Global Pulse

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  • Watch: Footage inside Spanish train as passengers evacuate from crash

    Watch: Footage inside Spanish train as passengers evacuate from crash

    Distressing mobile footage has emerged from inside a Spanish passenger train following a significant derailment in the southern region of Andalusia. The video evidence, captured by a traveler aboard the service, depicts the immediate chaotic aftermath of the incident, showcasing a severely damaged carriage with significant structural compromise.

    In the visuals, passengers can be seen taking matters into their own hands to ensure their safety, with one individual documented meticulously climbing through a fractured section of the train’s exterior to reach the safety of the tracks below. The scene inside the cabin reveals a state of disarray, with personal belongings scattered and visible signs of the impact’s force. The footage stands as a critical firsthand account of the rescue and evacuation procedures undertaken by civilians prior to the arrival of emergency services.

    The derailment, which occurred on a key transit route, prompted a large-scale response from local emergency crews, including multiple firefighting units, medical teams, and law enforcement. Preliminary reports from authorities indicate the incident resulted in a confirmed number of fatalities and several individuals sustaining injuries, though official numbers are pending a full assessment. An investigation into the precise cause of the crash has been launched, with early scrutiny focusing on track conditions and operational factors.

  • Syria: SDF left weakened, short of territory and oil after ceasefire, experts say

    Syria: SDF left weakened, short of territory and oil after ceasefire, experts say

    In a significant geopolitical shift, the Syrian government has achieved a decisive military and political victory over the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) through a comprehensive ceasefire agreement signed on Sunday. The accord follows weeks of intense fighting that saw government forces capture strategic territories and critical economic assets previously under SDF control.

    The 14-point agreement, formally released by Syria’s information ministry, represents a substantial reversal of fortunes for the SDF. Government forces made rapid advances in the preceding days, capturing the country’s largest oil field and numerous Arab-majority districts where SDF control had shown signs of fragility. These battlefield successes fundamentally altered the negotiation dynamics, stripping the SDF of both economic leverage and territorial advantages before talks commenced.

    Under the terms of the agreement, the SDF will execute a complete military and administrative handover of Raqqa and Deir Ezzor regions, retaining only limited presence in northeastern Hasakah. The accord mandates that SDF fighters integrate into Syrian state forces as individuals rather than organized units, while all border crossings and energy resources return to Damascus control.

    The agreement specifically addresses international security concerns by transferring full responsibility for ISIS detainees to the Syrian government. Additionally, foreign elements linked to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) must depart Syria, with remaining fighters undergoing security vetting before integration into state forces.

    Analysts note the striking resemblance between this agreement and terms offered to the SDF a year ago. Fadil Hanci, Syria analyst, observed that ‘Damascus has the upper hand now and wants to transform the military success into a political gain. The agreement is meant to achieve that.’ The document reflects Damascus’s interpretation of previous frameworks while leaving minimal room for SDF reinterpretation.

    The political implications extend to leadership changes, with SDF leader Mazlum Abdi reportedly assuming the governorship of Hasakah province—a position subordinate to Syria’s foreign minister rather than the senior national role some had anticipated.

    This strategic realignment also reveals deeper vulnerabilities in SDF support structures. Arab tribes in previously SDF-controlled areas, dissatisfied with Kurdish dominance and limited economic development, largely supported the government’s advance. From Turkey’s perspective, the agreement represents a significant security achievement, rolling back what Ankara had long perceived as a threat to its national security.

  • UAE announces January 19 as end of Rajab 1447 AH

    UAE announces January 19 as end of Rajab 1447 AH

    The UAE Fatwa Council has officially declared Monday, January 19, 2026, as the conclusive day of the Islamic month of Rajab 1447 AH. This determination was reached following meticulous examination of astronomical data regarding the crescent moon, conducted in coordination with the nation’s specialized astronomical authorities.

    Consequently, Tuesday, January 20, 2026, will be recognized as the inaugural day of Shaban 1447 AH within the Islamic Hijri calendar. Shaban holds particular significance as it immediately precedes Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. This period traditionally serves as a spiritual preparatory phase for Muslims worldwide, who observe dawn-to-dusk fasting during Ramadan.

