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  • Cheers for Team USA turn to jeers for Vance at Milan Cortina opening ceremony

    Cheers for Team USA turn to jeers for Vance at Milan Cortina opening ceremony

    MILAN — The opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics presented a stark contrast in international reception for American representatives on Friday evening. While Team USA athletes received enthusiastic applause during the parade of nations, Vice President JD Vance encountered audible disapproval from sections of the crowd.

    Speedskater Erin Jackson, leading the American contingent as flag bearer, guided one of the final national delegations into Milan’s iconic San Siro stadium. The assembled spectators cheered warmly for the Olympians representing the United States.

    However, the atmosphere shifted noticeably when broadcast cameras focused on Vice President Vance and his wife Usha Vance in the VIP tribune. As the stadium screens displayed the second couple waving American flags, distinct sounds of jeering and whistling emerged from sections of the audience.

    This cool reception occurs against a backdrop of deteriorating international relations during the Trump administration, which has pursued an assertive foreign policy approach including controversial trade tariffs, military engagements in Venezuela, and even discussions about acquiring Greenland.

    The Israeli delegation similarly faced audible disapproval during their entrance, highlighting the political dimensions that occasionally surface during international sporting events.

    These Winter Games mark a historic organizational achievement as the most geographically dispersed in history. Athlete parades occurred simultaneously across four Italian locations: Milan, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Livigno, and Predazzo, spanning northern Italy’s vast mountainous regions.

  • Watch: Trump has called to nationalise US elections. Is it a big deal?

    Watch: Trump has called to nationalise US elections. Is it a big deal?

    President Donald Trump’s recent suggestion to nationalize U.S. elections has ignited intense constitutional and political debate during a critical midterm election year. The proposal, which would fundamentally alter America’s decentralized voting system, has drawn swift reactions from legal experts and political figures across the spectrum.

    The American electoral system has historically been administered at state and local levels, with varying procedures and regulations across jurisdictions. This decentralized approach is deeply embedded in the nation’s constitutional framework, granting states considerable autonomy in election administration.

    Legal scholars emphasize that implementing such a nationalized system would require unprecedented constitutional amendments, as the Elections Clause specifically reserves election administration powers to state legislatures with congressional oversight. Political analysts note the timing of these comments appears strategically aligned with ongoing debates about election integrity and security.

    The discussion emerges amid heightened political tensions surrounding the November midterm elections, where control of both chambers of Congress hangs in the balance. Election law experts caution that any movement toward federalizing elections would face significant legal challenges and practical implementation hurdles.

    BBC Washington correspondent Daniel Bush’s analysis highlights how these comments have reverberated through political circles, reflecting deeper divisions about the nature of American democracy and the balance between federal and state authority. The conversation continues to evolve as lawmakers, legal experts, and voting rights advocates weigh the implications of potentially restructuring the nation’s electoral foundation.

  • ‘My life was transformed when I got rare sheep disease on holiday’

    ‘My life was transformed when I got rare sheep disease on holiday’

    A Scottish farmer’s encounter with a rare bacterial infection during an Australian holiday has fundamentally reshaped her approach to life and work over a transformative decade-long health journey. Sally Crowe, a 48-year-old Caithness crofter featured on BBC’s This Farming Life, contracted Q fever in 2012 while visiting friends working in a sheep-shearing facility in Western Australia.

    The initial symptoms manifested upon her return to the UK as severe flu-like sensations that medical professionals struggled to diagnose. After 18 months of uncertainty and being misdiagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (ME), doctors finally identified the condition as chronic Q fever—a rare airborne disease transmitted from farm animals that affects only approximately 5% of those exposed.

    The subsequent years brought profound challenges as Sally transitioned from an active farming lifestyle to being bedbound for up to 18 hours daily. The treatment landscape in Scotland proved limited, prompting her to seek specialized medical intervention from South Africa in 2016. Her year-long therapeutic regimen involved alternating weeks of antibiotics and anti-malarial medications, which initially exacerbated her discomfort before gradually restoring functionality.

