Global Pulse

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  • ‘Shameful’ and ‘terrible look’ – the chaos that marred Senegal’s triumph

    ‘Shameful’ and ‘terrible look’ – the chaos that marred Senegal’s triumph

    Senegal secured their second Africa Cup of Nations title in a dramatic final overshadowed by extraordinary controversy, defeating hosts Morocco 1-0 after extra time in Rabat. The match descended into chaos when Senegal’s team temporarily walked off the pitch following a controversial penalty award to Morocco in stoppage time.

    The decisive moment came in the 94th minute when Villarreal midfielder Pape Gueye scored a stunning individual goal, securing Senegal’s second continental triumph within five years. However, the victory was marred by unprecedented scenes that threatened to abandon the championship match.

    The controversy erupted in the 98th minute when referee Jean Jacques Ndala awarded Morocco a penalty after reviewing a challenge by defender El Hadji Malick Diouf on Brahim Diaz via VAR. The decision prompted Senegal coach Pape Thiaw to order his players from the field, triggering chaotic scenes that included objects being thrown and attempts by spectators to enter the pitch.

    The situation was only resolved when former Liverpool forward Sadio Mane intervened, persuading his teammates to return to the field. When the penalty was finally taken in the 114th minute, Real Madrid’s Diaz saw his Panenka attempt saved by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.

    Post-match reactions highlighted the deep divisions caused by the incident. Morocco coach Walid Regragui described Senegal’s actions as ‘shameful’ and stated they did not ‘honour Africa.’ Meanwhile, Thiaw later apologized for his decision, acknowledging he reacted in the heat of the moment and should not have ordered the walk-off.

    The final’s controversy capped a tournament that had been praised for Morocco’s organizational excellence but plagued by ongoing debates about refereeing decisions and VAR implementation. The disturbing scenes occurred in the presence of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, casting a shadow over Africa’s premier football competition just four years before Morocco co-hosts the World Cup.

  • High-speed trains collide after one derails in southern Spain, killing at least 5 and injuring 25

    High-speed trains collide after one derails in southern Spain, killing at least 5 and injuring 25

    A catastrophic rail collision occurred in southern Spain on Sunday evening when a high-speed train derailed and crossed into the path of an oncoming service, resulting in significant casualties. According to official statements from Spanish rail infrastructure operator Adif, the incident involved the Malaga-Madrid express service which jumped tracks and collided with a Madrid-Huelva bound train traveling in the opposite direction.

    Emergency response teams from the Andalucia region, where the accident transpired, confirmed a death toll of five individuals with an additional twenty-five passengers sustaining severe injuries. The collision created a complex rescue operation as emergency personnel worked through the night to extract trapped passengers from the wreckage.

    Spanish transportation authorities have launched an immediate investigation into the precise causes of the derailment and subsequent collision. Preliminary reports suggest the incident represents one of Spain’s most serious rail accidents in recent years, though the country’s high-speed rail network has historically maintained an excellent safety record. The investigation will examine track conditions, signaling systems, and operational procedures during the evening period when the accident occurred.

    The Spanish government has expressed condolences to the victims’ families and pledged full support for the investigation. Rail services on affected routes have been temporarily suspended as authorities work to clear the wreckage and assess infrastructure damage.

  • Man falls from cliff into ocean sparking major search near Narooma

    Man falls from cliff into ocean sparking major search near Narooma

    Emergency response teams are preparing to resume a large-scale search operation on Monday for a 23-year-old man who vanished after falling from a cliff into the ocean off New South Wales’ South Coast. The incident occurred at approximately 6:40 PM Sunday evening at Mystery Bay Beach, located approximately 12 kilometers south of the town of Narooma.

    According to official police statements, witnesses reported seeing the young man fall several meters from the rocky cliffs into the turbulent waters below. Despite immediate efforts by bystanders, the victim failed to resurface after entering the water, prompting emergency calls to local authorities.

    A multi-agency response team comprising specialists from Marine Rescue NSW, State Emergency Service (SES) personnel, and volunteer members of VRA Rescue NSW immediately launched a coordinated search operation. The challenging coastal terrain, characterized by numerous rock pools, submerged caves, and deteriorating light conditions, hampered Sunday evening’s search efforts, leading to the operation’s temporary suspension.

