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  • Ed Davey urges PM Starmer to sack BBC board member Robbie Gibb

    Ed Davey urges PM Starmer to sack BBC board member Robbie Gibb

    In a heated parliamentary session, Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey called on Prime Minister Keir Starmer to dismiss BBC board member Robbie Gibb, citing concerns over the broadcaster’s independence and impartiality. Gibb, a former communications director for Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May, was appointed to the BBC board by Boris Johnson. His tenure has been marred by accusations of political interference in editorial decisions and staff appointments. Davey emphasized the critical importance of the BBC’s neutrality, particularly in light of recent controversies, including a $1 billion lawsuit threat from former US President Donald Trump over the editing of his January 6, 2021, speech for the BBC’s Panorama program. Davey also highlighted the previous Conservative government’s alleged efforts to undermine the BBC, pointing to Gibb’s continued presence on the board as a symbol of this interference. Prime Minister Starmer acknowledged the previous government’s actions but did not commit to removing Gibb. The controversy surrounding Gibb intensified following claims that he has been a driving force behind accusations of systemic bias at the BBC. Additionally, Gibb’s involvement with the Jewish Chronicle, which has been criticized for publishing allegedly fabricated stories about Israel and Gaza, has further fueled calls for his resignation. Over 400 cultural figures have signed a letter demanding his removal, and former Guardian editor Alan Rusbridger has questioned his role on the BBC’s editorial standards committee. The BBC has faced accusations of both pro-Israel and anti-Israel bias, with a recent report from the Centre For Media Monitoring highlighting disparities in coverage of Israeli and Palestinian fatalities. Meanwhile, BBC Middle East editor Raffi Berg is embroiled in a legal battle with journalist Owen Jones over allegations of promoting ‘systematic Israeli propaganda’ within the broadcaster. Berg has denied these claims, but the controversy underscores the ongoing challenges facing the BBC’s credibility and independence.

  • Varanasi-bound Air India Express flight gets threat, plane to be released after checks

    Varanasi-bound Air India Express flight gets threat, plane to be released after checks

    An Air India Express flight bound for Varanasi was subjected to a security threat on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, amidst a series of bomb hoaxes targeting multiple Indian airports. The airline promptly alerted the Bomb Threat Assessment Committee and initiated all necessary security protocols. The flight, which landed safely, disembarked all passengers without incident. The aircraft will be cleared for operations once comprehensive security checks are completed. This incident coincides with a bomb hoax at Delhi Airport Terminal 3, where an email claiming a bomb was discovered prompted a swift response from authorities. The threats follow a deadly explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort, which claimed 12 lives and left several injured. Investigations into the blast are ongoing, with forensic teams recovering over 40 samples, including live ammunition and explosive materials suspected to be ammonium nitrate. Two individuals connected to Al Falah University were arrested in Faridabad with 360 kg of ammonium nitrate, raising suspicions of their involvement in the Red Fort blast. The government has announced compensation of Rs1,000,000 for the victims’ families. Multiple agencies, including the National Security Guard and the National Investigation Agency, are working to uncover the truth behind these alarming events.

  • Mohammed bin Salman expected to lobby Trump over UAE role in Sudan, sources say

    Mohammed bin Salman expected to lobby Trump over UAE role in Sudan, sources say

    Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is poised to address the UAE’s support for Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) during his upcoming meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House. This high-stakes diplomatic engagement, confirmed by multiple Arab and Western officials, underscores the escalating tensions in Sudan’s ongoing conflict. The RSF, accused of atrocities including mass killings and rape in North Darfur, has been heavily backed by the UAE through complex supply routes spanning Libya, Chad, and Somalia. Saudi Arabia, positioning itself as a mediator, has sought to counterbalance the UAE’s influence, particularly after the RSF’s recent capture of el-Fasher. The conflict, which erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the RSF, has displaced millions and claimed tens of thousands of lives. Despite Saudi Arabia’s efforts to broker peace, the UAE’s continued support for the RSF has strained relations between the two Gulf powers. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s decision to directly engage Trump reflects both the urgency of the crisis and the UAE’s growing isolation on the issue. Meanwhile, Egypt and Turkey have stepped up military support for the SAF, further complicating the regional dynamics. The upcoming meeting is expected to highlight broader geopolitical tensions, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE increasingly at odds over their strategic interests in the Middle East.

