In the bustling streets of Conakry, Guinea, graffiti artist Omar Diaw, known by his alias “Chimere,” is redefining urban art. Once dismissed as vandalism, graffiti has now become a powerful medium for public awareness and cultural expression in the city. Diaw, who moved to Guinea from Senegal in 2018, found a blank canvas in Conakry, where street art was virtually nonexistent. Over the years, his vibrant murals have transformed the city’s concrete-heavy landscape, featuring larger-than-life portraits of Guinean musicians, African independence leaders, and even the country’s military ruler, General Mamadi Doumbouya. Diaw’s approach has been strategic and inclusive. By aligning his art with public campaigns, such as raising awareness about COVID-19, he has won over both the public and authorities. His graffiti collective, Guinea Ghetto Graff, has left its mark across the city, turning walls into storytelling canvases. The art form, which originated in the U.S. and arrived in West Africa via Senegal in the late 1980s, has evolved to reflect African realities and values. Today, graffiti in Guinea and Senegal is not just art but also a tool for political messaging and social commentary. Diaw’s work has garnered widespread admiration, with locals praising its ability to preserve history and reshape urban spaces. As the movement grows, there is a push for greater inclusivity, with calls for more women to join the graffiti scene and contribute to this transformative art form.
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German bid to close migrant boats loophole could face delay
Germany’s commitment to tighten laws against small-boat smuggling faces growing uncertainty, as delays in legislative processes threaten to derail efforts to combat illegal Channel crossings. A BBC investigation last year revealed that Germany serves as a hub for storing boats and engines used in these crossings, prompting Berlin to pledge legal reforms by the end of 2025. However, the German Interior Ministry has only confirmed its intention to introduce the bill to parliament by the deadline, without guaranteeing its final approval this year. The proposed legislation aims to criminalize the facilitation of human smuggling to the UK, a loophole that currently exists post-Brexit. Despite UK pressure, German officials have not prioritized the bill, with some expressing skepticism about its effectiveness in curbing illegal migration. Meanwhile, France is reportedly retreating from its pledge to intercept migrant boats at sea, further complicating international efforts to address the issue. The UK’s Labour government, which has emphasized closer international collaboration, faces mounting pressure to demonstrate the efficacy of its strategy. Any delay in Germany’s legal reforms is likely to exacerbate UK frustrations, as it has long urged Berlin to strengthen its rules and enforcement mechanisms.
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Mandhana, Rawal tons help India clinch last semifinal spot
In a thrilling display of cricketing prowess, Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal delivered centuries to secure India’s place in the Women’s World Cup semifinals. The dynamic duo’s partnership of 212 runs laid the foundation for India’s commanding total of 340-3 in 49 overs at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Mandhana’s 109 and Rawal’s 122 were instrumental in India’s 53-run victory over New Zealand, who finished at 271-8 while chasing a revised target of 325 in 44 overs. New Zealand’s campaign was marred by rain interruptions, including two abandoned matches in Colombo, leaving captain Sophie Devine expressing her frustration. India, on the other hand, showcased resilience after three consecutive defeats, with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur emphasizing the importance of enjoying the home crowd’s support. Mandhana’s fifth century of 2025 and Rawal’s maiden World Cup hundred were highlights of the match, with both players receiving accolades for their performances. India’s final league match against Bangladesh on Sunday will determine their momentum heading into the final on November 2 in Navi Mumbai.
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Trump says trade talks with Canada ‘terminated’ over anti-tariffs advert
In a dramatic move, US President Donald Trump announced the immediate termination of all trade negotiations with Canada. The decision, shared via a post on Truth Social late Thursday, was prompted by an advertisement from the Ontario government featuring former US President Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs. Trump labeled the ad as ‘egregious behavior’ and declared, ‘ALL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS WITH CANADA ARE HEREBY TERMINATED.’ The US president has already imposed a 35% levy on Canadian imports, with exemptions for goods covered under the USMCA, a trade agreement negotiated during his first term. The Ontario ad, part of a $75 million campaign on US mainstream TV channels, included excerpts from Reagan’s 1987 national radio address, where he warned that tariffs harm workers and consumers, provoke trade wars, and lead to job losses. Ontario Premier Doug Ford defended the ad, stating, ‘We’ll never stop making the case against American tariffs on Canada.’ The Ronald Reagan Foundation criticized the ad for using ‘selective audio and video’ without permission and misrepresenting Reagan’s views, adding that it is reviewing legal options. Trump’s tariffs, particularly on steel, aluminum, and automobiles, have significantly impacted Canada, causing job losses and economic strain. Earlier this year, China’s embassy in Washington also used a similar Reagan clip to critique Trump’s global tariffs. This development marks another escalation in US-Canada trade tensions, with further updates expected.
