Francesca Albanese, an independent United Nations investigator, delivered a scathing critique of global nations for their failure to challenge the United States over sanctions imposed on her. Speaking via video from South Africa during a General Assembly session, Albanese labeled the sanctions as ‘unlawful and spiteful,’ emphasizing that they undermine the U.N.’s independence and integrity. She urged the international community to confront this ‘dangerous precedent’ and highlighted the challenges she faced in presenting her latest report on Israeli human rights violations in the Palestinian territories. Despite the unprecedented attacks against her, Albanese noted that powerful nations have only issued declarations and condemnations without taking concrete steps since the U.S. imposed sanctions this summer. The U.S. State Department has yet to respond to requests for comment. Albanese, an Italian human rights lawyer and the U.N.’s special rapporteur for the West Bank and Gaza since May 2022, has consistently criticized Israel’s policies, describing its actions as ‘genocide’ and ‘apartheid.’ In her latest report, she painted a grim picture of Gaza, describing it as ‘strangled, starved, shattered’ under a fragile ceasefire. Israel and the U.S. have vehemently rejected her claims, with Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon dismissing her report as ‘shameful’ and ‘one-sided,’ and personally attacking her as a ‘witch.’ The U.S. sanctions, announced in July by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, accused Albanese of antisemitism and supporting terrorism. Albanese countered these allegations, asserting that she was targeted for fulfilling her role and vowed to continue her work. The U.N. high commissioner for human rights, Volker Türk, and the U.N.’s chief spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, both condemned the sanctions, calling them ‘unacceptable.’ The ongoing conflict in Gaza, which began with Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. Albanese called for a permanent ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal from Palestinian territories, criticizing the U.S.-brokered ceasefire as insufficient and enabling continued violence.
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No survivors: Small plane crashes in Kenya, killing all 11 on board
A devastating plane crash in Kenya on Tuesday morning resulted in the tragic loss of all 11 individuals on board, including foreign nationals. The small aircraft, operated by Mombasa Air Safari, was en route from the coastal tourist destination of Diani to Kichwa Tembo airstrip in the Maasai Mara National Park when it crashed at approximately 5:30 am local time (0230 GMT). According to John Cleave, chairman of Mombasa Air Safari, the passengers included eight Hungarians, two Germans, and a Kenyan captain. Cleave confirmed that there were no survivors and expressed deep condolences, stating, ‘Our hearts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragic event.’ The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has dispatched government agencies to the crash site to investigate the cause of the accident. This incident follows another tragic aviation event in August, when a light aircraft belonging to the medical NGO Amref crashed near Nairobi, claiming six lives and injuring two others. The latest crash has raised concerns about aviation safety in the region, particularly for small aircraft operating in remote areas.
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‘They refused to take auditions’: Sonam Bajwa reveals her struggle against typecasting in Bollywood
Actress Sonam Bajwa, renowned for her work in Punjabi cinema, has recently opened up about her struggles with typecasting in Bollywood. Despite her impressive filmography in Punjabi films, Bajwa revealed that Hindi filmmakers often pigeonholed her as merely a glamorous face, overlooking her acting capabilities. This perception delayed her entry into Bollywood, where she had to wait years for a role that showcased her talent beyond her appearance. Bajwa is currently receiving acclaim for her performance in the newly released film ‘Ek Deewane ki Deewaniyat,’ co-starring Harshvardhan Rane. In the film, she plays an actress who challenges toxic love, a role that allowed her to demonstrate her acting prowess. In an interview with ANI, Bajwa expressed her frustration with the industry’s reluctance to consider her for performance-oriented roles, often dismissing her without auditions. She emphasized that her social media presence and public appearances might have contributed to this narrow perception. Despite these challenges, Bajwa has successfully transitioned into Bollywood with roles in ‘Housefull 5’ and ‘Baaghi 4.’ Her journey highlights the persistent issue of typecasting in the film industry and the resilience required to overcome such barriers.
