Global Pulse

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  • Dubai: Sheikh Mohammed congratulates Lebanese economist for winning Great Arab Minds

    Dubai: Sheikh Mohammed congratulates Lebanese economist for winning Great Arab Minds

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has formally extended congratulations to Lebanese economist Professor Badi Hani for his remarkable achievement in securing the 2025 Great Arab Minds Award in the Economics category. The announcement was made via Sheikh Mohammed’s official social media channel on December 21.

    Professor Hani, a distinguished academic at Syracuse University, was recognized for his groundbreaking research that has established the fundamental theoretical and practical frameworks for panel data econometrics. His pioneering work has significantly advanced the field of economic data analysis, with substantial applications in critical areas including wage studies, public health economics, and macroeconomic forecasting.

    With an illustrious career marked by over 200 peer-reviewed scientific publications, Professor Hani has authored a seminal reference text on economic data model analysis that has become essential reading for researchers and economists worldwide. His contributions have provided the methodological tools necessary for more accurate and nuanced economic policymaking.

    In his statement, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the vital role of expert economists in Arab societies, noting that effective national policies must be built upon rigorous scientific foundations and precise data analysis. The Dubai Ruler further articulated that the economic future of the Arab world is fundamentally shaped by its intellectual capital and the determination of its people to contribute to the ongoing development of Arab civilization.

    The Great Arab Minds initiative continues to identify and celebrate exceptional Arab intellectuals across various disciplines, highlighting their contributions to global knowledge and regional development.

  • ICC to decide by January if ex Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is fit for trial

    ICC to decide by January if ex Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is fit for trial

    The International Criminal Court (ICC) is poised to deliver a crucial determination regarding former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s capacity to stand trial by January 2026. This development follows the completion of a comprehensive medical evaluation assessing his cognitive abilities.

    ICC assistant counsel Atty. Kristina Conti disclosed this timeline during a radio interview with Super Radyo DZBB on December 21, indicating the court’s systematic approach to addressing health concerns raised by the defense team. The medical assessment, submitted by a panel of experts by the December 5 deadline set by ICC Pre-Trial Chamber I, reportedly concluded that Duterte remains capable of meaningful participation in pre-trial proceedings.

    This evaluation directly contradicts claims presented by defense attorney Nicholas Kaufman, who asserted the 80-year-old former leader suffers from severe memory impairment affecting his recollection of events, timelines, and even family members. Kaufman had previously requested an indefinite adjournment based on these cognitive concerns.

    The impending fitness determination represents a critical juncture in the case against Duterte, who faces charges of crimes against humanity related to the violent anti-drug campaign he initiated during his tenure as Davao City mayor and later as Philippine president. Currently detained in The Hague, Netherlands, Duterte recently saw his appeal for interim release denied by the ICC Appeals Chamber on November 28.

    Conti emphasized the prosecution’s confidence in their evidence, noting that arrest warrants would not be pursued unless the case reached trial readiness. The January decision will therefore determine whether proceedings will advance or face further delays due to health considerations.

  • Trump did shock and awe in 2025. Reality may bite in 2026

    Trump did shock and awe in 2025. Reality may bite in 2026

    As President Donald Trump concludes his first year back in the Oval Office, his administration confronts mounting political challenges that threaten to undermine his disruptive agenda. The 79-year-old leader’s unconventional approach—symbolized by the physical demolition of part of the White House to construct a grand ballroom—has defined a presidency that began with what observers describe as a “political wrecking ball” strategy.

    Following an aggressive initial nine months marked by sweeping executive actions, immigration crackdowns, and confrontations with domestic institutions, the administration now faces the reality of governing beyond the shock-and-awe phase. Senior Fellow William Galston of the Brookings Institution notes that while Trump’s tactics initially sent opponents reeling, the effect appears to be diminishing as practical governing demands take precedence.

    The upcoming midterm elections in November 2026 represent a critical juncture for the Trump presidency, with Democrats poised to capitalize on growing discontent over cost-of-living pressures and the president’s declining approval ratings. White House officials indicate Trump is shifting focus toward economic concerns, planning increased domestic travel and campaign-style events to address voter anxieties about affordability and healthcare.

    Internationally, Trump continues his disruptive diplomacy, implementing tariffs that have created global economic uncertainty, engaging unpredictably with Russian and Chinese leaders, and achieving fragile peace in Gaza while potentially escalating tensions with Venezuela. The Supreme Court’s upcoming rulings on tariff legality and internal Republican tensions over the Jeffrey Epstein scandal further complicate the administration’s trajectory.

