The upcoming Harry Potter TV series has been generating significant excitement since its announcement, and the anticipation has only grown with the recent revelation that Daniel Radcliffe, the original Harry Potter, has reached out to the new lead actor, Dominic McLaughlin. Radcliffe, who famously portrayed the iconic character in the film franchise, shared during an appearance on Good Morning America that he wrote a letter to McLaughlin after the young actor was cast in the role. ‘I wouldn’t say that anyone who is going to play Harry has to [reach out to me], but I know a few people working on the production. I wrote to Dominic and sent him a letter, and he sent me a very sweet note back,’ Radcliffe told Variety. He emphasized that he doesn’t want to overshadow the new cast but simply wanted to offer his support. ‘I just wanted to write to him to say, ‘I hope you have the best time, and an even better time than I did—I had a great time, but I hope you have an even better time.’ Radcliffe also expressed his admiration for the young cast, saying, ‘I just see these pictures of him and the other kids, and I just want to hug them. They just seem so young. I just look at them and say, ‘Oh, it’s crazy I was doing that at that age.’ But it’s also incredibly sweet, and I hope they’re having a great time.’ The new series, which began filming in July, features an impressive ensemble cast, including Arabella Stanton as Hermione, Alastair Stout as Ron, John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore, Paapa Essiedu as Professor Snape, Johnny Flynn as Lucius Malfoy, and Bel Powley as Petunia Dursley. The series is set to premiere on HBO in 2027.
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Israeli air strikes pummel Gaza less than 48 hours after UN adopts Trump’s plan
Israeli air strikes intensified in the besieged Gaza Strip on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of at least 33 Palestinians, including 20 women and children. The attacks occurred less than 48 hours after the UN Security Council endorsed a US-drafted resolution aimed at implementing a ceasefire and establishing a transitional authority in Gaza. Israeli fighter jets targeted tents sheltering displaced Palestinians in Khan Younis and homes in Gaza City, leaving over 70 people wounded. Shelling continued into Thursday morning, with most casualties reported in Khan Younis. The Palestinian group Hamas condemned the strikes as a ‘massacre’ and accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of seeking to escalate violence. The Israeli military claimed the strikes were in response to troops coming under fire in Khan Younis, though no injuries among Israeli soldiers were reported, and no Palestinian groups claimed responsibility for any attacks. Hamas accused Israel of fabricating the allegations to justify its actions. Since the ceasefire began on October 11, Israel has been accused of over 400 violations, including direct gunfire, aerial shelling, and demolitions of civilian structures. The Rafah crossing remains closed, preventing the wounded from receiving treatment abroad. The UN resolution, which authorizes a Trump-led transitional authority to govern Gaza, has been criticized by Palestinians and legal experts as a form of colonialism.
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Dubai diverts 19 flights due to dense fog, reduced visibility
Dubai International Airport (DXB) faced significant operational challenges on Thursday morning due to dense fog, which severely reduced visibility across the region. As a result, 19 inbound flights were diverted to nearby airports. In a statement issued to Khaleej Times, Dubai Airports confirmed the disruptions, emphasizing their collaboration with airlines, control authorities, and airport partners to restore normal operations swiftly and minimize passenger inconvenience. The airport urged travelers to verify their flight status directly with their respective airlines before heading to the airport. The adverse weather conditions also impacted Sharjah Airport, where several flights were either canceled or delayed. Authorities advised passengers to stay updated on flight schedules and avoid unnecessary trips to the airport without prior confirmation. The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued red alerts for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman, as visibility dropped below 500 meters in some areas. The first warning was issued shortly after midnight, highlighting the severity of the fog. This incident underscores the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions to aviation operations in the UAE.
