As the Formula One season intensifies, Max Verstappen of Red Bull is poised to extend his dominance, particularly at the Mexican Grand Prix, where he has previously clinched victory five times. Verstappen’s remarkable resurgence, from trailing McLaren’s Oscar Piastri by 104 points in August to narrowing the gap to just 40, underscores his relentless pursuit of a fourth win in the last five grands prix. Meanwhile, Ferrari’s struggles persist, with the team approaching a full year without a victory in Mexico. Their last triumph came in October last year, courtesy of Carlos Sainz, who has since moved to Williams and faces a grid penalty this weekend. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, now with Ferrari, has yet to secure a podium finish in 19 starts this season, while teammate Charles Leclerc has managed six podiums but only one second-place finish in Monaco. McLaren’s Andrea Stella acknowledges Verstappen and Red Bull as the most formidable combination currently, though he remains optimistic about McLaren’s prospects in Brazil, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi. With Piastri’s lead over Lando Norris dwindling to 14 points, the battle for supremacy within McLaren intensifies. Mercedes’ George Russell, trailing by 94 points, is effectively out of contention, leaving McLaren and Red Bull to vie for the title. However, Ferrari and Russell could still influence the championship by siphoning crucial points. Red Bull’s Laurent Mekies emphasizes the unpredictability of the remaining races, where track conditions and team performance will be decisive. Additionally, Yuki Tsunoda’s recent improvement adds another layer of intrigue, as Red Bull evaluates his future. The team standings remain fiercely contested, with Mercedes, Ferrari, and Red Bull locked in a tight race for second place, while Williams, Sauber, Aston Martin, and Racing Bulls battle for sixth.
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Does joy feel out of reach? There’s a word for that
Anhedonia, the inability to experience pleasure, is a symptom often associated with mental health disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, and PTSD. While it is not a standalone diagnosis, its impact on individuals can be profound, affecting mood, motivation, and overall quality of life. Dr. Judith F. Joseph, a clinical assistant professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, emphasizes that anhedonia is an existential crisis, often overlooked because it doesn’t present as an immediate emergency. For Michela, a 49-year-old woman living with major depressive disorder, anhedonia has made even simple celebrations feel like insurmountable tasks. She describes feeling numb and devoid of energy, a sentiment echoed by many who experience this condition. Anhedonia can manifest in various ways, from reduced enjoyment of once-loved activities to complete emotional detachment. It can also lead to withdrawal from social interactions and exacerbate feelings of emptiness. Research suggests that anhedonia may be linked to disruptions in neurotransmitter activity, particularly dopamine, which plays a key role in motivation and reward. Chronic stressors, genetic factors, and even certain medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can contribute to its development. While there is no FDA-approved treatment specifically for anhedonia, addressing underlying conditions like depression can help alleviate symptoms. Behavioral activation therapy, which encourages individuals to engage in meaningful activities, has shown promise in rekindling joy and motivation. Experts urge those experiencing anhedonia to seek professional help, emphasizing that joy is not a luxury but a fundamental aspect of well-being.
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UAE calls for ceasefire in Sudan, says ready to bring aid into the country
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has issued a strong call for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, emphasizing the need for a civilian-led transition to secure the nation’s future. Speaking at the Reuters NEXT Gulf Summit in Abu Dhabi, Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the UAE’s president, outlined the country’s stance on the ongoing crisis in Sudan. Gargash highlighted the UAE’s commitment to scaling up humanitarian support and its opposition to a military junta ruling Sudan. He acknowledged that the UAE’s position has drawn criticism, particularly from factions favoring military control. Gargash referenced the quartet statement, a significant diplomatic agreement in which the UAE played a pivotal role, as a testament to its dedication to peace and stability in Sudan. Despite facing obstacles in delivering humanitarian aid due to restrictive conditions in Sudan, the UAE expressed readiness to intensify its efforts once granted access. The UAE has a long history of engagement in Sudan, including supporting economic development and aiding the country’s transition during the civilian period. Gargash’s remarks underscored the UAE’s proactive role in addressing global crises and its unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable peace and development in conflict-ridden regions.
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Dubizzle Group postpones IPO to assess ideal time for future offering
Dubizzle Group, the leading digital classifieds marketplace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), has announced the postponement of its planned initial public offering (IPO) on the Dubai Financial Market. The decision, revealed on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, aims to evaluate the most favorable timing for the offering in the future. Despite the delay, the company emphasized strong investor engagement and interest, underscoring its market leadership, profitability, and growth potential across the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Since its initial announcement to float, Dubizzle Group has garnered significant attention from investors, reflecting confidence in its strategic direction. The company remains committed to expanding its highly profitable UAE operations and increasing its presence in Saudi Arabia. In a statement, Dubizzle Group reiterated its focus on executing its growth strategy while maintaining disciplined cost management and scalable infrastructure.
