Global Pulse

分类： society

  • Unstable weather: Dubai announces temporary closure of public parks, beaches

    Unstable weather: Dubai announces temporary closure of public parks, beaches

    Municipal authorities in Dubai and Ajman have implemented precautionary closures of all public recreational areas in response to deteriorating weather conditions across the United Arab Emirates. The Dubai Municipality confirmed the temporary shutdown of public beaches and parks on Thursday, December 18th and Friday, December 19th, while Ajman Municipality has extended its closure indefinitely until weather patterns stabilize.

    The decision follows meteorological warnings indicating an intensifying low-pressure system moving across the region, bringing substantial thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Weather experts project the most severe conditions will impact Abu Dhabi and Dubai during Thursday evening hours.

    This preventive measure prioritizes citizen safety amid forecasts of potentially hazardous conditions. Dubai authorities had previously issued advisories against marine activities, including swimming, due to dangerous sea conditions. Emergency services remain on high alert as the National Center of Meteorology continues monitoring the situation.

    Residents across affected emirates have received official guidance to minimize outdoor activities and strictly adhere to safety directives from local authorities. The coordinated municipal response demonstrates the UAE’s proactive approach to weather-related emergencies, with particular attention to protecting public spaces frequently utilized by residents and visitors.

  • ‘An Arab won’t check me’: Israeli police beat Palestinian security guard at football match

    ‘An Arab won’t check me’: Israeli police beat Palestinian security guard at football match

    A disturbing incident of police brutality has emerged from Jerusalem’s Teddy Stadium, where Qays Haddad, a 21-year-old Palestinian citizen of Israel serving as head security guard, was violently assaulted by approximately 13 police officers during a December 8th football derby between Beitar Jerusalem and Hapoel Jerusalem.

    According to Haddad’s account published by Haaretz, the altercation began when three plainclothes detectives attempted to enter the stadium without properly identifying themselves. When Haddad performed his security duty by extending his hand to slow their entry, one detective reportedly responded with ethnic prejudice, stating “An Arab won’t check me” before revealing his police credentials.

    The situation rapidly escalated as the three detectives initiated the physical assault before summoning uniformed officers who joined the beating. Haddad described being handcuffed, punched repeatedly across his body, and subjected to racist epithets including being called an “Arab son of a bitch.” The violence was so severe that officers’ hands became bloodied from the assault, and Haddad lost consciousness for several minutes.

    Emergency medical response was deliberately delayed according to Haddad, who waited thirty minutes for an ambulance while vomiting blood and struggling to breathe due to choking injuries that left visible marks on his neck.

    When attempting to file an official complaint the following day, Haddad was reportedly told by a policewoman that “There’s no way a brother can file a complaint for another brother.” A formal investigation was eventually opened several days after the incident.

    The attack has left Haddad with lasting physical and psychological trauma, including difficulty eating, sleeping disturbances, and anxiety triggered by police sirens. The incident has sparked fear among Palestinian security personnel throughout Israel, with many reportedly hesitant to continue working alongside police forces.

    Israeli police issued a statement acknowledging a confrontation occurred but provided no details about the excessive force employed, instead suggesting complaints should be directed to “relevant authorities.”

    This case emerges amidst growing concerns about racism and political tensions in Israeli sports, including recent displays of banned extremist symbols at matches, censorship of critical fan expressions, and UEFA sanctions against Israeli teams for discriminatory behavior by supporters.

  • Chongqing symposium examines planning cities around sound, smell, touch

    Chongqing symposium examines planning cities around sound, smell, touch

    Chongqing University served as the epicenter of innovative urban planning discourse from December 12-15, 2025, hosting the groundbreaking X-SCAPE 2025 International Symposium on Multisensory Urban Experience and Inclusive Design. The four-day gathering united approximately 30 distinguished scholars and practitioners from prestigious institutions worldwide, including the University of Cambridge, University College London, and multiple Chinese academic centers.

    The symposium marked a significant departure from traditional visually-dominated urban planning approaches, instead focusing on how auditory, olfactory, tactile, and perceptual elements fundamentally shape human urban experiences. Experts presented research demonstrating how soundscapes, scent environments, tactile surfaces, and spatial perceptions contribute to urban livability, particularly for vulnerable populations including visually impaired citizens, elderly residents, and neurodiverse communities.

