分类: world

  • Oman extends residency card validity to 10 years under new decision

    Oman extends residency card validity to 10 years under new decision

    In a significant move aimed at enhancing residency regulations, Oman has announced the extension of residency card validity from three years to a decade. This decision, issued under Decision 157/2025, amends the Executive Regulations of the Civil Status Law and applies to specific categories as defined by the Director General. Cardholders are required to renew their residency within 30 days of issuance. The annual fee for the residency card remains at 5 Omani riyals, while replacement cards will cost 20 Omani riyals. This development follows Oman’s recent introduction of a visa amnesty scheme, effective until December 31, 2025. The scheme allows visa violators to regularize their status or settle fines. According to the Royal Oman Police, foreign nationals seeking to renew their residence permits or transfer employment within Oman will be exempt from fines related to expired permits, provided their status is verified by the Ministry of Labour. Similarly, those wishing to leave Oman permanently will be exempt from fines tied to non-work-related visa terminations. These measures reflect Oman’s efforts to streamline immigration processes and support foreign residents.

  • Investigators blame bad weather for helicopter crash that killed two ministers in Ghana

    Investigators blame bad weather for helicopter crash that killed two ministers in Ghana

    A devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Ghana’s Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, and six others has been attributed to adverse weather conditions and outdated aviation systems, according to an investigative committee. The Z9 military helicopter, en route from Accra to Obuasi in August, crashed in a dense forest, leaving no survivors. The two-month investigation revealed that the aircraft experienced a ‘downdraft,’ a downward air current, causing it to lose altitude and lift. While the helicopter was deemed airworthy, the report highlighted the lack of modern safety and navigational systems, such as the terrain awareness and warning system (TAWS), which could have alerted the pilots to potential ground collisions. Captain Paul Forjoe, a retired commercial pilot and aviation engineer who led the investigation, emphasized the need for modernizing the Ghana Air Force fleet. The probe was conducted by Ghanaian authorities with assistance from US aviation experts and the Chinese manufacturer of the helicopter. The passengers were traveling to Obuasi for an event addressing illegal mining. An eyewitness reported the helicopter was flying at an unusually low altitude before the crash, describing hearing a loud sound followed by a bang. Upon reaching the scene, the witness found no survivors. The incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced aviation safety measures in Ghana.

  • Fog helps Russian forces push deeper into key Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk

    Fog helps Russian forces push deeper into key Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk

    In a strategic maneuver facilitated by dense fog, Russian forces have intensified their advance into the key Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk, located in the eastern Donetsk region. The adverse weather conditions have significantly reduced visibility, hampering Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance efforts and allowing Russian troops to move more freely. According to Ukraine’s 7th Airborne Assault Corps, the fog has enabled Moscow to deploy additional forces into the city, aiming to encircle Ukrainian defenders. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the challenging situation, noting that the weather has favored Russian military operations. A viral video on social media shows Russian soldiers driving through the foggy outskirts of Pokrovsk on civilian vehicles, a tactic made possible by the lack of Ukrainian drone surveillance. The BBC verified the location of the footage as the southern outskirts of the city. A Ukrainian drone pilot, known by the call-sign ‘Goose,’ revealed that the fog has severely limited their ability to monitor and intercept Russian movements. Despite repelling some attacks, Ukrainian forces face significant challenges in maintaining control over the city, which is now largely a contested ‘grey zone.’ Russian troops are reportedly attempting to encircle Pokrovsk and neighboring Myrnohrad, cutting off logistical routes and targeting Ukrainian supply lines with drones and ground infiltrations. Ukrainian military analyst Kostyantyn Mashovets highlighted the effectiveness of Russian infiltration tactics, which include disguising soldiers as locals or Ukrainian troops to sow chaos. Meanwhile, Russian forces are also pushing on other fronts, including Kupyansk in the northeast and Zaporizhzhya in the south, although Ukrainian officials deny claims of encirclement in these areas. The situation remains fluid, with both sides engaged in intense combat as the conflict continues to escalate.

