In the besieged enclave of Gaza, Baraa Abu Zaid lies in a hospital bed in Khan Younis, her days marked not by hope but by the grim reality of a collapsing healthcare system. Once a mother of three, Abu Zaid fled her home in Rafah during Israel’s ground invasion in mid-2024. Tragedy struck when a drone attack hit her family’s tent, killing two of her children and leaving her and her 13-year-old son, Obaida, critically wounded. Despite being rushed to the hospital, the dire state of Gaza’s medical infrastructure meant they received inadequate care. Obaida succumbed to his injuries within weeks, leaving Abu Zaid to face her own deteriorating condition alone.
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What we know about new Epstein emails that mention Trump
In a significant development, US lawmakers have released over 20,000 pages of documents from the estate of Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender. These documents, which include email exchanges, shed light on Epstein’s connections with prominent figures, including President Donald Trump and Prince Andrew. The release, initiated by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee, has sparked a political firestorm, with Republicans accusing Democrats of selectively leaking information to create a false narrative. Among the released emails is a 2011 exchange between Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, where Epstein mentions Trump, stating, ‘That dog that hasn’t barked is Trump.’ The victim’s name, later revealed to be Virginia Giuffre, was redacted in the initial release. Giuffre, a prominent Epstein accuser, died by suicide earlier this year. The White House has vehemently denied any wrongdoing by Trump, emphasizing that Giuffre had previously stated Trump was not involved in any misconduct. In another email exchange, author Michael Wolff discusses with Epstein the potential to ‘finish’ Trump through an interview. Wolff suggests that Epstein could use the opportunity to either harm or help Trump’s political career. Additionally, the documents mention Prince Andrew, who has consistently denied any involvement in Epstein’s illicit activities. The White House has dismissed the emails as a ‘bad-faith effort’ to distract from Trump’s accomplishments, asserting that the documents prove ‘absolutely nothing other than the fact that President Trump did nothing wrong.’
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Thirteen hours by touch – inside one of the world’s longest exam days
Every November, South Korea halts its usual pace for the Suneung, the nation’s rigorous college entrance exam. While most students complete the test by late afternoon, blind students often endure a grueling 13-hour marathon, finishing close to 10 p.m. This year, over 550,000 students are taking the Suneung, marking the highest number of applicants in seven years. Among them are 111 blind test-takers, including Han Dong-hyun and Oh Jeong-won from Seoul Hanbit School for the Blind. The Suneung, short for College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT), is a pivotal moment in South Korean education, determining university admissions, job prospects, and even future relationships. For most students, the exam spans eight hours, covering subjects like Korean, mathematics, English, and social or natural sciences. However, blind students are granted 1.7 times the standard duration, extending their test day significantly. The physical demands of reading braille, coupled with the lack of dinner breaks, make the exam particularly exhausting. Braille test booklets are six to nine times thicker than standard ones, as every sentence, symbol, and diagram must be converted into tactile form. Additionally, blind students face challenges in accessing study materials, often receiving braille versions of state-produced EBS preparation books months later than their sighted peers. Despite these hurdles, students like Dong-hyun and Jeong-won remain determined. Dong-hyun, who was born completely blind, uses braille and screen-reading software to navigate the exam. He finds the Korean language section particularly challenging due to the extensive braille pages. Jeong-won, on the other hand, struggles with the late afternoon fatigue, as the exam continues without a dinner break. Both students emphasize the importance of perseverance, viewing the Suneung as a test of their resilience. Their teacher, Kang Seok-ju, praises their endurance, noting the physical toll of reading braille for hours. While the Suneung is a high-stakes exam, Mr. Kang reminds his students that it is not the sole measure of their worth. For these blind students, the Suneung is not just an academic challenge—it is a testament to their years of hard work and determination.