    Participants explored evidence-based methodologies for creating urban environments that engage all human senses, moving beyond mere visual aesthetics to develop spaces that promote psychological well-being, social inclusion, and physical accessibility. The discussions emphasized practical applications of multisensory design principles, highlighting how cities can become more resilient, health-promoting, and accommodating to diverse human needs through intentional incorporation of sensory elements in public spaces, transportation systems, and residential areas.

    The symposium outcomes included developing frameworks for integrating multisensory considerations into urban policy, with particular attention to creating standards that address the often-overlooked dimensions of urban experience. This pioneering approach represents a paradigm shift in urban design philosophy, potentially transforming how cities worldwide plan for human-centered environments that cater to the full spectrum of human sensory capabilities.

  • HR exec in viral Coldplay clip speaks of abuse, threats and trying to find a new job

    HR exec in viral Coldplay clip speaks of abuse, threats and trying to find a new job

    A seemingly innocent moment captured on camera during a Coldplay concert has spiraled into a life-altering ordeal for a former HR executive, demonstrating the devastating power of viral public shaming in the digital age. Kristin Cabot, 53, has broken her silence regarding the July incident at a Boston show where cameras captured her embracing her then-boss, Andy Byron, CEO of tech firm Astronomer.

    The footage showed the pair swaying to music before abruptly ducking away when they realized they appeared on the giant screen—a reaction that prompted Coldplay frontman Chris Martin to quip to the audience: ‘Either they’re having an affair, or they’re just very shy.’ This offhand comment ignited an internet firestorm that would ultimately cost both individuals their careers and subject Cabot to relentless harassment.

    In her first extensive interviews with both The Times and The New York Times, Cabot revealed the profound personal and professional consequences she has endured since the viral moment. Despite maintaining that no sexual relationship existed between her and Byron—and that they had never kissed prior to that evening—Cabot acknowledges having a ‘crush’ on her boss and making ‘a bad decision’ after consuming alcohol at the concert.

    The aftermath proved swift and severe: Byron resigned from Astronomer following an internal investigation, while Cabot stepped down from her position as chief people officer. More devastating than the career loss, however, has been the unceasing harassment that has followed. Cabot reports being deemed ‘unemployable’ in her field, receiving up to 600 threatening calls daily, and enduring vicious personal attacks that scrutinized her appearance, character, and professional integrity.

    The abuse extended to her family, with her children facing embarrassment at school and fearing for their safety after receiving death threats. Cabot noted the particular cruelty of female critics and highlighted the disproportionate backlash she received compared to her male counterpart, suggesting gender played a significant role in the intensity of the public response.

    While beginning to tentatively rebuild her life through therapy and gradual reengagement with social activities, Cabot emphasizes that the digital footprint of her humiliation continues to haunt her. The case raises urgent questions about workplace relationships, public shaming culture, and the gendered dimensions of professional accountability in the era of viral content.

  • Police identify person of interest in Brown University shooting, sources say

    Police identify person of interest in Brown University shooting, sources say

    Federal investigators have pinpointed a person of interest connected to the devastating mass shooting that occurred at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. The tragic incident on December 16th, 2025, resulted in two fatalities and left nine individuals wounded with varying degrees of injuries.

    According to confidential sources within the investigation who spoke with CBS News, law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing this unidentified individual. The FBI Evidence Response Team has been meticulously processing the crime scene while authorities maintain a tight veil of secrecy regarding the suspect’s identity or potential motives.

    The investigation has now entered its sixth day with no arrests made, marking one of the most extensive manhunts in recent Rhode Island history. Investigators have employed multiple strategies including door-to-door inquiries, requests for home security footage from residents, and public appeals for information that might lead to a breakthrough in the case.

    In a significant development on Thursday, authorities released a photographic image of an individual believed to have been in immediate proximity to their primary person of interest. This tactical move suggests investigators are pursuing multiple angles and potentially exploring whether the shooting involved accomplices or additional witnesses.

    The Brown University campus remains under heightened security as students and faculty continue to grapple with the aftermath of the violence that has shaken the prestigious Ivy League institution. Counseling services have been made available to those affected by the traumatic event as the community seeks to heal while awaiting justice.

