Global Pulse

分类： society

  • Massive winter storm expected to bury much of US with snow and ice

    Massive winter storm expected to bury much of US with snow and ice

    Meteorological authorities are issuing urgent warnings as an immense Arctic air mass prepares to engulf the continental United States, threatening to disrupt daily life for approximately 160 million citizens across nearly thirty states. The formidable weather system, originating from the Polar Vortex, is projected to initiate its southward trajectory on Thursday, commencing in the southwestern regions before advancing toward the Eastern Seaboard throughout the weekend.

    According to expert forecasts, this unprecedented cold front will generate dangerously subfreezing conditions, with interior plains regions potentially experiencing temperatures plummeting to -40°F (-40°C) or lower. The Rocky Mountain states are bracing for substantial snowfall accumulation by Friday, while metropolitan corridors including Memphis, Nashville, Washington D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York anticipate significant winter precipitation.

    The National Weather Service has emphasized the grave risks associated with the impending conditions, noting that wind chill factors could create life-threatening scenarios where exposed skin might develop frostbite within minutes. Southern regions face particular peril from freezing rain that could glaze vegetation and infrastructure with ice, potentially triggering widespread power outages and structural damage.

    Transportation networks nationwide are preparing for substantial disruptions. Aviation authorities at major hubs have advised travelers to anticipate considerable delays and cancellations. State executives in Texas, North Carolina, and South Carolina have preemptively declared states of emergency, mobilizing National Guard units and emergency response teams.

    Texas Governor Greg Abbott referenced the state’s traumatic 2021 winter crisis in his emergency declaration, stating: “The State of Texas is implementing comprehensive measures to ensure resource availability before severe weather impacts our communities.” Officials nationwide are cautioning residents about potential pipe bursts and extended road closures, particularly in southern jurisdictions lacking robust winter infrastructure.

    Meteorologists indicate the severe conditions will likely persist through next week, creating prolonged hazards including treacherous travel, reduced visibility, and possible utility failures.

  • Viral video: Taxi crashes into Sharjah restaurant after driver confuses pedals

    Viral video: Taxi crashes into Sharjah restaurant after driver confuses pedals

    A Sharjah restaurant escaped what could have been a catastrophic incident on Tuesday evening when a taxi plowed through its glass entrance. The alarming event, captured on video and widely circulated online, occurred at the Bundoo Khan Pakistani restaurant in the Al Nabba area at approximately 8:30 PM.

    According to Fazal Rahman Abbasi, the restaurant’s general manager, the driver mistakenly pressed the accelerator instead of the brake pedal after being startled by a honking vehicle on the narrow roadway. The impact immediately deployed the vehicle’s airbags, which likely prevented serious injury to the driver.

    Miraculously, no patrons or staff members were injured in the incident. “Fortunately, nobody was near the entrance at that moment, and everyone emerged unscathed,” Abbasi confirmed. “The driver appeared shaken but otherwise unharmed.”

    Local authorities responded promptly to the scene, facilitating assistance for both parties involved. The restaurant management indicated that insurance would cover the structural damages, with repairs expected to be completed within a day. Despite the dramatic entrance destruction, Bundoo Khan continued serving customers without interruption.

    This incident echoes a concerning pattern of similar vehicular accidents across the UAE. Historical records reveal multiple instances where drivers confused pedals or lost control, resulting in property damage and occasional injuries. Notable cases include a 2013 Dubai tragedy that claimed three lives when an intoxicated driver crashed into a restaurant kitchen, and a 2016 Ajman incident where a medical episode led to fatal consequences.

    The frequency of these events highlights ongoing challenges with vehicle control in urban environments, particularly in areas with limited parking space and high pedestrian traffic. While this latest incident concluded without physical injuries, it underscores the potential dangers posed by momentary driver confusion in densely populated areas.

  • Watch: Sheikh Hamdan attends launch of first ‘Hewi Dubai’ in Nad Al Sheba

    Watch: Sheikh Hamdan attends launch of first ‘Hewi Dubai’ in Nad Al Sheba

    Dubai has inaugurated its pioneering ‘Hewi’ community project in Nad Al Sheba, marking a significant advancement in urban social development. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Future Foundation, personally attended Wednesday’s launch ceremony.

