Over 42 million Americans are anxiously awaiting a critical decision from the Trump administration regarding the use of emergency funds to sustain the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. Federal judges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island have mandated the administration to provide updates by Monday at 12:00 EST (17:00 GMT) on how it plans to allocate $5.25 billion in emergency funds to ensure partial SNAP payments. This comes as the program faces a funding crisis due to the prolonged US government shutdown, which began on October 1 after Congress failed to agree on a budget. Since Saturday, millions of Americans have been left without essential food assistance as SNAP funds have been exhausted. While individual states manage the distribution of benefits, the program relies entirely on federal funding, which has been suspended during the shutdown. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that the administration is exploring legal avenues to reallocate funds, with payments potentially resuming as early as Wednesday. However, the process remains uncertain. Half of the US states and the District of Columbia have filed lawsuits against the administration, arguing that it has a legal obligation to continue the program. Meanwhile, some states have pledged to use their own resources to fund SNAP benefits temporarily. SNAP is a lifeline for low-income families, providing reloadable debit cards to purchase groceries. On average, a family of four receives $715 per month, equating to less than $6 per person daily. The ongoing uncertainty has left millions of vulnerable Americans in a precarious position, highlighting the broader impacts of the government shutdown.
分类： society
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‘Depression meant weak faith’: UAE residents challenge mental health stigma
In the United Arab Emirates, a significant cultural shift is underway as residents increasingly challenge the long-standing stigma surrounding mental health. Historically, emotional struggles such as stress, burnout, and depression were often dismissed as signs of weak faith or character. However, recent data and personal accounts reveal a growing recognition of mental health as a legitimate concern deserving of professional attention and societal understanding.
According to the 2025 Cigna Healthcare International Health Study, which surveyed over 11,800 individuals across 13 global markets, 27% of UAE residents now prioritize mental wellbeing above physical health. The study also highlighted a notable improvement in mental wellbeing in the UAE, rising to 64%—a seven-point increase from 2024 and 21 points above the global average.
Despite this progress, emotional strain remains pervasive. Approximately 80% of respondents reported frequent agitation, 76% admitted to overreacting in stressful situations, and nearly 79% of women struggled to initiate tasks. Young adults aged 18–24 were particularly affected, with one in five describing their stress as unmanageable. Workplace stress also persists, with 84% of employees experiencing ongoing pressure and 41% reporting sleep disruptions.
Experts attribute this shift to evolving cultural attitudes. Girish A. Hemnani, a Dubai-based life coach, noted that while some still view emotional struggles as a spiritual failing, there is a growing understanding that faith and mental health are not mutually exclusive. “Faith is meant to be felt, not forced,” he explained. “Processing emotions, rather than suppressing them, creates space for spiritual connection.”
Dr. Shaju George, a psychiatrist at International Modern Hospital Dubai, emphasized the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to mental health care. “Collaborating with religious and community leaders has been crucial in normalizing discussions around mental health,” he said. “Integrating mental health into primary care and workplace wellness programs encourages early intervention.”
Personal stories further illustrate this transformation. Ravi Rao, a 41-year-old Indian expat, shared how he now prioritizes mental breaks, therapy, and meditation. “It’s not weakness; it’s smart self-care,” he said. Similarly, Aisha Hassan, a 31-year-old Egyptian resident, found solace in journaling and mindfulness sessions. “Without calmness inside, nothing feels right outside,” she reflected.
As more UAE residents reject the outdated notion that depression signifies weak faith, mental health care is gaining legitimacy, bridging the gap between emotional wellbeing and spirituality. This cultural shift not only dismantles stigma but also fosters a healthier, more compassionate society.
