Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has asserted that the disarmament of militias in Iraq can only occur after the withdrawal of US troops from the country. In an exclusive interview with Reuters, Sudani emphasized that the presence of foreign forces complicates efforts to integrate armed groups into state institutions. His remarks come just days before Iraq’s highly anticipated parliamentary elections, where he is seeking a second term. Sudani is navigating a delicate balance between Washington, crucial for Iraq’s dollar transactions, and Iran, which supports Shia militias like the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). He highlighted that security and stability have improved, questioning the rationale for the continued presence of 86 coalition countries originally assembled to combat ISIS. Sudani outlined a potential plan for militia members to either join official security forces or transition into politics post-disarmament. This proposal aligns with ongoing US-Iraq negotiations to end the US military presence by 2025, as reported by Reuters. However, the broader challenge of disarming Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon underscores the complexity of such efforts. The PMF, alongside Hezbollah and Yemen’s Houthis, forms part of the Axis of Resistance, which has faced Israeli attacks following the Hamas-led October 7 assault. Despite these tensions, Sudani’s government has allocated $700 million to the PMF in Iraq’s 2023 budget, reflecting its integration into state structures.
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Democrat Spanberger wins race for Virginia governor
In a pivotal election that could foreshadow broader national trends, Democrat Abigail Spanberger has been projected as the winner of the Virginia gubernatorial race. Spanberger, a former CIA officer and three-term congresswoman, defeated Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears in a closely contested battle. This victory marks a significant moment for the Democratic Party, as Virginia’s leadership often oscillates between the two major parties, making it a bellwether for the electorate’s sentiment ahead of next year’s midterm elections.
Spanberger’s campaign focused on addressing the economic repercussions of former President Donald Trump’s federal spending cuts, which have notably impacted Virginia’s employment landscape. She also emphasized increasing affordability for residents, a message that resonated with voters. Earle-Sears, on the other hand, highlighted the state’s economic performance under Republican leadership and leaned into cultural issues, such as transgender rights, which have been a divisive topic in recent elections.
The race was closely watched not only for its local implications but also as a potential referendum on Trump’s policies. Virginia, home to the Pentagon and numerous federal workers, has been particularly affected by Trump’s sweeping budget reductions. Despite Trump’s efforts to rally support for Republican candidates, including Earle-Sears, he did not formally endorse her, and their relationship has been strained since she declined to support his 2024 campaign.
Spanberger’s victory is historic, as she becomes the first woman to lead Virginia. She will succeed Republican Glenn Youngkin, who has held the office for the past four years. The election results underscore the state’s political complexity, with its mix of liberal-leaning areas near Washington, D.C., and conservative rural districts. Spanberger’s win may signal a shift in voter priorities, particularly in battleground states, as the nation gears up for the 2024 presidential election.
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Why a popular Hindu temple in India is mired in gold theft row
A high-profile scandal has erupted at the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, India, following revelations that gold plating from several idols and temple structures has been stolen. The Kerala High Court has taken serious note of the matter, describing it as a ‘heist and plundering of gold.’ The court has established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the disappearance of approximately 4.54 kg of gold since 2019. The investigation has led to the arrest of three individuals, including a former assistant temple priest, Unnikrishnan Potty, who is accused of orchestrating the theft. Temple records indicate that the gold was originally donated by disgraced billionaire Vijay Mallya in 1998-99 for the gold-cladding of idols and temple structures. The court has criticized the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB), which manages the temple, for allowing Potty to remove the idols for ‘repairs’ and for mislabeling gold-clad items as ‘copper plates.’ The scandal has sparked political unrest, with opposition parties demanding the resignation of Kerala’s Minister for Temple Affairs, VN Vasavan. The SIT has been given six weeks to complete its investigation, and the court has vowed to hold all culprits accountable, regardless of their status or influence.
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Free tickets for Emirates employees on completing 30×30 at Dubai Fitness Challenge
The 8th edition of the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) has officially commenced, with the Emirates Group leading the charge in promoting a healthier lifestyle among its employees. Over 21,000 staff members have already registered for the citywide 30×30 initiative, which encourages participants to engage in 30 minutes of daily physical activity for 30 days. As an added incentive, permanent employees who complete the challenge will receive a complimentary Service-Related Concession ticket to any destination on the Emirates network. This year, Emirates Group employees have collectively logged an impressive 355 million steps, equivalent to walking halfway to the moon, according to digitally tracked fitness data. Throughout the month, the company will host a variety of fitness and wellness activities, including sessions organized by its 30 sports and hobby clubs, which offer activities ranging from football to skydiving. The Group’s wellbeing programme, Sehaty, will also provide practical tips on fitness, nutrition, and mental wellbeing. A special event at Zabeel Park on November 25 will offer exclusive fitness sessions for employees. Additionally, Dubai-based staff are encouraged to participate in flagship DFC events, such as the Dubai Ride and Dubai Run, with hundreds already signed up. The Emirates Group’s involvement in DFC underscores its commitment to fostering a culture of health and wellness among its workforce.