    The term ‘Hewi,’ derived from Emirati dialect, historically describes the outdoor courtyard area of traditional homes—a vital space for family gatherings, entertainment, and communal interaction. This new initiative reimagines these heritage concepts for contemporary urban living.

    Developed through a strategic collaboration between Dubai Municipality and the Dubai Future Foundation, with support from ‘Ferjan Dubai,’ the project aims to cultivate a new generation of community spaces that reinforce social cohesion. The design philosophy emphasizes strengthening interpersonal bonds, promoting outdoor activities, supporting local family enterprises, and creating inclusive environments that unite residents across all age groups.

    Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the cultural significance of the project, stating: “‘Hewi Dubai’ preserves the legacy of the traditional Emirati ‘fareej’ that previous generations experienced—environments that fundamentally shaped their values and enhanced social unity. Enhancing quality of life for Dubai’s residents remains our paramount priority and the guiding principle behind our initiatives.”

    The Nad Al Sheba installation features several thoughtfully designed zones: ‘Al Decha’ provides a serene gathering space adjacent to the mosque; ‘Al Saaha’ offers flexible indoor-outdoor areas for neighborhood events and celebrations; ‘Al Yalsa’ creates comfortable seating arrangements for parents supervising children; and dedicated walking paths encourage reconnection with natural surroundings.

  • UAE lawmakers call for extending paid maternity leave to 98 days

    UAE lawmakers call for extending paid maternity leave to 98 days

    In a landmark parliamentary session, UAE federal lawmakers have initiated a comprehensive reform of national family policies, advocating for significant expansions to parental support systems. The Federal National Council (FNC) has formally proposed extending paid maternity leave for government employees to 98 days, aligning the nation with international labor standards established by the International Labour Organization.

    The debate, attended by Minister of Family Sana bint Mohammed Suhail, revealed a paradigm shift in approach as legislators emphasized the need for gender-inclusive family support. Muna Hammad, a council member, challenged the traditional focus on maternal support alone, stating: ‘Our empowerment discussions consistently center on women while overlooking the crucial roles men play as fathers, widowers, and household leaders.’ She highlighted the absence of support mechanisms for male domestic abuse victims and widowers, questioning why existing frameworks predominantly assist women.

    Minister Suhail acknowledged these concerns, affirming that future family programs would adopt a holistic household approach rather than targeting specific genders. The proposed reforms extend beyond parental leave to include standardized flexible work arrangements, remote working policies, and protections for caregivers of elderly relatives and people of determination.

    Simultaneously, lawmakers called for substantial revisions to domestic violence legislation, including mandatory psychological assessments before abuse reconciliation and prohibitions on settlements in cases involving children, pregnant women, or repeat offenders. The council further recommended relocating family counseling centers from judicial premises to the Ministry of Family to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help.

    Additional proposals featured an automated federal bereavement allowance for prompt disbursement to widows, guaranteed housing rights for women after spousal death or divorce, and enhanced protections for elderly divorcees facing housing insecurity. Minister Suhail confirmed that all recommendations would undergo thorough review as part of the UAE’s broader initiative to modernize social support systems and strengthen family stability nationwide.

  • Toronto man fakes pilot badge to score hundreds of free flights, officials say

    Toronto man fakes pilot badge to score hundreds of free flights, officials say

    In a case drawing direct parallels to the Hollywood film ‘Catch Me If You Can,’ United States authorities have unsealed charges against a Canadian national accused of orchestrating an elaborate aviation impersonation scheme. Dallas Pokornik, 33, from Toronto, stands accused of masquerading as both a pilot and flight attendant to fraudulently obtain hundreds of free flights over a four-year period.

    According to federal prosecutors, Pokornik utilized a fabricated employee identification card to secure complimentary travel on multiple U.S. carriers. Court documents reveal the audacious nature of his alleged deception, including a specific instance where he requested occupancy of the cockpit ‘jump seat’—a position strictly reserved for off-duty pilots—despite holding no valid airman’s certificate or pilot qualifications.