  • Fact check: Red Fort blast in Delhi not confirmed to be CNG explosion

    Fact check: Red Fort blast in Delhi not confirmed to be CNG explosion

    A devastating car explosion near Delhi’s historic Red Fort has left at least 12 people dead, sparking widespread concern and heightened security measures across India. Contrary to claims circulating on social media, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) has officially denied that the blast was caused by a CNG cylinder explosion. The incident, which occurred on November 11, 2025, is currently under investigation by national security agencies, including the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the National Security Guard (NSG).

    Initial reports from a popular social media account, TeamSaathOfficial, suggested that the explosion was a tragic accident rather than a terror attack. The account, which has over 100,000 followers, cited an alleged confirmation from Special CP Ravindra Yadav of the Delhi Police. However, no official statement from the Delhi Police has corroborated this claim. TeamSaathOfficial later deleted the post and issued a public apology, urging followers to verify information from reliable sources before sharing.

    In response to the incident, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to deliver justice for the victims and extended his condolences to the affected families. The owner of the car involved in the explosion, along with two associates, has been arrested. Meanwhile, the Archaeological Survey of India has announced that the Red Fort will remain closed until November 13 to facilitate the ongoing investigation.

    Security has been significantly tightened across the country, with police checkpoints established in various cities and airports issuing advisories to passengers. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has chaired a high-level security meeting to address the situation. The incident has also prompted a broader discussion on the responsible use of social media and artificial intelligence, as misinformation continues to spread rapidly in the aftermath of such events.

  • ‘There was a state of terror’: Sudan hospital worker describes fleeing before alleged massacre

    ‘There was a state of terror’: Sudan hospital worker describes fleeing before alleged massacre

    In the wake of a devastating conflict in Sudan, Abdu-Rabbu Ahmed, a laboratory technician at the Saudi Maternity Hospital in el-Fasher, has shared his harrowing experiences with the BBC. Ahmed, who fled to a displaced persons camp in Tawila, 70 kilometers west of el-Fasher, described the loss of his colleagues and the pervasive sense of despair that now engulfs him. ‘I have lost the people whose faces I used to see smiling… It feels as if you lost a big part of your body or your soul,’ he lamented.

  • Modi says those behind Delhi blast that killed eight ‘will not be spared’

    Modi says those behind Delhi blast that killed eight ‘will not be spared’

    A devastating car explosion near Delhi’s iconic Red Fort has left at least eight people dead and several others injured, prompting a swift response from Indian authorities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation on Tuesday, assured that those responsible for the attack “will not be spared.” The explosion occurred on Monday evening near a metro station adjacent to the Red Fort, a historic landmark in the Indian capital. Modi revealed that he is in close contact with investigative agencies, emphasizing their commitment to uncovering the full extent of the conspiracy. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken charge of the case under anti-terror laws, though the police have yet to disclose specific reasons for the transfer. Home Minister Amit Shah convened a high-level security meeting with senior officials, pledging to explore all possibilities in the investigation. Shah also vowed to bring every perpetrator to justice, stating on social media platform X that he has directed officials to “hunt down each and every culprit.” Among the victims was Lokesh Agrawal, a shop owner from Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, who was visiting Delhi to meet a hospitalized relative. His brother, Sonu Agrawal, recounted the tragic events to the press. The Red Fort has been closed for three days as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, neighboring states, including Uttar Pradesh and Mumbai, have been placed on high alert. International leaders from Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Nepal have extended their condolences to India in the wake of the tragedy. Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha confirmed that the explosion occurred when a slow-moving car stopped at a traffic signal before detonating.

