Global Pulse

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  • Global leaders and businesses pore over fallout of more US tariff swoons

    Global leaders and businesses pore over fallout of more US tariff swoons

    The global economic community entered a state of heightened alert this weekend as nations and corporations worldwide assessed the ramifications of a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision that partially dismantled the Trump administration’s expansive tariff framework. The ruling represents the latest development in an ongoing trade policy revolution that has destabilized international commerce since the administration’s return to power thirteen months ago.

    In immediate response to the judicial setback, President Trump signed an executive order instituting a new 10% global tariff, which he subsequently announced would be elevated to 15%. This strategic pivot has forced trading partners from Asia to the Americas into emergency evaluations of their economic exposure. South Korea’s Trade Ministry convened an urgent meeting to analyze the shifting landscape, noting that while key exports like automobiles and steel remain unaffected, numerous other sectors now face renewed financial pressure.

    European leaders responded with measured diplomatic rhetoric. French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking at a Paris agricultural fair, acknowledged the value of institutional checks and balances within democracies, stating, “It’s a good thing to have powers and counter-powers. We should welcome that.” However, Macron simultaneously cautioned against premature celebration, emphasizing Europe’s intention to scrutinize the practical consequences of Trump’s reworked tariff measures.

    The uncertainty has created particular strain along the U.S.-Mexico border, where industrial economies remain deeply interconnected. Sergio Bermúdez, who leads an industrial parks company in Ciudad Juárez, captured the prevailing sentiment among business leaders: “All of the businesses I know are analyzing, trying to figure out how it’s going to affect them.” This confusion has been compounded by what American executive Alan Russell described as the “greatest enemy”—persistent uncertainty regarding daily regulatory changes that have complicated international operations.

    Meanwhile, financial restitution emerged as a critical secondary concern. Bernd Lange, chairman of the European Parliament’s trade committee, insisted that excess tariffs “must be refunded,” estimating German entities alone overpaid more than €100 billion. Swiss technology industry association Swissmem welcomed the court’s decision as positive news for an industry that saw exports plummet 18% in just one quarter, though officials acknowledged the situation remains fluid and unresolved.

  • The bones of St. Francis are going on public display, a mixed blessing for Assisi

    The bones of St. Francis are going on public display, a mixed blessing for Assisi

    The medieval Italian town of Assisi is bracing for an extraordinary spiritual event as the skeletal remains of St. Francis of Assisi are being exhibited publicly for the first time in history. This unprecedented month-long display, organized to commemorate the 800th anniversary of the saint’s passing, has already attracted registrations from nearly 400,000 pilgrims, with projections suggesting half a million visitors before the relics return to their crypt on March 22.

    The exhibition presents both a spiritual opportunity and logistical challenge for this Umbrian hilltop community. Mayor Valter Stoppini acknowledges the complex reality facing residents: “We’re accustomed to major events, but typically lasting one to three days. This prolonged month-long exhibition brings concerns, though I remain calm.”

    A dedicated force of 400 volunteers has been mobilized to manage the expected crowds through Assisi’s narrow, souvenir-lined cobblestone streets toward the lower Basilica of St. Francis. There, pilgrims will encounter the saint’s bones secured within a bulletproof glass enclosure.

    The town’s infrastructure faces severe strain from this continuous influx. While Assisi regularly welcomes religious tourists due to its status as a premier Christian pilgrimage destination, the extended duration of this event tests the patience of locals and the capacity of limited urban services.

    Adding to Assisi’s spiritual significance is the recent canonization of Carlo Acutis, the Catholic Church’s first millennial saint. This 15-year-old who died of leukemia in 2006 has become a powerful draw for younger pilgrims, particularly from Latin America, creating what Brother Marco Moroni describes as “an osmosis” between devotion to both saints that further increases visitor numbers.

