Global Pulse

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  • Who are Palestine Action?

    Who are Palestine Action?

    In a landmark judicial ruling, the UK High Court has declared the government’s proscription of the activist network Palestine Action as a terrorist organization to be unlawful. Justice Victoria Sharp delivered the judgment on Friday, determining that the ban constituted a disproportionate infringement on fundamental human rights, specifically the freedoms of expression and assembly protected under the Human Rights Act.

    The court acknowledged that while a minimal number of the group’s activities could be classified as terrorism under statutory definitions, the overwhelming majority of its 385 documented actions were lawful. This assessment aligned with an evaluation from the government’s own Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC), which found only three actions meeting the terrorism threshold.

    The controversial ban, instituted in July by then-Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, had criminalized membership and public support for Palestine Action with penalties of up to 14 years imprisonment. Its implementation resulted in approximately 3,000 arrests nationwide, primarily involving individuals holding silent vigil placards opposing genocide and supporting the group. Statistics revealed an astonishing 660% increase in terrorism arrests following the proscription, with 86% connected to Palestine Action support.

    Founded in 2020, Palestine Action employs direct action tactics targeting corporations it identifies as enablers of Israel’s military-industrial complex. Their primary focus has been Elbit Systems, Israel’s largest arms manufacturer with significant UK operations. The group’s campaigns have reportedly cost the defense contractor billions through canceled contracts and divestments, including Barclays’ withdrawal of investments and the UK Ministry of Defence terminating £280 million in contracts.

    The ruling emerged from a judicial review initiated by co-founder Huda Ammori, potentially invalidating thousands of arrests. However, the ban remains temporarily in effect pending an appeal launched by current Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who expressed disappointment with the decision and vowed to continue the legal fight.

    Human rights experts including UN officials had previously warned that the broad application of counter-terrorism legislation created a ‘chilling effect’ on free speech and violated international human rights standards. The case highlights ongoing tensions between national security priorities and civil liberties in the UK’s protest landscape.

  • Behind Trump’s flip-flop on Chinese student visas

    Behind Trump’s flip-flop on Chinese student visas

    In a surprising turn of events, former President Donald Trump has seemingly retracted plans for the U.S. State Department to scrutinize and revoke visas for Chinese students studying in the United States. On June 11, 2025, Trump took to his social media platform, TruthSocial, to announce that Chinese students remain welcome in the U.S., stating their presence ‘has always been good with me!’ This declaration came weeks after Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed intentions to review and potentially cancel visas for Chinese nationals with ties to the Chinese Communist Party or those pursuing studies in critical fields. The conflicting messages have left Chinese students and prospective applicants in a state of uncertainty. Historically, Chinese students have faced barriers to studying in the U.S., with efforts to restrict their access dating back decades. Since the late 1970s, millions of Chinese students have been granted visas to study in American universities, contributing significantly to the U.S. economy and academic institutions. However, the proposed visa restrictions have reignited concerns about anti-Chinese discrimination and the broader implications for U.S.-China relations. The Trump administration’s contradictory moves highlight the complexities of balancing national security interests with the benefits of international educational exchange.

  • One Tech Tip: No more lost cats and dogs. Use tech to track your pet

    One Tech Tip: No more lost cats and dogs. Use tech to track your pet

    In London, the question ‘Have you seen the cats?’ is a familiar one in many households, especially for pet owners like myself with free-roaming felines like Maple and Juniper. These cats, equipped with microchips, explore the neighborhood freely, but their adventures can sometimes lead to anxiety for their owners. Fortunately, advancements in pet technology offer solutions to keep track of our furry friends. Pet trackers, such as those from Tractive, Jiobit, and Pawfit, use GPS and 4G or Wi-Fi signals to relay the animal’s location to a smartphone app. These devices, tailored for both dogs and cats, allow owners to set safe zones and receive alerts if their pets wander beyond these boundaries. While the cost of these devices is generally under $100, subscription fees for cellular service can add up, but many find the peace of mind worth the expense. Battery life varies, with most lasting two to three days, though signal strength can impact this. Beyond location tracking, these apps offer health and activity monitoring, similar to fitness watches for humans. However, it’s important to note that these trackers won’t physically restrain pets; they merely alert owners when pets leave designated areas. For those who prefer alternatives, Bluetooth trackers like Apple’s Air Tags or Samsung’s SmartTags offer another option, though they are not specifically designed for pets and have limited range. Ultimately, whether through GPS trackers or microchips, technology is providing pet owners with innovative ways to ensure their pets’ safety and well-being.

