Global Pulse

作者： admin

  • US backs ‘brave people of Iran’, tells UN all options on table

    US backs ‘brave people of Iran’, tells UN all options on table

    In a tense United Nations Security Council session convened at Washington’s request, U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz delivered a forceful declaration of support for Iranian protesters while dismissing Tehran’s allegations of foreign intervention as baseless propaganda. The emergency meeting on Thursday (January 15) addressed the escalating violence in Iran where thousands have reportedly been killed during widespread demonstrations against clerical rule.

    Ambassador Waltz characterized the Iranian regime as ‘weaker than ever before,’ asserting that their claims of a foreign-backed military precursor represented desperate attempts to undermine genuine domestic dissent. ‘The regime is putting forward this lie because of the power of the Iranian people in the streets,’ Waltz stated. ‘They are afraid of their own people.’

    The U.S. diplomat emphasized President Trump’s position that ‘all options are on the table to stop the slaughter,’ describing the American leader as ‘a man of action, not endless talk.’ This strong rhetoric contrasted with Trump’s simultaneous wait-and-see approach expressed elsewhere, where he acknowledged reports of decreasing violence and indicated no immediate plans for large-scale executions.

    The UN response, delivered by senior official Martha Pobee on behalf of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, called for ‘maximum restraint at this sensitive moment.’ The international body urged all parties to refrain from actions that could precipitate further casualties or trigger broader regional escalation, highlighting concerns about the potential for wider conflict.

    The diplomatic confrontation occurs amid unverified reports that Iran has postponed the execution of a 26-year-old protester, suggesting possible internal divisions within the Iranian establishment regarding how to manage the unprecedented challenges to their authority.

  • Machado vows to be Venezuela president ‘when the right time comes’

    Machado vows to be Venezuela president ‘when the right time comes’

    Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado has declared her unwavering conviction that she will eventually assume the presidency of her nation, despite the United States government’s recent pivot toward supporting an alternative political figure. The prominent activist made these assertions during a televised appearance on Fox & Friends, following high-level diplomatic engagements in Washington.

    The political landscape shifted dramatically on January 3rd when American military forces orchestrated the removal of Nicolás Maduro from power. In the subsequent power vacuum, the Trump administration has thrown its support behind Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s former vice president, as interim leader of the oil-rich South American nation.

    Machado, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize last year for her prolonged campaign against Maduro’s authoritarian regime, presented her medal to President Trump during a White House luncheon. This symbolic gesture aimed to strengthen her diplomatic position, though the Norwegian Nobel Committee maintains that such awards are non-transferable by regulation.

    Despite presenting documented evidence of electoral fraud in Venezuela’s 2024 presidential election—a position supported by numerous international observers—Machado finds herself navigating complex geopolitical realities. The Trump administration has expressed reservations about her level of popular support among Venezuelan citizens, instead favoring Rodríguez contingent upon cooperative access to Venezuela’s substantial petroleum reserves.

    Meanwhile, Rodríguez has struck a notably independent tone, asserting her government’s willingness to engage in diplomatic confrontation with Washington despite acknowledging American power. She delivered this message while presenting what would traditionally have been Maduro’s state of the nation address, as the former leader currently faces narcotics trafficking charges in a New York detention facility.

    The CIA’s reported meeting with Rodríguez signals Washington’s current preference for her leadership, creating a complex political dynamic that Machado must navigate as she maintains her presidential aspirations.

  • Morocco expects as hosts face Senegal in Cup of Nations final

    Morocco expects as hosts face Senegal in Cup of Nations final

    The stage is set for a monumental clash in Rabat as host nation Morocco prepares to challenge reigning champions Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations final this Sunday. The Atlas Lions aim to harness their formidable home advantage to secure a first continental title in five decades, confronting a Senegalese squad determined to retain their crown.

    Morocco enters the championship match bolstered by their status as Africa’s highest-ranked team (11th globally) and their historic semifinal appearance at the 2022 World Cup. Under the leadership of African Footballer of the Year Achraf Hakimi, the team has demonstrated resilience throughout the tournament, overcoming nerve-wracking penalty shootouts and silencing early criticism from their own supporters with commanding performances against powerhouses including Cameroon and Nigeria.

    Coach Walid Regragui, who faced persistent scrutiny from expectant fans, emphasized the significance of this final for Morocco’s football legacy: “Eventually people are going to accept that Morocco are actually a major football nation. But to go to the next step we have to win titles, so Sunday’s match is really important in terms of our history.”