Originally, the IPO was set to offer approximately 30.34% of the company’s total issued share capital, equivalent to 1,249,526,391 shares. This included 196,114,887 new shares issued by the company and 1,053,411,504 existing shares from selling shareholders. The paid-up share capital post-offering was projected at Dh82.368 million, divided into 4,118,412,630 shares with a nominal value of Dh0.02 each.
The UAE remains Dubizzle Group’s core market, generating $105 million in adjusted revenue during the first half of 2025, accounting for 89% of its total adjusted revenue. The region also delivered $48 million in adjusted EBITDA, up from $25 million in H1 2024, and $43 million in adjusted net profit, a significant increase from $21 million in the same period last year. CEO Imran Ali Khan highlighted the company’s exceptional profitability, with nearly 50% profit margins and 85% cash flow conversion, attributing these results to its asset-light business model and efficient growth strategies.
Dubizzle Group’s decision to delay the IPO reflects a cautious yet strategic approach to maximize shareholder value and capitalize on favorable market conditions in the future.
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North Korea says latest missile tests demonstrate new hypersonic systems
North Korea announced on Thursday that it had successfully tested new hypersonic missile systems, aimed at enhancing its nuclear deterrent capabilities. The tests, conducted under the supervision of leader Kim Jong Un, are part of an ongoing effort to develop advanced weapons capable of penetrating South Korea’s missile defenses. According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the launches involved two hypersonic projectiles that precisely struck a land target in the country’s northern region. The agency described the system as ‘strategic,’ suggesting its potential for nuclear armament. The tests occurred just days before global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, are set to convene in South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings. This timing has led analysts to speculate that North Korea may be seeking to assert its military prowess on the international stage. The latest tests follow a massive military parade in Pyongyang earlier this month, where Kim showcased new weaponry, including a short-range ballistic missile system equipped with hypersonic glide vehicles. Experts have noted that hypersonic weapons, which travel at speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound, are designed to evade missile defense systems. However, questions remain about the consistency of their performance in real-world scenarios. Pak Jong Chon, a senior military official, praised the ‘new cutting-edge weapon system’ and emphasized North Korea’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities. The tests also come amid stalled diplomatic efforts between North Korea and the United States, with Kim demanding the lifting of economic sanctions as a precondition for talks. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, who took office in June, has called for dialogue to restore peace on the Korean Peninsula, but Kim has so far rejected these overtures. Analysts suggest that North Korea’s recent missile tests may be a strategic move to reinforce its position as a nuclear power ahead of key international gatherings.
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Watch: Mum helps evacuate 22 schoolchildren from bus as it catches fire
In a remarkable act of bravery, a mother and a bus driver successfully evacuated 22 schoolchildren from a bus that caught fire near East Bethel Elementary in Minnesota. The incident, which could have ended in tragedy, was averted thanks to their quick thinking and decisive actions. The mother, whose identity has not been disclosed, was on the scene and immediately sprang into action when she noticed the bus engulfed in flames. Working alongside the bus driver, they ensured that all the children were safely evacuated without any injuries. The school community, including parents and school leaders, have since expressed their deep gratitude and admiration for the duo’s heroic efforts. The incident has also sparked discussions about the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for regular safety drills in schools. Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, but the focus remains on the commendable actions of the mother and the bus driver, who have been hailed as local heroes.
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Rising tariffs set to threaten medical sector
The US medical sector is facing significant challenges as the Trump administration considers imposing tariffs on medical imports following a national security review. Major hospital groups, manufacturers, and trade organizations have voiced strong opposition, warning that such measures could escalate costs, disrupt supply chains, and stifle innovation. The review, conducted under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, targets personal protective equipment (PPE), medical consumables, and devices, with potential tariffs or quotas expected as early as 2026. Stakeholders, including the American Association for Homecare and the National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC), argue that these actions could severely strain the US healthcare system, which is already under pressure. The NFTC emphasized the need for non-tariff responses to maintain industry competitiveness. The American Hospital Association (AHA) highlighted the reliance on international sources for critical medical supplies, noting that China is a major supplier of PPE and other essential equipment. The AHA called for a balanced approach, including tariff exemptions for products in short supply. Meanwhile, manufacturers warned of unintended consequences, such as increased costs for patients and hospitals, and disruptions in supply chains. The White House’s increasing use of Section 232 across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals and critical minerals, has raised concerns about broader economic impacts.