  • Heavy rains in Dubai: Police deploy 22 rescue teams; 120 cranes on standby for emergencies

    Heavy rains in Dubai: Police deploy 22 rescue teams; 120 cranes on standby for emergencies

    Dubai authorities have initiated a massive emergency preparedness operation as unstable weather conditions approach the emirate. The comprehensive safety deployment includes 22 specialized land and marine rescue teams strategically positioned across Dubai, complemented by 120 heavy-duty cranes placed on standby for potential emergency operations.

    The emergency framework establishes 13 land-based rescue stations, including dedicated units in the Hatta region, alongside nine marine response points along Dubai’s coastline. This geographical distribution ensures rapid intervention capabilities for weather-related incidents including flash flooding, vehicular accidents, or structural damage caused by strong winds.

    Colonel Khalid Al Hammadi, Director of the Search and Rescue Department at the General Department of Transport and Rescue, clarified the operational strategy. The crane deployment, coordinated through Emirates Auctions, provides critical heavy-lift capacity for complex scenarios requiring vehicle extraction or infrastructure stabilization.

    Land rescue units are equipped with specialized 4×4 vehicles, rescue trucks, and advanced hydraulic equipment including cutters and saws designed for complex emergency extraction. Marine teams maintain continuous coastal and valley surveillance supported by rescue boats, jet skis, and professional divers trained for maritime emergencies.

    Authorities have issued renewed calls for residents to monitor official weather advisories and adhere to safety protocols. Emergency services emphasize the importance of providing precise location details when contacting the 999 emergency number to facilitate rapid response times during critical situations.

  • Dubai: Hatta Winter Festival to be shut on Thursday, Friday due to unstable weather

    Dubai: Hatta Winter Festival to be shut on Thursday, Friday due to unstable weather

    Dubai’s popular Hatta Winter Festival has been temporarily closed as a precautionary response to unstable weather conditions affecting the UAE. The closure, effective Thursday and Friday, was announced following coordinated meetings between Hatta Police Station, government agencies, and private sector partners.

    Colonel Ali Obaid Al Badwawi, Acting Director of Hatta Police Station, confirmed that security forces are operating at maximum readiness to address potential emergencies. Authorities have issued strong advisories urging residents and visitors to avoid mountain areas, watercourses, and valley crossings during the rainfall period. The public has been instructed to contact the Command and Control Center at 999 for emergencies, with emphasis on providing precise location details to facilitate rapid response.

    The comprehensive safety operation involves multi-agency coordination with Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, Civil Defence, and Ambulance Services. This marks the ninth consecutive implementation of the rain safety campaign titled ‘Rain is a blessing, do not turn it into harm,’ designed to enhance preparedness for weather-related incidents including water-trapped vehicles, falls from heights, and traffic accidents.

    Major Ghdayer Mohammad bin Suroor, Head of the Traffic Registration Section, detailed that patrol deployments intensify immediately with rainfall onset. All roadways are being monitored with activated electronic message boards alerting drivers to reduce speed. Specialized patrol units equipped for rugged terrain and modern communication systems are focusing on valley flow areas and mountainous routes, with the Brave Team rescue unit maintaining 24/7 emergency readiness.

  • Multiple deaths reported after small aircraft crashes in North Carolina

    Multiple deaths reported after small aircraft crashes in North Carolina

    A corporate jet crash during landing procedures at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina has resulted in multiple confirmed fatalities, according to official statements released on Thursday. The tragic incident occurred at approximately 10:15 AM local time (15:15 GMT) when the Cessna C550 aircraft crashed on the eastern extremity of the runway.

    Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell formally acknowledged the fatalities in statements to The Associated Press while declining to specify the exact number of casualties. Airport Director John Ferguson provided harrowing details of the scene, describing how the aircraft was already fully engulfed in flames upon his arrival at the crash site.

    Aviation registration records indicate the aircraft was registered to a private corporation affiliated with Greg Biffle, a retired NASCAR champion, as reported by WBTV, a CBS network affiliate. The ill-fated jet had only been airborne for approximately nine minutes after taking off at 10:06 AM local time before the catastrophic landing attempt.

    The Federal Aviation Administration has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. Meanwhile, Statesville Airport will remain closed indefinitely as emergency crews work to clear debris from the primary runway. During a press conference, officials declined to provide specific details regarding the number of passengers aboard or the exact casualty count.

