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  • Syria: Tensions flare in Homs after killing of Bedouin couple sparks sectarian unrest

    Syria: Tensions flare in Homs after killing of Bedouin couple sparks sectarian unrest

    A tragic incident in the central Syrian city of Homs has sparked a wave of sectarian violence, threatening the fragile stability of the region. On Sunday, the brutal killing of a Sunni Bedouin man and his wife in the town of Zaidal, located 7km east of Homs, ignited widespread unrest. According to the state-run SANA news agency, the man was stoned to death, while his wife was burned alive. Disturbingly, sectarian slogans and threats were reportedly scrawled on walls at the scene, allegedly using the victims’ own blood.

    In the aftermath, armed members of the Bani Khaled tribe, to which the victims belonged, launched retaliatory attacks in Alawi-majority areas of Homs. Reports from the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights detailed the destruction of homes and vehicles, accompanied by indiscriminate gunfire. Social media videos captured the chaos, showing Bedouin tribesmen setting properties ablaze, while plainclothed security forces assisted Alawi residents in evacuating their neighborhoods.

    Local authorities swiftly imposed a curfew, later extended to Monday evening, in an effort to quell the violence. By 16:00 GMT Monday, SANA reported that the unrest had subsided. Syria’s interior ministry appealed for calm, urging residents to allow the investigation into the killings to proceed without interference. Interior ministry spokesman Noreddine al-Baba emphasized that there was ‘no material evidence’ to suggest the killings were sectarian in nature. Similarly, Murhaf al-Naasan, head of Homs’ internal security forces, warned that the incident appeared to be an attempt to incite sectarian divisions and destabilize the region.

    Homs, Syria’s third-largest city, is home to a diverse population of Sunni and Shia Muslims, Alawis, and Christians. The city had largely avoided the sectarian violence that erupted in March, when clashes between government loyalists and new security forces led to hundreds of Alawi deaths. In a video released on social media, members of the Bani Khaled tribe called for a thorough investigation and justice for the victims, while rejecting efforts to frame the incident as a sectarian conflict.

    This tragic event underscores the delicate balance of coexistence in Homs and the broader challenges facing Syria as it navigates its complex social and political landscape.

  • Report on Shenzhen-Jiangmen railway collapse documents regulation violations

    Report on Shenzhen-Jiangmen railway collapse documents regulation violations

    A recent report by the Department of Emergency Management of Guangdong Province has unveiled the causes behind the tragic collapse on the Shenzhen-Jiangmen railway line, which occurred on December 4 last year. The incident, which claimed 13 lives and caused direct financial losses of approximately 72.61 million yuan ($10.22 million), was attributed to severe regulatory violations by the construction contractor. The investigation revealed that the contractor failed to halt excavation or enhance support when tunneling through geologically unstable sections, leading to repeated collapses and ground subsidence. This negligence resulted in workers falling along with the collapsing ground, ultimately causing fatalities. The report also highlighted systemic failures across multiple entities, including construction, project management, design, and supervision units, all of which demonstrated lapses in risk management, emergency response, and on-site management. Additionally, safety supervision and industry regulatory bodies were found to have inadequately exercised their oversight duties. As a result, the responsible units will face administrative penalties and internal accountability measures, with evidence of suspected dereliction of duty by relevant personnel being transferred to disciplinary inspection and supervisory authorities.

