In a bid to de-escalate mounting tensions, Pakistan and Afghanistan have initiated peace talks following a fragile ceasefire that came into effect after deadly cross-border clashes. The recent violence, which erupted in early October, has been the most severe in years, resulting in significant civilian and military casualties on both sides. The conflict was triggered by explosions in Kabul and Paktika on October 9, which the Taliban-led Afghan government attributed to Pakistan. While Pakistani officials neither confirmed nor denied involvement, the incident sparked a series of shelling and shooting exchanges along the border, leading to dozens of deaths and hundreds of injuries. Discrepancies in casualty figures have further complicated the situation, with both nations accusing each other of inflating numbers. Pakistan claims to have targeted militant hideouts in Afghanistan, while Kabul denies these assertions and highlights civilian casualties. Amid the hostilities, Qatar and Turkey have stepped in as mediators, facilitating negotiations in Doha and Istanbul. Despite the ceasefire holding since October 19, sporadic clashes continue, underscoring the fragility of the peace process. The border region, known as the Durand Line, remains a contentious issue, with Afghanistan refusing to recognize it as an official boundary. Both countries accuse each other of harboring militant groups, with Pakistan pointing fingers at the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operating from Afghan soil. The TTP, designated as a terrorist organization by the UN and the US, seeks stricter Islamic laws and reduced Pakistani military presence in border areas. The group’s alliance with the Afghan Taliban has further strained relations between the two nations. As peace talks progress, the international community remains watchful, given the region’s history of militant activity and the potential for further escalation.
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UAE recalls Hong Thai inhaler due to microbial contamination
The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) has announced an immediate recall of Hong Thai Herbal Inhaler (Yadom) from UAE markets due to confirmed microbial contamination in several batches. The decision follows laboratory tests that revealed contamination levels exceeding international safety standards for inhalation products. The affected batch, identified as 000332, was manufactured on December 9, 2024, and is set to expire on December 8, 2027. Approximately 200,000 units from this batch have been recalled in the UAE. The EDE has urged the public to cease using the product and safely dispose of any units they possess. Consumers experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, nasal irritation, or persistent dizziness after use are advised to seek medical attention. The recall is being coordinated with municipalities and regulatory authorities to ensure the product is removed from all points of sale, including online platforms. This action follows a similar recall in Thailand, where the product failed microbial contamination tests. Hong Thai, the manufacturer, has emphasized that customer safety remains their top priority.
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Canadian University Dubai Incubator launches first innovation start-up
Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has unveiled TrustPaper, the first patented start-up to emerge from its business Incubator, marking a significant milestone in document security and authenticity. Powered by ZipTrust, a blockchain-enabled technology, TrustPaper introduces a revolutionary solution that allows for the secure and automatic verification of documents within seconds. This innovation integrates Near Field Communication (NFC) and copyright protection technology directly into academic credentials, enabling instant verification via QR codes or NFC chips using mobile devices. This eliminates the risk of forgery or tampering while ensuring seamless validation. Additionally, TrustPaper stores a digital twin of documents on the blockchain, ensuring lifelong access and security. As part of CUD’s commitment to sustainability and social impact, 25% of the venture’s royalty proceeds will be allocated to an endowment fund supporting equality in education. TrustPaper was officially launched under the brand promise ‘Authenticity You Can Hold’ at the CUD Hub in Dubai City Walk. The event featured a panel discussion with Prof. Karim Chelli, CUD’s president and vice chancellor, and a fireside chat with TrustPaper’s founders. Prof. Chelli emphasized the university’s role as a catalyst for innovation, fostering collaboration to address real-world challenges. Caeser Medel, CEO and founder of ZipTrust, highlighted the project’s alignment with Dubai’s vision for progress and innovation, underscoring the role of technology in building trust and empowerment. TrustPaper also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in advancing Quality Education, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. By bridging traditional paper-based documentation with cutting-edge technology, CUD aims to promote equitable access to secure academic credentials worldwide.