    Adding to the political landscape is the emerging battle for succession within the Republican Party, with Vice President JD Vance and MAGA figure Marjorie Taylor Greene positioning themselves for a post-Trump era. Speculation persists that Trump might test constitutional limits by hinting at a third-term bid despite explicit prohibitions, setting the stage for what experts predict could be an “explosive” political confrontation following the midterms.

  • President Trump: A year of ruling by executive order

    President Trump: A year of ruling by executive order

    In an extraordinary demonstration of presidential authority, Donald Trump has now signed more executive orders during his current term’s first year than throughout his entire previous presidency. The 221st executive order, designating fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction, marks the latest in a rapid succession of presidential directives that analysts describe as one of the most significant displays of executive power in modern American history.

    According to Federal Register data analyzed by AFP, Trump’s current pace of executive actions exceeds the annual averages of his immediate predecessors—Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush—by approximately five to seven times. Only Franklin D. Roosevelt, who governed during the Great Depression and World War II, maintained a comparable rate of executive orders across his four terms.

    Political science professor John Woolley of the University of California, Santa Barbara, characterizes these orders as strategic communication tools. “They serve as signals to crucial constituent groups that the administration is actively advancing their causes,” noted Woolley, who co-directs the American Presidency Project.

    An analysis of the orders reveals distinctive patterns: nearly 60% address domestic matters, while fewer than 10% focus exclusively on foreign policy. Social issues—encompassing culture, civil rights, education, and health—constitute approximately 30% of all orders, surpassing economic matters (20%) and government reform (18%). Immigration and security, central to Trump’s 2024 campaign, account for roughly 10%.

    The content frequently reflects ideological positions, including an July directive prohibiting AI models that emphasize diversity and inclusion, and an August order establishing classical architecture as the preferred style for federal buildings.

    However, the efficiency of governing through executive orders remains questionable. Just Security, a legal analysis website affiliated with New York University, reports that over 20% of Trump’s orders have faced legal challenges, with more than 20 being partially or fully blocked by courts. Recent appellate rulings have deemed significant portions of Trump’s tariff policies illegal, and the Supreme Court has shown skepticism regarding the legality of certain trade measures during November hearings.

    Despite these challenges, Woolley suggests Trump is deliberately testing legal boundaries: “He’s wagering that the Supreme Court, with its conservative majority strengthened during his first term, will largely endorse his interpretation of executive power.”

    The language within these orders also distinguishes Trump’s approach. Analysis reveals he employs the verb “impose” five times more frequently than his predecessors and references the “nation” and “American people” at notably higher rates. Additionally, over 15% of orders contain elements of political retaliation, explicitly criticizing previous administrations and opponents—a departure from historical norms according to presidential scholars.

  • Dubai: Man jailed, fined Dh130,000 for stealing 18 AC units from a villa

    Dubai: Man jailed, fined Dh130,000 for stealing 18 AC units from a villa

    A Dubai criminal court has delivered a comprehensive verdict against a repeat offender convicted of stealing multiple air-conditioning units from a residential property, highlighting the emirate’s stringent approach to property crimes. The defendant received a one-year prison sentence, a substantial fine of Dh130,000, and mandatory deportation following incarceration.

    The case originated when a Gulf national property owner discovered the disappearance of 18 AC units from his villa in Al Muhaisnah during a routine inspection. The owner had visited the premises after authorities ordered its closure due to rental regulation violations and unauthorized use as shared accommodation. Upon arrival, he observed clear evidence of forced entry, including a compromised main entrance and interior disarray, prompting an immediate police report.

    Law enforcement authorities conducted a thorough investigation, collecting forensic evidence from the crime scene that proved crucial to the case. The investigation revealed that the suspect was already serving a sentence for similar theft offenses, establishing a pattern of criminal behavior. A forensic laboratory analysis confirmed the defendant’s fingerprints on the external casing of one stolen unit, providing irrefutable physical evidence connecting him to the crime.

    During judicial proceedings, the defendant admitted to stealing the air-conditioning units and confessed to involvement in comparable criminal activities. His voluntary confession, supported by forensic evidence and witness testimonies, strengthened the prosecution’s case significantly. The court determined the fine amount based on the exact market value of the stolen property, ensuring appropriate financial restitution.