  • Judge dismisses cases against ex-FBI director Comey and NY attorney general James

    Judge dismisses cases against ex-FBI director Comey and NY attorney general James

    A U.S. judge has dismissed criminal charges against former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, ruling that the prosecutor who brought the charges was unlawfully appointed. Judge Cameron Currie determined that Lindsey Halligan, handpicked by former President Donald Trump to prosecute his political adversaries, was ineligible for the role. Halligan, a former White House aide with no prior prosecutorial experience, was appointed in violation of the statute governing interim U.S. attorneys. Judge Currie stated that all actions stemming from Halligan’s appointment, including the indictment of Comey, were unlawful exercises of executive power and were therefore nullified. Both Comey and James have consistently maintained their innocence, describing the charges as politically motivated. The White House has indicated that the Justice Department will appeal the dismissal, asserting that Halligan’s appointment was legal. Comey expressed relief that the prosecution, which he characterized as ‘based on malevolence and incompetence,’ had ended but warned that Trump would likely target him again. James, who faced federal charges of bank fraud and false statements, hailed the ruling as a victory and reaffirmed her commitment to fighting for New Yorkers. The cases were dismissed ‘without prejudice,’ leaving open the possibility of future legal action.

  • GX Foundation opens its global headquarters in Hong Kong

    GX Foundation opens its global headquarters in Hong Kong

    The GX Foundation, a renowned Hong Kong-based international medical humanitarian organization, celebrated its 7th anniversary and inaugurated its global headquarters in Hong Kong on November 22, 2025. The event, held at the historic No. 4 Hospital Road in Mid-Levels West, was graced by prominent figures including Leung Chun-ying, Chairman of GX Foundation and Vice-Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, John Lee Ka-chiu, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Zhou Ji, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in HKSAR, and Li Yongsheng, Acting Commissioner of the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s office in HKSAR. The ceremony commenced with a performance by the Hong Kong Gaudeamus Dunhuang Ensemble, followed by video messages of congratulations from Chinese ambassadors worldwide. Over 100 distinguished guests, including government officials, overseas Chinese representatives, and diplomats from countries such as Cambodia, Laos, and Senegal, attended the event. In his speech, Leung highlighted the transformation of the century-old Grade II historic building, originally a shelter for street cleaners, into a hub for global humanitarian efforts. He emphasized the foundation’s commitment to advancing international medical cooperation and fostering ‘people-to-people connectivity.’ John Lee praised GX’s significant contributions, including over 25,000 free cataract surgeries and efforts to combat infectious diseases globally. Li Yongsheng underscored GX’s alignment with the Belt and Road Initiative’s principles of ‘extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits.’ The following day, GX opened its doors to the public, offering guided tours led by heritage conservation expert Caspar Yam Ming-ho. The foundation also launched its 2025-2026 Youth Ambassador Program, aimed at nurturing the next generation of humanitarian workers.

  • New shared bank account lets UAE families track spending, save together

    New shared bank account lets UAE families track spending, save together

    Wio Bank has unveiled Wio Family, the UAE’s first fully shared banking platform, designed to help households manage finances collectively. Launched ahead of the UAE’s Year of the Family, the service allows two primary account holders, termed ‘Family Leads,’ to open a shared account and invite family members, including children, teenagers, and relatives, to join. The platform offers tools for shared spending, saving, and budgeting, providing families with greater financial clarity and control. Virtual cards and permission settings enable Family Leads to set spending limits, track transactions, and manage access for each member through a single dashboard. For children aged 8 to 17, dedicated ‘Pockets’ with spending caps and saving features are available to teach money management. Families maintaining a minimum balance of Dh35,000 can access all benefits free of charge; otherwise, a monthly fee of Dh49 applies. Jayesh Patel, CEO of Wio Bank, emphasized the platform’s focus on treating money as a shared resource, offering families ‘clarity, flexibility, and control.’ CMO Amina Taher highlighted the platform’s role in helping families save for joint goals such as homes, education, or weddings, bringing everyone together for shared financial success.