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Discover Norway: Why Oslo should be your next Nordic getaway
Oslo, the capital of Norway, stands as a quintessential Scandinavian destination, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and sustainable living. Renowned for its majestic fjords, cutting-edge museums, and eco-friendly initiatives, Oslo is a city that caters to every traveler’s desires. Whether you’re drawn to its Viking heritage, avant-garde architecture, or vibrant nightlife, Oslo promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to exploring this Nordic gem.\n\n**Nature’s Splendor**\nFor nature enthusiasts, the Oslofjord is a must-visit. A scenic cruise along its shoreline offers breathtaking views of iconic landmarks, including the Oslo Opera House and picturesque lighthouses. The city’s commitment to green living is evident in its numerous parks, with Vigelandsparken being a standout. This sprawling garden features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, each representing different stages of human life, alongside stunning water bodies and landscapes.\n\n**Cultural and Historical Highlights**\nOslo’s rich history is showcased at the Akershus Fortress, a medieval castle turned museum, and the Royal Palace, a neoclassical marvel. The city’s main thoroughfare, Karl Johans gate, is lined with boutiques, cafes, and historic buildings, offering a vibrant mix of old and new. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower provides a deep dive into Norwegian skiing culture, complete with a state-of-the-art ski jump and panoramic views of the city.\n\n**Museum Haven**\nArt and history buffs will find Oslo a treasure trove. The National Museum houses over 400,000 works, while the Munch Museum celebrates the legacy of Edvard Munch. Maritime enthusiasts can explore the Kon Tiki and Fram museums, which chronicle Norway’s adventurous seafaring history. The Norsk Folkemuseum offers a glimpse into Norway’s cultural past, with buildings dating back to the 1500s.\n\n**Culinary and Wellness Delights**\nOslo’s gastronomic scene is a delight, featuring local specialties like reindeer, lutefisk, and Brunost. The city’s sauna culture, often followed by a dip in an icy fjord, provides a unique wellness experience that rejuvenates both body and mind.\n\nOslo’s seamless blend of tradition and modernity, coupled with its commitment to sustainability, makes it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique Nordic experience.
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Adnoc partners with Comera Financial Holdings to empower its UAE suppliers and SMEs with smart financing solutions
The inaugural edition of Care in Dubai, a groundbreaking initiative, is poised to catalyze green innovation and investment across the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region. This landmark event aims to foster sustainable development by bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and investors to explore cutting-edge solutions in environmental conservation and renewable energy. With a focus on promoting eco-friendly practices and technologies, Care in Dubai is expected to serve as a pivotal platform for driving economic growth while addressing pressing environmental challenges. The event underscores Dubai’s commitment to becoming a global hub for sustainability and green innovation, aligning with the UAE’s broader vision for a greener future. By facilitating collaboration and knowledge exchange, Care in Dubai is set to unlock new opportunities for businesses and governments to invest in sustainable projects, ultimately contributing to the region’s transition towards a low-carbon economy.
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Republican Rep Elise Stefanik announces run for New York governor
Republican Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has officially declared her candidacy for the 2026 New York gubernatorial race, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown with incumbent Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul. Stefanik, a prominent ally of former President Donald Trump, made her announcement on X, where she launched a scathing critique of Hochul, labeling her as “the worst governor in America” and accusing her of transforming New York into “the most unaffordable state in the nation.”
Hochul swiftly countered, characterizing Stefanik as Trump’s “number one cheerleader in Congress” and his “right-hand woman in his war on New York.” Stefanik, who has represented New York’s 21st congressional district since 2014, has long been a vocal supporter of Trump, particularly during his first impeachment in 2019. Trump had initially nominated her for the role of United Nations ambassador during his second term but withdrew the nomination to preserve the Republican majority in the House of Representatives.
Stefanik also criticized Hochul for her late endorsement of New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, accusing her of aligning with “the raging Defund the Police, Tax Hiking Communist” policies that she claims have harmed New York families. A September poll by Siena College revealed that in a hypothetical matchup, Hochul would lead with 52% support compared to Stefanik’s 27%. However, the same poll indicated significant dissatisfaction with Hochul’s leadership, with only 37% of respondents willing to support her re-election in 2026, while 51% expressed a preference for a different candidate.
