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  • Carrick says Man United is proud of its culture after Ratcliffe’s comments

    Carrick says Man United is proud of its culture after Ratcliffe’s comments

    MANCHESTER, England — Manchester United’s leadership has moved to reinforce the club’s commitment to diversity following inflammatory comments about immigration from co-owner Jim Ratcliffe that sparked widespread condemnation across British society.

    The controversy emerged when Ratcliffe, billionaire owner of petrochemical conglomerate INEOS and recent minority stakeholder in Manchester United, claimed Britain had been ‘colonized’ by immigrants during a media interview. The remarks immediately drew criticism from Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office, political figures across the spectrum, and the club’s own supporters.

    Interim head coach Michael Carrick addressed the situation during his Friday press conference, carefully navigating the sensitive topic while emphasizing the club’s core values. ‘Sir Jim has made a statement, and then the club’s made a statement on the back of it so for me to add to that is not my place,’ Carrick stated, demonstrating diplomatic restraint.

    The longtime club figure instead highlighted Manchester United’s global impact and inclusive environment: ‘As I’ve been around this club many, many years, we always make a huge impact globally. We’re really proud of the environment and the culture that we’ve got at the club, and equality and diversity and respect for each other is something that we look to carry through every day.’

    Ratcliffe subsequently apologized for his word choice, acknowledging that his language had ‘offended some people.’ However, the incident touched a raw nerve in Britain’s ongoing immigration debate and raised questions about hypocrisy, as Ratcliffe himself resides in Monaco for tax purposes—a fact critics were quick to highlight.

    The episode represents Ratcliffe’s first significant controversy since acquiring his stake in the storied football club, testing the relationship between new ownership and a fanbase that proudly celebrates its diverse composition.

  • How Eric Dane gave his final months to ‘moving the needle’ on ALS

    How Eric Dane gave his final months to ‘moving the needle’ on ALS

    Eric Dane, the acclaimed actor renowned for his portrayal of Dr. Mark ‘McSteamy’ Sloan on the hit medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, has passed away at age 53 following a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His death comes just ten months after publicly disclosing his diagnosis with the progressive neurodegenerative condition.

    Dane transformed his personal health struggle into a powerful advocacy mission, dedicating his final months to raising both funds and public consciousness about ALS, the most prevalent form of motor neurone disease. In a poignant interview with Time magazine published shortly before his passing, the actor revealed his dual motivation: ‘I’m trying to save my life,’ while simultaneously striving to advance research for countless others affected by the incurable illness.

    The California-born performer launched an ambitious three-year campaign last September targeting over $1 billion in federal research funding. His advocacy efforts included joining the board of Target ALS, where his involvement helped surpass a $500,000 fundraising goal. Dane further leveraged his acting profession to illuminate the ALS experience, delivering a critically acclaimed performance on medical drama Brilliant Minds as a firefighter confronting the emotional and physical realities of diagnosis.

    Medical experts emphasize the particular challenges in treating ALS, which Professor Kevin Talbot of Oxford University describes as lacking ‘a single unifying cause.’ The disease’s rapid progression and relatively small patient population create significant obstacles for clinical trials, as noted by Neil Thackur of the ALS Association.

    Dane’s condition deteriorated rapidly following his April 2025 diagnosis. Colleagues including Grey’s Anatomy co-star Patrick Dempsey reported the actor had become bedridden with severely compromised swallowing and speech functions. Despite these challenges, Dane maintained his public advocacy until the end, telling People magazine that sharing his journey had become ‘imperative’ because he no longer felt his life was ‘about me anymore.’

    While medical interventions can improve quality of life for ALS patients, Professor Talbot emphasizes that finding a cure will require ‘major funding, sustained for years’ to overcome the complex biological mechanisms underlying not just ALS but other neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

  • S. Korea’s ex-president Yoon apologizes to public for own shortcomings

    S. Korea’s ex-president Yoon apologizes to public for own shortcomings

    In a historic ruling that has sent shockwaves through South Korea’s political landscape, former President Yoon Suk-yeol has been sentenced to life imprisonment on charges of insurrection. The Seoul Central District Court delivered its verdict on Thursday, concluding that Yoon’s declaration of emergency martial law in December 2024 constituted an attempt to subvert the constitutional order.

