Global Pulse

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  • Global flame-grilled sensation Galito’s ignites UAE expansion

    Global flame-grilled sensation Galito’s ignites UAE expansion

    Twin crises have struck Asia with devastating force, as catastrophic flooding in Indonesia claims hundreds of lives while India’s aviation sector faces urgent safety concerns.

    In Indonesia, rescue operations continue amid one of the deadliest flood disasters in recent memory. The national disaster agency confirmed the death toll has surpassed 200 victims, with many more injured or missing. Torrential rainfall triggered flash floods that submerged entire communities, destroyed critical infrastructure, and displaced thousands of residents. Emergency response teams are battling challenging conditions to deliver aid and locate survivors, while meteorological warnings suggest further precipitation could hamper recovery efforts.

    Simultaneously, India’s aviation regulator has issued a sweeping directive affecting the country’s commercial airline operations. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has mandated that all domestic carriers immediately cease operations of Airbus A320 family aircraft until specific modifications are completed. This emergency measure follows emerging safety concerns regarding potential system vulnerabilities that require urgent addressing. The grounding affects numerous flights across India’s aviation network, potentially disrupting travel for thousands of passengers until compliance is verified.

    The dual emergencies highlight contrasting yet equally critical aspects of disaster management—responding to sudden natural catastrophes while proactively addressing technological safety concerns before they escalate into human tragedies.

  • Gaza nurse held by Israel says she was abducted by Abu Shabab gang

    Gaza nurse held by Israel says she was abducted by Abu Shabab gang

    A recently released Palestinian medical worker has provided a harrowing account of her alleged abduction and subsequent detention by Israeli authorities, revealing claims of systematic pressure tactics and mistreatment targeting healthcare professionals and their families.

    Tasneem al-Hams, a 22-year-old nurse from Gaza, regained her freedom in Khan Younis on Thursday following nearly two months in Israeli custody. According to her testimony to local media, her ordeal began when members of the Israel-backed Popular Forces militia—commonly known as the Abu Shabab gang—seized her from a medical facility in southern Gaza where she worked.

    “I was abducted by Yasser Abu Shabab’s group, then they handed me over to the Israelis east of Khan Younis,” al-Hams stated, describing a transfer that allegedly placed her directly into military custody.

    The young nurse’s detention appears connected to her father’s earlier capture. Dr. Marwan al-Hams, who oversees field medical operations throughout Gaza, was reportedly taken by undercover Israeli special forces three months prior to his daughter’s abduction. During her imprisonment, Tasneem alleges she was deliberately used as leverage against her father during interrogation sessions, noting they had only minimal contact despite being held at the same Ashkelon prison facility.

    Her account details transfers between multiple detention centers, including Damon Prison, where she reportedly witnessed deteriorating conditions for female detainees. She described practices including forced removal of religious garments, chemical agent exposure, nutritional deprivation, and physical violence resulting in serious injuries among prisoners.

    These allegations emerge amid broader concerns regarding Israel’s treatment of Palestinian detainees. According to Palestinian health officials, over 1,500 medical workers have been killed and 360 detained since the conflict’s escalation. Rights organizations have documented systematic abuses in detention facilities, with healthcare professionals reportedly facing particularly severe treatment.

    The Israeli military has alleged Dr. al-Hams maintains connections to Hamas and possesses knowledge regarding a deceased soldier’s remains—claims that remain unverified by independent sources. The release of Tasneem al-Hams coincides with recent ceasefire negotiations and prisoner exchanges, though she continues advocating for her father’s freedom and that of approximately 50 female detainees she encountered during her imprisonment.

  • EasyWill launches the UAE’s first AI-powered digital will platform

    EasyWill launches the UAE’s first AI-powered digital will platform

    The United Arab Emirates has entered a new era of digital legal services with the groundbreaking launch of EasyWill, the region’s first fully AI-driven platform for creating and registering wills online. This innovative solution transforms traditional estate planning into a streamlined digital experience that combines artificial intelligence with comprehensive legal expertise.

    Developed through a collaboration of Emirati and Italian technological expertise, EasyWill addresses a growing need among UAE residents who are increasingly acquiring assets such as real estate properties. The platform’s timing coincides with reported increases in will registrations, with DIFC Courts Wills Service documenting a 14 percent rise during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.

