In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, Omani authorities have apprehended two individuals of Asian nationality for possessing large quantities of crystal methamphetamine with the intent to sell. The arrest was executed in the Wilayat of Barka by the Directorate for Combating Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, in collaboration with the South Al Batinah Governorate Police Command. Legal proceedings are currently underway against the suspects. This arrest is part of a broader effort by the Royal Oman Police to combat narcotics trafficking within the Sultanate. In October 2025, the police successfully arrested five members of an international drug smuggling gang and an Arab man found with over 24 kilograms of narcotic drugs. These operations highlight Oman’s commitment to curbing the illegal drug trade and ensuring public safety.
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Six airlines cancel Venezuela flights after US warning
In response to a US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) advisory, six major airlines have suspended flights to Venezuela, citing heightened security risks and military activity in the region. The airlines—Spain’s Iberia, Portugal’s TAP, Chile’s LATAM, Colombia’s Avianca, Brazil’s GOL, and Trinidad and Tobago’s Caribbean—announced the cancellations on Saturday, according to Marisela de Loaiza, president of the Venezuelan Airlines Association (ALAV). The FAA warned of potential threats to civilian aircraft in Venezuelan airspace, including during takeoff, landing, and overflight, due to the ‘worsening security situation.’ While some carriers, such as Panama’s Copa Airlines, Spain’s Air Europa and PlusUltra, Turkish Airlines, and Venezuela’s LASER, continue operations, the duration of the suspensions remains unclear. The US has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group and other military assets to the region, ostensibly to combat drug trafficking. However, these actions have raised concerns in Caracas about potential regime change. A US terrorism designation targeting a drug cartel allegedly led by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro takes effect Monday, further escalating tensions. Since September, US forces have conducted strikes on over 20 vessels in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific, killing more than 80 people, though evidence linking these vessels to drug smuggling remains undisclosed.
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The story behind the mural that links Al Quoz’s creative, industrial identities
In the bustling heart of Dubai’s Al Quoz district, a 500-square-meter mural titled ‘The Vibrant Voices of Al Quoz’ has emerged as a cultural beacon, blending the area’s industrial grit with its artistic soul. Created by Egyptian artist Rabab Tantawy and commissioned by Dubai Culture, the mural is more than a visual spectacle—it’s a narrative of community, heritage, and connection. Painted during the cooler night hours to escape the scorching July heat, the artwork captures the essence of Al Quoz, where steel warehouses and vibrant art studios coexist. Rabab’s composition draws inspiration from the Arabic souq, emphasizing movement, craftsmanship, and exchange. The mural has become a living landmark, sparking conversations and fostering a sense of belonging among residents and workers. Rabab’s journey as an artist, rooted in her Egyptian and Nubian heritage, reflects her philosophy of art as a catalyst for human connection and change. Beyond murals, her sculptural installations, such as ‘The Guardians,’ and her creative hub, Studio Thirteen, continue to nurture artistic collaboration and innovation. Through her work, Rabab envisions a future where art, environment, and technology intersect, inspiring the next generation of creators to keep the creative spirit alive.
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Trumps says Ukraine’s leaders show ‘zero gratitude’ for US efforts to end war
In a recent social media outburst, former U.S. President Donald Trump accused Ukrainian leaders of showing ‘zero gratitude’ for American efforts to broker peace in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. His remarks coincided with high-stakes negotiations in Geneva, where Ukrainian officials and their European counterparts are discussing a controversial U.S.-backed peace proposal that appears to favor Moscow. The 28-point draft, which has been widely leaked, includes provisions for Ukrainian troop withdrawals from key regions, de facto Russian control over Donetsk and Luhansk, and a freeze on the borders of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia. Additionally, the plan proposes capping Ukraine’s military personnel at 600,000 and preventing Ukraine from seeking NATO membership, offering instead vague ‘security guarantees.’ U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the talks as ‘the most productive and meaningful meeting so far,’ while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed personal gratitude to Trump. However, European allies have raised concerns over the plan’s implications for Ukraine’s sovereignty and military capabilities, suggesting that further revisions may be necessary. Trump, in his post on Truth Social, blamed Ukraine’s leadership for the war and criticized Europe for continuing to purchase Russian oil, which finances Moscow’s military operations. The Geneva talks, involving senior officials from the U.S., Ukraine, Britain, France, and Germany, are expected to continue behind closed doors, with the aim of reaching a comprehensive settlement.
