In a significant setback for Italy’s right-wing government, the Court of Auditors has refused to approve the ambitious 13.5 billion euro Strait of Messina Bridge project, which aims to connect Sicily to the mainland. The court, responsible for financial oversight and public accounting, announced its decision in a concise statement on Wednesday evening, promising to provide detailed reasoning within 30 days. This move has sparked fierce criticism from Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who labeled the ruling as an “intolerable intrusion” by magistrates and vowed to push forward with the project despite the setback. Transport Minister Matteo Salvini, a key advocate for the bridge, accused the court of making a “political decision” rather than a technical one and pledged to explore all avenues to advance the plan. While the court’s decision does not outright block the project, it could significantly delay its approval, potentially requiring the government to seek a new vote to override the objections. The Strait of Messina Bridge, first proposed in 1969, has faced repeated approvals and cancellations over the decades. Meloni’s administration revived the project in 2023, marking the most progress it has ever achieved. However, the initiative has been mired in controversy, with debates over its massive scale, earthquake risks, environmental impact, and potential mafia involvement. Preliminary work was slated to begin this fall, with construction expected to start next year and completion targeted between 2032 and 2033. If built, the bridge would span nearly 3.7 kilometers, with a suspended section of 3.3 kilometers, surpassing Turkey’s Canakkale Bridge as the world’s longest.
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Guangzhou exempts kindergarten fees for select age groups
Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, has announced a significant policy change in early childhood education. Starting from the fall semester of this year, childcare and education fees will be waived for children in the senior class of kindergartens, encompassing both public and private institutions across urban and rural areas. This initiative, unveiled by the city’s education bureau on Tuesday, marks a progressive step in the rollout of free preschool education. While the policy currently applies only to senior class students, fees for junior and middle classes will remain unchanged, adhering to existing regulations. For private kindergartens approved by the education department, fees will be adjusted to align with the exemption levels of public counterparts, though families may still be required to cover any additional costs beyond the standard exemption. Public full-time regular kindergartens in Guangzhou currently charge 823 yuan ($115.9) per student monthly, while demonstration kindergartens charge 995 yuan. Public boarding kindergartens, on the other hand, impose fees 30% higher than the full-time standard. This policy aims to alleviate financial burdens on families while promoting equitable access to quality early education.
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Centrist liberals take shock lead in Dutch election, exit poll says
In a stunning turn of events, Rob Jetten, the 38-year-old leader of the centrist liberal party D66, has emerged as the frontrunner in the Dutch general election, according to the latest exit poll. The Ipsos I&O survey indicates that Jetten’s party has secured 27 seats, narrowly surpassing anti-Islam populist Geert Wilders, who had dominated the polls throughout the campaign. This marks a dramatic shift from the 2023 election, where D66 languished in sixth place. The final outcome remains uncertain, but the exit poll suggests a significant swing in voter sentiment. Wilders, who led the previous government, saw his support wane after his coalition collapsed in June over disputes on asylum and migration policies. Jetten’s polished campaign, bolstered by his strong performances in televised debates and a strategic appearance on a popular game show, resonated with voters seeking unity and progress. The conservative liberals, led by Dilan Yesilgöz, are also poised for a strong showing, potentially securing a role in a future coalition government. Meanwhile, the GreenLeft-Labour party, once a close contender, is projected to finish fourth, signaling a disappointing night for former European Commissioner Frans Timmermans. The election, fought largely on issues of migration, housing shortages, and asylum center overcrowding, has highlighted the electorate’s desire for change. Jetten’s party has pledged to address the housing crisis by building 10 new cities, a policy that has garnered significant attention. As supporters celebrated in Leiden, the atmosphere was electric, with many expressing hope for a brighter future under Jetten’s leadership.
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World Shiology Forum focusing on food system opens in Hainan
The 5th World Shiology Forum commenced on October 29, 2025, in Haikou, Hainan province, drawing global attention to the pressing issues of food systems and sustainability. Established in 2017, the forum has become a pivotal platform for international stakeholders to collaborate on food governance and sustainable development. This year’s event centered on the theme of addressing food system challenges through Shiology, a comprehensive knowledge system that integrates fragmented knowledge into a cohesive framework. The forum released the “Global Food Systems and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Report (2025)”, a collaborative effort by experts from 115 countries, which outlines a three-year implementation plan to tackle food-related issues. The report was presented to United Nations representatives, marking a significant step toward translating Shiology theory into actionable solutions. Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, in the report’s foreword, highlighted the necessity of a holistic approach to food systems, stating that “Shiology is such a knowledge system”. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, in a written message delivered by China’s Special Envoy for Climate Change Liu Zhenmin, praised Shiology’s holistic principle as a guide for exploring human coexistence and resilience. The forum introduced the “Five Food Needs” framework, which includes basic sustenance, dietary diversity, food safety, healthy longevity, and sustainable supply. Liu Guangwei, director-general of the World Shiology Forum, emphasized that this framework signifies the maturation of Shiology as an interdisciplinary field. The event also underscored the critical role of food security in achieving the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with 13 of the 17 SDGs closely linked to food. Li Feng, vice-governor of Hainan, highlighted the province’s efforts in implementing a “Big Food View” approach, focusing on modern seed industry development, green production, and cold-chain logistics. The forum concluded with a call for global unity in addressing food system challenges, with UN officials acknowledging China’s contributions and expressing support for Shiology’s holistic principles.