    The commencement date for Ramadan 2026 remains subject to final confirmation via traditional moon-sighting practices. Islamic months span either 29 or 30 days, contingent upon lunar observations. Official moon-sighting committees will convene on the 29th of Shaban to ascertain the exact beginning of Ramadan. Should the crescent moon be sighted that evening, Ramadan will initiate the following day.

    Current astronomical projections suggest Thursday, February 19, 2026, as the probable start date, though this remains conditional upon actual visual confirmation. The conclusion of Ramadan will subsequently usher in Eid Al Fitr, a significant Islamic festival marking the end of fasting, which will provide UAE residents with their first extended weekend break of the year.

  • Thousands march in US to back Iranian anti-government protesters

    Thousands march in US to back Iranian anti-government protesters

    Mass demonstrations erupted across major American cities this weekend as thousands gathered to denounce the Iranian government’s violent suppression of domestic protests. The gatherings, organized by members of Iran’s extensive diaspora community, represented a powerful display of international solidarity with protesters facing escalating violence in their homeland.

    Los Angeles, hosting the world’s largest Iranian expatriate population, witnessed several thousand marchers flooding its streets. Simultaneously, several hundred protesters assembled in New York City, creating a coordinated coast-to-coast expression of outrage. Participants carried emotionally charged signage condemning what they termed a ‘New Holocaust’ and ‘genocide in the making’ by Iranian authorities.

    The protests originated from December’s economic dissatisfaction demonstrations in Iran, which rapidly evolved into the most significant challenge to the Islamic Republic’s leadership in recent history. A severe government crackdown accompanied by nationwide internet restrictions has reportedly resulted in substantial casualties. Iran Human Rights, an Oslo-based monitoring organization, has documented 3,428 protest-related fatalities through verified sources within Iran’s medical system and independent witnesses. The NGO emphasizes that actual numbers likely significantly exceed this verified count.

    Demonstrators expressed complex and sometimes contradictory political perspectives. While many participants voiced support for U.S. presidential intervention, others displayed skepticism toward American involvement. The diaspora community appears divided between those advocating for Western-backed regime change and those insisting on Iranian self-determination without foreign interference.

    This ideological tension was visibly present at the Los Angeles gatherings, where some protesters championed Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s deposed Shah, while others explicitly rejected monarchical restoration. The political divisions within the exile community mirror the fragmented nature of Iran’s domestic opposition movement, complicating prospects for unified resistance against the current regime.

    The demonstrations occurred amid ambiguous signals from the U.S. administration regarding potential intervention. While threatening consequences for violence against protesters, American officials have simultaneously expressed satisfaction with Iranian assurances regarding demonstrator treatment. This diplomatic ambiguity has created uncertainty among diaspora communities seeking clearer international support for protesters facing life-threatening repression.

  • Steve Smith hasn’t won over the Twenty20 selectors despite his blistering Big Bash League form

    Steve Smith hasn’t won over the Twenty20 selectors despite his blistering Big Bash League form

    In a surprising selection move, Australian cricket chiefs have unveiled their squad for the upcoming three-match T20 series against Pakistan, conspicuously excluding two of the nation’s most prominent cricketing figures. Despite delivering exceptional performances in the Big Bash League, veteran batsman Steve Smith and all-rounder Glenn Maxwell have both been omitted from the touring party that will prepare for next month’s World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

    Chief selector George Bailey provided insight into the controversial decisions, acknowledging Smith’s dominant BBL form while explaining the competitive landscape at the top of the batting order. “When he goes back to the Big Bash he’s a level above,” Bailey stated, emphasizing that Smith faces stiff competition from Mitch Marsh and Travis Head for opening positions. The selector noted that while Smith has demonstrated adaptability throughout the order, his recent international opportunities have primarily come at the top.

    Bailey also addressed the unique challenges of evaluating BBL performances, pointing to rule variations like the Power Surge and four-over powerplay that differentiate the domestic competition from international standards. Despite these contextual factors, Bailey affirmed that Smith undoubtedly possesses the capability to excel at the highest level.

    The squad features several emerging talents, including young pace bowler Mahli Beardman, whom Bailey praised for his “air speed” and versatile skill set. Jack Edwards, who previously joined the white-ball squad during the India series, also receives another opportunity to showcase his abilities on the international stage.