  • Blast in Islamabad injures at least 8, says police spokesperson

    Blast in Islamabad injures at least 8, says police spokesperson

    A powerful explosion occurred outside a local court in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Tuesday, resulting in injuries to at least eight individuals, according to a police spokesperson. The incident, which took place in the heart of the Pakistani capital, has raised concerns about security in the region. Authorities have yet to release detailed information regarding the cause of the blast or the identities of those injured. The explosion has prompted immediate investigations, with law enforcement agencies working to determine the nature of the incident and whether it was an act of terrorism or an accidental event. This incident adds to the growing list of security challenges faced by Pakistan, which has been grappling with various forms of violence and instability in recent years. The local community has expressed shock and concern, urging the government to enhance security measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.

  • Red Fort to be closed for 3 days after Delhi blast

    Red Fort to be closed for 3 days after Delhi blast

    In the wake of a catastrophic car explosion near Delhi’s historic Red Fort, the iconic monument will remain closed for three days, from November 11 to 13, as authorities intensify their investigation. The Archaeological Survey of India confirmed the closure following a formal request from law enforcement agencies. The blast, which claimed at least 12 lives, has sent shockwaves across the nation, prompting heightened security measures nationwide. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has vowed that the perpetrators will face severe consequences, assuring victims’ families that justice will be served. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a state visit to Bhutan, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that those responsible will be held accountable. The National Security Guard (NSG) and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) have been deployed to the site, with the car owner and two associates already in custody. Delhi has issued a travel alert, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah has convened a high-level security meeting to address the crisis. Police have escalated security checks across the city, inspecting vehicles at numerous checkpoints. The incident has underscored the urgent need for robust national security measures.

  • Join the global efforts against climate change, says UAE

    Join the global efforts against climate change, says UAE

    The Belém Climate Summit, held on November 6-7, 2025, in the Brazilian Amazon, marked a pivotal moment in the global fight against climate change. Convened by Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the event brought together heads of state, ministers, and international leaders to address pressing environmental challenges and solidify commitments to sustainability. Representing the UAE, Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, and Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Nature, underscored the nation’s leadership in climate action. Dr. Al Dahak delivered the UAE’s national statement, emphasizing transparency and the inclusion of all six greenhouse gases in the country’s climate reporting. She highlighted the UAE’s comprehensive efforts, including clean energy projects, agricultural transformation, and infrastructure initiatives, as a model for global sustainability. The minister urged nations to enhance their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and embrace adaptation indicators to measure collective progress. Razan Al Mubarak, at the launch of the Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF), reiterated the UAE’s commitment to halting deforestation by 2030, a goal aligned with the COP28 UAE Consensus. The summit also focused on energy transition, with Dr. Al Dahak advocating for universal energy access and security while reaffirming the UAE’s pledge to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C. The event served as a precursor to COP30, set to take place in Belém from November 6-21, 2025, where global leaders will discuss progress on climate finance and NDCs.

  • UN, partners feed over 1 mln people in Gaza since ceasefire: senior official

    UN, partners feed over 1 mln people in Gaza since ceasefire: senior official

    In a significant humanitarian effort, the United Nations and its partners have successfully provided food to over 1 million people in the Gaza Strip since the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect one month ago. Tom Fletcher, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, emphasized the ongoing commitment to saving lives and addressing critical needs in the region. Since the ceasefire on October 10, 2025, essential services have been restored, including the reopening of nutrition sites, increased hospital capacity, road clearance, and the resumption of vital immunization programs. Additionally, water lines have been repaired, and winter clothing, blankets, and mental health services have been distributed. Despite these efforts, challenges persist, including bureaucratic hurdles, limited access, and sporadic security incidents. UN teams continue to coordinate movements with Israeli authorities, though obstacles remain. Over the weekend, reports of shelling and navy fire were noted, albeit at reduced levels compared to pre-ceasefire conditions. The UN has also launched a catch-up campaign for routine immunization and nutrition, targeting 44,000 children who missed earlier vaccinations. Water trucking services have been expanded to 2,000 locations across Gaza, ensuring access to clean water for many.