    The search area presents significant challenges for rescue teams due to its complex geological features. The beach environment includes unstable cliff faces, submerged rock formations, and tidal variations that complicate underwater recovery efforts. The adjacent campground, popular with tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, has become the operational base for emergency coordination.

    Authorities have indicated that Monday’s search will involve expanded resources and personnel, with improved daylight conditions expected to aid visibility. The operation will focus on both shoreline recovery and water-based search patterns, utilizing specialized equipment and trained personnel to navigate the hazardous coastal environment.

    Police have confirmed the identity of the missing individual but are withholding public identification pending family notifications. The investigation continues as authorities interview witnesses and examine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.

  • EU weighs response to Trump’s tariff threat over Greenland

    EU weighs response to Trump’s tariff threat over Greenland

    The transatlantic alliance faces its most severe crisis in decades as former President Donald Trump’s renewed interest in acquiring Greenland has triggered diplomatic tremors across Europe. During his second term, Trump has explicitly affirmed Greenland’s strategic importance to U.S. national security and has conspicuously refused to dismiss the possibility of military acquisition should diplomatic negotiations fail.

    European leaders are confronting an unprecedented dilemma: either capitulate to economic coercion from the White House or risk triggering a full-scale trade war with the United States. The emergency EU summit scheduled in coming days will address what many officials describe as the most dangerous turn in EU-US relations since World War II.

    French President Emmanuel Macron advocates deploying the EU’s newly created ‘trade bazooka’—the Anti-Coercion Instrument (ACI)—designed precisely to counter economic bullying from hostile powers. Ironically, this mechanism was originally conceived with China in mind, not the United States.

    The situation has exposed significant divisions within European leadership. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who maintains comparatively cordial relations with Trump, has characterized the crisis as a ‘problem of understanding and communication.’ This stance contrasts sharply with Macron’s confrontational approach, highlighting the EU’s internal fragmentation when facing external pressure.

    The recent deployment of European troops to Greenland—intended as a defensive measure—appears to have provoked rather than deterred Trump’s ambitions. This development has created a precarious diplomatic standoff that threatens to dismantle decades of transatlantic cooperation.

    As EU ambassadors convene discreet emergency meetings in Brussels, the international community watches anxiously to see whether Trump will escalate his threats or seek diplomatic resolution. The outcome will likely redefine global power dynamics and determine the future of Arctic security governance.

  • Trump admin orders 1,500 troops to prepare for possible Minnesota deployment

    Trump admin orders 1,500 troops to prepare for possible Minnesota deployment

    The United States Department of Defense has issued preparatory orders for approximately 1,500 active-duty Army paratroopers stationed in Alaska, placing them on high alert for potential deployment to Minnesota. This military readiness measure follows escalating tensions in the Midwestern state, where widespread protests have erupted in response to aggressive federal immigration enforcement operations.\n\nThe development emerges against the backdrop of President Donald Trump’s recent threat to invoke the Insurrection Act—a centuries-old statute permitting military deployment to quell domestic unrest. While the President subsequently indicated no immediate necessity for such measures, defense officials confirm contingency planning remains underway. The potential mobilization, first reported by ABC News citing anonymous defense sources, would mark the first application of the Insurrection Act in over three decades if implemented.\n\nMinnesota’s political leadership has expressed vehement opposition to federal intervention. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey characterized the existing deployment of 3,000 federal immigration agents as an \”occupying force\” that has \”invaded our city,\” alleging disproportionate targeting of Latino and Somali communities. Governor Tim Walz has activated the state’s National Guard to support local law enforcement, emphasizing state-level control over emergency response operations.\n\nHomeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended the ongoing immigration crackdown, vowing to continue operations \”until we are sure that all dangerous people are picked up, brought to justice, and deported.\” The current unrest traces its origins to the January 7th fatal shooting of a US woman by federal agents in Minneapolis, which ignited sustained protests and clashes between demonstrators and immigration authorities.\n\nThe Pentagon’s alert order represents the latest chapter in the ongoing tension between federal and state authorities regarding immigration enforcement. Similar scenarios unfolded recently in Los Angeles, where 700 Marines were deployed to guard federal properties during immigration protests, though President Trump ultimately declined to invoke the Insurrection Act on that occasion.