    The verdict demonstrates Dubai’s judicial system’s firm stance against recidivism and property violations, particularly emphasizing the protection of private ownership rights. The deportation order underscores the emirate’s zero-tolerance policy toward repeat offenders who threaten community security and property safety.

  • Desert Vipers edge past Sharjah Warriorz with 4-wicket win

    Desert Vipers edge past Sharjah Warriorz with 4-wicket win

    In a commanding display of cricketing prowess, the Desert Vipers solidified their championship credentials with a decisive four-wicket triumph over the Sharjah Warriorz during Saturday’s DP World ILT20 Season 4 encounter at Dubai International Stadium. The victory propels the Vipers to an unassailable position atop the league standings with 14 points from eight fixtures, mathematically ensuring their qualification for the playoff stages.

    The match witnessed a spectacular bowling performance headlined by David Payne’s devastating spell of 3/14, which systematically dismantled the Warriorz batting lineup. Payne’s precision bowling during the powerplay removed key opponents Johnson Charles and Tom Kohler-Cadmore, setting the tone for a comprehensive team effort. Supported by Khuzaima Tanveer and Naseem Shah, the Vipers restricted their opponents to a meager 90 runs despite Tom Abell’s resilient unbeaten 35 from 36 deliveries.

    Chasing a modest target, the Vipers demonstrated professional composure despite early setbacks. Sam Curran’s anchoring innings of 37 from 31 balls, featuring five boundaries, provided the foundation for victory. Though Taskin Ahmed struck early blows for the Warriorz, the Vipers maintained control throughout their chase, ultimately reaching their target with 37 deliveries remaining. Tom Bruce and Vriitya Aravind provided the finishing touches to secure the comfortable win.

    Post-match reflections highlighted the strategic mastery behind the victory. Player of the Game David Payne emphasized team cohesion: ‘Our bowling unit communicates exceptionally well, and having world-class performers throughout the attack allows each of us to play our specific roles with confidence.’ Meanwhile, Warriorz captain Sikandar Raza remained optimistic despite the setback, stating, ‘Every match now represents a final for us. If we achieve three consecutive victories, no team will be better prepared for the playoffs.’

  • Civilian death toll in Cambodia rises to 19 in renewed conflict with Thailand

    Civilian death toll in Cambodia rises to 19 in renewed conflict with Thailand

    The protracted border dispute between Cambodia and Thailand has escalated dramatically, with Cambodian authorities reporting a sharp increase in civilian casualties. Defense Ministry officials confirmed the death toll has reached 19 civilians, including an infant, with 79 others sustaining injuries as of December 20, 2025.

    The conflict, which reignited on December 7 after a period of relative calm, has now entered its fifteenth consecutive day of hostilities. Lieutenant General Maly Socheata, Undersecretary of State and Defense Ministry Spokesperson, provided the updated casualty figures during a press briefing in Phnom Penh, highlighting the devastating human cost of the renewed fighting.

    According to documentation from Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior, the violence has triggered a massive humanitarian crisis, displacing approximately 510,000 residents from border communities. These individuals have been forced to abandon their homes and seek refuge in emergency shelters as aerial bombardments and ground operations continue along the contested frontier.

    Visual evidence from the Agence Kampuchea Press reveals the extensive damage inflicted on civilian infrastructure, including images of a devastated automotive garage in Poipet town, Banteay Meanchey province, following reported Thai airstrikes. The photographic documentation underscores the conflict’s impact on non-combatants and economic facilities far from the immediate border zone.

    The prolonged engagement represents the most significant escalation between the Southeast Asian neighbors in recent years, with both sides reporting military casualties alongside the growing civilian toll. International observers express increasing concern about the potential for further regional destabilization as diplomatic efforts to mediate a ceasefire continue.

  • How US manufacturing was gutted with a smile

    How US manufacturing was gutted with a smile

    For over three decades, the Smile Curve theory has dominated corporate strategy with devastating consequences for American industry. First proposed by Acer founder Stanley Shih in 1992, this influential model suggested that maximum value creation occurs in R&D/branding and marketing/services, while manufacturing represented the low-value bottom of the curve.

    The theory emerged from Shih’s observation that manufacturing operations generated compressed margins due to intense competition and high capital expenditure requirements. As globalization accelerated following China’s 2001 WTO accession, Western corporations enthusiastically embraced this framework, rushing to divest manufacturing operations and become ‘asset light.’