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Shabana Mahmood, the hardline UK Labour minister tackling migration
Shabana Mahmood, the UK’s Home Secretary and a prominent figure in the Labour Party, is spearheading a controversial overhaul of Britain’s asylum system. Born and raised in Birmingham, a city with a significant South Asian community, Mahmood’s political ethos is deeply influenced by her Muslim faith and her upbringing as the daughter of Pakistani-origin immigrants. Known for her unapologetic stance on reducing migration, Mahmood has been dubbed “The Terminator” by The Spectator and “the new hard woman of British politics” by Sky News. Her recent proposals include cutting protections for refugees, ending automatic benefits for asylum seekers, and extending the waiting period for permanent residency applications. Mahmood argues that record levels of irregular migration are “tearing our country apart” and insists her policies aim to “restore order and control.” Despite criticism from left-wing lawmakers accusing her of divisive rhetoric, Mahmood remains steadfast, warning of the growing influence of hard-right politics fueled by migration issues. In a revealing parliamentary incident, she shared her personal experiences of racial abuse, emphasizing the divisive nature of the asylum debate. Mahmood’s political journey began in her youth, shaped by her father’s involvement in the Labour Party. After studying law at Oxford, she became one of Britain’s first female Muslim MPs in 2010. Often seen as a potential future leader of the Labour Party, Mahmood’s bold reforms are viewed by some as a strategic move to counter the rise of anti-immigrant sentiment. However, critics within her party accuse her of “performative cruelty” and political opportunism. Mahmood remains resolute, warning of the dangers of rising hate and division in the UK.
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Jilin kicks off 2025-26 snow season with grand opening event
The 2025-26 snow season officially commenced with a grand opening ceremony in Jilin city, Jilin province, on November 22, 2025. The event also marked the beginning of the 31st Jilin Rime Ice and Snow Festival, drawing a large crowd of ski enthusiasts and tourists eager to experience the region’s stunning winter landscapes and exhilarating snow sports. The festival’s opening performance was a visual feast, featuring unique acts such as skiing in Peking opera costumes and lion dance skiing, which captivated the audience and garnered enthusiastic applause. Jilin is renowned for its exceptional ice and snow resources, boasting the highest number of national-level ski tourism resorts and ski visits in the country. This annual celebration not only highlights the province’s natural beauty but also reinforces its status as a premier destination for winter sports and tourism.
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Lost your passport abroad? UAE Golden Visa holders can get a replacement in 30 minutes
As the winter travel season approaches, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has issued a comprehensive advisory to ensure smooth and secure journeys for its residents. Among the key highlights is a groundbreaking initiative for UAE Golden Visa holders: the ability to obtain a replacement passport in just 30 minutes if lost or damaged abroad. This service, developed in collaboration with the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security, underscores the UAE’s commitment to providing exceptional consular support to its citizens and residents. The initiative is part of the ‘From the UAE, We Travel’ campaign, designed to promote safe and conscious travel during the extended school holiday period from December 8, 2025, to January 4, 2026. MoFA also emphasized the importance of verifying passport validity, securing international health insurance, and adhering to destination-specific entry requirements. Travelers are encouraged to monitor real-time advisories, store electronic copies of official documents, and utilize reputable booking agencies. Additionally, a dedicated 24/7 hotline (0097124931133) has been established to assist Golden Visa holders with emergencies, repatriation, and other urgent matters. The Ministry’s proactive measures aim to enhance travel readiness and ensure the safety of UAE nationals and residents worldwide.