    The court determined that the deployment of military forces to the National Assembly building represented the crucial element in the case, effectively preventing the legislative body from functioning for a substantial duration. This unprecedented move marked the first time in South Korea’s history that troops were directed toward the parliamentary complex during a political crisis.

    Following the court’s decision, the disgraced former leader issued a public apology on Friday, expressing remorse for what he described as ‘personal shortcomings’ that led to public frustration and hardship. However, Yoon maintained that his controversial decision to implement martial law was motivated solely by national interests and concern for the South Korean people.

    The political turmoil began on December 3, 2024, when Yoon declared emergency measures that were subsequently revoked by the National Assembly within hours. The constitutional court upheld an impeachment motion in April 2025, formally removing Yoon from office. His indictment under detention in January 2025 made him the first sitting president in South Korean history to be arrested and charged with criminal offenses.

    Yoon continues to protest the court’s characterization of his actions as insurrection, insisting that his ‘desperate decision to save the nation’ has been unfairly maligned. The case represents a significant chapter in South Korea’s ongoing evolution of democratic institutions and constitutional governance.

  • Sweet Surprise by Aster raises awareness on hidden sugar as UAE’s new levy takes effect

    Sweet Surprise by Aster raises awareness on hidden sugar as UAE’s new levy takes effect

    In response to the UAE’s newly implemented volumetric sugar tax system, Aster Clinics UAE has launched a comprehensive public health campaign titled ‘Sweet Surprise by Aster’ alongside the establishment of its Diabetes 360 Care Clinic in Al Qusais. The initiative represents a strategic alignment with national efforts to combat rising diabetes and obesity rates through enhanced public education and early screening programs.

    The volumetric taxation approach, effective since January 1, 2026, replaces the previous flat excise duty with a tiered system that imposes levies based on sugar content per 100ml in beverages. This policy shift creates financial incentives for both manufacturers and consumers to prioritize lower-sugar alternatives amid concerning health statistics: approximately one in three UAE adults currently live with diabetes or prediabetes, while 27.3% exceed recommended sugar consumption guidelines.

    Aster’s program operates within the framework of Dubai’s 10X initiative, championing a future-ready healthcare model that emphasizes early detection and prevention. The Diabetes 360 Care Clinic employs data analytics and artificial intelligence to identify potential health risks before symptoms manifest, marking a significant shift from reactive treatment to proactive health management.

    The campaign specifically addresses the challenge of hidden sugar consumption, with research indicating that over a quarter of UAE adults regularly consume sugar-sweetened beverages. This exceeds World Health Organization recommendations that free sugars should constitute less than 10% of total daily energy intake, approximately 25-50 grams for adults.

    Through community engagement and educational outreach, Aster aims to transform public awareness into tangible action, encouraging behavioral changes that support long-term health outcomes and sustainable wellness practices across the Emirates.

  • Philippines suspends classes for EDSA People Power 40th anniversary

    Philippines suspends classes for EDSA People Power 40th anniversary

    Multiple prominent academic institutions across the Philippines have announced suspensions of classes and administrative operations on February 25, 2026, to mark the 40th anniversary of the historic EDSA People Power Revolution. This significant milestone commemorates the 1986 non-violent uprising that led to the overthrow of the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and the subsequent inauguration of Corazon Aquino as president.

    Despite the official government designation of February 25 as a special working day, several universities have independently declared academic holidays to enable their communities to participate in anniversary events and reflect on this pivotal moment in Philippine history. The revolution, characterized by massive peaceful demonstrations along Epifano delos Santos Avenue (EDSA), fundamentally transformed the nation’s political landscape four decades ago.

    Institutional participation includes Ateneo de Manila University, which has established a University Holiday to facilitate involvement in EDSA commemorative activities. Similarly, De La Salle Philippines has suspended classes and work across its member institutions to support mobilization efforts connected to the anniversary observance.

    The University of Santo Tomas, University of the East (with suspensions at both Manila and Caloocan campuses), Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Mapúa University (affecting Intramuros, Makati, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay locations), and Adamson University have all implemented similar measures. These institutions have not only canceled academic sessions but also encouraged students, faculty, and staff to engage in reflection and activities honoring the revolution’s legacy of democratic change and peaceful protest.