    Local businesses express enthusiasm for the economic opportunity. Shopkeeper Arianna Catarinelli, whose store sells both St. Francis-themed merchandise and Acutis memorabilia, notes: “For residents, parking isn’t easy. But commercially, the high visitor numbers are positive.”

    The city administration has implemented mitigation measures including new peripheral parking facilities and shuttle services to reduce urban congestion. Bank employee Riccardo Bacconi reflects the pragmatic attitude of many residents: “Economically it’s important. There are more advantages than disadvantages for those of us who choose to live here.”

  • USS Gerald R Ford enters Mediterranean: What to know about world’s largest carrier

    USS Gerald R Ford enters Mediterranean: What to know about world’s largest carrier

    The USS Gerald R. Ford, the United States’ newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, has entered the Mediterranean Sea through the Strait of Gibraltar as of Friday. This strategic deployment significantly enhances American military presence in a region experiencing substantial force buildup ahead of potential operations against Iran.

    Accompanied by three destroyer escorts, the nuclear-powered carrier brings the total number of US warships in the Middle East to 17 vessels once fully positioned. The Ford’s arrival marks the second carrier deployment to the region, joining the USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying guided-missile destroyers that arrived in January.

    This deployment follows the Pentagon’s February 13th announcement redirecting the carrier from Caribbean operations to the Middle East. President Donald Trump had previously indicated he would consider sending additional carrier support if diplomatic efforts with Iran remained unresolved.

    The Gerald R. Ford represents the pinnacle of naval technology, capable of carrying over 75 military aircraft including F/A-18 Super Hornets and E-2 Hawkeye early warning aircraft. The vessel features advanced radar systems for superior air traffic control and navigation capabilities. Its supporting fleet includes the Ticonderoga-class cruiser USS Normandy and Arleigh Burke-class destroyers USS Thomas Hudner, USS Ramage, USS Carney, and USS Roosevelt—all equipped for comprehensive surface-to-air, surface-to-surface, and anti-submarine warfare operations.

    According to operational records, the carrier has been continuously at sea since June 2025, having been abruptly redirected from planned European operations to the Caribbean in November before its current Middle Eastern assignment. While typical carrier deployments last nine months, extensions frequently occur during periods of heightened military activity.

    US Central Command confirmed the strike group’s deployment is intended to ‘promote regional security and stability’ amid escalating tensions. The military buildup follows Iran’s intensified crackdown on mass protests earlier this year, though President Trump has since stepped back from direct military action while maintaining that all options remain available.

  • UAE weather: Morning fog, mist expected till Wednesday

    UAE weather: Morning fog, mist expected till Wednesday

    The United Arab Emirates is set to experience a sustained period of humid conditions with significant morning fog and mist from Saturday through Wednesday, according to the National Centre of Meteorology. Meteorological officials indicate reduced visibility will particularly affect coastal and internal regions during early morning hours, prompting advisories for motorists to exercise heightened caution.

    Weather patterns will generally remain fair to partly cloudy throughout the five-day period, though temperatures will see minor fluctuations. A slight temperature decrease is anticipated on Sunday, followed by a noticeable increase by Tuesday. Wind patterns will predominantly feature light to moderate Northwesterly to Southwesterly flows, occasionally freshening with speeds potentially reaching 35 km/hour.

    Maritime conditions in both the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea are expected to remain generally slight, with occasional moderate swells forecast for Sunday and Wednesday. The meteorological authority continues to monitor conditions closely and has issued regular updates to ensure public safety during the period of reduced visibility.

    The recurring fog pattern aligns with seasonal weather expectations for the region during this transitional period. Authorities emphasize the importance of allowing extra travel time during morning commutes and utilizing appropriate vehicle lighting systems when encountering foggy conditions.