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Kanoo Energy: Harnessing a legacy of excellence to drive industrial progress at ADIPEC 2025
Kanoo Energy, a cornerstone of The Kanoo Group, is poised to unveil a groundbreaking suite of intelligent and sustainable solutions at ADIPEC 2025. The event, scheduled from November 3 to 6, 2025, at Stand 12105, Hall 12, ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, will serve as a platform for the company to demonstrate its latest innovations in the energy sector. With a legacy spanning over a century, Kanoo Energy has consistently adapted to the evolving demands of the Middle East’s energy landscape, positioning itself as a leader in modernization and industrial progress. The company’s upcoming showcase will feature advanced technologies designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability across the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries. Collaborating with global partners such as Adage Kanoo Analytical Industries (AKAI), Dopak, Woodfield Systems International, and others, Kanoo Energy will highlight advancements in analytics, fluid handling, decarbonization, robotics, and industrial safety. Ali Abdulla Kanoo, Chairman of Kanoo Industrial & Energy, emphasized the company’s commitment to combining innovation with reliability, particularly as the UAE spearheads the region’s transition to cleaner energy systems. Fahad Fawzi Kanoo, a board member, echoed this sentiment, noting the UAE’s role in shaping a sustainable energy future and Kanoo Energy’s contribution through AI-driven solutions. Manoj Tripathy, CEO of Kanoo Industrial and Energy, highlighted the company’s dedication to merging its engineering heritage with modern, localized expertise to deliver measurable value to customers. ADIPEC 2025, a premier event for energy professionals, will provide Kanoo Energy with the opportunity to reinforce its mission of connecting tradition with innovation, showcasing how its century-old legacy continues to drive progress in a rapidly evolving industry.
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Half of US states sue Trump administration over halting food stamps
A coalition of 25 U.S. states and the District of Columbia has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over its decision to halt funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. The program, which supports over 40 million low-income Americans, faces a potential funding crisis as the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) refuses to tap into a $6 billion emergency contingency fund. The USDA argues the reserve may be needed for emergencies like natural disasters, but the lawsuit contends this move is unlawful and would leave millions unable to afford groceries. This marks the first time in SNAP’s history that funds would not be distributed. The lawsuit, led by Democratic attorneys general, warns that cutting SNAP benefits would lead to food insecurity, hunger, and malnutrition, particularly harming children. States involved include California, New York, and Illinois, among others. California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the decision, calling it ‘cruel’ and accusing President Trump of lacking humanity. The USDA, in response, blamed Democrats for the funding shortfall, urging them to prioritize reopening the government. Even if the contingency fund is used, it would only cover 60% of one month’s benefits, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. Some states, like Massachusetts, lack the resources to cover the shortfall, while others, including California, are deploying the National Guard to assist with food distribution. The ongoing federal government shutdown, now in its 28th day, has exacerbated the crisis, making it the second-longest in U.S. history.
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‘No complaints, I am happy’: Emraan Hashmi on his viral scene in ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood’
Emraan Hashmi has expressed his delight over the viral response to a memorable scene in the Netflix series ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood,’ directed by Aryan Khan. The series has garnered significant attention for its portrayal of Bollywood, with one particular scene featuring actor Raghav Juyal, who plays a devoted fan of Hashmi, singing the actor’s popular song ‘Kaho Na Kaho’ and delivering a dialogue that lauds Hashmi’s dominance in the industry. The dialogue, ‘Akkha Bollywood ek taraf, Emraan Hashmi ek taraf (Whole Bollywood at one side, Emraan Hashmi on another),’ has resonated deeply with audiences. Hashmi, speaking at the trailer launch event of his upcoming film ‘Haq,’ shared his joy at being associated with this dialogue rather than his previous on-screen image. ‘We knew it would go viral, but not to this extent,’ he remarked. ‘Now, people remember that dialogue when they talk about me. So I have no complaints. I am happy.’ ‘Haq,’ directed by Suparn S Varma, is a courtroom drama based on the famous Mohd Ahmed Khan vs Shah Bano Begum case from the 1980s, with Hashmi and Yami Gautam in the lead roles. The film is set to release in November.
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Shanghai Metro expands paper single-journey tickets
The Shanghai Metro has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its ticketing system by expanding its pilot program for automated ticket vending machines that issue paper QR code single-journey tickets. This innovative approach replaces the traditional IC cards, which required passengers to return them upon exit, with paper tickets that feature QR codes. These tickets provide essential details such as fare amount, purchase date, and station information, offering a more convenient and efficient travel experience. The new system, initially introduced at People’s Square station two years ago, is now being gradually rolled out across various stations in the network. Station manager Cui Junjie at Oriental Sports Center station highlighted the system’s improved functionality, noting its sleek design and enhanced responsiveness in screen operation and cash handling. The machines accept both cash and online payments, catering to diverse passenger preferences. Since their trial launch on August 1, the machines have been issuing an average of 65 paper tickets daily. While some elderly passengers have faced initial challenges with the payment process, particularly when scanning QR codes, the overall feedback has been positive. Concerns about the environmental impact of non-recyclable paper tickets have been addressed by Shanghai Metro officials, who emphasize the system’s operational efficiency. The fare structure remains unchanged, with pricing based on travel distance, and tickets are valid only on the day of purchase for a single journey. Unlike traditional tickets, which had to be inserted and collected at exit gates, passengers can now keep these paper tickets as souvenirs, adding a personal touch to their travel experience.
