The United Arab Emirates was awash with national pride as citizens and residents celebrated Flag Day on November 3, 2025. At precisely 11 a.m., government and private institutions, schools, and homes across the country raised the UAE flag in unison, accompanied by the stirring notes of the national anthem. This annual tradition, deeply rooted in the nation’s collective memory, sees the country adorned in its iconic colours of red, green, white, and black, symbolizing unity, loyalty, and gratitude. The event marks the accession of the UAE’s second president, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, in 2004 and was officially established in 2013 by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. For many Emiratis, Flag Day is a cherished family ritual. Maitha Al Amari, a resident of Al Ain, shared how her family gathers annually to replace the old flag with a new one, instilling values of respect and pride in the younger generation. In Dubai, the Ferjan Dubai initiative distributed new flags across neighbourhoods, encouraging residents to participate in this nationwide movement of patriotism. Sara M, an Emirati teacher, described the day as a celebration of both national identity and personal memories, highlighting the sense of warmth and connection it brings. Flag Day not only honours the UAE’s achievements but also serves as a reminder of the nation’s enduring unity and shared commitment to its future.
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Science festival ignites public curiosity nationwide
The annual National Science Festival, themed ‘Hi, Science! — Bridge Curiosity with Discovery, Connect Science with Ingenuity,’ commenced on Saturday, November 1, 2025, with the main venue activities held at the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Botany in Beijing. The event, hosted by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, coincided with the academy’s 76th anniversary and the 70th anniversary of its Academic Divisions. Over the weekend, the festival featured more than 180 exhibits, programs, and hands-on activities across six major sections, designed to ignite public curiosity, particularly among young people, and encourage exploration of the unknown. Visitors had the opportunity to engage with academicians and experts, watch science-themed dramas, experiment and magic shows, and learn about significant scientific achievements such as the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory and superconducting quantum computers. The festival also highlighted China’s four major series of scientific research ships and deep-sea equipment systems, and offered interactive experiments involving brain-computer interfaces, space science, and underwater communication. National key laboratories opened their doors for public tours, providing a rare glimpse into daily scientific research. A highlight of the first day was the evening event ‘Creative Blind Box Show,’ which showcased major achievements of the academy. Beyond the on-site activities, gymnastics world champion Mo Huilan, along with scientific researchers and science popularization bloggers, led a livestreamed cloud tour of the festival, allowing online audiences to experience the highlights of the main venue and feel the appeal of science and technology. Institutions across the country also launched a range of science popularization activities based on their areas of expertise. The Ganjiang Innovation Academy explained the applications of rare earth elements; the National Time Service Center organized lectures and tours to help the public explore the concept of time; the Shanghai Advanced Research Institute opened the National Facility for Protein Science in Shanghai for public tours; and the Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics hosted lectures and hands-on activities in rural areas. Special sessions of the science festival will also be held at the Wuhan Botanical Garden and the Kunming Institute of Zoology.
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Israel to appoint new army lawyer after Palestinian prisoner rape scandal
The Israeli military is poised to appoint a new advocate general following the resignation of its top lawyer, Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, who admitted to leaking surveillance footage allegedly showing soldiers raping a Palestinian detainee. The video, released in August 2023, depicted a group of soldiers at the Sde Teiman detention camp forming a human barrier around the victim during Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza. Tomer-Yerushalmi stepped down on Friday, claiming the leak was intended to counter pressure from far-right groups criticizing the military advocate general’s office. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with at least nine soldiers questioned and five indicted for ‘severe abuse,’ though none for rape. The trial remains ongoing, with the accused soldiers demanding its dismissal. The victim reportedly suffered severe injuries, including a ruptured bowel, broken ribs, and anal and lung damage. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the leak, calling it a ‘severe propaganda attack’ on Israel’s image. Defense Minister Israel Katz is expected to meet with army chief Eyal Zamir to discuss appointing a new advocate general. This scandal adds to growing accusations of systemic abuse of Palestinian detainees, including rape, torture, and denial of medical treatment, with over 70 detainees dying under such conditions since the war began in October 2023. A UN commission has documented evidence of sexual violence by Israeli officers, further fueling international criticism. Despite these allegations, criminal investigations against Israeli soldiers rarely lead to prosecutions, with 88% of cases since October 2023 either closed or inconclusive, according to war monitor AOAV.