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UAE billionaire slams ‘racist rhetoric’ of Israeli minister asking Saudi to ‘keep riding camels’
In a strongly worded statement on Thursday, Emirati billionaire Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, founding chairman of the Al Habtoor Group, criticized Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich for his ‘racist and provocative’ remarks about Saudi Arabia. Smotrich, in a viral video, had mockingly suggested that Saudi Arabia should ‘keep riding camels’ if it demands an independent Palestinian state in exchange for normalizing relations with Israel. Although Smotrich later apologized, calling his comments ‘unfortunate,’ Al Habtoor dismissed the apology as insufficient to erase the magnitude of the insult. He emphasized that the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, including Saudi Arabia, have achieved significant progress in energy, technology, and urban development, becoming global models of prosperity. Al Habtoor argued that Israel, not the Arab world, needs peace with its neighbors to secure its future. He called for a united Arab stance against such rhetoric, stating that dignity is a principle that must be defended through action, not just words. Opposition leaders in Israel, including Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz, also condemned Smotrich’s comments, with Lapid asserting that Smotrich does not represent the State of Israel.
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Alaska Airlines flights grounded across US due to IT outage
Alaska Airlines faced significant operational disruptions on Thursday as a technical issue forced the grounding of all flights across its US airports. The airline announced in a statement that it was grappling with an IT outage that severely impacted its operations, leading to the implementation of a temporary ground stop. While the carrier did not specify the duration of the outage or the exact number of affected flights, it assured that efforts were underway to restore normal operations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the ground stop also impacted Horizon Air, a subsidiary of Alaska Airlines. Based in Seattle, Washington, Alaska Airlines is a major player on the US West Coast, serving 140 destinations across 37 states and 12 countries. This incident marks the second IT-related disruption for the airline this year, following a similar outage in July that halted flights for approximately three hours. The recent US government shutdown, which began earlier this month, has further complicated air travel, with shortages of air traffic controllers causing delays at several airports. Alaska Airlines has yet to respond to media inquiries regarding the latest outage.
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Watch: Historic moment King Charles prays alongside Pope Leo
In an unprecedented event marking a significant milestone in religious history, King Charles and Pope Leo shared a moment of prayer together, a gesture unseen since the Reformation. This historic encounter symbolizes a profound step towards unity between the Anglican and Catholic churches, which have been divided for centuries. The meeting, held in a serene and solemn atmosphere, underscored the mutual respect and shared spiritual values between the two leaders. Observers noted that this momentous occasion could pave the way for enhanced dialogue and cooperation between the two faiths, fostering a spirit of reconciliation and understanding in a world often marked by religious discord.
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UAE Lottery drops dramatic call revealing Dh100 million jackpot winner’s reaction
In a heartwarming revelation, the UAE Lottery has shared the electrifying moment when a lucky winner was informed of his Dh100 million jackpot victory. The winner, identified only as Anilkum** B**, matched all seven numbers in the October 18 draw, defying odds of more than 1 in 8.8 million. The UAE Lottery posted the actual phone call on Instagram, capturing the winner’s stunned reaction. The caller, Shah from the UAE Lottery, calmly announced the life-changing news, prompting an emotional outburst from the winner. ‘Oh my God,’ the winner exclaimed, his voice trembling with disbelief. This historic win marks a significant milestone for the UAE Lottery, which has already created four millionaires since its inception. While the winner’s full identity remains under wraps pending verification, the post teased an upcoming reveal. This extraordinary event not only highlights the life-altering potential of the lottery but also underscores its growing impact in the UAE.
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China launches new communication technology test satellite
In a significant stride for its space and communication technology endeavors, China successfully launched a cutting-edge communication technology test satellite on Thursday evening. The satellite was propelled into space from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in Hainan province aboard a Long March-5 rocket at 10:30 pm Beijing Time. This mission marks the 602nd launch in the Long March carrier rocket series, underscoring China’s growing expertise in space technology. The satellite has already entered its designated orbit and is poised to conduct critical multi-band and high-speed communication technology validation tests. These tests are expected to enhance China’s capabilities in advanced communication systems, potentially paving the way for innovations in global telecommunications. The launch reaffirms China’s commitment to advancing its space exploration and technological infrastructure, positioning the nation as a key player in the global space race.
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UK defence secretary warns Putin: ‘We’re watching you’
Defence Secretary John Healey has issued a stark warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin, declaring, ‘We’re hunting your submarines.’ Healey revealed a 30% increase in Russian vessels encroaching on UK waters, signaling a broader pattern of Russian aggression that extends beyond Ukraine to impact Europe as a whole. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that Russian submarine activity in the North Atlantic has surged to levels reminiscent of the Cold War era. In response, the RAF and Royal Navy have intensified their surveillance efforts, with RAF P-8 aircraft conducting frequent missions, often supported by NATO allies. BBC News accompanied Healey on a flight aboard a P-8, a high-tech spy plane equipped with advanced cameras, sensors, and sonar buoys designed to detect and track submarines. The crew, working in a highly classified environment, monitors both surface vessels and underwater threats. Recent incidents, such as the tracking of the Russian spy ship Yantar near undersea cables in the Irish Sea, highlight growing Western concerns over Russia’s potential to disrupt critical infrastructure. Germany, a key ally, has ordered eight P-8 aircraft and is deepening its defense collaboration with the UK under the Trinity House Agreement. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, who joined Healey on the flight, emphasized the North Atlantic’s strategic importance and the need for vigilance against Russian hybrid warfare tactics, including disinformation and threats to undersea infrastructure. The two nations are also cooperating on cybersecurity and arms production, further solidifying their partnership in the face of escalating Russian threats.