Global Pulse

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  • Eurostar delays enter second day as passengers stuck onboard overnight

    Eurostar delays enter second day as passengers stuck onboard overnight

    Thousands of Eurostar passengers faced severe travel disruptions on New Year’s Eve following a major power outage in the Channel Tunnel that crippled cross-channel transportation services. The incident, occurring on Tuesday, resulted in extensive cancellations and delays that continued into Wednesday, leaving travelers stranded during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

    The crisis began when overhead power supply issues combined with a broken-down LeShuttle train, effectively blocking all routes through the tunnel. Eurostar services between the UK, France, Belgium, and Netherlands were severely impacted, with at least a dozen trains cancelled by midday Tuesday. Social media platforms were flooded with images of massive crowds stranded at London’s St Pancras International station as the transportation network ground to a halt.

    Passengers endured harrowing experiences aboard immobilized trains, with some reporting being stuck for over six hours without power or clear communication. Dennis van der Steen, a Dutch passenger attempting to return home for New Year’s celebrations, described spending six hours trapped onboard before movement resumed around 03:00 GMT. ‘We’re stuck,’ he told the BBC, noting that while some passengers slept, others were ‘very worried.’

    Another traveler aboard the 19:01 service to Paris remained stationary at the tunnel entrance until the early hours, with staff informing him of a ‘50% chance we go to Paris, 50% chance we go back to London.’ The Parisian passenger lamented, ‘I guess my new year plan is in the hands of the tunnel operators now.’

    Getlink, the operator of the Channel Tunnel, worked through the night to address the power issues, eventually restoring partial service with only one of the tunnel’s two rail lines operational. By Wednesday morning, Eurostar announced plans to run all services but warned of ongoing ‘knock-on impacts’ including possible last-minute cancellations and delays.

    The disruption extended beyond rail passengers, with cars backed up for hours near the LeShuttle Terminal in Folkestone. Tim Brown, returning to the UK after Christmas in Germany, reported being stuck in his car on a LeShuttle train for over three hours with ‘no access to food or water.’

    Eurostar has offered affected passengers free rebooking options, refunds, or e-vouchers, while urging travelers to avoid stations if their trains had been cancelled. The company continues to advise customers to check live updates regarding their specific travel arrangements as the situation evolves.

  • Life begins at 59 for the globe’s oldest professional soccer player

    Life begins at 59 for the globe’s oldest professional soccer player

    TOKYO — Japanese football icon Kazuyoshi Miura, universally celebrated as ‘King Kazu,’ continues to defy conventional athletic timelines by embarking on his 41st consecutive professional season. The legendary striker, who will celebrate his 59th birthday in February, has officially joined J3 League club Fukushima United FC on a loan arrangement from Yokohama FC.

    This move marks another chapter in Miura’s unprecedented career, following his previous season with fourth-tier outfit Atletico Suzuka, where he made seven appearances without scoring. His transition to Fukushima United represents a return to Japan’s third division as he continues his pursuit of competitive play.

    Miura’s professional journey constitutes a remarkable global odyssey that commenced in 1986 with Brazilian powerhouse Santos—the legendary club where Pelé forged his legacy. Since his debut nearly four decades ago, Miura has demonstrated extraordinary longevity, competing across five continents including prestigious spells in Brazil, Italy, Croatia, Australia, and Portugal alongside his native Japan.

    The veteran forward secured his place in football history in 2017 when, at age 50, he broke the record for oldest professional goalscorer—previously held by English knight and football pioneer Sir Stanley Matthews. This achievement underscored Miura’s exceptional physical conditioning and enduring passion for the sport.

    As a pioneering figure in Japanese football, Miura’s international legacy remains formidable. He earned 89 caps for the Japanese national team during the 1990s, netting 55 goals and establishing himself as the country’s first globally recognized football superstar during its football development era.

  • Ex-Australia batter Martyn in coma with meningitis

    Ex-Australia batter Martyn in coma with meningitis

    The global cricket community has united in support following the sudden hospitalization of former Australian batting star Damien Martyn, who has been placed in an induced coma after contracting meningitis. The 54-year-old cricket legend reportedly fell ill on December 26th and is currently receiving intensive care at a Queensland medical facility.

    Martyn’s distinguished career spanned 67 Test matches between 1992 and 2006, during which he accumulated 4,406 runs at an impressive average of 46.37. His remarkable achievements include participation in four Ashes series and two World Cup victories with the Australian national team. Notably, Martyn played a crucial innings of 88 not out while battling a broken finger during Australia’s 2003 World Cup final triumph against India.

    Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg expressed profound concern, stating the organization was ‘saddened to hear of Damien’s illness’ and extending the collective well-wishes of the entire cricket community. Former teammate Adam Gilchrist, speaking as family spokesperson, confirmed Martyn is receiving optimal medical attention and acknowledged the overwhelming support from fans and colleagues worldwide.

    Medical professionals indicate meningitis involves infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. According to The Sydney Morning Herald, physicians are hopeful about potentially bringing Martyn out of the induced coma within coming days.

    The news has triggered an outpouring of support across the sports world, with former Australian rules footballer Brad Hardie urging the public to send ‘positive thoughts’ during Martyn’s critical health battle. Former colleague Darren Lehmann, now Northamptonshire head coach, added his voice on social media platform X, posting ‘Lots of love and prayers…Keep strong and fighting legend.’

    Beyond his international accomplishments, Martyn also demonstrated his batting prowess as a prolific one-day specialist, scoring 5,346 runs across 208 matches with five centuries and 37 half-centuries. His career included a notable stint as overseas player for Yorkshire County Cricket Club in 2003.

  • Watch: Moderate rains hit RAK; police urge residents to take safety precautions

    Watch: Moderate rains hit RAK; police urge residents to take safety precautions

    Ras Al Khaimah experienced moderate rainfall on December 30, 2025, prompting local police to issue urgent safety advisories to residents. The precipitation event, which occurred during evening hours, led authorities to caution citizens against approaching wadis, standing water pools, and areas prone to flash flooding.

    According to meteorological reports from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), an orange alert was activated between 11:06 PM and 4:00 AM, indicating potential hazards from strong winds, thunderstorms, and cumulonimbus cloud formations. The advisory specifically emphasized reduced driving speeds and compliance with official instructions from emergency response units.

    This weather event follows previous rainfall incidents on December 18 that resulted in property damage across RAK. Multiple residential properties reported water infiltration, while vehicles sustained damage from falling tree branches and debris. Many residents described the previous incident as unexpectedly severe, with most discovering the extent of damage only upon morning inspection.

    The NCM further forecasted persistent strong winds expected to continue through New Year’s Eve celebrations on December 31. While no precipitation was predicted for year-end festivities, meteorological officials anticipated cloudy conditions with wind speeds remaining elevated. Temperature projections indicated daytime highs of 22°C alongside nighttime lows reaching 8°C in interior regions, creating notably cooler conditions for New Year’s celebrations.

    Tourists and residents preparing for outdoor celebrations were advised to monitor updated weather bulletins and prepare for potentially disruptive wind conditions during nighttime events.

  • UAE President exchanges New Year greetings with Pakistan PM during meeting

    UAE President exchanges New Year greetings with Pakistan PM during meeting

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif convened during the President’s private visit to Pakistan, marking a reinforcement of bilateral relations between the two nations. The high-level meeting, which occurred on December 26th, 2025, at Nur Khan Airbase, served as a platform for exchanging New Year greetings and discussing substantive cooperation frameworks.

    The leadership dialogue extended beyond ceremonial formalities to address comprehensive partnership enhancement across multiple sectors. Both leaders articulated mutual aspirations for continued progress and prosperity in their respective countries while emphasizing the importance of global security and stability. The discussions specifically focused on strengthening economic collaboration, trade expansion, and development initiatives aligned with both nations’ strategic priorities.

    Prime Minister Sharif expressed profound appreciation for the UAE’s consistent support in Pakistan’s development endeavors, particularly noting the significance of President Sheikh Mohamed’s recent official visit. The Pakistani leadership acknowledged the UAE’s substantial contributions to various development sectors within Pakistan.

    Notably, the UAE President’s arrival was marked by a ceremonial military jet escort upon entering Pakistani airspace, symbolizing the deep respect and warm relations between the two countries. The delegation accompanying Sheikh Mohamed included Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, both Advisers to the UAE President, along with Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, and several ministers and senior officials.

    The bilateral talks also encompassed thorough reviews of regional and international matters of mutual concern, facilitating an exchange of perspectives on pressing global issues. This meeting represents the latest chapter in the longstanding diplomatic relationship between the UAE and Pakistan, characterized by consistent high-level engagement and cooperative initiatives.