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Reddit added to Australia’s social media ban on under-16s
Australia has broadened its pioneering social media ban for children under 16, adding Reddit and live-streaming platform Kick to the list of restricted platforms. This brings the total number of banned sites to nine, including Facebook, X, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Threads. Starting December 10, tech companies face fines of up to A$50 million ($32.5 million) if they fail to take ‘reasonable steps’ to deactivate existing accounts for minors and prevent new ones. The government emphasized that these platforms were selected because their primary or significant purpose is to facilitate online social interaction. More sites may be added as technology evolves. Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, stated that delaying children’s access to social media allows them time to develop without exposure to harmful design features like opaque algorithms and endless scrolling. However, messaging services such as Discord and WhatsApp, gaming platforms like Lego Play and Roblox, and educational tools like Google Classroom and YouTube Kids are exempt. Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells defended the ban, asserting it aims to protect children from the ‘chilling control’ of online platforms. Critics, however, have raised concerns about data privacy and the reliability of age verification methods, which include ID documents, parental approval, and facial recognition technology. While polls show most Australian adults support the ban, some mental health advocates argue it could isolate children or drive them to unregulated parts of the internet. They suggest the government should focus on regulating harmful content and educating children about online risks. Notably, an Australian influencer family with millions of YouTube followers recently announced plans to relocate to the UK to circumvent the ban, ensuring their 14-year-old daughter can continue creating content. YouTube, initially exempt, was later included in the ban after the government cited it as the platform where children aged 10 to 15 most frequently encountered harmful content. Teens under 16 can still view YouTube videos but cannot create accounts, which are necessary for uploading or interacting on the platform.
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Typhoon Kalmaegi leaves 52 dead, mainly in Philippine province still recovering from deadly quake
Typhoon Kalmaegi has wreaked havoc in the central Philippines, claiming at least 52 lives and leaving 13 others missing, officials reported on Wednesday. The storm triggered widespread flooding, trapping residents on rooftops and sweeping away vehicles in Cebu province, an area still recovering from a recent deadly earthquake. The disaster has compounded the challenges for a region already grappling with the aftermath of natural calamities.
In a separate tragic incident, six individuals lost their lives when a Philippine air force helicopter crashed in Agusan del Sur province on Tuesday. The aircraft was en route to deliver humanitarian aid to areas affected by Kalmaegi. The military has yet to disclose the cause of the crash.
As of early Wednesday, Kalmaegi was located over the coastal waters of Linapacan in Palawan province, packing sustained winds of 120 kph (75 mph) and gusts reaching 150 kph (93 mph). The typhoon is expected to move into the South China Sea later in the day.
Cebu, a densely populated province with over 2.4 million residents, bore the brunt of the storm. Flash floods caused rivers and waterways to overflow, engulfing residential areas and forcing desperate residents to seek refuge on their roofs. The Philippine Red Cross reported receiving numerous distress calls, but rescue operations were delayed until floodwaters receded to ensure the safety of emergency personnel.
In response to the crisis, Cebu declared a state of calamity, enabling authorities to expedite emergency funding. The province is still recovering from a 6.9 magnitude earthquake on September 30, which claimed 79 lives and displaced thousands.
Other fatalities were reported in Southern Leyte and Bohol provinces, where an elderly villager drowned in floodwaters and another resident was struck by a fallen tree. Before Kalmaegi’s landfall, over 387,000 people evacuated from eastern and central provinces, heeding warnings of torrential rains, destructive winds, and storm surges up to three meters (nearly 10 feet) high.
The typhoon disrupted transportation, grounding interisland ferries and fishing boats, stranding over 3,500 passengers and cargo truck drivers at nearly 100 seaports. Additionally, 186 domestic flights were canceled.
The Philippines, one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries, faces approximately 20 typhoons and storms annually, alongside frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. The resilience of its people continues to be tested as they confront the dual challenges of recovery and preparedness in the face of relentless natural disasters.
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Football star David Beckham receives knighthood from King Charles at Windsor Castle
In a momentous ceremony at Windsor Castle, former England football captain David Beckham was knighted by King Charles III on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. The 50-year-old football legend, who earned 115 caps for England and played for renowned clubs such as Manchester United and Real Madrid, was honored for his exceptional contributions to sport and charity. Beckham described the occasion as his “proudest moment,” reflecting on his journey from London’s east end to receiving one of the highest honors in the British monarchy. Accompanied by his wife, Victoria Beckham, and parents Ted and Sandra, Beckham donned a bespoke grey suit designed by Victoria, who herself earned the title “Lady Beckham” following the announcement of the knighthood in June. During the ceremony, Beckham shared a lighthearted exchange with King Charles, who reportedly admired his attire. Beckham expressed his deep admiration for the monarchy, stating that the knighthood surpassed all his achievements in football, fashion, and business. This recognition marks the culmination of Beckham’s decades-long efforts to establish himself as a global icon. While he was previously considered for a knighthood after aiding London’s successful bid for the 2012 Olympics, his nomination faced delays due to an alleged tax avoidance scheme, which was later resolved.