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Ex-officer guilty of murder of Sonya Massey after she reported suspected intruder
A former Illinois sheriff’s deputy has been convicted of second-degree murder in the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old mother of two, during a response to a 911 call in July 2024. The incident occurred at Massey’s home near Springfield, Illinois, after she reported a suspected intruder. Sean Grayson, 31, the ex-officer involved, claimed he fired his weapon because he believed Massey was about to throw a pot of boiling water at him. The confrontation escalated when Massey, who was unarmed, repeatedly said, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.” Grayson, who initially faced first-degree murder charges, was convicted of the lesser charge of second-degree murder and could face up to 20 years in prison. Prosecutors argued that Grayson’s actions were not those of a frightened officer but rather of a bully who lost control. The case has reignited discussions about police conduct and accountability in the United States.
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ELLE Style Awards position Sanya as a style capital
The 2025 ELLE Style Awards, often dubbed the ‘Oscars of the fashion world,’ marked its inaugural event in Sanya, Hainan province, on Tuesday, solidifying the tropical city’s status as a burgeoning global fashion capital. The prestigious ceremony coincided with the 80th anniversary of ELLE Magazine, blending Sanya’s natural beauty with Eastern aesthetics to create a unique cultural experience. Over 100 international celebrities, models, and creative pioneers graced the red carpet, which meandered through lush coconut groves, merging haute couture with the serene ocean backdrop. Daisy Wang, CEO of Hearst Greater China, highlighted the event’s ‘Infinity ∞’ theme, symbolizing both the cyclical renewal of classic values and the infinite potential of breaking boundaries. Wang emphasized ELLE’s evolution from a print magazine to a multimedia platform, championing women’s empowerment and creativity in the AI era. Reflecting on ELLE’s journey in China, Wang noted its transformation from a ‘window to the world’ to a chronicler of Chinese stories and, ultimately, a community fostering dialogue on women’s issues. Sun Zhe, ELLE Omnimedia editor-in-chief, underscored fashion’s role as a cultural force and a testament to Chinese women’s ongoing pursuit of excellence.
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New forum for Islamic art launches at House of Lords to celebrate ‘shared human journey’
A groundbreaking initiative dedicated to celebrating Islamic arts, architecture, and cultural heritage has officially launched at the House of Lords in Westminster. The event, attended by over a hundred guests, marked the inauguration of the Forum for Islamic Art, Architecture & Cultural Heritage, led by Baroness Nosheena Mobarik, a distinguished Conservative peer. The forum aims to highlight the intellectual and cultural contributions of Islamic civilization while fostering dialogue, education, and public engagement. Among the attendees were British peers, ambassadors from Muslim-majority nations, and notable figures from the fields of architecture and cultural heritage. Walid Iqbal, a prominent Pakistani politician and grandson of the revered poet-philosopher Sir Muhammad Iqbal, was also present. The forum, supported by the Adam Foundation, arrives at a critical juncture amid rising anti-Muslim sentiment. Baroness Mobarik emphasized the forum’s mission to host a year-long series of seminars and events, encouraging politicians and the public to explore Islam’s rich artistic and architectural legacy. She highlighted the interconnectedness of cultures, stating, ‘The story of civilization is not one of parallel histories, but of intertwined ones.’ The event featured presentations by leading figures in Islamic art, including Noorah al-Gailani, curator of the British Museum’s Islamic Collections, and Professor Farrokh Derakhshani, chair of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. Iranian artist Jila Peacock also shared insights on the medieval Persian poet Hafez, accompanied by an animated film based on her work. Baroness Mobarik concluded, ‘This forum is about seeing societies in a positive light and ensuring young people appreciate each other’s heritage.’
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Exclusive: Navi Pillay on Israel’s Gaza genocide and global complicity
Judge Navi Pillay, a towering figure in international justice, has once again made headlines with her groundbreaking work on the UN Commission of Inquiry into the occupied Palestinian territories. In an exclusive interview with Middle East Eye’s Expert Witness podcast, Pillay detailed the Commission’s findings that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, drawing on her extensive legal expertise and historical precedents from her tenure at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR).
