Global Pulse

分类： society

  • Living like sultans: Istanbul’s pampered street cats

    Living like sultans: Istanbul’s pampered street cats

    In the bustling metropolis of Istanbul, an extraordinary urban symbiosis flourishes between humans and felines, where approximately 160,000 street cats enjoy near-royal treatment from the city’s 16 million residents. This unique cultural phenomenon transforms the city into what locals proudly call ‘the city of cats,’ where feline residents freely inhabit shopping centers, restaurants, and even historic landmarks with unparalleled acceptance.

    The recent case of Kanyon, a white cat with distinctive grey markings, exemplifies this special relationship. After the theft of his sleeping basket from an Istanbul shopping center, concerned citizens mobilized to provide not just replacement comforts but an abundance of snacks, toys, and even a dedicated Instagram page managed by an admirer. His newly created corner now resembles a child’s playroom more than animal shelter.

    This cultural tradition traces its roots to pre-Ottoman history. According to Altan Armutak, an expert from Istanbul University’s veterinary history department, the deep affection for cats connects to both religious significance and historical practice. ‘When Ottomans captured Constantinople in 1453, they discovered cats waiting patiently outside fish markets and butcher shops,’ Armutak explains. ‘Feeding these animals became regarded as a spiritual offering in devotion to God.’

    Throughout the city, from the European to Asian districts and aboard the connecting ferries, cats enjoy privileged status. They nap undisturbed on restaurant chairs, wander through supermarkets, and curl up in shop windows displaying expensive fabrics. Many have become neighborhood mascots, with some achieving posthumous recognition like Tombili, a portly feline memorialized with a bronze statue in Kadikoy for her iconic lounging pose that became an internet sensation.

    Even historic landmarks participate in this tradition. The sixth-century Hagia Sophia had its beloved tabby mascot, Gli, who received presidential attention from Barack Obama during his 2009 visit. Meanwhile, Topkapi Palace, former residence of Ottoman sultans, recently restored a centuries-old cat flap, maintaining architectural features specifically designed for feline access.

    Modern municipal authorities now balance this cultural heritage with practical urban management. The city government sterilized over 43,000 cats in the past year alone—a twelve-fold increase since 2015—to humanely manage the population. Officials have expressed concern about overfeeding attracting rodents, with Regional Governor Davut Gul noting the unusual phenomenon of rats eating alongside cats, though many residents report minimal rodent issues.

    As 22-year-old German student Fatime Ozarslan observed while placing food in Macka Park, home to至少100 cats: ‘In Germany, we have many rats, but here, with so many cats, they must be afraid.’ This enduring relationship, where humans and cats coexist as equals, remains an integral part of Istanbul’s identity that residents believe defines their city’s character.

  • Pauline Hanson addresses pro-Australia Day march as thousands join nationwide Invasion Day protests

    Pauline Hanson addresses pro-Australia Day march as thousands join nationwide Invasion Day protests

    Australia’s national holiday was marked by intense polarization as competing rallies—Invasion Day protests and March for Australia demonstrations—unfolded simultaneously in major capital cities, resulting in controversial scenes and arrests.

    In Brisbane, an Australian flag was set ablaze during an Invasion Day gathering at Queens Gardens, while in Melbourne, a statue of poet Adam Lindsay Gordon was defaced with the phrase ‘Abolish Australia.’ Meanwhile, Sydney witnessed crowds chanting ‘send them back’ and displaying placards demanding the release of Joel Davis, a prominent figure in the disbanded National Socialist Network (NSN), who is currently in remand for allegedly inciting violence against MP Allegra Spender.

    A 31-year-old man was arrested in NSW during the March for Australia rally for alleged hate speech. Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden stated that the language used ‘incited hatred towards groups in the community’ and crossed the line from free speech into unlawful conduct. The suspect remains in custody pending further investigation.

    Political figures were highly visible at the events. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson addressed supporters in Brisbane, criticizing hate speech laws and mass immigration policies. ‘We can never give up our freedom of speech,’ she declared, blaming Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for current migration levels. In response, Greens Senator Larissa Waters accused Hanson of divisiveness and racism.

    Cultural tensions also surfaced around musical representation. March for Australia organizers defiantly played Men at Work’s ‘Down Under’ despite explicit objections from co-writer Colin Hay, who denounced the use of his song for promoting xenophobia. Rally organizer Bec Walker responded with expletives directed at the musician.

    Amid the tensions, Invasion Day rallies also featured solemn moments. In Sydney, a minute of silence was observed for Sophie Quinn, John Harris, and Nerida Quinn, who were recently killed in a shooting in Lake Cargelligo. Uncle Robbie Thorpe in Melbourne criticized the recently signed Victorian treaty as ‘disingenuous,’ while Celeste Little called for Australia Day to become a national day of mourning.