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UAE Rulers offer condolences to Saudi King over passing of Khalid bin Mohammed
In a gesture of solidarity and sympathy, the rulers of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have conveyed heartfelt condolences to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia following the passing of Prince Khalid bin Mohammed bin Turki bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Saud. The messages were sent individually by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi of Sharjah, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi of Ajman, Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi of Fujairah, Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla of Umm Al Qaiwain, and Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi of Ras Al Khaimah. Additionally, Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers of the UAE extended similar messages of sympathy to the Saudi monarch. The passing of Prince Khalid, a member of the Saudi royal family, has prompted an outpouring of support from regional leaders, reflecting the deep ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This diplomatic exchange underscores the importance of maintaining strong relationships during times of loss and mourning.
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Man in his 20s dies following Dublin assault
A tragic incident unfolded in Tyrrelstown, Dublin, on Saturday night, resulting in the death of a man in his 20s. The events began when Irish police, known as An Garda Síochána, responded to reports of a disturbance involving multiple individuals at Curragh Hall Crescent around 22:30 local time. By the time officers arrived, the group had already dispersed. Shortly thereafter, a young man with severe injuries was brought to Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead. Authorities have since arrested another man in his 20s, who is currently in police custody. Gardaí are urging anyone with information to come forward and have promised to provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
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Symposium stresses recognizing China’s WWII efforts
A significant international symposium held at Peking University has brought renewed attention to China’s pivotal role in World War II and the historical restoration of Taiwan. Titled ‘The Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in a Global Perspective,’ the two-day event gathered nearly 100 scholars from mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, Japan, the United States, and Europe. The forum, which commenced on Sunday, aimed to foster a more balanced understanding of China’s wartime efforts and its contributions to the global fight against fascism. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45), the World Anti-Fascist War, the restoration of Taiwan, and the founding of the United Nations. Scholars emphasized that China’s sacrifices and strategic importance in WWII have been historically underrepresented in global narratives. Hans van de Ven, a professor at the University of Cambridge, highlighted the need for greater international recognition of China’s wartime suffering and leadership in Asia’s national movements. Lu Fang-sang, a researcher at Academia Sinica in Taiwan, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of studying China’s resistance within a global context and enhancing cross-strait collaboration in historical research. Liu Wei-kai, a history professor at Chengchi University in Taipei, underscored Taiwan’s continuous resistance against Japanese occupation and criticized the Democratic Progressive Party’s de-Sinicization policies in education, which risk alienating younger generations from their cultural heritage.
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‘Pushpa’ star Allu Arjun bags new honour in Indian cinema
In a remarkable achievement for Indian cinema, Allu Arjun, the celebrated star of the blockbuster ‘Pushpa’ series, has been crowned the ‘Most Versatile Actor of the Year’ at the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2025. The announcement was made via the festival’s official social media channels, where the organizers lauded Arjun for his exceptional range and significant contributions to the film industry. The grand ceremony took place on October 30, 2025, at the NSCI Dome in Mumbai, drawing luminaries from across the cinematic world. Expressing his gratitude, Arjun shared an Instagram story, thanking the festival, his fans, and fellow winners. This accolade adds to a stellar year for the actor, who previously won the Best Actor award at the 2025 South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) and the Gaddar Telangana Film Awards for his role in ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule.’ Released in 2024, the sequel to ‘Pushpa: The Rise’ was a massive box office success, further cementing Arjun’s status as one of India’s most bankable stars. Looking ahead, Arjun is set to star in an untitled sci-fi action film directed by Atlee, co-starring Deepika Padukone, with more details eagerly anticipated.