    The Justice Department indicates the alleged fraud spanned from January 2020 through October 2024, though the current indictment specifically addresses activities during the final ten months of this period. Pokornik, who was apprehended in Panama and subsequently extradited to the United States, now confronts serious wire fraud charges.

    While the implicated airlines remain officially unnamed in legal filings, they are described as being headquartered in Honolulu, Chicago, and Fort Worth, Texas—characteristics that correspond to Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines, respectively.

    Authorities note that Pokornik had legitimate prior industry experience, having worked as a flight attendant for a Canadian carrier between 2017 and 2019. However, prosecutors emphasize he was not employed by any airline during the years of the alleged impersonation scheme.

    The Department of Justice has stated that upon conviction, Pokornik could face a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment alongside fines reaching $250,000. The BBC has reached out to Pokornik’s legal representation for comment regarding these allegations.

  • UAE: Parkonic to revise on-street parking rules in Discovery Gardens for some tenants

    UAE: Parkonic to revise on-street parking rules in Discovery Gardens for some tenants

    Dubai’s parking management operator Parkonic has implemented significant revisions to on-street parking regulations specifically affecting residents of the Zen Cluster within Discovery Gardens. The adjustments come following initial confusion regarding eligibility for complimentary parking permits among studio apartment tenants in this distinctive residential zone.

    The Zen Cluster, alternatively referred to as Pink Buildings (Structures 1-20), maintains a unique parking configuration distinct from other Discovery Gardens sectors due to divergent building ownership patterns and architectural design considerations. These particular buildings fall under private ownership rather than Dubai Holding jurisdiction and feature independently managed basement parking facilities.

    Parkonic officials have clarified that the revised approach does not constitute an alteration of fundamental parking entitlements but rather represents an alignment strategy to accommodate capacity limitations. Each residential unit retains eligibility for one complimentary parking tenancy, consistent with the overarching policy framework applied throughout Discovery Gardens. However, due to basement parking capacity constraints that don’t perfectly correspond with unit numbers, Parkonic has coordinated with building management entities to allocate limited on-street parking spaces per structure.

    The allocation breakdown specifies: Buildings 1-6 and 8-10 receive 80 on-street spaces each; Buildings 13-20 obtain 68 spaces; while Building 7 (functioning as hotel apartments) and Buildings 11-12 remain excluded from the on-street allocation program. These supplementary spaces are intended to bridge capacity gaps during the transitional phase, with access governed through building-level registration protocols to ensure equitable distribution and prevent system exploitation.

    Residents who previously registered via PIN authentication will experience temporary disablement of digital parking cards effective January 24, 2026, to facilitate realignment with the new building-specific allocation framework. The operator has emphasized this procedural interruption does not imply rejection or penalty. Furthermore, tenants who purchased paid parking memberships during the transition may qualify for one-time refund consideration, subject to verification and management coordination, with all refund petitions requiring submission before January 30, 2026.

    Tenant responses reflect cautious optimism, with residents expressing relief tempered by practical concerns regarding implementation specifics. The resolution addresses financial anxieties for many tenants for whom the alternative monthly payment of Dh945 would have represented significant economic burden.

  • ‘Dubai is one family’: How virtual sign language lesson sent message of inclusion

    ‘Dubai is one family’: How virtual sign language lesson sent message of inclusion

    Dubai has orchestrated a groundbreaking global event by hosting the world’s largest unified virtual sign language lesson, transforming a record attempt into a powerful demonstration of social inclusion. The initiative, part of the ‘Dubai Communicates in Sign Language’ program launched under Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s leadership, brought together thousands of participants across generations and professions to learn Emirati Sign Language fundamentals.

    Beyond its scale, the event served as a profound statement about unity and practical integration. Organized by the Community Development Authority, the session attracted diverse participants ranging from students to government officials and senior citizens, all united in their commitment to bridge communication gaps. ‘This is Dubai’s message to the world: we are one family that celebrates our differences while taking pride in every member,’ explained a CDA representative.

    The initiative resonated particularly strongly with younger generations. Lily, an 11th-grade student at Al Mawakeb Al Barsha school, expressed her conviction that ‘learning sign language empowers us to give voice to those who cannot hear or speak.’ Her classmate Sarah Qassem described how the experience ignited her desire to understand deaf communication more deeply.