    Heavy police presence was reported across all cities to manage the opposing demonstrations and prevent clashes.

  • Ferry with more than 350 people sinks in the southern Philippines leaving at least 15 dead

    Ferry with more than 350 people sinks in the southern Philippines leaving at least 15 dead

    A significant maritime emergency unfolded in the southern Philippines early Monday as the inter-island ferry M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 sank near Baluk-baluk village in Basilan province. Carrying 359 people total—332 passengers and 27 crew members—the vessel encountered apparent technical complications and foundered approximately one nautical mile from shore shortly after midnight, despite favorable weather conditions.

    The subsequent search and rescue operation mobilized a substantial force from multiple agencies. Coast guard and navy vessels were deployed to the area, supported by an air force Black Hawk helicopter, a surveillance aircraft, and local fishing boats. Coast Guard Commander Romel Dua confirmed that a safety officer aboard the ferry provided the initial alert, enabling the rapid emergency response.

    Authorities reported that 316 individuals have been successfully rescued from the waters. Tragically, the bodies of 15 victims have been recovered. Survivors were initially transported to the island village of Baluk-baluk, with several others, including two fatalities, arriving at the provincial capital of Isabela. Provincial Governor Mujiv Hataman was present at the pier to receive them.

    Commander Dua stated that an official investigation will be launched to determine the precise cause of the sinking. He noted that the vessel had received clearance from the coast guard prior to its departure from Zamboanga port and showed no indications of overloading. This incident highlights the persistent challenges of maritime safety in the Philippine archipelago, where sea accidents remain common due to factors including frequent storms, inadequate vessel maintenance, overcrowding, and inconsistent enforcement of safety protocols. The nation’s history includes the world’s worst peacetime maritime disaster—the 1987 sinking of the Dona Paz, which resulted in over 4,300 fatalities.

  • ‘Heartbroken’ Timberwolves resume NBA play amid Minneapolis turmoil

    ‘Heartbroken’ Timberwolves resume NBA play amid Minneapolis turmoil

    The Minnesota Timberwolves returned to NBA competition under a cloud of community grief following the second fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by federal agents in Minneapolis within three weeks. The emotional toll was palpable as coaches and players struggled to balance professional obligations with civic trauma.

    Timberwolves coach Chris Finch delivered an emotionally charged statement before Monday’s rescheduled game against the Golden State Warriors, describing the organization as ‘heartbroken’ by the recent violence. ‘For the second time in less than three weeks we’ve lost another beloved member of our community in the most unimaginable way,’ Finch told reporters, referencing the deaths of 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti and 37-year-old Renee Good, both killed in separate incidents involving federal immigration enforcement.

    Golden State coach Steve Kerr, whose own father was assassinated in 1984, expressed profound sympathy for Minneapolis residents. ‘There’s a pall that has been cast over the city. You can feel it,’ Kerr stated. ‘When all the unrest settles down, those family members won’t be returning home and that’s devastating.’

    The NBA Players Association issued a formal statement condemning the violence and expressing solidarity with Minneapolis protesters. ‘Following the news of yet another fatal shooting in Minneapolis, a city that has been on the forefront of the fight against injustices, NBA players can no longer remain silent,’ the union declared, emphasizing their commitment to protecting civil liberties for all community members.

    WNBA champion Breanna Stewart made a powerful symbolic gesture during her Unrivaled league game in Florida, holding a sign reading ‘Abolish ICE’ during player introductions. ‘When human lives are at stake it’s bigger than anything else,’ Stewart explained, noting that her wife, retired Spanish basketball player Marta, is currently navigating the U.S. citizenship process. ‘We’re so fueled by hate right now instead of love.’

    The sporting community’s response extended to social media platforms, where Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton directly labeled Pretti’s death as ‘murder’ while former WNBA player Brianna Turner declared that defenders of immigration enforcement ‘will forever be on the wrong side of history.’

  • Analysing the Minneapolis shooting frame by frame

    Analysing the Minneapolis shooting frame by frame

    A meticulous forensic investigation into the Minneapolis police shooting has been completed by BBC Verify, utilizing advanced video analysis techniques to construct a comprehensive timeline of events. The investigative team employed frame-by-frame examination of footage captured from numerous vantage points, creating a multi-perspective reconstruction of the incident.

    The comprehensive analysis goes beyond surface-level observation, incorporating temporal sequencing and spatial positioning to verify the chronology of actions. By synchronizing disparate video sources, investigators have established verifiable facts about the positioning of officers, civilians, and the sequence of firearm discharges.

