A previously inactive volcano in northern Ethiopia, Hayli Gubbi, erupted unexpectedly on Sunday, sending massive ash plumes across the Red Sea toward Yemen and Oman. Located in the seismically active Afar region, the eruption blanketed the nearby village of Afdera in dust, disrupting daily life and raising concerns about the economic impact on local livestock herders. Mohammed Seid, a local administrator, confirmed no casualties but expressed fears for the livelihoods of residents, whose animals now face food shortages due to the ash-covered grazing lands. Seid noted that this was the first recorded eruption of Hayli Gubbi, adding to the unpredictability of the situation. The Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Center in France confirmed the eruption through satellite imagery. Residents, including Ahmed Abdela, described the event as akin to a bomb explosion, with shock waves and dense smoke. The eruption also stranded tourists and guides in the village near the Danakil desert, a popular tourist destination, which remained covered in ash on Monday. Local authorities shared visuals of the towering ash plume, highlighting the scale of the event.
博客
-
Former deputy head of China’s medical products regulator prosecuted for bribery
Chen Shifei, the former deputy head of China’s National Medical Products Administration, has been formally prosecuted on charges of bribery. The Second Branch of the People’s Procuratorate in Shanghai recently filed the lawsuit with the Shanghai No. 2 Intermediate People’s Court, as confirmed by the Supreme People’s Procuratorate on Monday. This legal action follows a comprehensive investigation by the National Commission of Supervision into Chen’s alleged misconduct. Chen is accused of exploiting his official positions to grant undue advantages to others and accepting substantial bribes in the form of money and valuables. The case underscores China’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption within its regulatory bodies, reflecting the government’s commitment to maintaining integrity and accountability in public service.
-
Former senior discipline regulator expelled for serious Party violations
Wang Huimin, a former high-ranking official in China’s regulatory and disciplinary bodies, has been expelled from the Communist Party of China (CPC) following an investigation into severe violations of Party discipline and national laws. The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and the National Supervisory Commission (NSC) announced the decision on Monday, citing multiple breaches of ethical and legal standards. Wang, who previously served as a member of the Party Committee of the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) and director of the CCDI and NSC’s inspection and supervision group stationed at the CSRC, was found to have abused his authority, deviated from the CPC’s poverty alleviation strategy, and engaged in corrupt practices. Investigations revealed that Wang accepted lavish banquets, failed to report personal matters as required, and allowed relatives and associates to exploit his position for personal gain. Additionally, he used his influence to facilitate benefits for others in areas such as recruitment, corporate listings, and promotions, accepting substantial bribes in return. The CCDI and NSC have stripped Wang of his official privileges, confiscated his illegal gains, and transferred his case to judicial authorities for prosecution. Wang, 66, began his career in 1975 and held various prominent positions, including president of China Construction Bank’s Xinjiang branch and vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the People’s Congress of Xinjiang. His expulsion underscores the CPC’s ongoing efforts to enforce strict discipline and combat corruption within its ranks.
-
Australia senator condemned for burka stunt in parliament
An Australian senator has ignited widespread condemnation after donning a burka in parliament while advocating for a ban on the Muslim garment. Pauline Hanson, a member of the anti-immigration One Nation party, faced sharp criticism from her colleagues, with one labeling her actions as “blatant racism.” The senate proceedings were temporarily disrupted as Hanson refused to remove the burka, which she wore in protest after her proposed bill to ban full face coverings in public was rejected. This marks the second time Hanson has worn the garment in parliament, following a similar stunt in 2017. Her latest act has drawn ire from fellow lawmakers, including Muslim senators who denounced her behavior as “disgraceful” and “disrespectful.” Foreign Minister Penny Wong, the government leader in the senate, condemned Hanson’s actions, stating that she was “not worthy of a member of the Australian Senate” and moved to suspend her. Hanson defended her actions on Facebook, writing, “If they don’t want me wearing it – ban the burka.” This incident is the latest in a series of controversial statements and actions by Hanson, who has long been criticized for her anti-immigration and anti-Muslim rhetoric, including her 2016 maiden speech in which she claimed Australia was being “swamped by Muslims.”