    At the core of EasyWill’s functionality is an artificial intelligence system specifically trained on UAE federal laws and inheritance regulations. This sophisticated technology guides users through a step-by-step process to draft legally compliant documents that automatically meet all requirements of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department. The platform eliminates traditional barriers including legal consultation fees, translation costs, and mandatory court appearances.

    Alessandro Console, co-founder and CEO of EasyWill, emphasized the platform’s transformative potential: “EasyWill represents a milestone in digital legal innovation, empowering individuals to protect their assets with unprecedented ease and confidence. Our mission centers on making estate planning accessible, transparent, and fully aligned with UAE legislation.”

    The platform’s multilingual interface and direct court submission capability address critical concerns regarding inheritance rules that may not always reflect individual preferences. By facilitating will registration through the Abu Dhabi Civil Court, EasyWill ensures testators’ intentions are formally recognized and legally binding.

    Early industry response has been notably positive, with significant interest from real estate firms, banking institutions, and property developers seeking to integrate the platform into their client service offerings. EasyWill’s emergence aligns with the UAE’s broader digital transformation initiatives and represents a significant advancement in the region’s legal technology landscape.

    This pioneering digital solution promises to redefine estate planning standards across the Middle East by offering secure, efficient, and fully compliant legacy protection through cutting-edge technology.

  • UAE: Heading to Jebel Jais? Take the new Yellow Route

    UAE: Heading to Jebel Jais? Take the new Yellow Route

    Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) has inaugurated a novel weekend public transit solution designed to enhance accessibility to the emirate’s premier mountainous destination. The ‘Yellow Route’ service, launched on November 28, 2025, establishes a critical transportation link between coastal tourism centers and Jebel Jais peak, operating exclusively from Fridays through Sundays until April 2026.

    Developed through strategic partnership with master developer Marjan, this initiative represents a significant advancement in Ras Al Khaimah’s public infrastructure under the broader Transport Master Plan 2030. The route originates at Al Jazirah Al Hamra, traverses the luxurious Al Marjan Island district, and culminates at Jebel Jais, connecting fourteen major tourist attractions and hospitality establishments along its path.

    Service operations maintain three-hour intervals between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM, with the final return departure scheduled from Jebel Jais at 9:00 PM. Notable stops include premium hotels such as Sofitel Al Hamra Beach Resort, Waldorf Astoria, Rixos Bab Al Bahr, and Radisson Resort Ras Al Khaimah Marjan Island, alongside adventure destinations like Bear Grylls Explorers Camp and the panoramic 1484 by Puro restaurant.

    The fleet features technologically advanced buses equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, real-time GPS tracking integrated with the Smart Control and Monitoring Center, electronic payment systems, and trip monitoring capabilities through the Sayr mobile application. These amenities collectively elevate passenger experience while optimizing operational efficiency.

    This transportation solution provides residents and visitors with a secure, economical, and comfortable mobility alternative that supports the emirate’s sustainable tourism objectives and reduces environmental impact through consolidated travel options.

  • Global community expresses condolences, offers help to Hong Kong fire victims

    Global community expresses condolences, offers help to Hong Kong fire victims

    A catastrophic fire that erupted on November 26, 2025, at Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district has drawn an outpouring of international sympathy and support. The blaze, which consumed seven of eight apartment blocks in the residential complex built in 1983, has resulted in 128 confirmed fatalities as of November 28.

    The international response has been swift and comprehensive. Over thirty governments, including their consular representatives in Hong Kong, have extended formal condolences to the victims’ families while expressing solidarity with the injured and affected communities. Russian President Vladimir Putin conveyed his sympathies through an official Kremlin statement, while Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese personally addressed the tragedy during a press conference, stating: ‘My heart goes out to the people who have lost their lives and the people who are searching and concerned about loved ones.’

    Harvey Rouse, head of the European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao SARs, specifically commended the emergency responders, expressing support for Hong Kong’s firefighters, paramedics, and medical personnel battling the aftermath.

    Migrant communities, particularly affected due to the dense concentration of foreign domestic workers in the area, have received targeted assistance. The Philippine Consulate General reported one injured national and one missing among 24 confirmed safe Filipinos, while Indonesian authorities established emergency hotlines and coordination mechanisms with local agencies. Various migrant support organizations including the Mission For Migrant Workers, Bethune House Migrant Women’s Refuge, and the International Migrants Alliance have established on-ground operations at Kwong Fuk Estate Podium providing medical aid, psychological counseling, and temporary shelter arrangements.