    This methodical approach represents a significant advancement in digital verification journalism, where multiple source verification serves as the foundation for establishing factual accounts of critical incidents. The BBC Verify team’s methodology demonstrates how modern news organizations can leverage available visual evidence to provide clarity in situations where conflicting narratives often emerge.

    The reconstruction provides unprecedented detail about the moments leading to the shooting, the response protocols followed by law enforcement, and the immediate aftermath. Such detailed visual analysis has become increasingly crucial for public understanding of police-involved incidents, offering transparent evidence-based accounting of complex events that often spark community debate and calls for reform.

  • Saudi Arabia records first baby born on Riyadh Metro

    Saudi Arabia records first baby born on Riyadh Metro

    In an unprecedented event that captured public attention, Saudi Arabia’s capital witnessed its first childbirth aboard the Riyadh Metro system on January 25, 2026. The remarkable incident occurred at Al Andalus Station, where the metro’s operations team successfully assisted in the delivery, showcasing exceptional emergency response capabilities.

    The emergency situation was managed with what officials described as ‘remarkable professionalism, compassion, and composure.’ Female staff members played a crucial role in providing support throughout the process until medical professionals arrived. The incident served as a real-world test of the metro system’s emergency protocols, with the team demonstrating effective coordination and unwavering commitment to passenger welfare.

    To commemorate this historic occasion, Riyadh Metro authorities presented the newborn’s family with special gifts including two first-class Darb cards valid for one year of complimentary travel. The transportation network also issued an official statement expressing appreciation for all staff involved, recognizing their ‘humanity and readiness’ in handling the exceptional circumstance.

    The successful handling of this medical emergency highlights the evolving preparedness of Saudi Arabia’s public infrastructure systems. It also represents a significant milestone for Riyadh’s expanding public transportation network, which continues to gain prominence as a modern urban mobility solution. The incident has generated positive public engagement through social media platforms, where the metro authority shared details of the event with celebrating citizens and residents alike.

  • Light rain falls over Dubai, Abu Dhabi amid cold wave in UAE

    Light rain falls over Dubai, Abu Dhabi amid cold wave in UAE

    The United Arab Emirates witnessed unexpected light rainfall across Dubai and Abu Dhabi on January 25, 2026, as the region experiences an unusually cold winter period. Meteorological experts confirm this weather pattern forms part of broader global climate phenomena affecting multiple continents.

    According to Dr. Mohamed Al Ebri, Director of Meteorology at the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), temperature fluctuations will continue throughout the winter season, alternating between cold spells and moderate warm periods. The rainfall occurrence had been previously predicted by NCM experts, bringing precipitation to various parts of the country.

    Social media channels, particularly the weather handle Storm Centre, documented the rare weather event through multiple videos showing rainfall in urban areas of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Additional footage captured more substantial precipitation in Khor Fakkan, where waterfalls formed and spilled onto roadways.

    The current cold spell represents the season’s most significant temperature drop, with Ras Al Khaimah’s Jebel Jais recording 0.2°C on January 22—the lowest temperature measured this winter. This regional cooling aligns with extensive cold waves affecting numerous countries including the United States, Palestine, China, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan.

    Meteorologists attribute these unusual weather patterns to the combined effects of El Niño and La Niña phenomena. El Niño involves unusual warming of central and eastern Pacific waters, typically bringing increased rainfall to the Americas while causing droughts in Asia and Australia. Conversely, La Niña features cooler-than-normal Pacific waters, often creating dry conditions in the Americas and heavy rains in Asia and Australia. Particularly relevant to the UAE, La Niña can significantly increase the probability of cold air outbreaks across Northern Hemisphere regions.

  • After Gaza, ‘no place feels like home’, says Palestinian journalist Plestia Alaqad

    After Gaza, ‘no place feels like home’, says Palestinian journalist Plestia Alaqad

    At the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, Palestinian journalist and author Plestia Alaqad delivered a poignant testimony on the profound personal toll of displacement and the complex burden of public visibility. Having fled Gaza with her family in November 2023 with merely five minutes to gather her belongings, Alaqad articulated a fractured sense of identity, moving between Australia and Lebanon without permanent residency in either nation.

    Alaqad described the perpetual instability of life in exile, a reality defined by constantly renewing visas and justifying her right to exist in a place. ‘You’re always renewing visas, proving yourself, explaining where you belong,’ she stated. ‘And no place ever fully feels like home again.’ This relentless transience has reshaped her understanding of belonging, reducing personal possessions until ‘all that remained was your truth and your words.’