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Scientists design new coating for rare earth materials to glow when powered by electricity
A groundbreaking study has unveiled a novel coating that allows rare earth materials to emit light when powered by electricity. This innovation, spearheaded by a collaborative team from Heilongjiang University, Tsinghua University, and the National University of Singapore, was recently published in the prestigious journal Nature. Rare earth nanocrystals, known for their vibrant and stable light emission, have traditionally been limited in electric-driven applications like LEDs and OLEDs due to their insulating properties. ‘It’s akin to running in a heavy winter coat,’ explained Han Sanyang, an associate professor at Tsinghua University, highlighting the challenge of electricity reaching these materials. The team’s solution involves a specialized molecular coating that acts as an ‘energy-conversion layer,’ efficiently transferring electrical energy to the nanocrystals, which then produce adjustable, high-purity light. This breakthrough paves the way for applications in human health monitoring, non-invasive testing, and agricultural lighting. The researchers are now refining the technology, particularly for healthcare and infrared uses.
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Mainland official slams Japan’s remarks on Taiwan
A senior Chinese official has strongly criticized Japan for its unwarranted comments on Taiwan, emphasizing that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. Song Tao, the head of both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, made these remarks during a cross-Strait exchange event in Chengdu, Sichuan province. Song reiterated that the resolution of the Taiwan issue is a matter solely for the Chinese people, and no external forces have the right to interfere. He asserted China’s unwavering determination and capability to thwart any ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist activities and external interventions, safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Song also condemned the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities for disregarding historical facts, opposing the will of the people, and persistently advocating for ‘Taiwan independence.’ He accused the DPP of aggressively promoting separatist rhetoric and inciting cross-Strait confrontation, which has jeopardized peace in the Taiwan Strait and challenged the one-China principle. Song emphasized that China’s reunification is an inevitable historical trend, regardless of provocations from ‘Taiwan independence’ forces or external interference. He expressed hope that Taiwanese compatriots would continue to uphold their patriotic traditions.
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Sonam Kapoor announces her second pregnancy in style
Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor has joyfully announced her second pregnancy with her husband, businessman Anand Ahuja. The ‘Neerja’ star shared the exciting news on Instagram, posting a series of elegant photos that showcased her baby bump. In the caption, she simply wrote, ‘Mother,’ accompanied by heartfelt emojis. The announcement quickly garnered widespread attention and warm wishes from fans and fellow celebrities alike. Kapoor chose a stunning hot-pink pure wool suit for the reveal, featuring oversized padded shoulders and a soft, curved silhouette, embodying her signature style. In her Instagram story, she further confirmed that the baby is due in spring 2026. The couple, who tied the knot in a traditional ceremony on May 8, 2018, welcomed their first child, son Vayu, on August 20, 2022. At the time, they expressed their gratitude to their support system, stating, ‘Our lives are forever changed.’ Anand Ahuja humorously commented on the post, calling Kapoor ‘Baby ma.. also chicccccc mama!’ and teasing ‘double trouble.’ Kapoor, known for her roles in films like ‘Raanjhanaa,’ ‘Veere Di Wedding,’ and ‘Delhi 6,’ took a break from acting after the birth of her first child. She recently returned to the screen in the 2023 crime thriller ‘Blind.’ The pregnancy announcement ends months of speculation and marks a new chapter for the beloved actress and her growing family.
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South Africa president says G20 will make declaration despite US warning and ‘will not be bullied’
The Group of 20 (G20) nations are set to issue a joint declaration at the conclusion of their summit in Johannesburg this weekend, despite objections from the United States, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Thursday. Ramaphosa emphasized that South Africa, as the host nation, will not succumb to pressure from the Trump administration to dilute the summit’s outcomes. The U.S. has boycotted the two-day meeting, citing unfounded claims by President Donald Trump that South Africa’s government is violently persecuting its white minority. A South African G20 ambassador revealed that the U.S. had advised against adopting any declaration, arguing that the absence of the U.S. would undermine consensus. Instead, the U.S. proposed a less formal statement from South Africa to conclude the summit. Ramaphosa, however, reaffirmed his commitment to a joint declaration, stating that discussions were progressing smoothly and that the summit would not be derailed by external pressures. The G20, comprising 19 nations, the European Union, and the African Union, is focused on addressing global challenges such as climate change, debt relief for developing nations, and wealth inequality. South Africa, the first African nation to hold the G20 presidency, aims to advance these priorities despite criticism from U.S. officials. Other leaders, including China’s Xi Jinping and Russia’s Vladimir Putin, have also opted to skip the summit but have sent delegations. Ramaphosa expressed confidence in the summit’s success and reiterated that South Africa would not be bullied into altering its stance.