    The International Social Service Hong Kong Branch has activated cross-border support mechanisms for affected families who were on the Chinese mainland during the incident, establishing a special relief fund and deploying ethnic minority outreach teams to address language and cultural barriers in assistance distribution.

  • India starts sending tax reminders to UAE-based expat property owners to avoid penalties

    India starts sending tax reminders to UAE-based expat property owners to avoid penalties

    The Indian Income Tax Department has initiated a comprehensive compliance campaign targeting expatriates residing in the UAE who maintain property holdings and financial assets abroad. Beginning November 28, 2025, thousands of Indian citizens will receive direct SMS and email notifications urging them to accurately declare all foreign assets in their tax returns by December 31, 2025, or face severe financial penalties.

    This second phase of the Central Board of Direct Taxes’ (CBDT) ‘Nudge’ campaign leverages financial intelligence shared by over 100 jurisdictions through the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) and the US Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA). The department has identified approximately 25,000 high-risk taxpayers whose declared foreign assets in Assessment Year 2025-26 don’t align with data obtained through Automatic Exchange of Information mechanisms.

    Notably, this initiative specifically excludes Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) who are not classified as Indian tax residents and consequently don’t file Income Tax Returns in India. These individuals remain exempt from foreign asset declaration requirements and won’t receive compliance alerts.

    The financial consequences for non-compliance are substantial: a fixed penalty of ₹1 million (approximately Dh41,000) for failure to report assets, coupled with 30% taxation on any unreported income and potential penalties reaching 300% of the outstanding tax due.

    Indian media reports indicate Dubai has emerged as a particular focus area following recent enforcement actions in Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune that uncovered millions in undisclosed assets linked to UAE holdings. This increased scrutiny coincides with India’s position as the leading source of foreign property investment in Dubai, accounting for 22% of all transactions in 2024 with estimated investments of Dh150 billion.

    Tax professionals emphasize that enhanced information-sharing protocols between India and the UAE have created unprecedented transparency. Financial accounts, investment products, and business holdings in the Emirates now fall within clear visibility of Indian authorities through the CRS network.

    The CBDT has additionally engaged corporate entities and professional organizations, including the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, to broaden awareness about mandatory disclosure requirements. Many individuals may lack awareness of their obligations regarding offshore asset declarations.

    Recipients of compliance alerts are advised to immediately access the Income Tax portal, meticulously review their returns for Assessment Year 2025-26, carefully examine Schedule FA (Foreign Assets) and Schedule FSI (Foreign Source Income), and submit revised declarations before the December 31 deadline to avoid escalating penalties.

  • UK academic honour: Kumar Mangalam Birla awarded Doctor of Science by University of London

    UK academic honour: Kumar Mangalam Birla awarded Doctor of Science by University of London

    In a ceremony steeped in British academic tradition, the University of London awarded its esteemed Doctor of Science (Economics) degree to Indian industrialist and philanthropist Kumar Mangalam Birla. The historic Foundation Day event, held at the iconic Senate House, was presided over by University Chancellor Princess Anne, who presented the honor with full ceremonial pageantry.

    This recognition stands as one of the United Kingdom’s most distinguished academic accolades. The University’s Foundation Day commemorates its 1836 royal charter while celebrating over a century of scholarly excellence and public service contributions. The annual event has gained renown for honoring individuals whose accomplishments have generated substantial societal impact, with previous recipients including heads of state, Nobel laureates, pioneering intellectuals, and transformative cultural figures.

    The University of London occupies a unique position within global higher education as the convening body for a federation of world-class institutions including the London School of Economics, London Business School, King’s College London, and SOAS University. This places the university at the intellectual core of one of the world’s premier academic ecosystems, making its honors particularly significant in recognizing global leadership and achievement.

  • Xi calls for promoting volunteer spirit to serve national rejuvenation

    Xi calls for promoting volunteer spirit to serve national rejuvenation

    President Xi Jinping has issued a compelling call to elevate the spirit of volunteerism as a fundamental force in China’s comprehensive modernization efforts. The message was delivered through a formal congratulatory letter to the third national congress of the China Volunteer Service Federation, emphasizing volunteer service as crucial to achieving national rejuvenation.