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SRK turns 60: Aryan behind the camera, Suhana on-screen; how star’s kids carry forward his legacy
As Shah Rukh Khan, the undisputed ‘Badshah’ of Bollywood, celebrates his 60th birthday, the spotlight shines not only on his illustrious career but also on his children, who are carving their own paths in the entertainment industry. Known for his iconic roles in films like ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’, ‘Pathaan’, and ‘Jawan’, SRK’s influence extends beyond acting, encompassing business ventures and global recognition. Now, his children—Aryan, Suhana, and AbRam—are stepping into the limelight, each contributing to the Khan legacy in unique ways.
Aryan Khan, the eldest, has ventured into filmmaking with his directorial debut, ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood’. The seven-episode series, currently streaming on Netflix, offers a sharp critique of the film industry and has been praised for its bold narrative and ensemble cast. Aryan, a graduate of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, has also demonstrated his entrepreneurial flair with the launch of SLAB Ventures and the luxury brand D’YAVOL.
Suhana Khan, the middle child, has embraced acting, making her debut in Zoya Akhtar’s Netflix film ‘The Archies’. Playing Veronica Lodge, Suhana showcased her talent and screen presence, building on her earlier work in the short film ‘The Grey Part of Blue’. A trained actor from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, Suhana is also gaining attention for her fashion sense and is rumored to be starring alongside her father in an upcoming project titled ‘King’.
Youngest sibling AbRam, though still a child, has already captured the hearts of fans with his charming appearances at public events. Together, the Khan siblings are not only upholding their father’s legacy but also forging their own identities in the world of entertainment. As Shah Rukh Khan continues to inspire millions, his children are proving that the Khan dynasty is here to stay.
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Trump threatens military action in Nigeria over killing of Christians
U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Nigeria, threatening military intervention if the African nation fails to address what he described as the targeted killing of Christians by militants. In a fiery social media post on Saturday, Trump declared that he had instructed the Pentagon to prepare a potential military strike, emphasizing that the U.S. would act swiftly and decisively. “If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, ‘guns-a-blazing,’ to completely wipe out the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities,” Trump stated. He further warned the Nigerian government to act quickly, adding that any U.S. military action would be “fast, vicious, and sweet.” Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth echoed Trump’s sentiments, affirming that the Department of War was preparing for possible action. Trump’s remarks came a day after he claimed, without providing evidence, that “thousands of Christians are being killed” by radical Islamists, labeling the situation an “existential threat” to Christianity in Nigeria. The U.S. State Department recently designated Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) over alleged religious persecution, a move supported by conservative politicians like Senator Ted Cruz and Congressman Chris Smith. However, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has refuted these claims, asserting that religious tolerance and freedom remain central to Nigeria’s identity. Nigeria, a nation almost evenly split between a Muslim-majority north and a Christian-dominated south, has long grappled with security challenges, including the Boko Haram insurgency and conflicts between herders and farmers, which are often mischaracterized as religious strife.
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Chinese president’s special envoy attends opening ceremony of Grand Egyptian Museum
In a significant diplomatic gesture, Sun Yeli, the Special Envoy of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Minister of Culture and Tourism, attended the grand opening ceremony of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Cairo on Saturday. The event, hosted by the Egyptian government, marked a milestone in the cultural and diplomatic relations between the two nations. Prior to the ceremony, Sun met with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, during which he conveyed President Xi’s warm greetings and presented a congratulatory letter. Sun emphasized China’s commitment to deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership with Egypt, highlighting the importance of implementing bilateral agreements, enhancing practical cooperation, and fostering cultural exchanges. President al-Sisi reciprocated by expressing his gratitude for Xi’s gesture and reaffirmed Egypt’s eagerness to expand collaboration with China across various sectors. The attendance of China’s special envoy underscores the growing ties between the two countries, with the GEM serving as a symbol of shared cultural heritage and mutual respect.