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More than 250 arrested in Charlotte as immigration crackdown escalates
In a significant escalation of President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement efforts, U.S. Border Patrol agents have detained more than 250 individuals in Charlotte, North Carolina, since Saturday. This operation, dubbed ‘Operation Charlotte’s Web’ by federal authorities, targets undocumented immigrants, particularly those with criminal backgrounds or gang affiliations. Officials from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) emphasized that the arrests include individuals convicted of serious offenses such as assault on law enforcement, theft, and document tampering. However, the crackdown has sparked widespread criticism from local leaders and residents. North Carolina’s Democratic Governor Josh Stein accused federal agents of racial profiling, citing instances of heavily armed officers targeting individuals based on skin color. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles echoed these concerns, urging federal agents to respect the city’s values while commending protesters who rallied against the administration’s actions. The operation’s duration remains unclear, with similar measures in cities like Chicago still ongoing. As fear spreads among Charlotte’s immigrant community, reports suggest the crackdown may extend to Raleigh, prompting renewed calls for a focus on violent criminals rather than ordinary residents.
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Dubai: From sunrise workouts to karaoke nights, 7 must-try things this weekend
Dubai is buzzing with a variety of activities this weekend, catering to diverse interests and energy levels. Whether you’re looking to boost your fitness, enhance your skills, or simply enjoy some leisure time, here are seven must-try experiences in the city. **1. Pilates & Power**: Kick off your weekend with a high-energy Pilates session hosted by Joe & the Juice and Gray Wellness Club at Mall of the Emirates. The 45-minute workout on November 22 at 7am combines stretching and strength training, followed by complimentary juices or coffee. Open to all fitness levels, with free spots for the first 30 sign-ups. **2. Dim Sum DIY**: The Noodle House is bringing back its popular dim sum masterclass series. Learn the art of dumpling-making with Chef Fetty at JBR and Palm Jumeirah Mall locations. Each session includes a welcome iced tea, a basket of dim sum, and takeaway souvenirs. Limited spots available; Dh130 for adults, Dh80 for kids. **3. Personal Branding 101**: The Brand Me Summit returns to Canadian University Dubai on November 22–23, featuring over 5,000 attendees and 60+ global leaders. This year’s event includes a collaboration with UNHCR, pledging 10% of proceeds to refugee education. Expect world-class keynotes, networking, and mentorship opportunities. **4. Glow Sip**: Feels and Tower 28 are hosting a four-day pop-up at Kite Beach, featuring a limited-edition collagen citrus drink. Available from November 20–23, every purchase comes with a complimentary mini mist and exclusive stickers. **5. Sing in Style**: Experience luxury karaoke at Adaline in DIFC, blending a speakeasy vibe with red-velvet interiors and a world-class sound system. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9pm. **6. Beach Burn**: The Beach JBR is hosting a full-throttle fitness lineup as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge. Join celebrity trainer Jason Grima and Virgin Radio’s Priti Malik for sunrise sessions on November 22. **7. White Friday Frenzy**: Amazon.ae’s biggest shopping event of the year runs from November 20–30, offering millions of deals across various categories. Prime members enjoy extra savings and fast delivery through Amazon Now.
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Flights cancelled, delayed at Sharjah due to foggy weather; airport issues advisory
Sharjah Airport experienced significant disruptions on Thursday morning as dense fog blanketed the region, leading to multiple flight cancellations and delays. The airport issued an advisory urging passengers to verify their flight status before heading to the terminal. Visibility dropped below 500 metres in several areas, prompting the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) to issue red alerts across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman. The fog, which began forming shortly after midnight, severely impacted flight operations, ground handling, and aircraft movements. Sharjah Police also warned drivers to exercise caution, maintain safe distances, and reduce speeds due to the hazardous conditions. Similar warnings were echoed by Dubai and Abu Dhabi Police, with the latter activating speed reduction systems on major roads. Motorists were advised to avoid using hazard lights in fog, as it could confuse other drivers and increase the risk of accidents. The disruptions highlight the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions in the UAE, particularly during the winter months.