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Christmas harvest begins in Germany, where some say decorating trees began
In the picturesque Sauerland region of western Germany, the annual harvest of Christmas trees has commenced, marking the start of a cherished tradition that dates back over five centuries. German growers, like Eberhard Hennecke, are busy preparing for the festive season, ensuring that families across the nation can continue their time-honored custom of decorating Christmas trees. Hennecke, a local producer, shared with The Associated Press that the Sauerland region alone accounts for approximately one-third of Germany’s Christmas tree supply. While most trees are traditionally sold in urban areas, there has been a growing trend of families visiting tree farms to personally select and cut down their trees. To enhance the experience, many farms now offer seasonal treats such as mulled wine and snacks, creating a festive atmosphere that brings joy to all generations. Hennecke emphasized the emotional significance of this tradition, noting how the collective effort of families choosing their tree together fosters a sense of warmth and happiness. This centuries-old practice, which originated in Germany and later spread across Europe and the United States, continues to unite communities and celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
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India: At least 20 killed as gravel truck crashes into passenger bus in Telangana
A devastating road accident in Telangana, India, has left at least 20 people dead and numerous others injured after a gravel truck collided with a passenger bus. The incident occurred near Chevella, a town on the outskirts of Hyderabad, on the morning of November 3, 2025. The bus, carrying over 30 passengers, was struck by the truck, which was reportedly traveling in the wrong direction. The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, with authorities considering possibilities such as the truck being in the wrong lane or attempting to overtake. Among the fatalities were several bus passengers and the truck driver. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy swiftly responded to the tragedy, directing officials to the scene to coordinate relief efforts. He also ordered the immediate transfer of all injured individuals to hospitals in Hyderabad for advanced medical care. The accident has sparked renewed calls for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations in the region.
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Hurling star DJ Carey jailed over fake cancer claims
DJ Carey, a celebrated former Kilkenny hurler and five-time All-Ireland winner, has been sentenced to five-and-a-half years in prison for a fraudulent scheme in which he pretended to have cancer to defraud individuals. The 54-year-old, who previously lived in Newtown, Maynooth, County Kildare, pleaded guilty in July to 10 charges involving 13 complainants, including Denis O’Brien, one of Ireland’s wealthiest entrepreneurs. O’Brien alone provided Carey with over €125,000 (£109,500), along with accommodation and transport. The Dublin Circuit Criminal Court revealed that Carey defrauded a total of 22 people out of nearly €400,000 (£350,000), with only about €44,000 (£38,500) repaid to date. The sentencing was delayed last week after Carey was hospitalized. The presiding judge condemned the fraud as one of the most reprehensible, stating that Carey had exploited people’s goodwill. Carey’s defense described his situation as a dramatic fall from grace, leaving him a pariah in the community. Once a revered figure in Irish hurling, Carey’s legacy is now marred by this scandal.
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India team to receive $5.8 million for Women’s World Cup win over South Africa
In a life-changing moment, an Indian expatriate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has clinched the Dh25-million grand prize in the latest Big Ticket draw. The winner, whose identity remains undisclosed, expressed overwhelming joy and gratitude for the windfall, which is set to transform their financial future. The Big Ticket draw, a popular raffle in the UAE, continues to attract participants from diverse backgrounds, offering life-altering rewards to lucky winners. Meanwhile, Dubai has unveiled plans for an upcoming Education Expo, featuring participation from over 60 private schools and early learning centers. The expo aims to showcase educational innovations, foster collaboration among institutions, and provide parents with comprehensive insights into the region’s educational landscape. This dual announcement highlights the UAE’s commitment to both individual prosperity and educational advancement.
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Mississippi mum fatally shoots escaped research monkey
A chaotic scene unfolded in Mississippi last week after a truck transporting monkeys overturned, leading to the escape of several primates. One of the escaped monkeys was shot dead by Jessica Bond Ferguson, a local mother of five, who claimed she acted out of concern for her children’s safety. Ferguson stated that she and other residents had been warned the monkeys might carry diseases. “I did what any other mother would do to protect her children,” she told the Associated Press. The monkeys were being transported from Tulane University’s National Biomedical Research Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, where they were housed for scientific research. Officials from the university clarified that the monkeys did not carry any infectious agents. Ferguson’s 16-year-old son alerted her to a monkey in their backyard, prompting her to grab her gun and cell phone. She described shooting the animal twice before it fell. The Jasper County Sheriff’s Department confirmed the incident, noting that the monkey was later taken into custody by the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. Confusion persists regarding the escape, including the number of monkeys transported, their ownership, and the cause of the truck accident. Tulane University emphasized that it did not own, transport, or have custody of the monkeys at the time of the incident but sent animal care experts to assist. Videos circulating online showed the monkeys moving through tall grass near the highway, with wooden crates labeled “live animals” visible. The transported monkeys were Rhesus macaques, a species commonly used in biomedical research, particularly for infectious disease studies and vaccine development.