  • Trump made clear he does not fit in with G7, nor does he want to

    Trump made clear he does not fit in with G7, nor does he want to

    President Donald Trump’s abrupt departure from the recent G7 summit in Canada has reignited concerns about his strained relationships with Western democratic allies. While French President Emmanuel Macron speculated that Trump’s exit was linked to the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, the U.S. president offered no clear explanation, merely stating he left for “obvious reasons.” Trump later took to social media to criticize Macron, asserting that his departure was unrelated to a ceasefire and involved something “much bigger.” This cryptic behavior has fueled speculation about potential U.S. involvement in Israel’s military actions against Iran. Trump’s recent statements, including claiming “complete and total control of the skies over Iran” and demanding Tehran’s “unconditional surrender,” suggest a hardening stance. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears to be leveraging Trump’s impulsive nature to secure advanced military support, such as the 30,000-pound “bunker buster” bomb and a B-2 bomber, to target Iran’s uranium enrichment sites. Trump’s actions have left U.S. allies scrambling to interpret his intentions, further straining transatlantic relations. His history of early departures from G7 meetings, skepticism toward NATO, and preference for bilateral deals over multilateral cooperation underscore his “America First” agenda. Trump’s call for Russia’s return to the G7 and his admiration for Vladimir Putin have also alarmed allies, raising questions about his commitment to collective security. As tensions in the Middle East escalate, Trump’s approach risks undermining global stability and deepening divisions among Western powers.

  • Japan records trade deficit as exports suffer from Trump’s tariffs

    Japan records trade deficit as exports suffer from Trump’s tariffs

    Japan’s export sector experienced a downturn in May, primarily driven by a significant 25% drop in automobile shipments to the United States. This decline is attributed to the heightened tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. According to the Finance Ministry, overall exports decreased by 1.7% year-on-year, a figure that, while concerning, was less severe than the anticipated decline forecasted by analysts. Concurrently, imports plummeted by 7.7%, indicative of weakening domestic demand and marking a steeper fall compared to April’s 2% decrease. The trade deficit for May stood at 637.6 billion yen, equivalent to $4.4 billion. Despite ongoing discussions, Japan has yet to secure an agreement with the U.S. to resolve the tariff issue. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, following a meeting with President Trump at the Group of Seven summit in Canada, noted that the two nations remain at odds on several key points. Trump has levied a 25% tariff on Japanese automobiles and a 24% tariff on other goods, with recent statements suggesting potential increases in auto tariffs. Ishiba has underscored Japan’s role as a crucial ally in the bilateral defense alliance with Washington, emphasizing efforts to safeguard national interests. The auto industry, a cornerstone of Japan’s economy, exports over a million vehicles to the U.S. annually. Tokyo has consistently highlighted the contributions of automakers like Toyota and Honda, which manufacture vehicles in North America, bolstering the economy and generating employment.

  • Two major US food producers to remove artificial dyes from products sold domestically

    Two major US food producers to remove artificial dyes from products sold domestically

    In a significant move toward healthier food production, two leading food manufacturers, Kraft Heinz and General Mills, have announced plans to eliminate artificial dyes from their U.S. products by 2027. This decision follows a recent call by U.S. health officials for the food industry to phase out petroleum-based synthetic colors. Kraft Heinz revealed on Tuesday that it will begin removing artificial dyes from its U.S. portfolio in 2027 and will cease introducing new products containing these additives. Shortly after, General Mills disclosed its strategy to eliminate artificial dyes from all U.S. cereals and K-12 school meals by mid-2026, with a complete removal from its retail products by the end of 2027. Kraft Heinz emphasized that nearly 90% of its U.S. products already exclude FD&C colors—synthetic additives approved by the FDA for use in food, drugs, and cosmetics. The remaining products, primarily in the beverage and dessert categories, including brands like Crystal Light, Kool-Aid, Jell-O, and Jet-Puffed, will transition to natural alternatives. General Mills noted that 85% of its retail products and nearly all K-12 school items are already dye-free. Both companies are aligning with consumer demand for cleaner ingredients, driven by health advocates who have raised concerns about potential neurobehavioral issues linked to artificial dyes in children. The FDA, while maintaining that approved dyes are safe, has supported voluntary industry efforts to reduce their use. This shift mirrors global trends, as many countries, including Canada and European nations, have adopted stricter regulations or warning labels for synthetic colors. In the U.S., states like California and West Virginia have enacted laws restricting artificial dyes, prompting food manufacturers to explore natural alternatives derived from sources like beets, algae, and vegetables.