  • Billionaire Lakshmi Mittal relocating to Dubai amid UK tax reforms, says report

    Billionaire Lakshmi Mittal relocating to Dubai amid UK tax reforms, says report

    Indian steel magnate Lakshmi Mittal, one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, is reportedly relocating from the UK to Dubai. This move comes as the UK’s Labour government introduces significant tax reforms targeting high-net-worth individuals. Mittal, who has been a long-term resident of London and ranks eighth on the UK rich list, is the latest in a growing trend of ultra-wealthy individuals seeking more favorable tax environments. According to The Sunday Times, Mittal’s decision is driven by concerns over inheritance tax and other fiscal changes. The billionaire, with a net worth of $20 billion as of October 2025, already owns a lavish mansion in Dubai and has recently acquired substantial properties on Naia Island, a new ultra-luxury development near Jumeirah. The UK’s recent tax adjustments, including increased capital gains tax and reduced relief for entrepreneurs, have raised alarms among the global elite. Meanwhile, Dubai’s zero income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax policies, coupled with its political stability and cosmopolitan lifestyle, have solidified its status as a premier destination for the ultra-rich. The UAE’s Golden Visa program, offering long-term residency through real estate investment, further enhances its appeal. As Dubai’s luxury real estate market thrives, the city is emerging as a hub for intergenerational wealth creation and preservation.

  • Companies tone down price hike talk as tariff fog clears

    Companies tone down price hike talk as tariff fog clears

    In a notable shift, global companies have significantly reduced their announcements of price hikes in the third quarter of 2025, as clarity on long-term tariff strategies begins to emerge. According to a Reuters analysis of corporate earnings calls and statements, only 28 companies explicitly mentioned raising prices, a sharp decline from 51 in the second quarter and nearly 90 in the first quarter. This trend reflects a cautious approach by businesses navigating the complexities of U.S. trade policies and consumer spending slowdowns. The reduction in tariff-related price hikes coincides with new trade deals that have alleviated some of the financial pressures caused by the Trump-era trade war, which had driven U.S. import tariffs to their highest levels since the 1930s. Market intelligence platform AlphaSense reported a 68% drop in mentions of tariff-related price increases between the first and third quarters. Companies like Walmart have shifted focus to price cuts and discounts to attract cash-strapped consumers, particularly as the holiday shopping season approaches. Retailers and fast-food chains, including Target, McDonald’s, and Yum Brands, have introduced cheaper meal bundles and limited-time offers to counter declining demand among lower-income households. Meanwhile, industrial and consumer sectors have led pricing actions, with many firms absorbing tariff costs or sharing the burden with suppliers. Companies such as Rockwell Automation and Fictiv emphasize the importance of understanding the long-term tariff strategy before making significant pricing adjustments. This cautious approach highlights the ongoing uncertainty in global trade and the delicate balance businesses must strike between maintaining competitiveness and managing costs.

  • Watch: Heavy rains hit parts of UAE as lowest temperature of 11.2ºC recorded

    Watch: Heavy rains hit parts of UAE as lowest temperature of 11.2ºC recorded

    The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially transitioned into its winter season, marked by significant weather changes including heavy rainfall and a notable drop in temperatures. On November 24, 2025, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued orange and yellow alerts across most regions, warning residents of potential hazardous conditions. The lowest temperature recorded was 11.2°C in Al Ain’s Raknah area, while Sharjah’s Al Dhaid experienced a seasonal low of 7.8°C. Heavy rains were reported in Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, and the Dhafra region, causing road overflows and reduced visibility in some areas. Authorities have urged residents to exercise caution, especially during outdoor activities, and to adhere to safety guidelines. Motorists were advised to avoid unnecessary travel, use low-beam headlights, and stay updated with official weather forecasts. The region’s weather shift aligns with the traditional ‘Darbet Al Ahaymar’ phenomenon, signaling the onset of cooler days. Neighboring Saudi Arabia has also experienced similar weather patterns, with heavy rains affecting cities like Makkah, Madinah, and Riyadh.

  • Hub71 and UAE–India Cepa Council forge strategic partnership

    Hub71 and UAE–India Cepa Council forge strategic partnership

    In a landmark move to bolster innovation and economic collaboration, Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s premier global tech ecosystem, has entered into a strategic partnership with the UAE–India Cepa Council. This alliance, forged under the UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (Cepa), aims to accelerate trade, investment, and innovation between the two nations. The agreement was formalized during the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) in Mumbai, marking a significant step in operationalizing the innovation agenda of the Cepa.