-
Dubai’s prime property market to grow 3% in 2026; 331,000 new homes in 5 years
Dubai’s luxury property market is poised for significant growth, with a projected 3% increase in prime property prices by 2026, according to Knight Frank. This surge is fueled by the influx of millionaires into the city, driving demand for high-end and ultra-luxury homes in the post-pandemic era. The global consultancy firm also forecasts that 331,000 new homes will be completed over the next five years, assuming 70% of registered projects are delivered on time. Faisal Durrani, Partner and Head of Research for Mena at Knight Frank, emphasized that the market’s strength is underpinned by record-high sales volumes, robust price appreciation, and resilient rental performance. Despite potential oversupply risks, the structural drivers of demand—population growth, wealth migration, and economic diversification—remain intact. Developers are increasingly aligning supply with affordability and lifestyle needs, ensuring Dubai’s continued global appeal. However, challenges persist, with only 46% of promised housing completed on time in 2025, highlighting a potential contractor capacity crunch. Knight Frank’s best-case scenario anticipates 66,000 homes annually between 2026 and 2030, well above the long-term completion rate of 36,000 per annum. This growth trajectory underscores Dubai’s position as a global hub for luxury real estate, driven by fundamentals rather than speculation.
-
New Kuwait residency rules: Higher visa fees, more categories, stricter controls
Kuwait has unveiled a comprehensive overhaul of its residency and visa regulations, introducing higher fees, stricter controls, and new categories for foreign nationals. The Ministry of Interior announced the changes on November 23, 2025, with the new rules set to take effect on December 23, 2025. This marks one of the most significant reforms to Kuwait’s immigration system in recent years.
Key changes include a minimum salary requirement of KD800 for family residency and increased fees for sponsoring dependents other than spouses and children, now set at KD300 annually. Visa fees have been raised across most categories, with a KD10 fee now applied to all types of visit or entry visas, including tourism, family visits, medical treatment, and business purposes. Most visit visas are valid for three months and can be renewed once, up to a maximum of one year.
Residency permit fees have also been updated, with government and private sector work permits costing KD20 annually, investor residencies set at KD50, and property owner residencies at KD500. Domestic workers sponsored by Kuwaiti families are charged KD10 annually, while a new self-sponsor category requires a KD20 annual fee for foreigners with independent income.
The reforms introduce stricter rules for domestic helpers, limiting the number of helpers based on household size and imposing stepped fees for additional helpers. Domestic helpers must also be between 21 and 60 years old, unless granted an exemption. Temporary residency fees are set at KD10 per month for most categories, with extensions costing the same.
Investors and property owners benefit from specific residency categories, with investor residencies costing KD50 annually and property owner residencies requiring proof of ownership. The new system also mandates online applications, electronic appointment booking, and biometric verification for most procedures.
Penalties for violations have been tightened, with daily fines for overstaying visas and caps on settlement fees. Administrative deportation can now be ordered even if a residency is valid, based on grounds such as lack of income, unauthorized employment, or public security concerns.
The overhaul aims to modernize Kuwait’s residency framework, aligning it with the country’s evolving social and economic needs while increasing government revenue.
-
Suicide bombers kill three at Pakistan paramilitary HQ
In a brazen attack on Monday, three suicide bombers targeted the headquarters of Pakistan’s Frontier Constabulary in Peshawar, resulting in the deaths of three paramilitary personnel and injuring at least five others. The assailants reportedly opened fire as they forced their way into the facility before detonating explosives within the complex. Javed Iqbal, the deputy commandant of the force, confirmed the casualties. A senior official, speaking anonymously, revealed that the first bomber struck the main entrance, enabling others to infiltrate the compound. Security forces, including the army and police, swiftly cordoned off the area, suspecting additional terrorists might still be inside. The headquarters, situated in a densely populated district of Peshawar, prompted road closures and heightened security measures. The injured, including two paramilitary members, were rushed to Lady Reading Hospital, according to spokesperson Mohammad Asim. No militant group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack. This incident follows a surge in militant activities in the region, exacerbated by recent border clashes. Pakistan accuses the Afghan Taliban of sheltering militants who launch cross-border attacks, a claim Kabul denies.