    Mitchell Marsh will captain a blend of established players and promising newcomers, with the selection panel clearly balancing immediate World Cup preparation with long-term development objectives. The team composition suggests strategic planning for both the upcoming Pakistan tour and future international commitments, with Bailey emphasizing Beardman’s inclusion as “an eye to the future.”

    The absence of both Smith and Maxwell, despite their recent domestic successes, indicates a deliberate approach to squad rotation and specialization ahead of the global tournament, raising questions about Australia’s final World Cup lineup and strategic direction.

  • Gauff through, Auger-Aliassime retires as Djokovic begins record quest

    Gauff through, Auger-Aliassime retires as Djokovic begins record quest

    The Australian Open’s second day delivered a mix of predictable victories and stunning early exits as Novak Djokovic commenced his unprecedented pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam title at Melbourne Park.

    Serbian legend Djokovic, aged 38, prepared to face Spain’s 71st-ranked Pedro Martinez in the evening session on Rod Laver Arena. The current world number four, who holds a record 10 Australian Open championships, stands tied with Australia’s Margaret Court at 24 major titles. Despite recent dominance from younger rivals Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner, Djokovic remained confident, stating: “I know that when I’m healthy and able to put all the pieces of the puzzle together on a given day, I feel like I can beat anybody.”

    Earlier matches saw mixed fortunes for top contenders. American sensation Coco Gauff advanced to the second round with a 6-2, 6-3 victory over Uzbekistan’s Kamilla Rakhimova, though her performance included seven double faults and 31 unforced errors. “I tried not to put too much pressure on myself,” Gauff commented. “I am only satisfied if I win, but I am proud of myself regardless of how I get on.” She now faces Olga Danilovic, who defeated Venus Williams.

    The tournament concluded abruptly for seventh seed Felix Auger-Aliassime, who retired from his opening match against Portugal’s Nuno Borges while trailing 3-6, 6-4, 6-4, requiring treatment to his left leg. Similarly, 2020 champion Sofia Kenin suffered a straight-sets defeat (6-3, 6-2) to fellow American Peyton Stearns amid soaring temperatures nearing 30°C.

    Other notable contenders prepared for their opening matches, including six-time major winner Iga Swiatek, who has never progressed beyond the semi-finals in Melbourne. The Polish second seed faces Chinese qualifier Yuan Yue as she pursues a career Grand Slam. Russia’s Daniil Medvedev, a three-time Australian Open finalist, enters the tournament fresh from his Brisbane victory and meets Jesper de Jong of the Netherlands.

    Home favorite Alex de Minaur, seeded sixth, attracted significant local support against American Mackenzie McDonald, while American fourth seed Amanda Anisimova faced Switzerland’s Simona Waltert. The day’s schedule also featured emerging Russian talent Mirra Andreeva, aged 18 and fresh from winning her fourth title, against Croatia’s Donna Vekic, plus 2014 champion Stan Wawrinka playing his final Australian Open before retirement at age 40.

  • India’s thriving online delivery platforms face a year of reckoning

    India’s thriving online delivery platforms face a year of reckoning

    India’s rapidly expanding gig economy faces unprecedented regulatory challenges as the government implements a ban on ultra-fast 10-minute delivery services. This decisive action follows massive New Year’s Eve strikes involving approximately 200,000 delivery workers who demanded improved working conditions, transparent wage structures, and an end to algorithmic control systems that govern their employment.

    The controversial 10-minute delivery model, pioneered by startups like Zomato, Swiggy, Blinkit, and Instamart, had become synonymous with urban convenience in major Indian cities. These platforms transformed consumer expectations during the pandemic, creating an entire ecosystem of instant gratification for groceries, food, and various services.

    Worker grievances extend beyond delivery time pressures to fundamental issues of fair compensation and job security. Striking employees specifically challenged what they describe as arbitrary algorithmic management of performance ratings and contract terminations, seeking greater transparency in how their earnings are calculated.

    The government’s intervention coincides with impending labor reforms that will extend social security protections to gig workers for the first time. New regulations requiring platforms to provide insurance coverage and benefits for workers completing 90 days of service annually represent a seismic shift in India’s labor landscape.