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Vicenzaoro 2025 underscores storytelling’s role in the future of luxury jewellery
The Vicenzaoro 2025 trade fair, held in Italy, has firmly established storytelling as a cornerstone of the luxury jewellery industry’s evolution. This premier global event brought together top brands, designers, and strategists to explore how heritage, innovation, and responsibility are reshaping the sector. Discussions and panels emphasized a significant shift in focus, with cultural narratives, ethical sourcing, and technological advancements now standing alongside traditional craftsmanship and design as key drivers of the industry. Sessions like ‘The Quantum Age’ delved into jewellery’s expanding role at the intersection of identity, culture, and technology, highlighting the need for storytelling to adapt to diverse markets, including India and China. Zhanna Kirkland, a seasoned industry strategist, noted that storytelling has transitioned from a marketing tactic to a strategic necessity in today’s values-driven luxury landscape. She emphasized that consumers increasingly seek transparency and emotional connections, making authentic narratives essential for building trust and loyalty. The VO Vintage segment underscored the importance of provenance, linking jewellery to its historical and cultural legacy. Organizers also previewed upcoming sustainability initiatives and technology integrations that will shape future editions of the fair. Kirkland encapsulated the prevailing sentiment: ‘The future of jewellery lies not just in its design but in the authenticity of the stories it tells and the connections it fosters.’
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Pakistan PM, Saudi Crown Prince meet in Riyadh, discuss electrical interconnection project
In a significant diplomatic meeting held in Riyadh on Monday, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud unveiled a comprehensive economic cooperation framework aimed at bolstering bilateral relations. The framework, rooted in shared economic interests, seeks to enhance trade, investment, and development ties between the two nations. Key sectors identified for collaboration include energy, industry, mining, information technology, tourism, agriculture, and food security. A joint statement highlighted the mutual commitment to fostering private sector involvement and increasing trade exchange in these priority areas. Among the initiatives under discussion is an electrical interconnection project, which is expected to be formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU). Additionally, the two countries are exploring further cooperation in the energy sector. This framework builds on longstanding fraternal relations and aligns with the leaders’ shared vision of establishing a sustainable partnership. The meeting also set the stage for an upcoming session of the Saudi-Pakistani Supreme Coordination Council, underscoring the depth of their strategic alliance.
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Trump appeals against conviction in hush-money case
Former US President Donald Trump has launched an appeal to overturn his May 2024 criminal conviction in the high-profile hush-money case, asserting that presidential immunity shields him from prosecution. Trump was unanimously found guilty by a New York jury on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. Despite the conviction, a New York judge granted him an unconditional discharge in December, citing his imminent return to the White House, meaning he faced no jail time or fines. Trump’s legal team has labeled the case as “the most politically charged prosecution in our nation’s history” and argued that it should never have reached the courtroom. The Manhattan District Attorney’s office, which prosecuted Trump, has yet to comment on the appeal. The case stems from allegations that Trump directed his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, to pay $130,000 to adult film star Stormy Daniels to silence her claims of a past sexual encounter before the 2016 election. While the payment itself was not illegal, prosecutors claimed Trump fraudulently recorded reimbursements to Cohen as legal expenses to conceal the transaction’s true purpose. The trial coincided with Trump’s re-election campaign, with prosecutors arguing that the cover-up constituted election interference by withholding critical information from voters. Trump has consistently denied all charges. Following the conviction, the US Supreme Court ruled in June 2024 that presidents enjoy broad immunity from criminal prosecution for “official acts” during their tenure. Trump’s lawyers have since argued that this immunity should apply to the hush-money case and that certain evidence should have been excluded as it pertained to his first presidency. Justice Juan Merchan, who presided over the case, rejected this argument, but Trump’s team has long signaled their intent to appeal. The case will now proceed to the New York Appellate Division, First Department, which previously dismissed a $500 million civil fraud penalty against Trump in a separate case brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James. While the appellate judges upheld the fraud finding, they deemed the financial penalties unjustified.