  • Global shares trade mixed with some exchanges closed ahead of the New Year

    Global shares trade mixed with some exchanges closed ahead of the New Year

    Financial markets worldwide presented a fragmented picture during year-end holiday trading sessions, with several major exchanges across Europe and Asia remaining closed for seasonal observances. Among active European indices, France’s CAC 40 declined by 0.5% to reach 8,130.14 while Britain’s FTSE 100 retreated 0.2% to 9,923.59. Asian markets demonstrated divergent trajectories with Hong Kong’s Hang Seng dropping 0.9% to 25,630.54, while Taiwan’s Taiex surged 0.9% to 28,963.60. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 remained nearly unchanged with a marginal decline. Tokyo and South Korean markets scheduled extended closures through the New Year period, with Wall Street maintaining limited Wednesday operations before its Thursday holiday closure.

    Energy markets witnessed subtle adjustments as U.S. crude prices decreased by 16 cents to $57.79 per barrel, with international benchmark Brent crude experiencing a comparable decline to $61.18. Currency markets reflected modest fluctuations with the U.S. dollar strengthening to 156.55 Japanese yen from 156.36 yen, while the euro weakened slightly against the dollar to $1.1727.

    Market analysts identified persistent concerns regarding inflationary pressures and central bank policy directions as key factors influencing trading sentiment. The Federal Reserve’s December meeting minutes revealed internal divisions regarding economic threat assessments, contributing to market uncertainty. Financial experts including Sung Won Sohn, economics professor at Loyola Marymount University, emphasized that central banks must exercise caution amid labor shortages and interest rate uncertainties, predicting continued market volatility requiring sophisticated risk management strategies from businesses and investors.

  • Isiah Whitlock Jr: The Wire and Veep actor dies at 71

    Isiah Whitlock Jr: The Wire and Veep actor dies at 71

    The entertainment industry mourns the loss of distinguished character actor Isiah Whitlock Jr., who passed away at age 71 following a brief illness in New York. His manager, Brian Liebman, confirmed the sad news through an emotional Instagram post that described Whitlock as both a brilliant performer and an exceptional human being.

    Whitlock leaves behind an impressive cinematic legacy spanning four decades, with particular recognition for his collaborations with acclaimed director Spike Lee. The filmmaker honored his frequent collaborator with a moving tribute, calling Whitlock his ‘dear beloved brother’ alongside a photograph capturing their genuine camaraderie.

    Among his most iconic contributions was the portrayal of corrupt politician Clay Davis in the seminal HBO series ‘The Wire,’ where he popularized an elongated, memorable version of a profane catchphrase that entered popular culture. Whitlock had previously revealed the distinctive delivery was inspired by his uncle’s manner of speaking.

    His versatility shone through diverse roles including a comical interpretation of the Defense Secretary in the political satire ‘Veep,’ where his character ran against Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s protagonist. Beyond television, Whitlock appeared in six Spike Lee films—’25th Hour,’ ‘She Hate Me,’ ‘Red Hook Summer,’ ‘Chi-Raq,’ ‘BlacKkKlansman,’ and ‘Da 5 Bloods’—alongside performances in Martin Scorsese’s ‘Goodfellas,’ Disney animations ‘Cars 3’ and ‘Lightyear,’ and various ‘Law & Order’ franchise episodes.

    Colleagues and admirers remember Whitlock not only for his professional accomplishments but for his warm personality and generous spirit. Liebman’s statement captured the collective grief: ‘If you knew him – you loved him. May his memory forever be a blessing.’

  • Israel to suspend several aid groups operating in Gaza, starting January 1

    Israel to suspend several aid groups operating in Gaza, starting January 1

    Israel’s Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism announced on Tuesday its decision to suspend multiple humanitarian organizations operating in Gaza effective January 1, 2025. The regulatory action targets groups that allegedly failed to comply with enhanced security protocols requiring detailed employee information to prevent potential terrorist affiliations.

    The ministry stated that affected organizations had received formal notifications regarding license revocations after demonstrating what officials characterized as insufficient cooperation. These groups reportedly refused to submit comprehensive lists of their Palestinian staff members, preventing authorities from conducting necessary security vetting procedures.

    According to official statements, the suspended organizations—whose identities remain undisclosed—must completely cease operations by March 1. Ministry representatives emphasized that these groups had been given a ten-month compliance window but ultimately failed to meet updated regulatory requirements governing international NGOs in Palestinian territories.

    In a significant development, the ministry specifically implicated Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières or MSF), alleging that two employees maintained connections with militant organizations. Officials claimed one individual was identified as a Palestinian Islamic Jihad member in June 2024, while another was allegedly a Hamas sniper as of September 2024. The ministry asserted that MSF failed to provide complete disclosure regarding these individuals’ identities and roles despite repeated requests.