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US axes website for reporting human rights abuses by US-armed foreign forces
The US State Department has dismantled its Human Rights Reporting Gateway (HRG), a critical online portal designed to receive allegations of human rights violations by foreign military units supplied with American weapons. Established in 2022 under the Leahy Law, the HRG served as the sole public channel for organizations and individuals to report serious abuses directly to the US government. Its removal has sparked widespread condemnation from human rights advocates and lawmakers, including Tim Rieser, a former senior aide to Senator Patrick Leahy, who described the move as a clear violation of legal mandates. Rieser warned that the deletion undermines the US government’s ability to hold foreign security forces accountable, potentially enabling continued support for units involved in heinous crimes. The State Department, however, maintains that it continues to receive reports of human rights violations and adheres to its legal obligations. The HRG’s elimination follows a broader restructuring of the State Department under Secretary Marco Rubio, which has included layoffs and the scaling back of human rights monitoring offices. Critics argue that these changes reflect a shift away from promoting human rights, aligning instead with the Trump administration’s ‘America First’ foreign policy. The HRG had previously facilitated reports of abuses, including allegations of excessive force by Colombian security forces during 2021 anti-government protests and incidents involving US-armed Israeli Defense Forces in the occupied West Bank. Amnesty International, which had prepared submissions for the portal, expressed concern over the loss of this critical reporting mechanism. Charles Blaha, former Director of the Office of Security and Human Rights, emphasized that the removal severely weakens the government’s ability to deter abuses, leaving no established channel for reporting violations. The US remains the world’s largest provider of military aid, raising questions about the accountability of foreign units receiving American support.
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Myanmar’s army is taking back territory with relentless air strikes – and China’s help
The strategic town of Kyaukme, a vital trade route linking the Chinese border to Myanmar’s interior, has become a microcosm of the nation’s protracted civil war. After months of intense fighting, the Ta’ang National Liberation Army (TNLA) seized control of Kyaukme in late 2023, marking a significant victory for the opposition. However, the junta’s swift recapture of the town in just three weeks this month underscores a dramatic shift in the military balance, favoring the regime. Kyaukme’s devastation, with large areas flattened by relentless air strikes, highlights the heavy toll of the conflict. The junta’s use of advanced drones, motorized paragliders, and Chinese-supplied aircraft has intensified its offensive, causing significant civilian casualties and forcing many to flee. The TNLA’s retreat from Kyaukme and Hsipaw, another key town, signals the junta’s growing dominance, bolstered by China’s support for its plan to hold elections in December. This election, widely criticized for excluding Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy, is seen as a bid to legitimize the regime. China’s backing, including technical and financial aid, has been pivotal in the junta’s resurgence. Meanwhile, the fragmented opposition, comprising poorly-armed local militias and ethnic insurgent groups, struggles with internal divisions and lack of central leadership. Despite initial successes, such as Operation 1027 in 2023, the opposition’s momentum has waned. The junta’s forced conscription drive has replenished its ranks, while China’s tightening of border controls and export bans on dual-use products have crippled the resistance’s access to drones and other critical supplies. As the junta regains control of strategic areas, the prospects for a political resolution remain bleak, with the legacy of violence and destruction casting a long shadow over Myanmar’s future.
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Israel passes preliminary bill to annex the occupied West Bank
Israel’s Knesset has taken a significant step toward annexing the occupied West Bank, passing a preliminary reading of a contentious bill with a narrow margin of 25 votes in favor to 24 against. The proposed legislation, introduced by Avi Maoz of the far-right Noam party, seeks to extend Israeli sovereignty over settlement areas in the region, referred to in the bill as ‘Judea and Samaria.’ The bill must undergo three additional votes before becoming law. Concurrently, Avigdor Lieberman of the Yisrael Beiteinu party proposed a separate bill to annex the Maale Adumim settlement near Jerusalem, which also passed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party criticized the move, labeling it as an attempt to undermine the government during US Vice President JD Vance’s visit. Likud dismissed the bill as ‘trolling’ aimed at damaging US-Israel relations and Israel’s achievements in Gaza. The party emphasized that true sovereignty is achieved through practical actions, not symbolic laws. Meanwhile, Israel’s finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, recently unveiled a controversial plan to annex the majority of the West Bank, leaving only six Palestinian enclaves outside Israeli control. Smotrich’s proposal includes dismantling the Palestinian Authority and replacing it with ‘regional civilian management alternatives.’ The plan has sparked widespread concern over its implications for regional stability and Palestinian rights.