    For public sector professionals, the training offered immediate practical applications. Senior Sergeant Hessa Al Bloushi of Dubai Police, who holds a two-year diploma in sign language, emphasized its critical importance in security operations, particularly at airport facilities. She and colleague Senior Sergeant Khadija Ghulam now aspire to become certified sign language instructors themselves.

    This pioneering effort aligns with the broader objectives of Dubai Social Agenda 33 and the emirate’s comprehensive strategy for social empowerment. By transforming an educational initiative into a city-wide movement, Dubai continues to reinforce its status as a global leader in creating inclusive communities. The virtual lesson not only taught practical communication skills but also fostered deeper understanding, building invisible bridges that strengthen the social fabric of this forward-thinking metropolis.

  • Watch: Animal lovers save ‘malnourished’ dog stranded on ten-lane Abu Dhabi highway

    Watch: Animal lovers save ‘malnourished’ dog stranded on ten-lane Abu Dhabi highway

    In a remarkable display of community solidarity, animal welfare advocates successfully rescued an severely malnourished Saluki dog stranded on a perilous ten-lane highway in Abu Dhabi’s Al Shawamekh area. The rescue operation, which unfolded on Tuesday afternoon, involved multiple volunteers coordinating efforts to save the endangered canine from traffic moving at speeds exceeding 140km/h.

    The dog, subsequently named Shamekh (Arabic for ‘one who stands tall with dignity, pride, and resilience’), was discovered in critical condition. Veterinary examination revealed severe malnutrition with a body weight of just 15.7kg, anemia, tick fever, ear infections, and visible scars indicating possible trauma. The absence of a microchip suggests the animal had been abandoned.

    Rawan Ghunaim, founder of rescue organization House of Hounds (HOH), spearheaded the coordinated response after being alerted by fellow rescuer Majeda Al Hosani, who initially spotted the dog during her commute. Al Hosani maintained vigil for over two hours to ensure the dog’s safety until experienced Saluki handler Hamad Al Ghanem arrived to execute the actual rescue. The operation was captured on video showing Al Ghanem calmly approaching and comforting the frightened animal before transporting him to the British Veterinary Clinic in Abu Dhabi.

    This incident highlights a disturbing trend in the UAE regarding the treatment of Salukis, a breed traditionally valued as hunting companions and family members. According to Ghunaim, who rescues two to three Salukis daily, many are now abandoned on highways, deserts, or near farms when they’re no longer deemed useful for racing or beauty contests. This represents a significant cultural shift from historical practices where these dogs were respected and integrated into family life.

    Despite their calm, low-maintenance nature often compared to cats, Salukis face adoption challenges within the UAE. Many rescued dogs consequently find homes in Europe through HOH’s international adoption program. The organization, registered as a non-profit in Europe and the United States, facilitates these transfers to families more familiar with the breed’s characteristics.

    Shamekh remains under veterinary care while awaiting eventual placement in a suitable permanent home, representing both a successful rescue story and a sobering reminder of ongoing animal welfare challenges in the region.

  • Why Sydney is preserving thousands of flowers after deadly Bondi attack

    Why Sydney is preserving thousands of flowers after deadly Bondi attack

    In a powerful response to tragedy, Sydney’s Jewish community institutions have spearheaded an effort to preserve the spontaneous memorial created after December’s devastating Bondi Beach attack that claimed 15 lives. What began as a vacant shopfront on a central Sydney avenue—outwardly appearing abandoned with plastic-covered windows and padlocked doors—has transformed into a sacred repository for countless tributes left by a grieving nation.

    Inside the makeshift space, carefully organized within masking-tape squares on the floor, rest poignant mementos: cuddly toys, candles, handwritten messages of hope, and particularly touching symbols honoring the youngest victim, 10-year-old Matilda Bee. Dozens of knitted bees and deflated foil bee balloons create a special section dedicated to her memory. The collection also includes traditional Jewish mourning stones placed instead of flowers, alongside flags, books, and even unexpected items like a Barbie cracker.