    Statesville Regional Airport (KSVH), municipally owned by the City of Statesville located approximately 45 minutes north of Charlotte, serves as an important aviation facility for numerous Fortune 500 companies and several professional NASCAR racing teams. The incident represents one of the most significant aviation tragedies to occur at the regional transportation hub in recent years.

  • Restorers swap brushes for lasers in the first restoration of an iconic Roman monument in 40 years

    Restorers swap brushes for lasers in the first restoration of an iconic Roman monument in 40 years

    In an extraordinary fusion of ancient history and modern technology, restorers in Rome are employing advanced laser systems to cleanse the nearly two-millennia-old Column of Marcus Aurelius. The monumental restoration project, situated in the heart of the Italian capital adjacent to the prime minister’s office, represents a significant advancement in archaeological preservation techniques.

    The 47-meter (154-foot) marble pillar, constructed between 180 and 193 AD, features an intricate spiral relief documenting the military campaigns of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. Unlike previous restoration efforts in the 1980s that utilized manual brushing methods, contemporary experts are implementing short-pulse laser technology that selectively removes centuries of accumulated pollution and biological growth while preserving the original marble surface.

    Marta Baumgartner, director of restoration works, emphasized the technological superiority of the new approach: “The laser provides exceptional results with increased efficiency and, most importantly, demonstrates profound respect for the historical material and its surface layers.”

    The elaborate bas-reliefs depict unflinching scenes from ancient warfare, including soldiers capturing women and children by their hair, decapitated enemies, and terrified prisoners with bound necks. These artistic representations have suffered from environmental damage including erosion, pollution from urban smog, and water infiltration that has compromised some facial features of the carved figures.

    A team of 18 specialists employs a multifaceted approach combining laser technology with chemical applications, specialized sponges, and resin injections to address structural vulnerabilities. The sophisticated scaffolding system encircling the column provides unprecedented access to the upper sections, where figures gradually increase in size—an intentional artistic technique to enhance visibility from ground level.

    Valentin Nitu, a project restorer, noted the narrative power of the column: “The artistic composition actively engages the viewer, compelling them to experience the story phase by phase with remarkably detailed scenes.”

    Funded by a 2-million-euro allocation from the post-pandemic European recovery fund, the project includes the installation of new nocturnal illumination systems. Commencing in April, the comprehensive restoration is scheduled for completion in June, promising renewed visibility for one of Rome’s most significant historical monuments.

  • Dubai: Unstable weather conditions till Friday; list of emergency contact numbers

    Dubai: Unstable weather conditions till Friday; list of emergency contact numbers

    The United Arab Emirates is currently confronting a significant meteorological event as unstable weather conditions persist across the region until Friday, December 19. Meteorological authorities have issued comprehensive warnings indicating intermittent rainfall of varying intensity, potentially reaching thunderstorm levels with accompanying lightning and hail phenomena.

    Current atmospheric modeling indicates wind velocities accelerating to 65 km/h, generating substantial dust and sand particles that severely compromise visibility across the region. Maritime conditions have deteriorated significantly, with wave heights projected to reach 9 feet in both the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea, prompting authorities to strongly discourage all marine activities.

    This weather pattern originates from a low-pressure system dominating Middle Eastern atmospheric conditions, with the most intense phase expected during Thursday. According to meteorological analysis, the system initially impacted Saudi Arabia before progressing eastward toward UAE and Qatari territories.

    Dubai’s leadership has taken proactive measures, with Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum personally addressing residents through social media channels, emphasizing preparedness and caution during this weather event.

    Municipal authorities have disseminated critical safety protocols urging residents to:
    – Avoid wadis and areas prone to water accumulation
    – Refrain from mountainous region travel
    – Abstain from maritime activities
    – Exercise extreme vehicular caution with reduced speeds
    – Monitor exclusively official information channels for updates

    Emergency service accessibility remains paramount with dedicated contact numbers operational: Civil Defense (997), Ambulance (998), Dubai Police (999), DEWA (991), RTA (800 9090), Dubai Municipality (800 900), and Dubai Health Authority (800 60).

    The National Centre of Meteorology continues to monitor developments closely, advising citizens to maintain heightened awareness of changing conditions throughout this weather episode.