    MSF responded to these allegations by stating the organization would never knowingly employ individuals engaged in military activities, noting such affiliations would endanger both staff and patients. The medical charity confirmed ongoing registration discussions with Israeli authorities but clarified it had not yet received formal re-registration decisions.

    The ministry maintained that these measures would not significantly disrupt humanitarian aid distribution, estimating that fewer than 15% of operating organizations violated the updated regulatory framework. However, multiple NGOs have expressed concerns to international media about substantial impacts on aid distribution capabilities throughout Gaza.

    This regulatory tightening occurs amid ongoing humanitarian challenges in the region. Despite October ceasefire agreements stipulating 600 daily aid trucks, current figures range between 100-300 trucks according to United Nations and NGO reports, creating significant supply shortages for Gaza’s population.

  • Mali and Burkina Faso impose retaliatory travel ban on US nationals

    Mali and Burkina Faso impose retaliatory travel ban on US nationals

    BAMAKO, Mali — In a significant diplomatic escalation, the military governments of Mali and Burkina Faso have instituted immediate entry bans targeting United States citizens. This decisive action comes as a direct response to the Trump administration’s recent expansion of travel restrictions affecting citizens from both West African nations.

    The reciprocal measures were formally announced through separate declarations issued by the foreign ministries of both countries late Tuesday. Mali’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation stated it would ‘apply the same conditions and requirements to US nationals as those imposed on Malian citizens’ based on the principle of reciprocity. Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean-Marie Traoré similarly endorsed parallel restrictions citing identical justification.

    This development represents the latest deterioration in relations between the United States and West African nations currently governed by military juntas. The tension stems from President Trump’s December 16th executive order that extended existing travel limitations to encompass twenty additional countries, including Mali, Burkina Faso, and neighboring Niger.

    These three nations, all currently under military rule following coups that overthrew civilian governments, have recently formed a breakaway alliance distinct from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) regional bloc. The White House had previously cited persistent security challenges and armed group activities as primary motivations for implementing the original travel restrictions.

    Both Mali and Burkina Faso have faced significant struggles containing violent extremist organizations that have rapidly expanded their operational territories across the region. The current military administrations originally seized power promising enhanced security measures against these armed factions, though instability continues to affect large portions of the region.

  • Two midnight ball drops, jumping over 7 waves: How some countries will ring in New Year 2026

    Two midnight ball drops, jumping over 7 waves: How some countries will ring in New Year 2026

    As the world prepares to welcome 2026, nations are finalizing plans for distinctive celebrations that blend cultural heritage with contemporary festivities. Beyond the universal spectacle of fireworks illuminating skies across time zones, numerous countries will observe New Year’s Eve through rituals deeply rooted in their historical and spiritual traditions.

    In New York’s Times Square, organizers have planned an unprecedented double ball drop ceremony. The iconic descent will occur initially at 11:59 PM for its traditional sixty-second journey. However, in a historic departure from convention, a second descent will commence at 12:04 AM to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence. This special celebration will feature the sphere illuminated in patriotic red, white, and blue hues, accompanied by confetti showers and a pyrotechnic finale synchronized to Ray Charles’ “America the Beautiful.”

    Japan will maintain its ancient Buddhist practice of Joya no Kane, where temple bells resonate 108 times at midnight. This ritual symbolizes the purification of 108 human earthly desires and attachments. While typically performed by monks, some temples permit public participation in this profound spiritual cleansing ceremony.

    Rio de Janeiro will host the vibrant Festa de Iemanjá, honoring the African-derived deity regarded as queen of the oceans. Celebrants clad in white garments will gather along Copacabana Beach at midnight to perform ceremonial dances in the waters. Participants will leap over seven consecutive waves while articulating their aspirations for the forthcoming year, believing this act conveys their petitions to the oceanic divinity.

    London’s celebration will center around the precisely engineered mechanisms of Big Ben. The 166-year-old clock tower, maintained by three dedicated horologists requiring ear protection against its 115-decibel chimes, will mark midnight with astonishing accuracy. In 2025, the landmark’s strike registered within five-thousandths of a second of true midnight.

    Berlin will transform its historical Brandenburg Gate vicinity into what authorities are promoting as the “planet’s most extensive dance floor.” This complimentary techno celebration will accommodate 20,000 revelers across a stretch extending to the Victory Column, featuring 16 mobile sound systems and 100 DJs culminating in a seven-minute pyrotechnic display above the Quadriga statue.