    Platform executives have mounted vigorous defenses of their business models. Deepinder Goyal, CEO of Eternal (parent company of Zomato and Blinkit), asserted that the 10-minute delivery framework operates safely through strategic dark store placement rather than rider speeding. He presented data showing 75 million orders delivered to 63 million customers on New Year’s Eve despite strike actions, which he attributed to “miscreants.”

    Goyal emphasized the voluntary nature of gig work, noting that delivery personnel typically work limited hours and days monthly. He contended that full-time workers can earn approximately 21,000 rupees monthly (£173, $232), surpassing compensation in India’s informal blue-collar sector.

    However, critics argue these figures obscure hidden costs borne by workers, including onboarding expenses, vehicle maintenance, fuel, and uniform purchases. Research from Primus Partners indicates that 61% of gig workers consider themselves full-time employees, with only 25% receiving insurance or pension benefits.

    The financial implications for platforms are substantial. Companies already operating on thin margins (2.5-4.5% for food delivery, negative returns on groceries) face increased operational costs from compliance with new welfare requirements. Stock prices have reflected these concerns, with Swiggy declining approximately 15% recently.

    This confrontation mirrors global trends where jurisdictions from London to Singapore have strengthened gig worker protections. The outcome will shape not only working conditions for India’s 12 million gig workers (projected to reach 24 million by 2030) but potentially increase consumer costs for delivery services as platforms adjust to regulatory changes.

  • GCC tourism revenues hit $120b as UAE spurs travel boom

    GCC tourism revenues hit $120b as UAE spurs travel boom

    The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has achieved unprecedented growth in its tourism sector, with revenues surging to $120.2 billion in 2024, substantially exceeding pre-pandemic performance levels. This remarkable recovery, representing a 39.6% increase over 2019 figures and an 8.9% year-on-year rise, underscores the region’s successful economic diversification efforts, with the United Arab Emirates acting as the primary catalyst for expansion.

    According to data released by the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (Gulf-Stat), international tourist arrivals reached 72.2 million in 2024, marking a dramatic 51.5% increase compared to pre-crisis levels and elevating the GCC’s share of global tourism to 5.2%. This robust growth trajectory has been driven by strategic investments in aviation infrastructure, liberalized visa policies, and the development of diverse tourism offerings spanning luxury hospitality, cultural experiences, and eco-tourism.

    The UAE has positioned itself at the forefront of this transformation, leveraging its status as a global aviation hub while aggressively expanding into new tourism segments. Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to break visitor records, supported by increased airline capacity, major international events, and continuous investment in hospitality infrastructure. The World Travel & Tourism Council projects the UAE’s sector will continue outperforming regional averages in coming years.

    Regional travel within the GCC bloc has emerged as a significant growth driver, accounting for 41.3% of total international tourist flows. This intra-regional mobility has grown at an average annual rate of 51.2% between 2019 and 2024, facilitated by joint tourism initiatives and cross-border events. International source markets remain diversified, with the Middle East contributing 18.8% of inbound tourists, followed by Europe (14.6%) and Asia-Pacific (14.5%).

    The tourism boom has triggered substantial infrastructure development across the region. Hotel establishments have expanded to 11,200 properties offering approximately 711,500 rooms, while tourism-related employment has grown to 1.7 million workers in 2024—a 33% increase from 2020. This expansion highlights the sector’s growing importance as a major employer and catalyst for ancillary industries including transportation, retail, and food services.

    Tourism’s direct economic contribution has reached $93.5 billion, representing 4.3% of total regional GDP and achieving 64.1% of the GCC’s Tourism Strategy 2030 targets. The sector has become instrumental in reducing hydrocarbon dependence and building more resilient, service-oriented economies.

    Key performance indicators demonstrate strengthening sector fundamentals, with average tourist stays reaching 8.4 nights and spending per visit averaging $674.60. Gulf-Stat reports the GCC has achieved between 56% and 78% of its 2030 benchmarks across cultural tourism, eco-tourism, and business travel categories.