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India: Kerala woman gets married in hospital; UAE-based chairman covers full treatment cost
In an extraordinary turn of events, a young woman from Kerala, India, exchanged wedding vows in the emergency ward of VPS Lakeshore Hospital in Kochi, following a severe accident that left her with critical injuries. The 23-year-old teacher, Avani, sustained a significant L4 spine injury and hip trauma, necessitating immediate medical attention. The wedding ceremony, held amidst the hospital’s emergency facilities, quickly captured public attention as images of the event circulated widely online. Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, chairman of VPS Lakeshore and a UAE-based entrepreneur, stepped in to cover the full cost of Avani’s medical treatment and rehabilitation after learning of her plight. “In situations like this, families should focus on the patient, not the cost of urgent care,” Dr. Vayalil stated. Avani underwent a successful three-hour spine surgery led by Dr. Sudish Karunakaran, head of neurosurgery at the hospital. Her spine has been stabilized, and nerve compression relieved, with her recovery progress described as encouraging. Avani will remain under close monitoring in the ICU before beginning physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Her husband, Sharon, expressed immense relief and gratitude for the unexpected support, stating that the family was struggling to cope with the sudden accident and urgent medical decisions. The incident has drawn widespread public interest, highlighting the compassionate intervention of Dr. Vayalil and the dedication of the medical team at VPS Lakeshore Hospital.
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G20 summit boycotted by US closes in South Africa
The recent G20 summit in South Africa, a pivotal gathering of the world’s leading economies, culminated in a joint declaration emphasizing ‘multilateral cooperation.’ This declaration, which addressed critical issues such as climate change mitigation and economic inequality, was adopted despite the absence of the United States, which boycotted the event in Johannesburg. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, speaking at the closing ceremony, highlighted that the agreement underscored ‘shared goals’ that transcended national differences. The US decision to abstain was rooted in controversial claims regarding the treatment of South Africa’s white minority, assertions that have been widely discredited. This summit marked the first time the G20 was hosted on African soil, following recent editions in Indonesia, India, and Brazil. The US is slated to host the next summit in 2026, with plans to hold it at President Trump’s golf course in Florida. Notably, the ceremonial handover of the G20 presidency, typically conducted at the summit’s conclusion, was postponed and is expected to occur next week involving junior officials. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva remarked on the resilience of multilateralism, stating it was ‘more alive than ever,’ while German Chancellor Fredriech Merz criticized the US decision to abstain as ‘not a good decision.’ Merz also observed a global realignment and the formation of new alliances. Delegates achieved consensus on fostering ‘just, comprehensive, and lasting peace’ in regions including Ukraine, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the ‘Occupied Palestinian Territory.’ The inclusion of Sudan in the discussions was particularly significant, as noted by Sudanese commentator Saeed Abdalla, who highlighted the G20’s newfound focus on the Sudan conflict after more than two years of neglect.
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Chinese FM urges Japan to reflect on, correct mistakes as soon as possible
In a recent statement, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on Japan to promptly reflect on and rectify its historical errors, emphasizing the importance of avoiding a continued adherence to misguided policies. Wang, who also serves as a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made these remarks during a media interview following his diplomatic tour of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. From November 19 to 22, Wang engaged in strategic dialogues with the foreign ministers of these Central Asian nations, reinforcing China’s commitment to regional stability and development. Wang highlighted that Japan’s persistent mistakes necessitate a global re-examination of its historical crimes, particularly its militaristic past. He stressed that all nations and individuals advocating for justice have a responsibility to prevent the resurgence of Japanese militarism. Wang also underscored China’s unwavering support for the one-China principle, noting that Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan have all reaffirmed their recognition of Taiwan as an inalienable part of China. He criticized Japan’s current leadership for actions that infringe upon China’s core interests and challenge the post-World War II international order. Wang reminded that the return of Taiwan to China was explicitly stipulated in key international documents such as the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation. He urged Japan to deeply reflect on its history of aggression and colonization, particularly concerning Taiwan, and to act with restraint on such sensitive issues. Wang warned that China would resolutely defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as uphold the hard-won achievements of the post-war era. He reiterated that the Japanese government’s commitments on the Taiwan question, as outlined in the four political documents between China and Japan, are legally binding and must be adhered to regardless of changes in leadership. Wang concluded by emphasizing that integrity and credibility are essential for both individuals and nations to maintain their standing in the international community.