    This health crisis precipitated a complete re-evaluation of priorities. Sally embraced IVF treatment and welcomed her son William in 2019, catalyzing a shift from work-centric living to quality family time. She implemented strategic energy management on her 65-acre family croft—established in 1972 and home to 60 breeding ewes, nine cattle, and numerous hens—alternating physical tasks with cognitively demanding activities across days.

    Medical authorities note that Q fever, while typically harmless, can develop into chronic conditions causing serious cardiovascular complications like endocarditis. The infection spreads primarily through contact with infected animals’ bodily fluids and tissues, posing particular risks to agricultural workers, veterinarians, and abattoir personnel. No licensed vaccine currently exists within the UK healthcare system.

    Sally’s narrative transcends medical statistics, embodying a powerful testament to resilience and reprioritization. She now consciously reserves weekends for meaningful interactions with her six-year-old son, recognizing the transient nature of childhood. Her experience underscores the importance of balancing occupational demands with personal fulfillment, offering insights relevant both to agricultural communities and broader discussions about occupational health risks and post-recovery life adaptation.

  • Lulu Group chief Yusuff Ali reappointed board member of Abu Dhabi Chamber

    Lulu Group chief Yusuff Ali reappointed board member of Abu Dhabi Chamber

    In a significant development for the UAE’s business community, Lulu Group Chairman and Managing Director Yusuff Ali MA has been reappointed to the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The appointment came through an official resolution issued by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, marking the second time the prominent business leader has received such an appointment through council resolution.

    This reappointment represents the latest chapter in Yusuff Ali’s longstanding relationship with the Chamber, having previously served three separate terms as an elected board member. The Abu Dhabi Chamber formally welcomed his return, stating: “The Chamber extends its best wishes for success in his new role and for meaningful contributions toward enhancing the role and impact of the private sector in the Emirate, while supporting the achievement of Abu Dhabi’s economic aspirations.”

    Yusuff Ali, ranked as the wealthiest Indian national in the UAE with an estimated fortune of $5.8 billion, leads one of the region’s most expansive retail empires. Lulu Group maintains a formidable global presence with operations spanning 22 countries and a diverse workforce exceeding 75,000 employees representing 46 nationalities.

    The group’s portfolio includes an extensive network of shopping malls, hypermarkets, and financial services through its money exchange and remittance division. Recent financial performance indicators demonstrate robust growth, with Lulu Retail reporting a net profit of $36 million (Dh132 million) for the third quarter of 2025—representing a substantial 24 percent year-on-year increase.

    This strategic appointment reinforces the continued collaboration between government institutions and private sector leadership in driving Abu Dhabi’s economic vision forward.

  • UAE condemns terrorist attack at Islamabad mosque as at least 30 dead

    UAE condemns terrorist attack at Islamabad mosque as at least 30 dead

    The United Arab Emirates has issued a forceful condemnation of a devastating terrorist attack targeting a Shi’ite Muslim mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan, during Friday prayers. The suicide bombing resulted in significant casualties, with at least 31 fatalities and approximately 170 individuals wounded according to preliminary reports from Pakistani authorities.

    In an official statement released by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UAE government expressed its vehement rejection of all forms of violent extremism and terrorism that threaten global security and stability. The Ministry characterized the assault as criminal acts fundamentally opposed to peaceful coexistence.

    The Emirates extended profound condolences and heartfelt sympathy to both the bereaved families affected by the tragedy and to the government and citizens of Pakistan. The statement further conveyed wishes for the swift recovery of those injured in the blast.

    Eyewitness accounts and images from the scene depicted a harrowing aftermath, with bloodied victims lying amid shattered glass and debris on the mosque’s carpets while panicked worshippers sought safety. Preliminary investigations by local police indicate the suicide bomber was intercepted at the mosque entrance before detonating the explosive device, potentially preventing even greater casualties.