  • India court sentences couple to death for sexual abuse of 33 children

    India court sentences couple to death for sexual abuse of 33 children

    In a landmark ruling that has sent shockwaves across India, a Special POCSO Court in Uttar Pradesh’s Banda district has delivered death sentences to a married couple convicted of perpetrating one of the most extensive child sexual abuse cases in recent history. Rambhawan, a junior engineer in the state irrigation department, and his wife Durgawati were found guilty of subjecting 33 male children—some as young as three years old—to systematic sexual exploitation over a decade-long period from 2010 to 2020.

    The court characterized the offenses as demonstrating ‘extreme moral turpitude’ and falling under the ‘rarest of rare’ category warranting capital punishment. The convicted pair faced multiple charges including aggravated penetrative sexual assault, production of child sexual abuse material, and criminal conspiracy under India’s Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

    According to investigative findings by India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which registered the case in October 2020, the perpetrators employed sophisticated grooming techniques including online video games, financial incentives, and gifts to lure vulnerable minors across Banda and neighboring Chitrakoot districts. The agency’s meticulous investigation involved coordination with forensic experts, medical professionals, and child protection authorities to preserve crucial digital evidence.

    The court additionally mandated compensation of Rs 1 million (approximately $12,000) for each victim and ordered the distribution of confiscated cash from the defendants’ residence among the survivors. Medical reports presented during trial revealed some children sustained physical injuries during assaults, while others developed permanent health conditions including squint eye from being forced into uncomfortable positions.

    Child rights advocate Naghma Sahar, who has extensively reported on such cases, emphasized that while sentencing provides judicial closure, the victims require sustained psychological and educational support to rebuild their lives. She highlighted the case demonstrates how abuse can remain concealed for years within familiar environments, underscoring the critical need for enhanced community vigilance and awareness programs in schools.

    The verdict represents a significant application of India’s legal provisions permitting capital punishment in exceptional cases involving aggravated sexual assault of minors, reflecting the judiciary’s increasing severity toward crimes against children.

  • Gold price likely to hit $6,000 this year, seen heading towards $10,000, analysts say

    Gold price likely to hit $6,000 this year, seen heading towards $10,000, analysts say

    Financial markets are witnessing an unprecedented rally in gold prices, with leading analysts projecting a potential ascent to the unprecedented $10,000 per ounce mark. After consolidating near $5,100 per ounce, the precious metal is poised for a significant surge as Asian trading hubs resume operations following the Chinese New Year hiatus, expected to inject renewed volatility and upward momentum.

    The current bullish trajectory is underpinned by a confluence of powerful fundamental drivers. Senior research strategist Michael Brown of Pepperstone identifies the recent market calm not as stagnation, but as a highly bullish indicator. He suggests the speculative frenzy has subsided, allowing core market fundamentals to reassert control. These fundamentals include sustained geopolitical risk premiums from ongoing Middle Eastern tensions, relentless demand from central banks diversifying their reserves, and increasing retail investor allocations into gold as a portfolio safeguard.

    Further bolstering the long-term outlook are deep-seated concerns over the unsustainable fiscal policies of developed nations. Brown emphasizes that any price dips should be viewed as strategic buying opportunities, with key support levels established at $4,850 and $4,700 per ounce. A decisive break above the recent high of $5,100 is anticipated to trigger a fresh wave of long positions.

    Zaheer Anwari, CEO of The Revacy Fund, echoes this cautiously optimistic sentiment. He confirms that gold’s status as the premier safe-haven asset is being reinforced by a broad shift away from U.S. assets and persistent central bank accumulation, which collectively act as a robust floor for prices. The prospect of U.S. monetary policy easing continues to serve as a significant tailwind.

    However, analysts caution that the rally is not without potential headwinds. A de-escalation of global conflicts, a more hawkish-than-expected Federal Reserve, or a slowdown in institutional buying could trigger short-term volatility and profit-taking. Anwari’s fund has adopted a more cautious stance, tightening risk parameters and realizing gains near the $5,000 threshold while awaiting clearer directional confirmation.