-
Thai woman found alive in coffin after being brought in for cremation
In a startling incident at Wat Rat Prakhong Tham, a Buddhist temple in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok, a 65-year-old woman shocked temple staff by moving inside her coffin as she was being prepared for cremation. The temple shared a video on its Facebook page, capturing the woman lying in a white coffin in the back of a pick-up truck, slightly moving her arms and head. Pairat Soodthoop, the temple’s general and financial affairs manager, recounted the bizarre event to The Associated Press on Monday. He explained that the woman’s brother had transported her from Phitsanulok province for cremation, believing she had passed away two days prior. The brother claimed his sister had been bedridden for two years and appeared to stop breathing recently. However, during the journey, faint knocking sounds were heard from the coffin. Upon opening it, the staff discovered the woman slightly opening her eyes and tapping on the coffin’s side. The brother had initially intended to donate her organs but was turned away by a Bangkok hospital due to the lack of an official death certificate. The temple, which offers free cremation services, also refused to proceed without the required documentation. After assessing the woman’s condition, the temple arranged for her to be taken to a nearby hospital, with the abbot pledging to cover her medical expenses.
-
Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff dies, aged 81
Jimmy Cliff, the iconic reggae musician who brought Jamaican music to the global stage, has died at the age of 81. His wife, Latifa Chambers, announced his passing on Instagram, citing complications from a seizure and pneumonia. Cliff’s career spanned over six decades, marked by timeless hits such as ‘Wonderful World, Beautiful People,’ ‘You Can Get It If You Really Want,’ and ‘Many Rivers To Cross.’ His groundbreaking role in the 1972 film ‘The Harder They Come’ not only cemented his status as a cultural icon but also introduced reggae to American audiences. Born James Chambers in 1944 in St. James, Jamaica, Cliff rose from humble beginnings to become a global ambassador for Jamaican music. His 1969 single ‘Vietnam,’ hailed by Bob Dylan as the ‘best protest song ever written,’ showcased his ability to blend music with social commentary. Cliff’s influence extended beyond music; he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010 and received Jamaica’s Order of Merit in 2003. Despite his numerous accolades, Cliff cherished the personal impact his music had on fans, often recounting stories of how his songs inspired individuals to overcome adversity. His legacy continues to resonate with generations of music lovers worldwide.
-
Jimmy Cliff, reggae giant and star of landmark film ‘The Harder They Come,’ dead at 81
Jimmy Cliff, the iconic reggae musician and actor whose soulful voice and powerful lyrics defined a generation, has died at the age of 81. His family announced his passing on Monday via his social media platforms, attributing his death to a seizure followed by pneumonia. The statement expressed gratitude to his global fanbase, emphasizing that their unwavering support had been a source of strength throughout his illustrious career. Born James Chambers in Saint James, Jamaica, Cliff rose to prominence in the 1960s as a key figure in the reggae movement, alongside legends like Bob Marley, Toots Hibbert, and Peter Tosh. His breakthrough came with the 1972 film *The Harder They Come*, in which he starred as Ivanhoe ‘Ivan’ Martin, a struggling musician turned anti-hero. The film, though initially a commercial flop, later became a cultural landmark, with its soundtrack hailed as one of the greatest in reggae history. Cliff’s music, including timeless hits like ‘Many Rivers to Cross,’ ‘You Can Get It If You Really Want,’ and ‘Vietnam,’ resonated with audiences worldwide, blending themes of resilience, defiance, and hope. His career spanned decades, earning him two Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010. Beyond his musical achievements, Cliff’s influence extended to social and political spheres, with his songs adopted as anthems for movements and covered by artists like Bruce Springsteen and John Lennon. His legacy as a pioneer of reggae and a voice for the marginalized remains indelible.