  • Son of rapper Lil Jon believed dead, days after going missing

    Son of rapper Lil Jon believed dead, days after going missing

    Authorities in Georgia have confirmed the tragic discovery of a body believed to be Nathan Smith, the 27-year-old son of Grammy-winning rapper Lil Jon, ending a multi-day search that began when the young musician vanished under mysterious circumstances. The Milton Police Department located the remains in a pond near Smith’s residence on Friday morning, just days after he disappeared from his home without his phone or personal belongings.

    Nathan Smith, who performed under the stage name DJ Young Slade, was reported missing early Tuesday after family members stated he had left his home on foot under what police described as ‘unusual circumstances.’ An initial missing person alert indicated Smith might have been ‘disoriented and in need of assistance,’ prompting widespread concern among family, friends, and fans.

    The investigation has thus far revealed no evidence of foul play, according to official statements from Milton police. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office is currently working to provide positive identification and determine the exact cause and manner of death, with authorities stating no further information will be released until this process is complete.

    Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, and Nathan’s mother Nicole Smith issued an emotional statement expressing their profound grief. ‘Nathan was the kindest human being you would ever meet,’ the rapper wrote. ‘He was immensely caring, thoughtful, polite, passionate, and warmhearted. We loved Nathan with all of our hearts and are incredibly proud of him.’

    The tragedy struck the music community particularly hard, as Nathan had followed in his father’s footsteps as an accomplished musician in his own right. A graduate of New York University, he had built a reputation as a talented music producer, artist, and audio engineer. Father and son had recently appeared together on television, competing on an episode of ‘Family Feud’ that showcased their close relationship.

    The pond where the body was discovered sits approximately 30 miles north of Atlanta in Milton, Georgia—the same area where Lil Jon launched his legendary music career that produced international hits including ‘Yeah!’ and ‘Turn Down For What.’

  • UK medical regulator to appeal decision clearing Palestinian surgeon of misconduct

    UK medical regulator to appeal decision clearing Palestinian surgeon of misconduct

    The UK’s General Medical Council (GMC) has initiated a controversial appeal against a tribunal ruling that exonerated prominent Palestinian surgeon Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah of professional misconduct allegations. The decision marks the third legal action against the surgeon, who has become a focal point in the intersection of medical regulation and Middle East politics.

    Dr. Abu Sittah’s legal team received formal notification late Thursday that the medical regulator intends to challenge last month’s Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service (MPTS) clearance at the High Court. The surgeon responded through the International Centre for Justice for Palestinians (ICJP), accusing the GMC of yielding to political pressure and functioning as an instrument of ‘political repression in service of Israel’s genocidal project.’

    The original complaints originated from UK Lawyers for Israel, targeting an article Abu Sittah authored for Lebanese publication Al Akhbar and two social media reposts. The content included references to ‘martyrdom’ and statements about ‘revolutionary violence,’ which the pro-Israel group claimed compromised his professional standing.

    Despite the MPTS determining no evidence of misconduct or risk to patient safety, the GMC persists with its appeal—even as its own chief executive acknowledges the regulator is poised to lose its appeal rights against tribunal decisions later this year.

    The prolonged proceedings have imposed substantial mental and financial burdens on Abu Sittah, who has balanced UK hearings with his clinical work in Lebanon treating war casualties. The renowned plastic surgeon has served multiple volunteer rotations in Gaza, including during Israel’s 2023 bombardment, where he documented alleged war crimes and accused Israeli forces of employing illegal white phosphorus in populated areas.

    His election as rector of Glasgow University and his role as a spokesperson for Palestinian medical professionals have elevated his profile amid the ongoing legal battles. The ICJP characterizes the appeal as the latest development in a sustained campaign to revoke his medical license.

  • TCM markets offering experiences attract crowds in China

    TCM markets offering experiences attract crowds in China

    Across urban centers in China, a new wave of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) markets is transforming public perception of ancient healing practices. These innovative venues are attracting unprecedented crowds, particularly among younger demographics seeking authentic cultural experiences alongside wellness solutions.

    The recent TCM experience event at Beijing Massage Hospital exemplified this trend, drawing diverse participants including international visitors. Layla Rabie, a Libyan professional based in China, participated in auricular plaster therapy sessions targeting sleep improvement. The event featured multiple interactive stations where visitors could undergo professional pulse diagnosis, receive tuina therapeutic massage, create personalized herbal bookmarks, and sample medicinal beverages and specialty pastries formulated with TCM principles.

