In a fervent address at a women’s luncheon hosted by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, acclaimed actress and director Kristen Stewart expressed her profound frustration over the stagnation and regression of progress for female filmmakers in Hollywood. The event, held in Los Angeles, saw Stewart, known for her role in the Twilight series and her directorial work on the upcoming film *The Chronology of Water*, delivering a powerful critique of the industry’s treatment of women post-MeToo. ‘The backsliding from a brief moment of progress is statistically devastating,’ Stewart lamented. ‘Such a pitiful number of films from the past year have been made by women.’ Citing *The Celluloid Ceiling* report, she highlighted that only 11 of the top 100 grossing films in 2024 were directed by women, a decline from 16 in 2020. Stewart recounted the initial optimism following the MeToo movement, which had spurred a reckoning in Hollywood regarding gender representation both on and off-screen. However, she emphasized the ongoing challenges faced by women in the industry, particularly when their work delves into darker or taboo subjects. ‘The violence of silencing is pervasive,’ she stated. ‘It’s like we’re not even supposed to be angry. But I can eat this podium with a fork and knife. I’m so angry.’ Her speech, which lasted seven minutes, was met with multiple rounds of applause from attendees, including prominent figures like Sarah Paulson, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Tessa Thompson. Stewart concluded with a call to action, urging women to resist tokenism and assert their creative autonomy. ‘Let’s try and not be tokenized. Let’s start printing our own currency,’ she declared. Despite the presence of films by acclaimed female directors such as Chloé Zhao, Kathryn Bigelow, and Mona Fastvold in the upcoming Oscars race, the best director category is once again anticipated to be predominantly male.
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Saudi Arabia: Pilgrim arrested after video pushing security at Makkah Grand Mosque goes viral
A recent incident at the Makkah Grand Mosque in Saudi Arabia has sparked widespread attention after a video of a pilgrim confronting a security officer went viral on social media. The footage shows the man raising his voice and resisting the officer’s attempts to maintain order, despite repeated warnings. The Special Forces for Hajj and Umrah Security swiftly responded, confirming the man’s arrest for violating the mosque’s regulations and procedures. Legal actions are now underway against the individual.
In the wake of the incident, Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Sudais, President of the Religious Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, emphasized the importance of adhering to security protocols. He stated that following these rules is not only a legal obligation but also a profound act of worship and devotion. Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman highlighted the sacred duty of safeguarding the sanctity of the holy sites and reiterated that while Saudi Arabia is committed to ensuring the safety of pilgrims, it is equally the responsibility of every visitor to comply with the established guidelines. He described security as a ‘red line that cannot be crossed,’ underscoring the gravity of maintaining order in such revered spaces.
The incident has reignited discussions about the balance between religious devotion and adherence to regulations in holy sites, particularly during peak pilgrimage seasons. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to enforcing rules to protect the safety and sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques.
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‘Beacon of hope’: Ugandans find inspiration in Mamdani’s win and ask if they can do the same
The recent victory of Ugandan-born Zohran Mamdani in the New York mayoral race has been hailed as a significant political milestone, offering inspiration to many in Uganda, though some view it as a distant achievement. Joel Ssenyonyi, an opposition leader in Uganda’s Parliament, acknowledged the symbolic importance of Mamdani’s win, stating, “It’s a big encouragement even to us here in Uganda that it’s possible. But we have a long way to get there.” Uganda, where Mamdani was born in 1991, has been under the rule of President Yoweri Museveni for nearly four decades, with opposition leaders struggling to challenge his authoritarian regime. Museveni, who is seeking reelection in January, has resisted calls for retirement, raising concerns about the country’s political stability. His main challenger, 43-year-old entertainer Bobi Wine, alleges electoral fraud in the 2021 election. Mamdani, who briefly lived in Uganda before moving to South Africa and later the United States, retains Ugandan citizenship despite becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2018. His father, Mahmood Mamdani, a prominent political theorist and critic of Museveni’s government, has significantly influenced his political outlook. In his recent book, “Slow Poison,” the elder Mamdani critiques the legacies of Museveni and former dictator Idi Amin, arguing that both leaders relied on violence to maintain power. Mamdani’s victory in New York has been seen as a beacon of hope for Ugandan activists, particularly the youth. Robert Kabushenga, a retired media executive and family friend, described Mamdani as an unconventional leader who “follows a tradition of very honest and clear thinkers.” Mamdani’s campaign, which focused on progressive policies like free city buses, child care, and rent freezes, has been both celebrated and criticized. Despite the challenges, his success serves as a reminder of the potential for young people to shape politics. As Ssenyonyi noted, “Mamdani is Ugandan-born, like us. It inspires us.”