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Trump ‘spent hours’ with sex trafficking victim in Epstein’s home, emails reveal
Newly disclosed emails have sparked controversy, suggesting that former President Donald Trump spent significant time at Jeffrey Epstein’s residence with one of the financier’s sex trafficking victims. The emails, released by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee, indicate that Epstein claimed Trump had “spent hours at my house” with the victim, raising questions about Trump’s awareness of Epstein’s criminal activities. Trump has consistently denied any involvement in or knowledge of Epstein’s sex-trafficking operations. Epstein, who was awaiting trial on federal charges, died by suicide in prison in 2019. The revelations have intensified scrutiny over Trump’s past associations and his potential knowledge of Epstein’s illicit activities. Democrats argue that the emails warrant further investigation into Trump’s role and awareness of the crimes committed by his former friend.
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Seven Mayfair unveils Dh1 billion Development ‘Mayfair Nexus’ in Wadi Al Safa 7 with a drone show
Seven Mayfair Real Estate Development has officially entered Dubai’s competitive real estate market with the unveiling of its inaugural project, Mayfair Nexus, a Dh1 billion development located in Wadi Al Safa 7. The grand reveal took place at Mayfair Gardens, the project site, during an exclusive event themed ‘Imagination Comes to Life.’ The evening attracted a distinguished audience of real estate professionals, partners, and industry stakeholders, marking the debut of a brand built on experience, design, and integrity. The event featured an immersive experience, starting with a walkthrough of the architectural model and culminating in a breathtaking drone show that illuminated the night sky, symbolizing the transformation of vision into reality. Fauzaan Malkani, Managing Director and Co-founder of Seven Mayfair, emphasized that the launch was not just about a project but the beginning of a story rooted in transparency, trust, and timeless design. Designed by renowned architect Tony Ashai, Mayfair Nexus comprises nine residential towers, 434 apartments, and over 88,000 square feet of retail and F&B space, creating a connected community that integrates lifestyle, wellness, and design. The RERA-approved project, supported by an Escrow account, is slated for completion in Q4 2028. The development’s modern architectural style focuses on simplicity, proportion, and tranquility, utilizing natural materials, balanced lighting, and open spaces to evoke understated luxury. The event concluded with a drone show that visually encapsulated Mayfair’s brand philosophy, blending imagination, architecture, and emotion to herald a new chapter in Dubai’s residential landscape.
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National Games showcase Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macao cuisine
The 15th National Games, currently underway, is not only a prestigious platform for athletes to compete for gold medals but also a celebration of the rich culinary heritage of Guangdong province, Hong Kong, and Macao. The event has become a gastronomic journey for thousands of spectators and journalists alike. At the main press center in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong, organizers have curated a diverse menu featuring iconic dishes from across the province. Highlights include shrimp dumplings, rice noodle rolls, braised goose, and beef balls, showcasing the region’s culinary expertise. Since November 9, 21 cities in Guangdong have taken turns hosting food-themed days at the press center’s restaurant, presenting a total of 168 specialty dishes. During Shantou’s themed day, dishes like braised goose and beef balls left both domestic and international journalists impressed by the city’s unique rice noodle preparations. This edition of the National Games, jointly hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao for the first time, has drawn over 3,200 registered journalists from media outlets worldwide, further amplifying the cultural and culinary exchange.
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Delhi blast: Red car allegedly linked to prime suspect rounded up by police
In a significant development in the Delhi blast case, authorities have seized a red Ford EcoSport, bearing the license plate DL 10 CK 0458, suspected to be linked to the prime suspect, Dr. Umar Un Nabi. The vehicle was discovered parked near Khandawali village in Faridabad, part of India’s National Capital Region. According to a police spokesperson, the car was registered under Dr. Nabi’s name, and its details had been shared with police forces in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana.
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2 new malaria treatments announced as drug resistance grows
In a significant stride against malaria, researchers unveiled two innovative treatment strategies aimed at combating the parasite’s growing resistance to existing medications. The findings, presented at the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene conference in Toronto, highlight promising advancements in the fight against the mosquito-borne disease.