  • Sheikh Mohammed honoured with Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Award

    Sheikh Mohammed honoured with Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Award

    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has been awarded the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Achievement Award in its nineteenth cycle. This prestigious accolade recognizes his decades-long contributions to culture, knowledge, and sustainable development on a global scale. The Award’s Board of Trustees emphasized that Sheikh Mohammed’s career exemplifies a profound commitment to humanity, innovation, and progress. His initiatives have not only transformed the UAE but also inspired communities worldwide. Among his notable achievements is the Arab Reading Challenge, launched in 2015, which has engaged over 163 million students in promoting Arabic literacy. Additionally, the establishment of the Mohammed bin Rashid Library and the Digital School underscores his dedication to fostering education and cultural enrichment. The Board also highlighted his literary works, including ‘My Vision’ and ‘Reflections on Happiness and Positivity,’ which have significantly enriched Arab literature. Sheikh Mohammed’s vision has redefined the role of culture and knowledge in shaping a brighter future, making him a beacon of inspiration across the Arab world and beyond.

  • Bomb threat sent to Delhi airport two days after deadly Red Fort blast

    Bomb threat sent to Delhi airport two days after deadly Red Fort blast

    In the wake of a devastating explosion near New Delhi’s Red Fort, which claimed 12 lives and left many injured, a bomb threat sent to Delhi Airport Terminal 3 on November 12, 2025, triggered widespread panic. The threat, received via an email on IndiGo’s grievance portal, also implicated other major airports in Chennai and Goa. Delhi Police swiftly responded, mobilizing the fire brigade and conducting thorough inspections at all mentioned locations. However, after a detailed investigation, the threat was confirmed to be a hoax. The Red Fort blast, which occurred on November 10, has been under intense scrutiny by multiple agencies, including the National Security Guard, National Investigation Agency, and the Central Reserve Police Force. Forensic analysis from the blast site revealed the presence of ammonium nitrate among other explosives. In a related development, 360 kg of ammonium nitrate was seized in Faridabad, leading to the arrest of two individuals linked to Al Falah University, who are suspected to be connected to the Red Fort incident. The Indian government has announced compensation of Rs1,000,000 for the victims’ families, as investigations continue to uncover the full scope of this tragic event.

  • Gambling ringleader sent back to China

    Gambling ringleader sent back to China

    She Zhijiang, the mastermind behind a sprawling cross-border gambling and fraud syndicate operating in Myanmar, has been extradited to China. Known also as Tang Kriang Kai, She was escorted by Thai police to Bangkok’s airport on Wednesday afternoon, marking a significant step in international law enforcement cooperation. The extradition follows a prolonged legal battle, culminating in the Thai Court of Appeal upholding a lower court’s decision on November 10, 2025, to send She back to China to face charges related to illegal casino operations. According to Thai prosecutors, She is accused of orchestrating 239 gambling websites, which facilitated transactions totaling approximately 2.77 trillion yuan ($389.18 billion). Additionally, he is suspected of running extensive gambling and telecommunications fraud operations in Myanmar, targeting Chinese citizens through online platforms. Interpol had issued a Red Notice for She in May 2021, linking him to a criminal group that registered shell companies and developed online gambling platforms, generating around 150 million yuan in illegal profits. She was arrested by Thai authorities in August 2022, and after a series of legal proceedings, his extradition was finally approved in October 2025. This case underscores the global efforts to combat transnational organized crime and highlights the collaboration between Thailand and China in addressing such issues.