    The journalist, who garnered a global following of over four million for her reporting from Gaza, revealed the immense pressure that accompanies such visibility. She noted that even a single day of social media silence triggers panic among her audience, with many fearing she had been killed. ‘The more visible you become, the more targeted you are,’ Alaqad explained, detailing how this surveillance seeped into her most private spaces, even causing her to censor her own diary entries for her book, ‘The Eyes of Gaza’.

    This work, a blend of diary entries, reflections, and poetry written between October 2023 and January 2025, documents her life under bombardment and exile. The publishing process itself became a battleground for narrative control. Alaqad disclosed intense scrutiny from publishers and lawyers in the United States who debated politically charged language, often seeking to soften her account. She firmly resisted, asserting, ‘You can’t censor someone’s lived experience.’

    Reflecting on her career choice, Alaqad framed journalism not as a mere profession but as a mission born from the Palestinian experience of being dehumanized. ‘I saw how dehumanised we were. I wanted to reclaim the narrative,’ she told the audience, adding that Palestinians often grow up with missions rather than dreams. Without occupation, she mused, she might have pursued her passion for theater and comedy.

    Despite the weight of her testimony, Alaqad emphasized the importance of recognizing human limits and mental health, rejecting the notion that witnesses must be superheroes. She concluded by looking forward, revealing plans to explore storytelling through acting, including a role in an upcoming film centered on Palestine.

  • Pick your own cherished flowers in downtown Shanghai

    Pick your own cherished flowers in downtown Shanghai

    Shanghai residents and visitors now have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant floral spectacle at the heart of the metropolis. A special flower market launched on January 23rd at Sinan Mansions and Fuxing Park, creating an urban agricultural experience that will continue for ten days. The centerpiece of this botanical event is a spectacular 600-square-meter tulip field established within Fuxing Park, allowing attendees to personally select and harvest their favorite blossoms.

    This innovative urban gardening initiative transforms conventional park visitation into an interactive floral engagement. Unlike traditional flower markets where purchases are made from pre-cut arrangements, this event enables participants to directly connect with nature by choosing and gathering their preferred tulips firsthand. The experience combines horticultural appreciation with recreational activity, offering city dwellers a rare chance to engage in agricultural practices within Shanghai’s urban landscape.

    The strategic location at Sinan Mansions and Fuxing Park places this floral extravaganza in one of Shanghai’s most prestigious historical and cultural districts, creating a striking contrast between cultivated nature and urban architecture. The event timing coincides with the approach of spring, providing an early colorful bloom spectacle that brightens the winter landscape. This flower-picking concept represents a growing trend in urban environmental design that brings agricultural experiences directly into metropolitan centers, allowing citizens to temporarily escape urban routines and enjoy nature’s beauty without leaving the city limits.

  • Hundreds of thousands without power as winter storm hits US

    Hundreds of thousands without power as winter storm hits US

    A catastrophic winter storm of historic proportions continues to wreak havoc across the United States, creating life-threatening conditions from the Southern Plains to New England. The powerful weather system, driven by an destabilized polar vortex, has plunged temperatures 15-20°C below seasonal averages in typically mild Southern states, catching millions of Americans unprepared.

    The human toll is mounting with at least four confirmed storm-related fatalities—two from hypothermia in Louisiana’s Caddo Parish, one exposure-related death in Texas, and multiple fatalities in New York City under investigation. Power infrastructure has suffered catastrophic failure with over 1 million households experiencing outages according to poweroutage.us, particularly severe in Tennessee where Nashville Electric Service warns restoration could take several days.

    Transportation networks face unprecedented disruption with more than 10,000 flight cancellations reported by FlightAware and dangerous road conditions prompting over 200 crash reports in Virginia alone. The storm’s unique characteristic of producing significant ice accumulation—up to one inch in some areas—has proven particularly destructive, weighing down power lines and creating treacherously slick surfaces that refreeze daily.

    Meteorologist Allison Santorelli of the National Weather Service emphasized the prolonged nature of the crisis: “The snow and ice will be very slow to melt, hindering recovery efforts for the foreseeable future.” Nearly half of U.S. states have declared emergencies, with Washington DC Mayor Muriel Bowser noting this constitutes “the biggest snowstorm in a decade” for the capital region.

    Tennessee Emergency Management Director Patrick Sheehan expressed particular concern about “ice accumulation’s impact on roadway safety and power infrastructure.” The storm continues its eastward trajectory, with forecasts predicting dangerously cold conditions persisting into early February, while climate scientists debate potential connections between such extreme weather events and changing sea surface temperatures in a warming world.