  • Daiso Japan unveils the largest Ramadan collection in the UAE

    Daiso Japan unveils the largest Ramadan collection in the UAE

    Daiso Japan has introduced its most comprehensive Ramadan assortment to date in the United Arab Emirates, featuring an unprecedented selection of over 4,000 culturally-inspired products starting from just Dh5. The retail giant’s 2026 collection represents the largest Ramadan offering currently available in the UAE market, meticulously designed to assist households in creating spiritually meaningful environments throughout the holy month.

    The expansive inventory includes an array of traditional lanterns ranging from compact 15cm designs to substantial 120cm centerpieces, complemented by decorative lighting systems, plush cushions, and artistically crafted Ramadan countdown calendars that enhance daily religious observances. This year’s distinctive additions feature mosque display décor and sophisticated wooden ornaments with integrated illumination, available in sizes from 30cm to 150cm, alongside Arabesque-inspired decorations drawing from classical Islamic artistic patterns.

    Beyond decorative elements, the collection encompasses practical religious items including incense burners, ceremonial tableware, Quran stands, prayer mats, and specialized Ramadan lighting designed to establish contemplative atmospheres. For social gatherings, Daiso provides complete hospitality solutions featuring coordinated tablecloths, serving trays, culinary presentation pieces, and suspended decorative elements that transform living spaces for festive occasions.

    The product development team has emphasized cultural authenticity while incorporating contemporary design elements, creating pieces suitable for both home decoration and thoughtful gift-giving. All items in the Ramadan collection are now available across Daiso Japan’s retail locations throughout the UAE.

  • Ajman to redesign neighbourhoods to cut travel time, boost walkability

    Ajman to redesign neighbourhoods to cut travel time, boost walkability

    The Emirate of Ajman is embarking on a transformative urban development strategy designed to fundamentally reshape daily life for its residents. Moving beyond traditional road expansion, the new Integrated Urban Plan places walkability, reduced commute times, and enhanced quality of life at the core of its long-term vision.

    Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman’s Municipality and Planning Department, recently reviewed the comprehensive framework. The strategy represents a significant shift from scattered outward development to a focused concentration of growth within defined neighborhood hubs. This approach aims to alleviate infrastructure strain and ensure residents have drastically improved access to essential services.

    Dr. Eng Mohammed Ahmed bin Omair Al Muhairi, Executive Director of the Infrastructure Development Sector, articulated the plan’s primary objective: to create organized centers where schools, healthcare facilities, retail outlets, and public services are all accessible within a 15-minute walk. This model directly targets the emirate’s reliance on private vehicles, seeking to reduce travel distances and foster greater community vitality.

    A key pillar of the initiative involves building a multi-modal, low-carbon transport network that prioritizes public transit, cycling, and pedestrian pathways. The plan will leverage data-driven systems and artificial intelligence to forecast traffic patterns and intelligently anticipate future infrastructure requirements, ensuring the system remains dynamic and responsive.

    The framework also includes performance benchmarks to measure the success of containing new development within approved boundaries and tracking the number of residents living within walking distance of daily amenities. Furthermore, the plan addresses older districts developed over four decades ago, introducing updated redevelopment guidelines to modernize infrastructure and public spaces while preserving Ajman’s unique cultural identity.

    As Ajman continues to attract new residents, this balanced approach seeks to harmonize expansion with sustainability, protecting green spaces and reducing unnecessary travel demand. If effectively implemented, the result will be shorter daily trips, safer pedestrian routes, and communities intentionally designed for people, not cars.

  • Watch: Queen Rania, King Abdullah join Jordan’s royals for group Ramadan iftar

    Watch: Queen Rania, King Abdullah join Jordan’s royals for group Ramadan iftar

    Jordan’s Hashemite royal family has commenced the holy month of Ramadan with a cherished family tradition, as evidenced by a recently shared intimate gathering. Queen Rania Al Abdullah, alongside King Abdullah II, hosted an exclusive iftar celebration marking the beginning of Ramadan 2026, bringing together multiple generations of the royal household.

    The commencement of Ramadan in Jordan followed the official announcement several days prior, when the crescent moon signaling the start of the holy month remained unseen across 29 nations. Consequently, Jordan joined countries including Oman, India, and Bangladesh in observing the first day of Ramadan on Thursday, February 19.