  • Sudan in danger of self-destructing as conflict and famine reign

    Sudan in danger of self-destructing as conflict and famine reign

    Sudan’s protracted conflict has plunged the nation into a humanitarian catastrophe, with over half of its 45 million population displaced and nearly a million facing famine. The war, now in its 27th month, remains in a strategic deadlock, with neither the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) nor the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) able to secure a decisive advantage. The SAF, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, recently recaptured central Khartoum, showcasing newly acquired weaponry from Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, and Iran. However, their offensive quickly stalled. Meanwhile, the RSF, under General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), launched a devastating drone attack on Port Sudan, the interim capital and primary hub for humanitarian aid. The RSF has expanded its operations southward, striking alliances with rebel groups and besieging North Darfur’s capital, el-Fasher. The conflict has exacerbated ethnic tensions, with the RSF accused of genocide against the Massalit people in West Darfur. Civilians, who once united to overthrow former leader Omar al-Bashir, are now fragmented, with some aligning with Burhan, others with Hemedti, and many attempting neutrality. Despite international efforts, including a UN peace plan and a London conference, no credible peace process exists. The UAE and Saudi Arabia’s disagreements further complicate diplomatic resolutions. As the world’s largest humanitarian emergency worsens, multilateral organizations like the UN and African Union are called upon to prioritize Sudan’s crisis and remind global powers of their commitments to human rights and peace.

  • How social media divided and broke America

    How social media divided and broke America

    The United States, once a symbol of unity and resilience, has been grappling with deep societal fractures since the early 2010s. While the economy has shown remarkable strength, with wealth surpassing pre-Great Recession levels and wages steadily rising, American society remains deeply unsettled. This paradox raises a critical question: Why is a nation with such economic prosperity so plagued by division and discontent? The answer, it seems, lies in the transformative impact of smartphones and social media. The 2010s marked the widespread adoption of these technologies, which fundamentally altered how Americans interact, perceive each other, and engage with societal issues. Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram created a virtual space where geographic and ideological boundaries dissolved, forcing Americans into a constant, often contentious, dialogue. This digital revolution amplified existing fault lines—racial tensions, political polarization, and cultural divides—while introducing new challenges, such as declining mental health and institutional distrust. The rise of smartphone-enabled social media coincided with a sharp decline in perceptions of race relations, workplace sexism, and overall societal trust. Videos of police shootings, for instance, went viral, sparking nationwide protests and reigniting debates about systemic racism. Similarly, the MeToo movement gained momentum as social media provided a platform for marginalized voices. However, these platforms also fostered echo chambers, where extreme views were amplified, and constructive dialogue became increasingly rare. The result has been a society where anger and mistrust overshadow economic progress. Americans, once able to geographically sort themselves into like-minded communities, now find themselves in a digital town square, constantly exposed to opposing views and ideologies. This has led to a decline in happiness, particularly among educated liberals, who feel increasingly alienated in this new social landscape. The collapse of geographic sorting, once a release valve for societal tensions, has left Americans struggling to coexist in a hyperconnected world. As the nation navigates this digital age, the challenge remains: How can a society built on diversity and freedom adapt to a reality where everyone is constantly in each other’s virtual space?

  • Chinese diplomat highlights importance of media in bilateral relations

    Chinese diplomat highlights importance of media in bilateral relations

    Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Jianghao emphasized the critical role of media in enhancing mutual understanding and advancing bilateral relations during a China-Japan media salon hosted by the Chinese embassy in Tokyo on June 12. The event brought together media professionals and diplomats who advocated for objective, balanced, and fair reporting to foster deeper connections between the two nations. Ambassador Wu highlighted the media’s function as a bridge, urging thoughtful voices in both countries to contribute positively to the healthy and stable development of China-Japan relations. He also called for the effective use of social media to amplify these efforts. The high-level consultation mechanism on people-to-people and cultural exchanges between China and Japan, relaunched at the end of last year, aims to strengthen media and think tank cooperation to improve public opinion environments. Takeshi Hisanaga, an editorial writer at The Nishinippon Shimbun, expressed concern over the diminishing sense of closeness among Japanese citizens toward China, underscoring the need for improved media engagement.

  • Japan’s close-range reconnaissance a security threat, China says

    Japan’s close-range reconnaissance a security threat, China says

    China has raised concerns over Japan’s close-range reconnaissance activities, labeling them as a significant threat to maritime and airspace security. Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian addressed the issue during a regular press briefing on Thursday, responding to reports that Japanese military patrol planes encountered Chinese fighter jets flying unusually close over the weekend. Lin emphasized that China’s military operations in the region are fully compliant with international law and practices. He stated that Japan’s reconnaissance activities against China’s routine military exercises are the primary cause of security risks. Lin urged Japan to cease such provocative actions. Meanwhile, China has confirmed the deployment of carrier strike groups led by the CNS Liaoning and CNS Shandong for training exercises in the Western Pacific, underscoring its commitment to maintaining regional stability. The defense departments of both nations have maintained communication through established channels to address the issue.