    The Sydney Jewish Museum and Australian Jewish Historical Society intervened when learning the original memorial faced removal by local authorities. Senior curator Shannon Biederman, whose personal connection to the tragedy runs deep—having nearly attended the targeted Chanukah by the Sea festival and knowing victim Rabbi Eli Schlanger—described the preservation as both professional and profoundly personal. ‘I’m used to working with history,’ she noted, ‘but this is now.’

    Meanwhile, an equally massive undertaking continues at a North Sydney warehouse where volunteers face the emotional and logistical challenge of preserving approximately three tons of floral tributes. Jewish artist Nina Sanadze, overseeing the operation, described the initial sight of flower-filled black bags as resembling ‘100 bodies.’ Volunteers work methodically, hanging blooms on hastily sourced metal fences while wearing masks against overwhelming pollen and moisture.

    The preservation process has presented unique challenges, including concerns about compost fires from decomposing flowers. Yet volunteers find therapeutic purpose in their work, transforming decay into meaning. Sanadze has created resin artworks incorporating salvaged petals, describing the pieces as containing ‘decay and sadness as well as beauty.’ Her proposed title for the memorial effort, ‘Petal by Petal,’ reflects both the meticulous preservation work and the gradual emotional processing of trauma.

    As Australia prepares to honor victims with nationwide landmarks illuminated in solidarity and a moment of silence, the conversation has shifted toward unity and healing. The community emphasizes performing ‘mitzvah’—acts of kindness—as a healing tradition. While final decisions about a permanent memorial remain with a dedicated committee, the preserved items will serve as powerful testament to a nation’s collective grief and resilience.

  • Maccabi Tel Aviv ban policing review failed to include local Muslim voices

    Maccabi Tel Aviv ban policing review failed to include local Muslim voices

    A preliminary investigation by Britain’s policing watchdog into the controversial ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending a match against Aston Villa has ignited significant controversy due to its complete exclusion of Muslim community perspectives. Andy Cooke, Chief Inspector of Constabulary, submitted a report to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood that included twenty interviews with prominent figures but notably omitted any representatives from Birmingham’s Muslim community, despite Muslims constituting approximately 30% of the city’s population.

    The report’s findings prompted Home Secretary Mahmood to declare she had ‘no confidence’ in West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford, resulting in his immediate retirement. Cooke’s investigation reviewed police intelligence that justified prohibiting Maccabi supporters from the Europa League fixture at Villa Park in November.

    Among those interviewed were diplomatic representatives from the Israeli embassy, the Jewish Representative Council for Birmingham and West Midlands, and Lord Mann, the government’s independent adviser on antisemitism. However, no Muslim community groups or mosque leaders were consulted, despite the significant Muslim population in the region.

    A source familiar with the investigation revealed to Middle East Eye that Cooke’s team had indeed interviewed Muslim community groups but could not include their perspectives due to ‘tight’ deadlines imposed by the Home Office for the preliminary report. The source indicated these interviews would be included in subsequent updates.

    Birmingham Perry Barr MP Ayoub Khan, whose constituency includes Villa Park stadium, expressed profound disappointment that Cooke’s team had not contacted him or local councillors. ‘British Muslims are treated as expendable,’ Khan stated. ‘That is how Muslims on the ground in Birmingham feel at the moment, and there is deep grievance about it.’

    Jewish Voice for Liberation, a group representing Jews critical of Israel, also voiced concerns regarding the lack of Muslim representation in the report. In a letter to West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster, representatives David Mond and Jenny Manson expressed being ‘surprised and dismayed’ by the omission.

    The controversy stems from West Midlands Police’s decision to ban Maccabi fans based on intelligence from Dutch police regarding the conduct of approximately 200 supporters described as ‘experienced fighters’ who wreaked havoc in Amsterdam during a November 2024 match. Police assessments concluded the most significant violence risk came from extremist fans of the Israeli club, with documents characterizing them as ‘highly organized’ and ‘intent on causing serious violence.’

    Chief Constable Guildford had previously defended the ban as a ‘necessary tactic with a legitimate aim, absolutely not antisemitic, rather a carefully considered, legitimate and necessary measure to ensure public safety.’ He acknowledged that part of the evidence justifying the ban, including reference to a nonexistent match against West Ham, was erroneously obtained using artificial intelligence.