    This movement represents a strategic modernization of TCM cultural promotion, moving beyond clinical settings into vibrant market environments. Organizers have successfully created spaces that blend education with entertainment, allowing participants to engage with TCM through multisensory experiences rather than passive observation. The approach has proven particularly effective in making complex medical concepts accessible to those without prior knowledge of Chinese medicinal philosophy.

    Hospital administrators note that these events consistently exceed attendance expectations, with many visitors returning for formal clinical consultations after initial exposure through market experiences. The phenomenon reflects broader national initiatives to revitalize traditional cultural assets through contemporary presentation methods while maintaining rigorous medical standards.

  • Norway’s crown princess apologises after pressure over Epstein friendship

    Norway’s crown princess apologises after pressure over Epstein friendship

    Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit has issued a profound public apology following revelations of her extensive three-year correspondence with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The palace released an official statement expressing the royal’s deep regret for her association with the disgraced financier, acknowledging the damage caused to the Norwegian monarchy.

    Newly disclosed emails from 2011-2014, uncovered in recent U.S. Justice Department filings, reveal startling details about their relationship. The correspondence indicates the crown princess spent four days at Epstein’s Palm Beach residence while he was absent, and contains evidence she was aware of his criminal history. In one October 2011 message, she wrote: ‘Googled u after last email… Agree didn’t look too good,’ referencing Epstein’s 2008 prostitution conviction.

    The apology comes during an exceptionally challenging period for the royal family. Crown Princess Mette-Marits eldest son, Marius Borg Høiby, is currently facing a high-profile trial on 38 criminal charges including four counts of rape, all of which he denies. The 29-year-old, who is not a royal family member but was raised within the royal household, broke down in court this week while describing lifelong media harassment.

    Compounding these difficulties, the crown princess suffers from severe pulmonary fibrosis and may require a lung transplant. Crown Prince Haakon acknowledged the family’s multiple crises, stating his priority has been ‘to take care of the flock’ during this tumultuous period.

    The royal household faces mounting scrutiny as Princess Ingrid Alexandra, second in line to the throne, separately criticized media coverage on her private social media, denouncing ‘personal attacks’ without specifically referencing either controversy.

    The palace has declined further comment on either matter, maintaining that the crown princess needs time to ‘gather herself’ amid what it describes as a ‘very difficult situation.’

  • Dubai scooter rider seriously injured after colliding with car; police issue advisory

    Dubai scooter rider seriously injured after colliding with car; police issue advisory

    Dubai authorities have intensified road safety warnings following a severe traffic incident in the Naif district, where an electric scooter rider sustained critical injuries after colliding with a passenger vehicle. The collision occurred when the individual was operating the personal mobility device against established traffic flow patterns on an internal roadway.

    Brigadier Jumaa Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic, characterized counter-flow driving as a direct threat to public safety. “Operating any vehicle—including motorcycles and scooters—in opposition to traffic direction represents one of the most dangerous violations of road regulations,” he stated. “This behavior dramatically increases the probability of head-on collisions with potentially fatal outcomes.”

    The emergency response was initiated through the Command and Control Center at the General Department of Operations, which deployed both traffic patrol units and medical personnel to the accident scene. The injured rider received immediate medical attention before being transported to a healthcare facility for further treatment.

    This incident has prompted renewed emphasis on traffic regulation compliance. Authorities specifically highlighted the importance of maintaining proper lane discipline and respecting directional traffic flows. The police advisory serves as both a warning and educational initiative, reminding all road users—including those utilizing emerging transportation technologies—that safety protocols apply equally to all mobility forms.

    The broader context includes increasing integration of electric scooters into urban transportation ecosystems, creating new challenges for traffic management systems originally designed for conventional vehicles. Dubai Police have indicated that enforcement measures will be strengthened to address non-compliant riding behaviors that endanger both riders and other road users.