    Serving simultaneously as General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, Xi articulated a vision where volunteer efforts directly contribute to building a ‘great modern socialist country in all respects.’ The statement positions volunteerism not merely as charitable activity but as an organized movement aligned with national development goals.

    This endorsement comes at a significant moment for China’s volunteer service infrastructure, represented by the Federation’s congress which serves as a key platform for strategy development and recognition of voluntary contributions nationwide. The message reinforces the government’s support for institutionalizing volunteer efforts that address social needs while advancing broader national objectives.

    The emphasis on volunteer spirit reflects an understanding of social participation as essential to comprehensive national development, suggesting increased policy attention and resource allocation toward organized volunteer initiatives across Chinese society.

  • Daughter of Zambia’s unburied ex-president loses seat as MP

    Daughter of Zambia’s unburied ex-president loses seat as MP

    Zambia’s parliamentary leadership has officially vacated the parliamentary seat of Tasila Lungu, daughter of late former President Edgar Lungu, following her extended absence during a period of mourning and ongoing legal battles. The decision has ignited fierce political controversy and accusations of governmental hypocrisy.

    Ms. Lungu, who represented the Chawama constituency for the opposition Patriotic Front, had been absent from legislative duties since the passing of her father in June. The situation originates from a deeply contentious dispute between the Lungu family and current President Hakainde Hichilema regarding the repatriation and burial arrangements for the former leader.

    The parliamentary process unfolded over several months despite initial accommodations. Speaker Nelly Mutti initially granted a 14-day compassionate leave period in July, with expectations that Ms. Lungu would return when parliament reconvened in September. When she failed to resume duties, further extensions were requested as the family continued legal proceedings in South African courts regarding burial arrangements.

    The parliamentary Committee on Privileges and Absences attempted to find a compromise by suggesting virtual participation until the burial matter was resolved. However, Speaker Mutti firmly rejected this proposal, asserting that physical representation remains indispensable for parliamentary responsibilities.

    The ruling United Party for National Development initiated the action against Ms. Lungu’s seat, with MP Brian Kambita questioning her eligibility due to prolonged absence. The move has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures, including Independent MP Binwell Mpundu, who publicly denounced the government as ‘hypocrites’ for claiming solidarity with the grieving family while simultaneously pursuing legal action against them.

    In response to her removal, Ms. Lungu hinted at a potential challenge to the decision, telling constituents in a Facebook message that ‘where there is a will there is a way.’ She expressed gratitude to her local team for maintaining constituency services during her absence.

    The vacancy triggers a by-election that must be conducted within 90 days, creating an unexpected electoral contest just months before Zambia’s scheduled general election next August. The decision has divided public opinion, with some arguing for compassion during bereavement while others maintain that constituents deserve active representation.

  • Cyclone Ditwah kills 46 in Sri Lanka, leaves 23 missing as rescue efforts continue

    Cyclone Ditwah kills 46 in Sri Lanka, leaves 23 missing as rescue efforts continue

    Sri Lanka is confronting a severe humanitarian and environmental crisis in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, which made landfall on Friday. Official figures from the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) confirm a tragic toll of 46 fatalities, with an additional 23 individuals reported missing as intensive search and rescue missions continue.

    The cyclone’s most devastating impact stemmed from catastrophic landslides, triggered by torrential rainfall that dumped over 300 mm (11.8 inches) of water on the island nation within a 24-hour period. The eastern and central provinces bore the brunt of the destruction. Nationwide, the scale of displacement is significant, with emergency services evacuating nearly 44,000 citizens to public shelters, including schools. In the most severely affected villages, families were left stranded on rooftops, awaiting assistance.

    Infrastructure and public life have been severely disrupted. All schools have been shuttered, national train services are suspended, and the Colombo Stock Exchange halted trading early in response to the ongoing severe weather. Brigadier S. Dharmawickrema, Emergency Operations Director at the DMC, outlined the challenges faced by rescue teams, noting that access to some isolated villages remains impossible due to roads blocked by landslides.

    The crisis has also impacted international travel. The Sri Lankan government has announced contingency plans to divert flights from the primary Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) to airports in South India, such as Trivandrum and Cochin, should conditions deteriorate further. Local media has already reported the diversion of several international flights originating from hubs including Dubai, Muscat, New Delhi, and Bangkok.

    With meteorological departments warning that the storm could intensify as it moves across the island, authorities are racing against time to reach all affected populations and mitigate further disaster.