    Their opponents present a formidable challenge. Senegal, Africa’s second-ranked team, brings extensive experience to their third final in four AFCON editions. The Lions of Teranga feature an accomplished core including Sadio Mané, Édouard Mendy, and Kalidou Koulibaly, though the latter will miss the final due to suspension. Notably, Mané has announced this will mark his final AFC appearance, declaring: “I am a soldier of the nation… The most important thing is to bring this cup to Dakar.”

    The final promises a tactical battle between two exceptional defenses that have collectively conceded only three goals throughout the tournament. While a high-scoring spectacle appears unlikely, the match will undoubtedly deliver intense drama as Morocco contends with immense pressure before a capacity crowd of 70,000 at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

  • US announces Palestinian technocratic rule for Gaza under Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’

    US announces Palestinian technocratic rule for Gaza under Trump’s ‘Board of Peace’

    In a significant diplomatic development, former U.S. President Donald Trump has unveiled plans for a “Board of Peace” to oversee Gaza’s transitional governance. The announcement, made via Truth Social on Thursday, signals a new approach to resolving the protracted conflict, with Trump claiming imminent finalization of a “comprehensive demilitarisation agreement” with Hamas, backed by regional powers Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar.

    The proposed board will reportedly comprise 15 Palestinian members, led by Ali Shaath, former Palestinian deputy minister for planning. While Trump withheld specific details about the committee’s composition, he emphatically declared it “the greatest and most prestigious board ever assembled” and expressed full support for a newly appointed Palestinian Technocratic Government—the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza.

    This initiative aligns with the second phase of the ceasefire agreement that commenced in October, as confirmed by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. The transitional technocratic Palestinian administration aims to govern Gaza during its post-conflict recovery period, though progress has been hampered by persistent Israeli military operations in the besieged territory.

    The human cost of the conflict remains staggering. Palestinian health authorities report over 71,400 fatalities and 171,000 injuries since hostilities began, with nearly 450 deaths recorded since October alone. The United Nations highlights the catastrophic scale of destruction, estimating more than 66 million tons of rubble requiring clearance—a process potentially spanning seven years.

    International response has been cautiously optimistic. Spain welcomed the technocratic authority as a “positive step” toward Palestinian unity and stability, emphasizing its potential to alleviate Gaza’s humanitarian crisis through improved aid distribution. The committee will operate under the supervision of Nickolay Mladenov, Bulgaria’s former UN Middle East peace coordinator, who will serve as high representative.

    According to documents obtained by Middle East Eye, the committee includes Omar Shamali (communications), Abdul Karim Ashour (agriculture), Aed Yaghi (health), and Aed Abu Ramadan (industry and economy), among other specialized appointments. A senior Hamas source indicated no objection to the proposed members, while Egypt confirmed majority support from Palestinian factions.

    The UN describes Gaza’s population as “exhausted, traumatised, and overwhelmed,” with winter conditions exacerbating their misery. Particularly concerning are the psychological impacts on children, with the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics estimating over 39,000 had lost one or both parents by March, including 17,000 fully orphaned.

  • Taxation Society hosts ‘Tax Ready 2026’ conference on UAE’s evolving tax framework

    Taxation Society hosts ‘Tax Ready 2026’ conference on UAE’s evolving tax framework

    Dubai’s taxation community gathered at the Dusit Thani Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road for the pivotal ‘Tax Ready 2026: Navigating UAE’s Evolving Tax Framework’ conference. Organized by the Taxation Society, this intensive half-day symposium assembled tax specialists, financial executives, and business proprietors to address the nation’s rapidly transforming fiscal environment as it approaches significant 2026 regulatory milestones.

    The event commenced with formal addresses from Taxation Society leadership, including President Nimish Makvana and Chairman Naveen Sharma, setting the stage for substantive technical discussions. The conference garnered distinguished participation from Mirza Al Sayegh of the Al Maktoum Foundation and keynote speaker Dr. Surender Singh Kandhari, chairman of Al Dobowi Group and Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award recipient.

    Technical expertise was provided by Young Global specialists who delivered comprehensive sessions on critical tax developments. Director of Indirect Taxes Yedukondalu Mallela presented practical guidance on e-invoicing implementation and VAT compliance requirements. Corporate Tax Director Marat Tastambetov elucidated complexities surrounding the UAE’s Pillar 2 framework and global minimum tax implications. Transfer pricing received dedicated attention through a joint presentation by Rishi Sapra (Founder/CEO) and Jyoti Shukla (Transfer Pricing Manager), who outlined compliance expectations and risk mitigation strategies for the coming fiscal year.

    Attendees departed with enhanced preparedness for upcoming regulatory changes, equipped with actionable insights to align their organizations with the UAE’s progressive tax framework. The Taxation Society reinforced its commitment to facilitating professional development through targeted knowledge-sharing initiatives that address the dynamic needs of the business community.