  • Saudi Arabia sentences 3 men to death over terrorism charges

    Saudi Arabia sentences 3 men to death over terrorism charges

    Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior confirmed on Sunday, January 18th, 2026, the implementation of capital punishment against three individuals convicted of severe terrorism offenses. The executed men—identified as Hussein bin Salem bin Mohammed Al-Amri, Saud bin Huleil bin Saud Al-Enazi, and Bassam Mohsen Maran Al-Subaie—were found guilty by a specialized court on multiple charges.

    The convictions stemmed from their involvement with a foreign terrorist organization and a series of direct attacks on state security. The ministry’s detailed statement outlined that their crimes included the deliberate planting of explosive devices in security vehicles with the explicit intent to kill members of the security forces. Furthermore, they were convicted of providing shelter and support to other militants, facilitating further terrorist activities.

    The judicial process began after security authorities apprehended the suspects following extensive investigations. The case was tried in a specialized court, which issued discretionary death sentences permissible under Saudi law. These sentences underwent a mandatory review process, where they were upheld by the nation’s higher judicial authorities. The final rulings received royal approval, a procedural step in accordance with the Kingdom’s Sharia law framework.

    The executions were carried out in the capital city of Riyadh. In its official communication, the Ministry of Interior emphasized that this decisive action underscores the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to preserving national security and stability. The statement served as a stern warning, asserting that the government will relentlessly pursue and apply the full force of the law against any individuals who engage in acts of violence or terrorism that threaten public safety.

  • No Venus fairytale as Alcaraz and Sabalenka win Melbourne openers

    No Venus fairytale as Alcaraz and Sabalenka win Melbourne openers

    The Australian Open 2026 commenced with dominant performances from tennis elites while marking the end of a historic chapter in the sport. World No. 1 players Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka successfully launched their campaigns with straight-set victories on the opening day at Melbourne Park.

    Alcaraz demonstrated his championship caliber against Australian Adam Walton (6-3, 7-6(2), 6-2), moving closer to completing his career Grand Slam collection. The Spanish phenom acknowledged the challenging conditions while expressing satisfaction with his performance after a nine-week competitive hiatus.

    Sabalenka navigated a tricky encounter against French wildcard Tiantsoa Rakotomanga Rajaonah (6-4, 6-1), overcoming initial unforced errors to secure her progression. The Belarusian revealed feeling additional pressure with tennis legends Roger Federer and Rod Laver observing from courtside.

    The day witnessed both triumph and heartbreak as 45-year-old Venus Williams, the oldest woman to compete in Australian Open history, fell to Serbia’s Olga Danilovic in a grueling three-set marathon (6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4) that lasted over two hours. Williams displayed flashes of her former brilliance but ultimately succumbed to her 20-years-younger opponent.

    British qualifier Arthur Fery delivered the tournament’s first major upset, dismantling 20th seed Flavio Cobolli of Italy in straight sets (7-6(1), 6-4, 6-1). Meanwhile, third seed Alexander Zverev recovered from a first-set tiebreak loss to defeat Canada’s Gabriel Diallo (6-7(1), 6-1, 6-4, 6-2).

    Extreme heat conditions approaching 30°C affected both players and spectators, with a ball girl fainting during the match between Zeynep Sonmez and Ekaterina Alexandrova. Tournament organizers reported over 100,000 attendees despite complaints about lengthy queues in the challenging weather.

    The stage is set for Monday’s action featuring Novak Djokovic’s pursuit of a record 25th major title and appearances by title contenders Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff.

  • Dubai unveils electric buses with driver monitoring, Wi-Fi, 360° cameras

    Dubai unveils electric buses with driver monitoring, Wi-Fi, 360° cameras

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has initiated a groundbreaking shift toward sustainable public transportation with the delivery of 250 new buses, including 40 fully electric models—the largest such acquisition in UAE history. This delivery represents the first phase of a comprehensive 735-bus procurement contract designed to modernize Dubai’s transit infrastructure while significantly reducing carbon emissions.

    The newly unveiled Zhongtong electric buses, specifically engineered for Dubai’s demanding climate conditions, feature revolutionary technological capabilities. These include a sophisticated Driver Behaviour Monitoring System that utilizes artificial intelligence to enhance safety standards, 360-degree camera coverage for complete situational awareness, and automated passenger counting systems integrated with fare collection technology to prevent evasion.