Hochul already faces a primary challenge from her lieutenant governor, Anthony Delgado. If Stefanik secures the Republican nomination, she would aim to become the first Republican governor of New York since George Pataki, who left office in 2007. The race is expected to be a pivotal moment in New York politics, reflecting broader national divisions and the enduring influence of Trump within the Republican Party.
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Denmark’s government aims to ban access to social media for children under 15
In a bold move to address the escalating concerns over children’s exposure to harmful online content, the Danish government announced a groundbreaking agreement on Friday to ban social media access for individuals under the age of 15. This initiative, which allows parents to grant access to 13-year-olds following a specific assessment, marks one of the most stringent measures by a European Union government to regulate social media usage among minors.
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James Bond fantasist jailed for 7 years in UK for trying to spy for Russia
A British man who harbored fantasies of emulating James Bond has been sentenced to seven years in prison for attempting to spy for Russia. Howard Phillips, 65, was convicted in July for trying to pass sensitive information about former Defense Secretary Grant Shapps to individuals he believed were Russian intelligence agents. Unbeknownst to Phillips, these ‘agents’ were actually undercover British intelligence operatives.
At his sentencing hearing at Winchester Crown Court, Justice Bobbie Cheema-Grubb condemned Phillips, stating, ‘You were prepared to betray your country for money.’ The judge also noted that Phillips exhibited ‘a personality with narcissistic tendencies and an overblown sense of his own importance.’
The trial revealed that Phillips aimed to assist Russian agents between late 2023 and May 2024. During this period, Shapps served as Defense Secretary until the Conservative Party lost power in the general election, leading to his departure from Parliament. Phillips attempted to provide Shapps’ contact details and the location of his private plane, intending to facilitate Russian surveillance of British defense plans.
Phillips’ ex-wife testified that he was ‘infatuated’ with the idea of being like James Bond and frequently watched films about British secret services. In a victim impact statement, Shapps expressed his shock and dismay, recalling a dinner at Phillips’ home in 2002. ‘What is unacceptable is one individual’s reckless behavior exposing my entire family to the extremely serious risks that come from a foreign intelligence service’s activities,’ Shapps said.
Bethan David, head of the Crown Prosecution Service’s Counter Terrorism Division, emphasized that the conviction sends ‘a clear message to anyone considering spying for or assisting Russia.’
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Katrina Kaif, Vicky Kaushal welcome birth of baby boy
Bollywood’s celebrated couple, Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal, have joyfully welcomed their first child, a baby boy, on November 7, 2025. The couple shared the heartwarming news through a social media post, describing their newborn as a “bundle of joy.” The announcement was met with an outpouring of congratulations from fellow celebrities, including Manish Malhotra, Neha Dhupia, Huma Qureshi, and Shreya Ghoshal, who extended their best wishes to the new parents. Earlier in September, the couple had confirmed their pregnancy with a touching Instagram post featuring a maternity photoshoot, accompanied by the caption, “On our way to start the best chapter of our lives with hearts full of joy and gratitude.” Katrina and Vicky, who tied the knot in a grand ceremony at Six Senses Fort Barwara in Rajasthan on December 9, 2021, have been in the spotlight for their relationship and now embark on their journey into parenthood. Fans and well-wishers continue to celebrate this milestone in the couple’s lives.
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Quiz: How big is one trillion?
Tesla’s board has greenlit a staggering compensation package for CEO Elon Musk, potentially worth up to $1 trillion. This astronomical figure, however, is contingent upon Musk meeting a series of ambitious performance milestones for the electric vehicle giant. The package, which has sparked widespread debate, underscores the immense value Musk brings to Tesla and the high stakes involved in maintaining the company’s trajectory. To put this colossal sum into perspective, consider that $1 trillion is equivalent to the GDP of several small nations combined. The approval of this package not only highlights Musk’s pivotal role in Tesla’s success but also raises questions about corporate governance and executive compensation in the modern era. As Musk continues to push the boundaries of innovation, this pay package could further cement his status as one of the most influential figures in the business world.