    The partnership will facilitate a seamless pathway for high-potential Indian start-ups to enter, validate, and scale their operations in Abu Dhabi. As part of this initiative, Hub71 will support the UAE–India Cepa Council’s flagship Start-Up Series by offering structured market-entry assistance. Five winning start-ups from the Series, which culminates in New Delhi on November 25, 2025, will join Hub71’s Immersion Programme in 2026. This newly launched programme is designed to expedite market entry through a combination of virtual onboarding and in-person sessions in Abu Dhabi, complemented by curated knowledge sessions, mentorship, and access to Abu Dhabi’s tech ecosystem.

    Among the five start-ups, one will be selected to join Hub71’s Access programme, which provides tailored soft-landing support, enabling founders to explore market opportunities, engage with key stakeholders, and identify sustainable growth pathways across the region. The partnership underscores the shared ambition of the UAE and India to build a dynamic, interconnected start-up corridor that drives investment, technology exchange, and economic growth.

    Abdulnasser Alshaali, UAE Ambassador to India, emphasized the transformative potential of the Cepa, stating, ‘Innovation lies at the heart of this partnership, and the Start-Up Series showcases the depth of talent emerging from India. This collaboration with Hub71 strengthens our commitment to providing world-class platforms for founders to scale globally.’

    Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, highlighted the initiative’s role in bridging innovation hubs and high-growth markets, while Ahmed Aljneibi, Director of the UAE-India Cepa Council, emphasized the tangible benefits for Indian founders and the broader economic impact of this collaboration.

    Since its inception in June 2025, the UAE-India Start-Up Series has attracted over 10,000 applications, reflecting strong demand for UAE expansion. The alignment of applicants with Hub71’s priority sectors—FinTech, HealthTech, AgriTech, mobility, and advanced technologies—demonstrates the strategic synergy between India’s innovation strengths and Abu Dhabi’s sector-focused agenda. This partnership not only streamlines market entry but also unlocks new investment flows, fostering a robust innovation corridor between the two economies.

    The agreement also establishes a framework for cross-referring high-impact start-ups, enabling soft landings in both Abu Dhabi and India. Referred founders will receive comprehensive support, including company setup, regulatory facilitation, mentorship, and access to investors and partners. Eligible start-ups may also benefit from grants, incentive programmes, and scaling opportunities, further enhancing the UAE-India innovation ecosystem.

    This collaboration is part of Hub71’s broader mission to position Abu Dhabi as a global launchpad for start-ups, fostering cross-border initiatives that translate bilateral cooperation into measurable technological and economic outcomes.

  • Gueye sent off for striking team-mate – but Moyes ‘quite likes’ it

    Gueye sent off for striking team-mate – but Moyes ‘quite likes’ it

    In a dramatic Premier League encounter, 10-man Everton secured a surprising 1-0 victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford, despite Idrissa Gueye’s controversial red card for striking teammate Michael Keane. The incident occurred in the 13th minute when Gueye and Keane engaged in a heated argument, culminating in Gueye slapping Keane in the face. Referee Tony Harrington immediately showed Gueye a straight red card for violent conduct, a decision upheld by VAR. Everton manager David Moyes expressed a peculiar approval of the altercation, stating he ‘quite likes’ when his players show such intensity, attributing it to the team’s resilience. Gueye later apologized on social media, taking full responsibility for his actions and vowing to ensure such behavior never recurs. Despite being a man down, Everton clinched the win with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s 29th-minute goal, marking Moyes’ first victory at Old Trafford as a visiting manager in 18 attempts. The match also reignited discussions about teammate conflicts in football, with pundits and fans debating the severity of Gueye’s punishment. This rare incident joins the likes of Lee Bowyer and Kieron Dyer’s infamous 2005 clash, highlighting the emotional volatility in high-stakes matches.