    Apple exemplifies this approach, outsourcing all manufacturing to contractors like Foxconn while concentrating high-compensation design, software engineering, and marketing functions at its Cupertino headquarters. Mid-level software engineers command over $200,000 annually, while Foxconn assembly workers in Zhengzhou earn approximately $3.89 per hour with annual compensation between $10,000-14,000.

    The fundamental flaw in the Smile Curve theory lies in its misrepresentation of manufacturing complexity. As Elon Musk has noted, manufacturing proves 100 to 1,000 times more challenging than design. The model’s distortion stems from Dutch disease economics and Baumol’s law, which have artificially inflated the perceived value of service-sector jobs while undervaluing industrial capabilities.

    America’s asset-for-goods trade with China created a distorted economic environment where software engineers and marketing managers received compensation benchmarked to asset sales rather than actual productivity. This led to the wholesale offshoring of precisely the most complex, skill-intensive components of the value chain.

    The proof of this miscalculation emerges through downward compatibility analysis. Chinese companies like Xiaomi, Huawei, and numerous electric vehicle manufacturers have successfully mastered R&D, design, and branding while maintaining manufacturing superiority. Western attempts to repatriate manufacturing capabilities reveal the immense difficulty of rebuilding industrial capacity once lost.

    Current calls for U.S. re-industrialization acknowledge the national security risks and economic vulnerabilities created by over-dependence on Chinese manufacturing. However, reversing three decades of industrial decline requires confronting uncomfortable truths about compensation structures and value perception that the Smile Curve theory helped establish.

  • South Africa: 10 killed, 10 others wounded in mass shooting

    South Africa: 10 killed, 10 others wounded in mass shooting

    In a devastating recurrence of violence, unidentified assailants have executed a mass shooting in the impoverished township of Bekkersdal, approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg, resulting in ten fatalities and ten injuries. The attack occurred in the early hours near an informal tavern, marking the second such tragedy to strike South Africa within December alone.

    According to Gauteng provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili, victims were struck down indiscriminately in public streets by unknown gunmen. The precise motive behind the assault remains undetermined as investigations continue. All wounded individuals have been transported to nearby medical facilities for emergency treatment.

    This incident echoes a similarly brutal attack on December 6th, when armed individuals stormed a hostel near Pretoria, killing twelve people including a three-year-old child. That shooting was also linked to an establishment illegally selling alcohol.

    The Bekkersdal community exists in close proximity to several of South Africa’s major gold mines, characterized by widespread poverty and social challenges. These events highlight the nation’s ongoing struggle with severe violent crime. With a population of 63 million, South Africa consistently reports one of the world’s highest homicide rates, presenting a persistent crisis for law enforcement and government authorities.

  • UAE: Does husband need to sponsor wife’s residence visa after divorce?

    UAE: Does husband need to sponsor wife’s residence visa after divorce?

    The United Arab Emirates has established clear legal provisions protecting the residency status of women following marital dissolution, according to immigration experts. Under Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, which implements the Executive Regulations of Federal Decree Law No. 29 of 2021 Concerning Entry and Residence of Foreigners, women residing in the UAE on spouse-sponsored visas retain specific rights when marriages end.

    Legal authorities confirm that divorced women become eligible to apply for a dedicated one-year residency extension commencing from the official divorce date. This provision offers crucial transition time for affected women to regularize their immigration status independently. Importantly, the regulation explicitly states that former husbands cannot be legally compelled to continue sponsoring their ex-wives’ visas beyond this transitional period.

    The legal framework does maintain provisions for children’s residency, allowing fathers to continue sponsoring their children’s visas irrespective of marital status changes. This distinction between parental and spousal obligations provides clarity for families navigating post-divorce arrangements.

    Legal professionals recommend that women in this situation seek comprehensive counsel to understand all rights stemming from divorce proceedings, including potential maintenance provisions, child custody arrangements, and alimony considerations under applicable personal status laws. The UAE’s dual legal system addresses these matters through Federal Law No. 28 of 2005 on Personal Status for Muslims and Federal Law No. 41 of 2022 on Civil Personal Status for non-Muslims.

    For specific immigration queries, individuals are advised to contact the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs directly for official guidance tailored to their particular circumstances.