    Each electric bus boasts an impressive 280-kilometer range on a single charge, enabled by a 434 kilowatt-hour battery system powered by ABB’s 360-kilowatt chargers. This extended range eliminates the need for mid-route charging, allowing the vehicles to complete daily operational requirements without returning to the depot.

    During an extensive three-month trial period conducted on Dubai’s actual routes, the buses demonstrated exceptional performance metrics. The testing confirmed remarkable energy efficiency, reliable braking systems, and climate-appropriate cooling mechanisms that maintained optimal performance despite frequent stops and variable speeds. The trial resulted in an unprecedented 95% satisfaction rate among both drivers and passengers.

    Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the RTA, emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative: ‘This deployment aligns with our Zero-Emission Public Transport Strategy 2050, which targets complete transition of all public transportation vehicles to zero-emission operations. These efforts directly support Dubai’s broader climate objectives, including carbon neutrality by 2050 and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33’s goal of establishing Dubai among the world’s premier urban economies.’

    The advanced buses incorporate numerous passenger-centric features including complimentary Wi-Fi connectivity, mobile charging ports, ergonomic seating with adjustable safety harnesses, low-floor accessibility for people of determination, dedicated bicycle storage areas, and contemporary interior design reflecting Dubai’s modern identity. The fleet also includes 76 double-decker Volvo buses and 70 articulated Isuzu Anadolu models specifically designed for high-density urban corridors and newly developed communities.

    This initiative establishes a new regional benchmark for sustainable public transportation, incorporating the Gulf’s first standardized fuel-consumption testing protocol to enhance operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.

  • Jerusalem Christian leaders warn against Christian Zionist ‘interference’

    Jerusalem Christian leaders warn against Christian Zionist ‘interference’

    Jerusalem’s highest Christian authorities have issued a stark warning against the growing influence of Christian Zionist ideologies, declaring them a fundamental threat to the survival of ancient Christian communities throughout the Holy Land. The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem released an official statement expressing profound concern about how these externally-driven theological movements are undermining the unity and stability of Christianity’s oldest continuous community.

    The church leaders identified a troubling pattern where proponents of Christian Zionism—a theological framework that emphasizes unwavering support for modern Israel as fulfillment of biblical prophecy—receive official endorsement at both local and international levels. These ideologies, frequently promoted by political actors with ties to Israel, propagate the notion that material blessings follow those who provide uncritical support to the Israeli state.

    This warning emerges against a backdrop of escalating pressures on Palestinian Christians, including land confiscation, expanding illegal settlements, and restrictive policies in occupied territories. A recent comprehensive report by the Council of Patriarchs documented how settlement expansion and punitive taxation policies specifically threaten the viability of Christian institutions across the West Bank and Gaza, with particularly severe impacts in East Jerusalem.

    The educational sector has become a focal point of this struggle, with Christian schools in Jerusalem implementing mass strikes and class suspensions in response to Israeli restrictions on work permits for West Bank teachers. Palestinian church officials condemn these measures as deliberate attempts to disrupt Palestinian education and systematically diminish Jerusalem’s Christian presence through bureaucratic means.

    Church authorities emphasize the urgent need for international awareness and protection mechanisms for Christian communities facing increasing settler violence and institutional pressures throughout the occupied territories.

  • UAE President to begin working visit to India on January 19

    UAE President to begin working visit to India on January 19

    His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, will commence a significant working visit to India on January 19, marking another milestone in the rapidly evolving partnership between the two nations. The visit represents a continuation of high-level diplomatic engagement that has characterized UAE-India relations in recent years.

    During his stay, the UAE leader is scheduled to hold comprehensive talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with both sides expected to explore substantial opportunities for enhancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. This diplomatic engagement occurs within the framework of the longstanding ties and comprehensive strategic partnership that both countries have cultivated over decades.

    According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, this visit constitutes Sheikh Mohamed’s third official journey to India since assuming the presidency, though it represents his fifth visit to the country within the past decade—a testament to the priority both nations place on their relationship.

    The upcoming discussions build upon considerable momentum generated by recent high-level exchanges, including the September 2024 visit of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and the April 2025 visit of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Crown Prince of Dubai.

    This series of high-profile diplomatic engagements underscores the multifaceted nature of the UAE-India relationship, which encompasses economic partnerships, security cooperation, and cultural exchanges. Both nations have increasingly coordinated on regional and international matters, reflecting their shared interests in promoting stability and economic prosperity.