The Commission’s report, released on October 6, 2025, meticulously analyzed Israel’s actions from October 7, 2023, to July 31, 2025, concluding that four out of the five underlying acts of genocide, as defined by the Genocide Convention, had been committed. These acts include the killing of Palestinians, causing severe physical and mental harm, imposing life-destroying conditions, and preventing births within the group. The report also highlighted the genocidal intent demonstrated by Israeli leaders’ statements and the systematic destruction of Gaza’s cultural, educational, and healthcare infrastructure.
Pillay emphasized the parallels between the current situation in Gaza and the ICTR’s landmark Akayesu case, which established that sexual violence could constitute genocide. She noted that the widespread gender-based violence in Gaza serves as both individual punishment and a collective strategy to humiliate and subjugate the Palestinian population.
The interview also addressed the international community’s failure to act, with Pillay criticizing the UK and US for their complicity through arms sales and sanctions against ICC officials. She called for immediate action to prevent further atrocities and urged states to fulfill their obligations under the Genocide Convention.
Pillay’s career, spanning over six decades, has been marked by her unwavering commitment to justice and human rights. From her early days challenging apartheid in South Africa to her pivotal role in shaping international jurisprudence, she remains a beacon of hope for those seeking accountability and justice on the global stage.
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Sudanese RSF militia killed many civilians at el-Fasher hospital, WHO chief and doctors say
The city of el-Fasher in Sudan has become the epicenter of a deepening humanitarian crisis following its capture by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia. Reports from the United Nations and local activists paint a grim picture of widespread violence, including the massacre of 460 civilians at the city’s main hospital. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization (WHO), expressed profound shock at the atrocities, describing the hospital as a site of unimaginable brutality. The Sudan Doctors’ Network corroborated these accounts, stating that RSF fighters executed patients, medical staff, and bystanders indiscriminately, transforming healthcare facilities into ‘human slaughterhouses.’
In addition to the mass killings, the RSF has been accused of kidnapping six medical professionals, demanding exorbitant ransoms for their release. The el-Fasher Resistance Committee, a local activist group, reported a ‘horrifying silence’ in the aftermath of the hospital attack, underscoring the terror gripping the city. El-Fasher, the Sudanese army’s last stronghold in the Darfur region, fell to the RSF after an 18-month siege characterized by starvation and relentless bombardment.
The conflict, which began in April 2023, has seen the RSF and allied Arab militias accused of targeting non-Arab ethnic groups, allegations the RSF denies. With the city’s capture, concerns have mounted for the estimated 250,000 civilians trapped within, many from vulnerable communities. A communications blackout has hindered efforts to verify the full extent of the devastation, though new videos analyzed by BBC Verify show RSF fighters executing unarmed individuals.
Refugees fleeing to Tawila, a town 60 kilometers west of el-Fasher, have recounted harrowing tales of violence, including beatings, theft, and executions. Jan Egeland, a former UN humanitarian official, described the situation as ‘the worst place on Earth,’ emphasizing the catastrophic combination of massacres, starvation, and lack of medical care. Dr. Tedros called for an immediate ceasefire, highlighting that 185 attacks on healthcare facilities have resulted in 1,204 deaths since the war began.
The fall of el-Fasher has effectively split Sudan, with the RSF controlling much of Darfur and neighboring Kordofan, while the army retains Khartoum and eastern regions. The conflict, rooted in a power struggle between former allies, threatens to plunge the nation further into chaos as international attention remains insufficient.
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Dubai Housekeeping elevates staff welfare with major health and scholarship initiatives
Dubai Housekeeping, a leading residential cleaning service provider in Dubai, has reaffirmed its commitment to ethical employment practices through a series of impactful staff welfare initiatives. The company recently concluded its Second Annual Health Awareness Event at Fakeeh University Hospital, completed its Annual Vision Wellness Drive, and awarded academic scholarships to the children of its employees for the second consecutive year. These efforts underscore the company’s dedication to enhancing the well-being and quality of life of its workforce. The Health Awareness Event, held on September 20, 2025, featured comprehensive wellness workshops and medical consultations, focusing on preventive healthcare and addressing common health issues among service professionals. The Annual Vision Wellness Drive provided complimentary eye check-ups for all staff, with 64 employees receiving prescription glasses at no cost. Additionally, ten children of team members were awarded scholarships, supporting their educational aspirations and reflecting the company’s commitment to family welfare. Uttam Bhatia, co-founder of Dubai Housekeeping, emphasized that prioritizing staff welfare is integral to the company’s success, stating, ‘A joyful, well-supported team translates directly into the exceptional service our clients expect.’