  • Delhi blast was terror incident, Indian government says

    Delhi blast was terror incident, Indian government says

    A devastating car explosion in a bustling area of India’s capital, Delhi, has been officially labeled a “terror incident” by the government. The blast, which occurred near the historic Red Fort on Monday, claimed the lives of at least eight individuals and left 20 others injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cabinet, during a late Wednesday security meeting, strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act orchestrated by anti-national forces. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the perpetrators remain unidentified. In a resolution, the cabinet emphasized the urgency of a professional investigation to bring those responsible to justice swiftly. The statement also reiterated India’s unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism. The explosion took place near a metro station adjacent to the Red Fort, a prominent landmark in Delhi. According to Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha, the incident occurred at approximately 18:52 local time when a slow-moving vehicle stopped at a red light and subsequently exploded, causing damage to nearby vehicles. A police spokesperson revealed that the explosion originated from a Hyundai i20 car carrying three individuals. In response to the incident, Delhi police declared a high alert, with neighboring states, including Uttar Pradesh, quickly following suit. Forensic experts, security teams, and police are currently investigating the explosion. Home Minister Amit Shah assured the public that all possibilities are being explored, and a thorough investigation is underway. Prime Minister Modi extended his condolences to the families of the victims, while opposition leader Rahul Gandhi expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event. The Red Fort, a 17th-century monument, is a major tourist attraction and the site where Indian prime ministers deliver their annual Independence Day speeches.

  • Francesca Albanese: Why I’m accusing 63 nations of complicity in the Gaza genocide

    Francesca Albanese: Why I’m accusing 63 nations of complicity in the Gaza genocide

    Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, has leveled serious accusations against major European powers, including the UK, Italy, and Germany, for their alleged complicity in the ongoing genocide in Gaza. In a recent interview with the Expert Witness podcast on November 3, Albanese detailed the findings of her latest report, ‘Gaza Genocide: A Collective Crime,’ which implicates 63 states in enabling Israel’s violations of international law. She emphasized that despite overwhelming evidence of atrocities, these nations continue to provide diplomatic, military, and political support to Israel, shielding it from accountability. Albanese specifically criticized UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for failing to acknowledge the risk of genocide and for his government’s role in perpetuating Israel’s actions. She also condemned the UK’s crackdown on Palestine Action, labeling it as fostering a ‘climate of complicity.’ Additionally, Albanese denounced Germany and Italy for obstructing joint EU action against Israel, noting the historical irony of their positions. She called for legal consequences for government officials involved in these actions and urged the International Criminal Court (ICC) to continue its investigations despite facing sanctions. Albanese’s report underscores the systemic complicity of states in enabling Israel’s actions and calls for urgent international legal intervention to address the ongoing crisis.

  • Dubai’s Samana Developers to launch IPO next year, offload around 20% stake

    Dubai’s Samana Developers to launch IPO next year, offload around 20% stake

    Dubai-based property developer Samana Developers has announced plans to launch an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in late 2026, aiming to offload approximately 20% of its equity. The company’s CEO, Imran Farooq, revealed in an interview with Khaleej Times that the first step in this journey involves raising $300 million (Dh1.1 billion) through a Sukuk issuance by the end of the first quarter of 2026. Standard Chartered, Dubai Islamic Bank, and Emirates NBD have been appointed as lead banks for this financial maneuver. The IPO is expected to be listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM), with the company’s valuation projected to approach Dh20 billion. Samana Developers, which currently holds a 4% market share in Dubai’s property sector, has significantly benefited from the post-pandemic real estate boom. The Dubai property market has seen a surge over the past five years, driven by an influx of expatriates and high-net-worth individuals investing heavily in real estate. This has led to a substantial increase in property prices and rents, with some communities experiencing more than a doubling in values since 2020. The UAE’s IPO market has also been vibrant, with 19 companies and funds across various sectors planning to list on regional exchanges, according to the EY Mena IPO Eye Q3 2025 report. Farooq added that a ratings agency has been engaged to issue a report within the next six to eight weeks, which will be crucial for the IPO process. The final advising bank will provide guidance post the successful Sukuk issuance.

  • Leonardo DiCaprio honours Jane Goodall at funeral in DC

    Leonardo DiCaprio honours Jane Goodall at funeral in DC

    In a heartfelt tribute during a memorial service held in Washington, D.C., acclaimed actor Leonardo DiCaprio celebrated the life and legacy of renowned primatologist Jane Goodall. DiCaprio, known for his environmental activism, described Goodall as a figure who embodied gentleness, curiosity, humor, and an indomitable spirit. He emphasized her groundbreaking contributions to primatology and her unwavering dedication to wildlife conservation. The event brought together admirers from various fields, highlighting Goodall’s profound impact on both science and environmental advocacy. DiCaprio’s words underscored the deep respect and admiration he holds for Goodall, whose work continues to inspire generations.