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EU agrees on new emissions targets before global climate summit in Brazil
The European Union has finalized a landmark agreement to reduce carbon emissions by 90% by 2040, marking a significant step in its climate policy. However, the deal has sparked criticism for perceived weakening of earlier commitments, particularly due to provisions allowing member states to purchase international carbon credits and reassess climate targets based on economic performance. Hungary, Slovakia, and Poland opposed the agreement, with Poland securing a delay in implementing a carbon trading plan for transport and heating. Environmental groups, including Greenpeace, condemned the deal for enabling ‘carbon laundering’ by outsourcing emission reductions to less-developed countries. Despite these concerns, EU climate ministers hailed the agreement as a necessary compromise amid geopolitical and economic tensions. The European Parliament must now vote on the agreement before it becomes legally binding. EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, will present the deal at the upcoming COP30 climate conference in Brazil, aiming to position Europe as a global leader in climate action. The agreement reflects the EU’s balancing act between environmental goals, economic competitiveness, and energy independence, as Europe faces increasing climate-related challenges like wildfires, heatwaves, and floods.
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Several critically injured after driver rams into 10 people on French island
A shocking incident unfolded on the Ile d’Oléron, off the west coast of France, when a local man in his mid-30s deliberately drove his car into pedestrians and cyclists, leaving four individuals in critical condition. The suspect, who was later arrested after being immobilized with a stun gun, targeted multiple locations on the island, including the villages of Dolus d’Oléron and Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron. Witnesses reported a series of chaotic events that culminated outside a bakery. The mayor of Dolus d’Oléron, Thibault Brechkoff, stated that the man had driven a considerable distance between villages, injuring several people, including a young girl. After abandoning his vehicle, the suspect attempted to set it on fire before fleeing the scene. Authorities discovered gas canisters in the car, raising further concerns. The public prosecutor for La Rochelle, Arnaud Laraize, revealed that the suspect is known to the police and shouted ‘Allahu Akbar’ (‘God is greatest’) during his arrest. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has initiated an inquiry and is en route to the scene. The incident occurred around 08:45 local time (07:45 GMT), prompting the establishment of a crisis unit to manage the aftermath.
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Zohran Mamdani makes history becoming youngest mayor of New York City in over a century
In a historic victory, Zohran Mamdani, a 34-year-old Democratic socialist, has been elected as the youngest mayor of New York City in over a century. Mamdani, who is also the first Muslim and South Asian to hold the position, triumphed over seasoned opponents Andrew Cuomo and Curtis Sliwa. His campaign, centered on prioritizing working-class citizens and taxing the wealthy to fund progressive policies, resonated strongly with younger voters. Mamdani’s proposals included free bus services, rent freezes for a million tenants, and government-subsidized grocery stores. The election saw a record-breaking voter turnout, with over 2 million New Yorkers casting their ballots, the highest since 1969. Mamdani’s win is seen as a significant boost for the Democratic Party, which has been seeking a unified voice following recent electoral setbacks. His victory also comes ahead of the 2026 midterms, positioning him as a rising star in national politics. Despite criticism from older candidates and former President Donald Trump, Mamdani garnered endorsements from prominent figures like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders. His success marks a generational shift in New York City’s leadership and signals a new era of progressive governance.
