand, calling for ‘the death penalty law for terrorists – now.’ Palestinian prisoners’ rights groups, including the Commission of Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs and the Palestinian Prisoners’ Club, condemned the bill as an ‘unprecedented act of savagery.’ They argue that the legislation aims to legalize the ongoing killing of prisoners, reflecting the ‘unprecedented level of savagery’ practiced by the Israeli occupation system. International human rights organizations have also criticized Israel’s counter-terrorism laws, warning that they are often applied to legitimate human rights and humanitarian work. Former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet emphasized in 2021 that advocating for rights or providing legal aid should not be equated with terrorism. The situation underscores the deepening humanitarian crisis and the escalating tensions in the region.