    Through her substantial social media platform reaching 10.9 million Instagram followers, Queen Rania disseminated heartfelt Ramadan greetings: “May this holy month fill our homes with the warmth of family and loved ones. Ramadan Mubarak to all.” The accompanying video footage provided glimpses into the royal family’s personal observance traditions.

    The gathering showcased both regal elegance and familial warmth. Queen Rania, renowned as an Arab fashion icon, appeared radiant in a sophisticated crimson dress accentuated with a distinctive waist belt. Her daughter-in-law, Princess Rajwa, complemented the occasion in an exquisitely embroidered black ensemble. The attendance of Crown Prince Hussein, Princess Iman, and her spouse Jameel Alexander Thermiotis further emphasized the significance of family unity during this sacred period.

    As the Maghrib prayer commenced, the ceremonial breaking of fast unfolded with traditional soup service while children contributed an atmosphere of joyful spontaneity. The evening progressed with a heartfelt birthday celebration for an elder family member, during which the entire assembly, including the monarchs, enthusiastically participated in Arabic birthday renditions.

    Demonstrating thoughtful consideration for younger attendees, Queen Rania distributed prayer mats as Ramadan gifts, creating enduring memories for the children present. The viral video documentation of this royal iftar has generated substantial engagement across social platforms, accumulating thousands of comments and over 23,000 shares, with admirers worldwide expressing affection and extending Ramadan blessings to the Jordanian royal family.

  • Italian authorities accuse man of training dog to illegally dump his rubbish

    Italian authorities accuse man of training dog to illegally dump his rubbish

    Authorities in the Sicilian city of Catania have uncovered an unconventional attempt to circumvent municipal surveillance systems: a man allegedly trained his small dog to act as an accomplice in illegal waste disposal. The incident occurred in the San Giorgio district, where local police obtained video evidence showing the canine transporting a bag of rubbish in its mouth before depositing it roadside.

    The footage, captured over two consecutive days, depicts the dog carrying out what officials describe as a carefully orchestrated deception. City representatives stated the evidence ‘leaves little room for doubt’ that the animal was deliberately trained to discard waste on behalf of its owner, thereby avoiding detection by CCTV cameras specifically installed to combat fly-tipping.

    In an official statement released through its Facebook platform, the City of Catania condemned the act as ‘cunning’ and ‘doubly wrong,’ emphasizing that ‘ingenuity can never become an alibi for incivility.’ The administration further criticized the owner for ‘exploiting an unwitting four-legged friend’ and reiterated that ‘respect for decorum and the environment is everyone’s duty.’

    While the statement did not specify whether legal action has been initiated against the dog’s owner, it highlights ongoing challenges Italian municipalities face combating illegal waste disposal. Despite national laws prohibiting fly-tipping, the practice remains persistent, prompting cities like Catania to implement technological solutions including surveillance cameras to identify offenders.

    The case represents a novel approach to evading environmental regulations while demonstrating the lengths to which some individuals will go to avoid responsibility for proper waste management.

  • Tanishq reinforces long-term UAE commitment, expands footprint with first Dubai South store

    Tanishq reinforces long-term UAE commitment, expands footprint with first Dubai South store

    Indian jewellery powerhouse Tanishq, a subsidiary of Titan Company Limited, has significantly bolstered its Middle Eastern presence with the inauguration of its eighteenth UAE retail location at Ibn Battuta Mall’s Andalusia Court in Dubai South. This 2,000 square foot establishment marks the brand’s strategic entry into one of Dubai’s fastest developing residential and commercial corridors.

    The recent opening follows closely on the heels of Tanishq’s Gold Centre location in the historic Dubai Gold Souk, demonstrating a dual-focused expansion strategy that targets both traditional jewellery districts and emerging community hubs. This calculated approach underscores Titan Company’s determined pursuit of market leadership within the UAE’s competitive jewellery sector.

    Arun Narayanan, Global CEO of Titan’s Jewellery Division, emphasized the strategic significance of the Dubai South location during the opening ceremony: ‘This launch embodies our commitment to establishing relevance in markets that define the future of urban development in the UAE. Dubai South represents a natural progression for our expansion, merging residential growth with sustained community development.’

    The expansion reflects Tanishq’s multifaceted growth strategy, combining rapid retail network development with strategic positioning and diversified product offerings. This approach continues to strengthen the brand’s competitive advantage while deepening consumer engagement across Dubai’s diverse demographic landscape.