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Motorist drives into pedestrians and cyclists on French Atlantic island of Île d’Oléron, 9 injured
A shocking incident unfolded on the tranquil Île d’Oléron, a French island renowned for its tourist appeal, when a motorist deliberately targeted pedestrians and cyclists across two neighboring towns. The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, left nine individuals injured, two of whom are in critical condition. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed the details, stating that an investigation is currently underway. The suspect, a 35-year-old French national from La Cotinière, was apprehended by gendarmes following the rampage. Thibault Brechkoff, the mayor of Dolus-d’Oléron, described the collisions as intentional, with some occurring within his town. A crisis response team was swiftly activated, and the suspect was arrested. French television broadcast images of a car allegedly set ablaze prior to the arrest. Mayor Brechkoff expressed profound shock, emphasizing the full mobilization of municipal services and the deployment of two helicopters to transport the severely injured to Poitiers on the mainland. Christophe Sueur, the mayor of nearby Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, noted that the suspect’s vehicle was heavily damaged, suggesting the driver’s awareness of his actions. The suspect, known to police for minor offenses related to theft, alcohol, and drug use, was not flagged for radicalization. The incidents, which began around 9:00 a.m. local time, occurred along roadsides between Dolus-d’Oléron and Saint-Pierre-d’Oléron, leaving the community in a state of alarm.
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Zohran Mamdani elected New York mayor; Democrats win in New Jersey, Virginia
In a historic election, Zohran Mamdani has been elected as the next mayor of New York, marking a significant victory for the Democratic Party. Mamdani, a state lawmaker from Queens, overcame intense criticism and attacks on his policies and Muslim heritage from former President Donald Trump, business elites, and conservative media. His campaign focused on addressing the rising cost of living, promising free city bus travel, childcare, and city-run grocery stores, which resonated deeply with voters. Mamdani’s victory, alongside Democratic wins in the governor’s races in Virginia and New Jersey, signals a potential shift in the political landscape as the nation looks toward next year’s midterm elections. Despite being a self-described socialist and relatively unknown before his primary win, Mamdani’s grassroots campaign and social media strategy propelled him to success. His election also highlights the ongoing ideological debate within the Democratic Party between centrist and progressive factions. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, Democratic candidate Mikie Sherrill, a former Navy helicopter pilot, defeated Republican Jack Ciattarelli, while in Virginia, Democrat Abigail Spanberger unseated Republican incumbent Winsome Earle-Sears. Both races saw high-profile endorsements, with former President Barack Obama supporting the Democratic candidates and Trump rallying for Republicans. Mamdani’s victory, however, comes with challenges, as he will face significant political opposition in a city known for its complex governance.
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Zohran Mamdani elected as NYC mayor
In a historic turn of events, Zohran Mamdani has been elected as the next mayor of New York City, marking a significant milestone in the city’s political landscape. At just 34 years old, Mamdani, a Ugandan-born immigrant, becomes the youngest mayor in over a century and the first Muslim to hold the position. His campaign resonated deeply with working-class New Yorkers, focusing on making life more affordable and addressing economic disparities. Mamdani’s victory comes despite earlier opposition from former President Donald Trump, who endorsed his opponent, Andrew Cuomo, and threatened to cut federal funding to the city if Mamdani won. This election not only underscores a shift in New York City’s political priorities but also highlights the growing influence of diverse voices in American politics.
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Rama Duwaji: Who is the wife of NYC’s mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani?
At just 28 years old, Rama Duwaji is set to become the youngest First Lady in New York City’s history, following her husband Zohran Mamdani’s victory in the mayoral race. Mamdani, a 33-year-old state assemblyman, publicly acknowledged his wife’s unwavering support during his victory speech, affectionately referring to her as “hayati,” the Arabic term for “my life.” Duwaji, a New York-based artist of Syrian descent, has gained recognition for her work that often explores Middle Eastern themes. Her art has been featured in prominent outlets such as BBC News, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Vice, and London’s Tate Modern museum. Despite her husband’s rising political profile, Duwaji has largely remained out of the public eye, choosing to focus on her art and personal life. However, she played a significant behind-the-scenes role in shaping Mamdani’s campaign brand identity, according to CNN. Friends and acquaintances have described her as a modern-day Princess Diana, highlighting her grace and influence. Duwaji’s work often addresses political issues, including American imperialism, Israeli war crimes, and the plight of Palestinians, aligning with some of her husband’s policy positions. She has also used her platform to advocate for individuals like Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia University graduate facing deportation for his pro-Palestinian activism. Duwaji, who spent much of the COVID-19 pandemic in Dubai with her family, believes in the artist’s responsibility to reflect the times and speak out against injustice. Her journey from a Texas-born artist to New York City’s First Lady is a testament to her resilience and commitment to using art as a medium for change.