    This analysis aligns with projections from major global institutions. JPMorgan forecasts gold reaching $6,300 per ounce by the end of 2026, while AuAg Funds predicts the metal will surpass $6,000 within the year, building on its record-breaking performance earlier in 2026 that saw it cross the $5,500 milestone.

  • Pakistan chooses to bat first against New Zealand in rain-delayed Super 8 match at T20 World Cup

    Pakistan chooses to bat first against New Zealand in rain-delayed Super 8 match at T20 World Cup

    COLOMBO, Sri Lanka — The highly anticipated Super 8s opener between Pakistan and New Zealand at the ICC T20 World Cup encountered an immediate setback as persistent rainfall delayed the start of play at R. Premadasa Stadium on Saturday.

    Pakistan’s newly appointed captain, Salman Ali Agha, won the crucial toss and elected to bat first, seeking to establish an early advantage in the Group 2 encounter. Both squads revealed significant strategic changes to their starting lineups ahead of the critical match.

    The Pakistani selection committee made one notable alteration to their batting order, recalling veteran power-hitter Fakhar Zaman to replace Khawaja Nafay. Zaman, who was rested during Pakistan’s final group-stage fixture against Namibia, returns to bolster the team’s firepower in the middle overs.

    New Zealand responded with their own tactical adjustments, reinstating three key players to their first-choice lineup. Regular captain Mitchell Santner resumed leadership duties, while the Black Caps also welcomed back pace spearhead Lockie Ferguson and leg-spinner Ish Sodhi, significantly strengthening both their bowling attack and strategic leadership.

    This match represents a critical juncture for both nations after they finished second in their respective preliminary groups. They now face the daunting challenge of Group 2, which includes tournament hosts Sri Lanka and the defending champions, England, making every match in the Super 8 stage essentially a knockout fixture.

    The weather interruption adds another layer of complexity to an already high-stakes encounter, with both teams needing to adapt quickly to conditions and potential Duckworth-Lewis calculations should the rain persist.

    Lineups:
    Pakistan: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq.

    New Zealand: Mitchell Santner (captain), Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson.

  • USS Gerald R. Ford enters Mediterranean: A look at US military assets in region

    USS Gerald R. Ford enters Mediterranean: A look at US military assets in region

    In a significant escalation of military presence, the USS Gerald R. Ford—the world’s largest aircraft carrier—has entered the Mediterranean Sea through the Strait of Gibraltar. This deployment substantially enhances American strategic capabilities in a region experiencing unprecedented military mobilization ahead of potential confrontations with Iran.

    The naval reinforcement brings total US warship deployments in the Middle East to 17 vessels, including two aircraft carriers simultaneously operating in the region—an uncommon show of naval strength. The Ford carrier strike group joins the existing USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying fleet of nine destroyers and three littoral combat ships already positioned in the area.

    Beyond naval assets, the United States has deployed advanced aerial capabilities to the region. Open-source intelligence and flight tracking data confirm the presence of F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning stealth fighter jets, alongside F-15 and F-16 warplanes, supported by KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft essential for sustained operations.

    The military buildup extends to enhanced land-based air defense systems throughout the Middle East, complementing the sea-based defense capabilities provided by guided-missile destroyers. This multi-layered approach addresses potential vulnerabilities at US military installations across the region, where tens of thousands of personnel remain stationed.

    The strategic deployment occurs amidst heightened tensions following previous exchanges, including Iran’s missile launch toward a US base in Qatar in June 2025—which was successfully intercepted by air defense systems—in retaliation for American strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

  • Six races, six golds – Klaebo’s historic Olympics

    Six races, six golds – Klaebo’s historic Olympics

    Norwegian cross-country skiing sensation Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo has etched his name in Winter Olympic history by capturing an unprecedented sixth gold medal at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Games. The 29-year-old phenom achieved this extraordinary feat by dominating the grueling 50km mass start classic event, completing the challenging course in 2 hours, 6 minutes, and 44.8 seconds.