    The outlook for 2026 remains optimistic, with the IMF and global travel organizations predicting Middle East tourism will continue expanding faster than the global average. This growth is expected to be sustained by rising middle-class travel demand, expanding airline networks, and continued government investment in mega tourism projects, particularly in the UAE where developments in sustainable travel infrastructure are cementing its position as the region’s dominant tourism hub.

  • Momentum in the UAE’s real estate likely to continue this year

    Momentum in the UAE’s real estate likely to continue this year

    The United Arab Emirates’ property sector concludes 2025 with remarkable resilience, positioning itself as one of the world’s most stable real estate markets despite ongoing global economic volatility and geopolitical challenges. According to Francis Alfred, Managing Director of Sobha Realty, this sustained momentum stems from fundamental strengths including robust population expansion, continuous inflow of international expertise, regulatory consistency, and strategic national development frameworks.

    Market maturity emerged as the defining characteristic of the past year, with buyers demonstrating increased discernment regarding construction quality, delivery assurance, and developer credibility. Contrary to anticipations of hesitant purchasing behavior, investors displayed decisive action when presented with well-defined propositions. This shift toward value-driven decision making has fundamentally altered investment patterns across the sector.

    Emerging destinations including Umm Al Quwain have gained unexpected traction, attracting both end-users and first-time buyers seeking long-term value and lifestyle-oriented environments. European investors, particularly from the UK and France, constituted approximately 42% of Sobha’s sales value in UAQ, followed by Indian buyers at 13%, with the 35-60 age demographic representing 72% of investments.

    The pandemic has permanently redefined housing preferences, elevating wellness-focused design, access to green spaces, natural illumination, and health-conscious environments from desirable amenities to essential criteria. The concept of location has similarly evolved, with buyers prioritizing integrated, mixed-use communities that combine residential, commercial, retail, and recreational facilities within walkable parameters.

    This transformation explains why certain developments achieve immediate success while others stagnate, even at comparable price points. Projects offering coherent master planning, execution excellence, and modern layouts consistently outperform competitors. Large-scale integrated communities are simultaneously redefining both residential living and investment parameters, shifting focus from short-term yields to planning depth and delivery certainty.

    International investors occasionally misinterpret the UAE market by applying domestic assumptions, mistakenly viewing it as purely speculative while overlooking its substantial end-user demand and regulatory stability. Price comparisons without considering location quality, planning sophistication, and construction standards often lead to inaccurate valuations.

    Sobha Realty’s strategic outlook remains guided by real-time indicators reflecting actual buyer behavior rather than sentiment alone. These metrics have demonstrated remarkable resilience despite external uncertainties, supporting continued expansion and new launch decisions. Looking forward, mega-developments are expected to shape urban evolution through integrated infrastructure, adaptive mobility solutions, and future-ready amenities that enhance quality of life while supporting balanced urban growth.

  • Chinese steel factory officials detained after explosion that leaves 2 dead, 8 missing

    Chinese steel factory officials detained after explosion that leaves 2 dead, 8 missing

    Authorities in China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region have launched a comprehensive investigation following a catastrophic industrial explosion at a state-owned steel facility that resulted in multiple casualties. The incident occurred at approximately 3:00 PM local time on Sunday at the Baogang United Steel plant in Baotou City, where a high-pressure storage vessel containing steam and superheated water ruptured with tremendous force.

    The detonation produced seismic-like tremors throughout the surrounding industrial zone and emitted an enormous plume of white vapor into the atmosphere. Emergency response teams immediately initiated rescue operations at the scene of the devastation.

    Official statements from the Baotou Municipal Information Office confirmed the tragic human toll: two workers sustained fatal injuries while eighty-four others required urgent medical treatment for various trauma and burn injuries. Search and rescue specialists continue to comb through the wreckage for eight missing individuals whose whereabouts remain unknown.

    In response to the industrial catastrophe, law enforcement agencies have taken the unprecedented step of detaining the facility’s management personnel pending a full safety review. The dramatic regulatory action underscores the seriousness with which Chinese authorities are treating the incident at this major state-operated industrial complex.

    The Baogang United Steel facility represents a significant component of China’s state-owned industrial infrastructure, making this incident particularly noteworthy within the nation’s industrial safety landscape. The investigation will likely examine maintenance protocols, safety compliance measures, and operational procedures at the plant.