  • Former South Korea President Yoon gets five-year sentence for obstruction

    Former South Korea President Yoon gets five-year sentence for obstruction

    In a landmark judicial ruling with profound political implications, the Seoul Central District Court has convicted former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on multiple felony charges, resulting in a five-year prison sentence. The verdict, delivered on Friday, January 16, 2026, marks a significant moment in the nation’s contemporary political history.

    The court found Yoon guilty of three primary offenses: obstruction of justice by deliberately impeding law enforcement’s execution of an arrest warrant; systematic fabrication of official government documents; and failure to adhere to mandatory legal procedures required for declaring martial law. These charges stem from his controversial and ultimately unsuccessful attempt to impose martial law in December 2024, an event that triggered a constitutional crisis.

    The ruling represents the first judicial conclusion among several criminal cases brought against the former president following the botched martial law declaration. The court’s decision underscores the judiciary’s role in checking executive power, particularly regarding actions perceived as undermining democratic institutions. Legal experts highlight that the conviction for document fabrication specifically relates to creating false justifications for the martial law implementation.

    While this verdict carries immediate legal consequences, the court acknowledged Yoon’s right to appeal the decision through higher judicial channels. The sentencing reflects South Korea’s continued commitment to judicial independence and accountability, even for the highest-ranking officials. This case joins other historic presidential prosecutions in South Korea, demonstrating the nation’s robust legal mechanisms for addressing alleged abuses of power at the highest levels of government.

  • BBC to make tailored shows for YouTube in content deal, FT reports

    BBC to make tailored shows for YouTube in content deal, FT reports

    The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is embarking on a strategic pivot by entering into its first-ever content creation partnership with Google’s YouTube platform. According to a Financial Times report, this groundbreaking agreement will see the BBC develop tailored programming specifically for YouTube’s global audience.

    The collaboration represents a significant departure from the BBC’s traditional funding model, which relies on license fees from British television households. Under the new arrangement, programs initially produced for YouTube will subsequently appear on the BBC’s domestic platforms, including iPlayer and Sounds. The partnership primarily targets younger demographics who increasingly consume content through digital streaming services rather than traditional broadcast channels.

    Financial terms remain undisclosed, but the arrangement enables the BBC to generate advertising revenue when these specially created programs are viewed outside the United Kingdom. The agreement will formalize existing relationships between YouTube and both the BBC’s domestic public service arm and its commercial division, BBC Studios.

    This strategic move comes amid one of the most challenging periods in the BBC’s history. The organization recently faced leadership upheaval following the resignations of its two most senior executives. This management crisis emerged after former U.S. President Donald Trump filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the broadcaster. The legal action alleges that edited clips of a presidential speech misleadingly suggested Trump directed supporters to storm the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.

    The YouTube partnership reflects the shifting media consumption landscape in Britain. Recent data from Barb Audiences reveals that YouTube reached 51.9 million British viewers in December, slightly surpassing the BBC’s audience of 50.8 million. This milestone underscores the platform’s growing dominance in the UK media market and highlights the imperative for traditional broadcasters to adapt to evolving viewer preferences.

  • Divalicious returns to Dubai with a curated fashion trunk show

    Divalicious returns to Dubai with a curated fashion trunk show

    Dubai’s fashion calendar welcomes the return of the prestigious Divalicious Curated Fashion Trunk Show on January 16-17, 2026, at Taj Business Bay. This sophisticated two-day exhibition assembles a meticulously selected array of designers and luxury labels within an elegant venue, creating an immersive shopping destination for discerning fashion enthusiasts.

    The event is strategically organized into distinct fashion categories to cater to the contemporary woman’s diverse needs. Luxe Prêt offers ready-to-wear luxury, couture presents exquisite craftsmanship, and high-street western fashion provides accessible style. The exhibition seamlessly bridges everyday sophistication with exceptional statement pieces, featuring everything from versatile wardrobe essentials to special occasion ensembles.

    Beyond apparel, the trunk show presents an exclusive collection of fine jewelry and fashion accessories, establishing itself as a comprehensive seasonal wardrobe refresh destination. Vanitaa Bhatia, founder of Divalicious, emphasized the event’s philosophy: “Divalicious is about thoughtful curation — fashion that feels relevant, versatile, and beautifully wearable for today’s social and professional lifestyles.”

    The brand has cultivated a distinguished reputation for merging sophisticated style with discovery and vibrant social interaction. Visitors can anticipate an engaging shopping experience that transcends traditional retail environments. The event opens daily at 10:00 AM, offering ample opportunity for fashion connoisseurs to explore the curated collections.