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Irish government could charge asylum seekers for accommodation
The Irish government is considering implementing a new policy that would require working asylum seekers to contribute up to €238 (£208) per week towards the cost of their state-provided accommodation. This proposal, spearheaded by Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan and his junior minister Colm Brophy, aims to reduce the financial burden on the state as it grapples with an unprecedented influx of asylum seekers and refugees. As of July, there were 32,774 international protection applicants living in state accommodation in Ireland. The proposed charges would be tiered based on weekly earnings, ranging from €15 (£13) for those earning €97.01 (£85) to €150 (£131) per week, up to €238 (£208) for those earning €600 (£526) or more. Asylum seekers who fail to pay these charges could face legal action, debt collection, and even potential denial of citizenship if they have outstanding debts. Currently, asylum seekers receive a weekly allowance of €38.80 (£34) per adult and €29.80 (£26) per child. The proposal will be discussed at a cabinet sub-committee meeting on Monday, and if approved, it will proceed to a full cabinet meeting for final approval. The government estimates that approximately 7,600 asylum seekers would be eligible to pay these charges. Additionally, the Irish Department of Justice has warned that the current influx of Ukrainian refugees could exhaust the state’s accommodation capacity by the end of November. Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in February 2022, over 120,000 Ukrainian refugees have arrived in Ireland, with 83,000 currently residing there. The government is also considering reducing the duration of state accommodation for new refugee arrivals from 90 days to 30 days and phasing out the €600 (£526) payment to those housing Ukrainian refugees. These changes, however, may not take effect until late 2026 or early 2027.
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Bella Culley freed from Georgian prison
In a dramatic turn of events, 19-year-old Bella Culley, a pregnant teenager from Billingham, Teesside, has been released from prison in Georgia after admitting to drug trafficking charges. Initially facing a potential 20-year sentence, Culley’s fate changed when prosecutors altered the terms of her plea bargain at the last minute. The decision, influenced by her age and pregnancy, was announced during a court hearing in Tbilisi, where Culley expressed her relief and happiness by embracing her lawyer, Malkhaz Salakaia. Culley, who is eight months pregnant, was arrested on 10 May at Tbilisi International Airport after authorities discovered 12kg of marijuana and 2kg of hashish in her luggage. Her family had previously paid £137,000 to reduce her sentence to two years. Culley, who pleaded guilty to drug trafficking, claimed she was coerced into the act by gangsters who allegedly tortured her with a hot iron. She had been held in pre-trial detention since May, initially in harsh conditions before being transferred to a ‘mother and baby’ unit. Her lawyer plans to appeal for a presidential pardon. Culley, now free, will regain her passport and is expected to leave the country soon.
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Dubai: Parkin introduces new paid parking zones at Academic City, Sports City
Dubai continues to enhance its public parking infrastructure with the introduction of new paid parking zones in Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Sports City. This move follows the recent launch of similar zones in Dubai Studio City and Outsource City, signaling the city’s commitment to addressing parking challenges in high-traffic areas. The new zones, managed by Parkin, Dubai’s leading provider of paid public parking facilities, will operate under distinct tariff codes: Code F for Academic City and Code S for Sports City. Clear signage has been installed in both locations to guide motorists. Tariffs vary by zone, with Academic City offering rates starting at Dh2 for half an hour, while Sports City begins at Dh2 for one hour. Parkin has also introduced subscription packages for both zones, providing long-term parking solutions for residents and visitors. In addition to these developments, Parkin has announced plans to construct five multi-story car parking buildings over the next two years to alleviate congestion in Dubai’s busiest commercial districts. Currently, Parkin operates 3,651 parking spaces across seven multi-storey car parks in key areas such as Oud Metha, Al Jaffiliya, and Al Satwa. These initiatives underscore Dubai’s proactive approach to urban planning and infrastructure development.