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How Dubai’s Future Loop project will connect iconic landmarks, ease traffic
Dubai is taking a monumental leap towards becoming a pedestrian-friendly, future-ready city with its ambitious Future Loop project. Launched as part of the Dubai Walk Master Plan in December 2024, this initiative aims to transform urban mobility by connecting iconic landmarks and easing traffic congestion. The Future Loop, a 2km elevated pathway, will be implemented in the Museum of the Future area, offering a climate-controlled walkway for year-round pedestrian use. This innovative project will link 10 key locations, including the Dubai World Trade Centre, Emirates Towers, and the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), while integrating seamlessly with Dubai’s existing transport network, including metro and tram stations, cycling tracks, and future transportation systems. The pathway will feature 30,000 square metres of air-conditioned spaces, shaded structures, and green areas designed to enhance comfort and reduce temperatures. Additionally, the Future Loop will include commercial spaces developed through public-private partnerships, further enriching the urban experience. This project is a cornerstone of Dubai’s 20-Minute City goal, which aims to enable 80% of residents to access essential services within a 20-minute commute. By prioritizing pedestrian safety, connectivity, and sustainability, the Future Loop aligns with Dubai’s Quality of Life Strategy 2033, making the city more liveable and people-centred. The project is already underway, with active progress reviewed by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, as part of the emirate’s major infrastructure initiatives.
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Emsteel nine-month revenue gains 10%, eyes sustainable growth
Emsteel, a leading steel and building materials manufacturer in the region, has unveiled an impressive financial performance for the first nine months of 2025, driven by robust market demand and strategic operational enhancements. The company reported a 10% year-on-year increase in revenue, reaching Dh6.5 billion, while its Ebitda surged by 28% to Dh823 million, boosting margins to 12.7% from 11% in the previous year. Net profit soared by an extraordinary 209% to Dh283 million, partly attributed to a low comparison base following a one-off provision in 2024. Operationally, Emsteel achieved a 9% rise in total steel sales volumes, with finished steel products climbing 21% to 2.4 million tonnes. Cement and clinker sales also advanced by 17% to 2.3 million tonnes, supported by strong UAE demand and optimized capacity utilization. The Emirates Steel division remained the cornerstone of the business, contributing Dh5.8 billion in revenue and Dh680 million in Ebitda, marking a 38% year-on-year increase. Emirates Cement posted Dh652 million in revenue, a 21% rise, while the Pipes & Other segment, currently under divestment, added Dh133 million. Emsteel’s financial position strengthened further, with net cash reaching Dh711 million as of September 30, compared to Dh337 million at the end of 2024. Third-quarter results highlighted this momentum, with revenue up 13% and Ebitda more than doubling. Beyond financials, Emsteel accelerated its sustainability initiatives, unveiling TrueGreen, a new identity consolidating decades of decarbonization efforts and introducing digital carbon tracking to help clients meet emissions targets. The company also launched the world’s first Electric Process Gas Heater (ePGH) pilot in steelmaking, cutting over 2,200 tonnes of CO₂ annually. In landmark projects, Emsteel supplied 5,000 tonnes of U-type sheet piles for Egypt’s Floating Movable Bridge across the Suez Canal and delivered the region’s first hydrogen-based rebar for Abu Dhabi’s inaugural net-zero carbon mosque. The company also became the first in Mena to earn ResponsibleSteel certification, reinforcing its leadership in sustainable steel production. Eng. Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, Group CEO, stated, ‘Our strong performance reflects Emsteel’s agility and resilience in a dynamic market. Guided by our TrueGreen™ framework, we remain committed to building a stronger, more sustainable industrial future for the UAE and our stakeholders worldwide.’ Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, Emsteel operates 16 state-of-the-art plants with annual capacities of 3.5 million tonnes of steel and 4.6 million tonnes of cement, serving over 70 international markets. Majority-owned by ADQ, the company plays a pivotal role in supporting the UAE’s industrial strategy and Net Zero 2050 ambitions.