    Klaebo’s victory marked a complete Norwegian podium sweep, with teammates Martin Loewstroem Nyenget securing silver and Emil Iversen claiming bronze. Nyenget finished 8.9 seconds behind the champion, earning his third medal of the competition.

    This historic performance surpasses the previous record of five gold medals set by American speed skater Eric Heiden at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics. Klaebo now boasts 11 Winter Olympic gold medals overall, establishing himself as the first athlete to win all six cross-country skiing events at a single Games. Among all Olympians, only swimming legend Michael Phelps, with 23 gold medals, stands above Klaebo’s remarkable achievement.

    Reflecting on his accomplishment, Klaebo told BBC Sport: ‘It’s been crazy, it’s a dream come true. I really think this Olympics has been perfect. Being able to crown the Olympics with the 50km was unbelievable.’

    The Norwegian champion’s journey to skiing greatness began when he moved to Trondheim as a child, a region renowned for its cross-country skiing trails. His dominance extends beyond the Olympics, with an incredible 116 World Cup victories and 15 world championship titles to his name.

    Meanwhile, Team GB’s Andrew Musgrave delivered a respectable sixth-place finish, nearly four minutes behind Klaebo, while teammate Joe Davies placed 16th. The 35-year-old Musgrave, competing in his fifth Olympics, humorously remarked about potentially competing in his sixth Games: ‘I’m still young and promising.’

    Despite limited resources, the British cross-country team celebrated their most successful Olympic performance to date, including a fifth-place finish in the team sprint event—the nation’s best result in the sport.

  • Body odour, bad breath? How UAE schools are teaching better hygiene habits

    Body odour, bad breath? How UAE schools are teaching better hygiene habits

    In the diverse educational landscape of the United Arab Emirates, schools are implementing innovative approaches to personal hygiene education that extend beyond traditional family responsibilities. These initiatives are becoming integral components of institutional well-being programs, addressing sensitive topics like body odor and oral hygiene with remarkable tact and effectiveness.

    Global research substantiates that comprehensive hygiene education produces multifaceted benefits, enhancing not only children’s physical health and school attendance rates but also creating positive ripple effects throughout families and communities. This evidence-based approach has prompted UAE institutions to develop sophisticated methodologies for delivering these essential lessons.

    Dubai resident Sherry Garcia experienced this educational evolution firsthand when she received a carefully worded communication from her son’s school regarding post-physical education odor concerns. Initially surprised by the notification, Garcia later appreciated the institution’s considerate approach. “The school’s guidance proved both practical and reassuring,” she noted, citing specific recommendations including frequent washing of athletic uniforms, daily bathing routines, and appropriate deodorant use when necessary.

    Educational professionals throughout the UAE emphasize that these conversations, when conducted with sensitivity, serve as confidence-building exercises rather than sources of embarrassment. Dr. Mathivathani D, school physician at Springdales School Dubai, explained: “We employ interactive lectures, creative visual displays, and engaging student-centered activities to promote hygiene awareness through positive reinforcement. This methodology helps students develop self-care habits while fostering consideration for others.”

    Schools maintain careful balance in their hygiene initiatives, discouraging strong fragrances that might trigger asthma or allergic reactions while emphasizing that true confidence stems from self-respect and healthy practices rather than external appearance alone. Regular health education sessions, particularly for adolescents, address both physical changes and emotional development while reinforcing principles of mutual respect.

    The holistic approach involves parents as essential partners, with seasonal communications and workshops ensuring home-school alignment. Discreet handling of individual concerns prioritizes building trust with students before engaging parents supportively.

    The broader conversation around grooming continues to evolve, with industry experts like Abdulla Ajmal, CEO of Ajmal Group, noting that age-appropriate fragrances can become constructive elements in children’s self-care routines when formulated with sensitivity to youthful skin and preferences for lighter, softer scents.