  • Al Maya Group ushers in a new era of global food excellence at Gulfood 2026

    Al Maya Group ushers in a new era of global food excellence at Gulfood 2026

    Dubai prepares to host an unprecedented convergence of food industry leaders as Gulfood 2026 expands into a dual-venue spectacle at the Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Exhibition Centre from January 26-30, 2026. This milestone 31st edition, operating under the theme ‘The Global Food Reset,’ will establish new benchmarks as the most comprehensive marketplace in food trade history, featuring thousands of exhibitors from nearly 200 countries and hundreds of thousands of products across 12 sector verticals.

    At the forefront of this transformation stands Al Maya Group, leveraging its four-decade legacy since its 1982 founding to drive evolution in FMCG sourcing, distribution, and retail excellence. The Group’s expansive distribution network across GCC nations and beyond positions it as a pivotal force in reshaping regional food systems.

    The event will debut groundbreaking elements including the Gulfood World Economy Summit and Future Food500 forum, assembling global leaders, policymakers, and technologists to address critical challenges in food security, climate-resilient value chains, and sustainable growth pathways.

    Kamal Vachani, Deputy CEO and Group Director, emphasized the event’s significance: ‘Gulfood 2026 represents the nerve center of food trade innovation and strategic alliances. We’re demonstrating how digital intelligence, sustainability, and future-focused supply chain platforms are fundamentally transforming regional food distribution.’

    Al Maya Group’s technological advancements form a cornerstone of this transformation, featuring sophisticated Warehouse Management Systems, automated order fulfillment, mobile sales force automation, and business intelligence tools that ensure supply chain transparency, product freshness, and timely delivery across its operations in UAE, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain.

    The Group’s exhibition presence will serve as a strategic hub for forging new partnerships, exploring co-creation opportunities, and developing scalable distribution models that enhance competitiveness within the global food economy, while showcasing its curated portfolio of international and regional brands.

  • Experts: Regulations on AI smartphones needed to protect consumers

    Experts: Regulations on AI smartphones needed to protect consumers

    Legal scholars and technology experts are advocating for the immediate development of comprehensive regulatory frameworks specifically designed for artificial intelligence-powered smartphones. The urgent call emerged from a specialized conference convened at East China University of Political Science and Law this Tuesday, where leading authorities addressed the growing legal and ethical challenges posed by AI-enabled mobile devices.

    Professor Li Mingde from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences emphasized the critical need to balance technological innovation with market competition safeguards. “Current legal systems, compliance frameworks, and liability structures must evolve to address the unique challenges presented by AI smartphones,” he stated during the proceedings.

    Han Qiang, Deputy Party Secretary of the host institution, highlighted that these concerns transcend technical considerations, representing complex intersections of technological logic, legal frameworks, and ethical standards. The multidimensional nature of these issues underscores the pressing requirement for establishing clear compliance parameters.

    Professor Gao Fuping, Dean of the Internet Law Institute, presented a detailed analysis of how AI smartphones fundamentally challenge existing data protection paradigms. “The continuous sensing capabilities, cross-device data reading, and intelligent inference mechanisms inherent in AI devices are disrupting personal information protection systems built on ‘informed consent’ principles,” he explained. Traditional compliance approaches centered on purpose limitation and data minimization face significant adaptation challenges when confronted with AI’s high-frequency, multi-layered data processing methodologies.

    The conference produced several key recommendations for regulatory development:

    1. Establishing clear compliance boundaries to ensure AI agent permissions remain controllable and traceable
    2. Implementing substantive informed consent mechanisms that genuinely guarantee users’ rights to refuse, revoke, and delete data
    3. Maintaining comprehensive logs of AI agent processes to document critical operations
    4. Developing collaborative governance models involving judicial, administrative regulatory, and industry self-regulatory bodies

    Given the inherent limitations of administrative and judicial oversight in rapidly evolving technological landscapes, participants also explored the potential establishment of an independent supervisory entity. Professor Guo He from Renmin University of China stressed that ensuring meaningful user consent remains central to compliance, advocating against vague notifications and promoting user autonomy at critical decision points.

    While recognizing the need for regulation, arbitrator Chen Jinchuan from the World Intellectual Property Organization cautioned against premature legislative finalization, suggesting that market competition should be allowed appropriate adjustment room.

    In concluding remarks, Liu Junhua, Vice-President of the Shanghai Intellectual Property Court, emphasized the importance of comprehensive impact assessment and measured response. “We must calmly identify genuine problems and determine optimal timing and methods for legal intervention in this new technological revolution,” he summarized.