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Clinical Gauff dominates to eliminate Paolini in WTA Finals
Coco Gauff showcased a masterful display of tennis prowess on Tuesday, securing her first victory at the WTA Finals with a commanding 6-3, 6-2 win over Jasmine Paolini. The 21-year-old American, who had struggled with 17 double faults in her previous match against Jessica Pegula, significantly improved her game, committing only three double faults this time. Gauff’s strategic play and precision on the court proved too much for the eighth-seeded Italian, who was eliminated from the tournament. The defending champion quickly established a 3-0 lead in the first set, and despite Paolini’s brief resistance, Gauff maintained control, winning the set 6-3. In the second set, Gauff’s relentless strategy of forcing Paolini to cover the court paid off, as she secured back-to-back breaks to lead 5-2. The match concluded with a powerful serve from Gauff that Paolini could only return into the net. Reflecting on her performance, Gauff acknowledged the importance of the win, stating, ‘I knew today’s win was crucial to staying in the tournament. If I lost, I would have been out.’ She also credited her smart serving and noted that Paolini might not have been at her best. The victory keeps Gauff’s hopes alive in the Group Steffi Graf, where top seed Aryna Sabalenka is set to face Jessica Pegula later in the day.
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World on track to dangerous warming as emissions hit record high: UN
The United Nations has issued a stark warning that the world is on track to surpass the critical 1.5°C warming threshold within years, with planet-warming emissions reaching a new record high in 2024. Despite a wave of national commitments to reduce heat-trapping pollution, these efforts are insufficient to prevent devastating climate impacts, according to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). The latest Emissions Gap report reveals that current pledges would limit global warming to between 2.3°C and 2.5°C by 2100—far above the safer 1.5°C target. Scientists emphasize that exceeding this threshold risks catastrophic consequences, including more intense hurricanes, floods, and irreversible climate tipping points. The report, released ahead of the COP30 climate summit in Brazil, underscores the urgent need for unprecedented emissions cuts. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for minimizing the overshoot of 1.5°C, urging major polluters to accelerate their efforts. However, the latest round of carbon-cutting targets has barely made progress, with only one-third of countries meeting the 2035 emissions reduction deadline. The report also highlights the disproportionate role of G20 economies, which account for 75% of global emissions, and the limited impact of recent climate pledges. With Earth projected to warm by 2.8°C under current policies, COP30 faces the challenge of reigniting global climate action amid geopolitical tensions and missed targets.
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Burjeel Holdings posts record Q3 revenue, net profit jumps 27.5%
Burjeel Holdings, a leading super-specialty healthcare provider in the Middle East, has announced a record-breaking third quarter for 2025, with revenue soaring to Dh1.42 billion and net profit increasing by 27.5% year-on-year to Dh175 million. The Abu Dhabi-listed healthcare group attributed this exceptional performance to a combination of rising patient volumes, a richer case mix, and enhanced operational efficiencies across its expanding network in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. EBITDA for the quarter rose by 17.1% to Dh320 million, with margins improving to 22.5%, reflecting disciplined cost control and heightened demand for complex care services.
CEO John Sunil highlighted the results as a testament to Burjeel’s strategic investments and growing reputation in high-acuity care. ‘Our network’s strength and market positioning have enabled us to deliver clinical excellence and robust financial momentum,’ he stated. ‘We are now firmly established as the region’s foremost destination for advanced specialties, including oncology, organ transplantation, and precision medicine.’
Patient footfall reached 5.1 million in the first nine months of 2025, marking a 7.3% year-on-year increase. Inpatient volumes rose by 8.4% in Q3, driven by strong demand in oncology, cardiology, gastroenterology, and orthopedics. The group performed over 67,000 surgeries during this period, a 10.3% increase, with bed occupancy averaging 67%. Outpatient visits also grew, rising by 4.5% in Q3 and 7.2% year-to-date, supported by new day care and physiotherapy centers.
Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the group’s flagship tertiary care hub, posted standout results with Q3 EBITDA soaring 46.8% and margins hitting an all-time high of 22%. BMC’s revenue rose by 10.9% in the first nine months, fueled by rising oncology volumes and expanded specialty services. The group also achieved several medical milestones during the quarter, including the UAE’s youngest-ever liver transplant and the GCC’s first Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump procedure, further cementing its leadership in complex and precision care.
Despite temporary restrictions on certain insurance plans, Burjeel maintained momentum through increased inflows from premium insurers and self-paying patients. This shift, combined with a rise in complex procedures, helped offset volume moderation in the basic segment. The medical centers segment also showed strong growth, with revenue up 15.8% in Q3, reflecting the ramp-up of over 40 new facilities across the UAE and KSA.
Burjeel’s balance sheet remains robust, with net debt to EBITDA at 1.9x, and recent strategic investments—including the Dh186 million acquisition of a Dubai hospital building—expected to enhance long-term asset value. Looking ahead, the group plans to continue expanding its footprint and capabilities, supported by favorable market dynamics and a robust pipeline of projects. ‘Our exceptional teams remain the driving force behind our success,’ Sunil added, ‘ensuring every patient receives world-class care.’