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  • Nigerian imam honoured for saving Christian lives dies aged 90

    Nigerian imam honoured for saving Christian lives dies aged 90

    Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, the Nigerian cleric internationally acclaimed for his heroic actions during sectarian violence, has passed away at age 90. His son confirmed to BBC Hausa that Abdullahi died Thursday night while receiving hospital treatment for a heart condition.

    The imam earned global recognition for his courageous intervention during the 2018 Plateau state violence in central Nigeria. When armed attackers targeted predominantly Christian communities, Abdullahi witnessed terrified families fleeing toward his Muslim-majority village and made the instantaneous decision to provide sanctuary.

    Defying grave personal risk, the religious leader sheltered 262 people across his personal residence and mosque. When the armed assailants—suspected to be Muslim cattle herders—demanded he surrender those seeking refuge, Abdullahi refused without hesitation. Instead, he and other Muslim community members employed emotional appeals, weeping and pleading until the attackers eventually withdrew, though not before burning two nearby churches.

    This act of bravery occurred within the broader context of Nigeria’s persistent farmer-herder conflicts, primarily between Muslim Fulani herders and Christian Berom farmers competing over land and grazing rights. The violence continues to plague the central region, with US officials previously criticizing Nigeria’s protection of religious minorities—a claim Nigerian authorities contest.

    Abdullahi’s moral conviction was summarized in his own words: ‘God created mankind differently, but he wants us to live together in peace and harmony, and not harm each other.’

    His legacy received significant official recognition, including one of Nigeria’s highest national honors from then-President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022 and the International Religious Freedom Award from the US State Department in 2019. Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang described Abdullahi’s passing as a ‘monumental loss,’ praising his ‘unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and the protection of the vulnerable.’

  • Yemen appoints new prime minister amid Saudi-UAE tensions

    Yemen appoints new prime minister amid Saudi-UAE tensions

    In a significant political reshuffle, Yemen’s internationally recognized Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) has accepted the resignation of Prime Minister Salem bin Breik and appointed Foreign Minister Shaya Mohsen Zindani as his successor. The state news agency Saba announced the leadership transition on Thursday, marking a pivotal moment in Yemen’s ongoing governance challenges.

    The council approved Bin Breik’s formally submitted resignation before tasking Zindani with forming the next cabinet. According to official statements, the outgoing prime minister met with PLC chairman Rashad al-Alimi to present the government’s resignation, thereby facilitating the pathway for new executive formation. The current administration will maintain operational continuity—excluding personnel appointments and dismissals—until the new government is established.

    Official communications cited comprehensive institutional restoration, strengthened decision-making unity, and countering what they termed ‘the coup’ as primary motivations for the governmental change. This political reorganization follows recent military developments that saw PLC forces reclaim control over southern regions from separatist factions.

    The backdrop to this political transition involves intense regional tensions between Gulf powers Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Last month, Southern Transitional Council (STC) separatists—reportedly backed by the UAE—seized extensive territories, infrastructure, and oil facilities from Saudi-supported tribal forces. Saudi Arabia responded with military strikes against STC positions and Emirati logistical support, accusing Abu Dhabi of facilitating the escape of STC leader Aidarous al-Zubaidi.

    By Monday, PLC forces had successfully regained full control of southern Yemen, including Aden—the city the separatists had envisioned as capital of a future independent state. Notably, many soldiers now patrolling Aden had previously been aligned with the STC before defecting to support the internationally recognized government.

  • UAE: Aerial parade across 7 emirates to mark ‘Day of Solidarity’; map, timings revealed

    UAE: Aerial parade across 7 emirates to mark ‘Day of Solidarity’; map, timings revealed

    The United Arab Emirates will witness a spectacular aerial display on Saturday, January 17th, as the nation commemorates its annual Day of Solidarity. In a coordinated effort between the UAE Armed Forces and the renowned Emirates Knights Air Show team, fighter jets and helicopters will traverse all seven emirates in a powerful demonstration of national unity.

    The aerial procession will commence from Abu Dhabi’s Flag Pole area at Sariat Al Alam, with helicopter formations beginning at 4:30 PM followed by fighter jets at 4:35 PM. The display will then progress through Dubai’s JBR Beach (helicopters: 4:43 PM, jets: 5:20 PM), Sharjah’s Al Buhaira Corniche (helicopters: 4:44 PM, jets: 5:30 PM), and Ajman Beach (helicopters: 4:45 PM, jets: 5:34 PM).

    The aerial tribute continues to Umm Al Quwain’s Flag Pole area (helicopters: 4:46 PM, jets: 5:42 PM), Ras Al Khaimah’s Corniche Al Qawasim (helicopters: 4:51 PM, jets: 6:00 PM), concluding at Fujairah’s Umbrella Beach (helicopters: 5:04 PM, jets: 4:39 PM).

    This commemorative event honors the memory of the January 17, 2022, Houthi rebel attacks that targeted civilian infrastructure in Abu Dhabi, resulting in three fatalities and six injuries. The attack struck the Musaffah ICAD 3 area and a construction site at Abu Dhabi International Airport, causing explosions in petroleum tankers.

    Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Crown Prince of Dubai, has called upon citizens and residents to observe a moment of national reflection by tuning in to the national anthem at 11:00 AM on January 17th. The aerial parade serves as both a remembrance of past sacrifices and a testament to the nation’s resilience and solidarity.

  • Sea of clouds creates picturesque scene in Yunnan

    Sea of clouds creates picturesque scene in Yunnan

    Each winter, the mountainous region of Lincang in Yunnan province undergoes a breathtaking meteorological transformation as a spectacular sea of clouds envelops its valleys along the Lancang River. This annual phenomenon has become a major attraction, drawing visitors and photographers seeking to witness one of nature’s most mesmerizing displays.

    According to reports from Lincang Daily, the celestial spectacle begins before sunrise as ethereal mist drifts through the mountain ranges, momentarily revealing glimpses of remote villages and winding roads beneath the cloud cover. As dawn breaks, the interaction between light and atmosphere creates dramatic visual effects, with sharp beams of sunlight piercing through the cloud layer to illuminate the landscape in a constantly shifting play of light and shadow.

    The winter cloud formation in Lincang represents more than just visual splendor—it offers visitors an immersive experience that transcends conventional tourism. Many who witness the phenomenon describe it as a meditative opportunity to connect with nature’s rhythms, emphasizing the transformative quality of being fully present in the moment rather than merely sightseeing.

    The region’s unique geographical positioning and climatic conditions create ideal circumstances for this regular meteorological occurrence, making Lincang a predictable destination for those seeking to experience this natural wonder. Local authorities have noted increased visitation during winter months as both domestic and international travelers seek out the cloud sea phenomenon, contributing to regional tourism while highlighting the importance of preserving such natural marvels.

  • Fakeeh University Hospital, Verita Neuro launch the Middle East’s first epidural stimulation programme for spinal cord injury patients

    Fakeeh University Hospital, Verita Neuro launch the Middle East’s first epidural stimulation programme for spinal cord injury patients

    Dubai has emerged as a global hub for advanced neurological treatment with the groundbreaking launch of the Middle East’s inaugural epidural stimulation program. Fakeeh University Hospital, in partnership with medical technology firm Verita Neuro, has introduced this revolutionary neurorehabilitation initiative that promises to transform care for spinal cord injury patients across the region.

    This pioneering program utilizes cutting-edge epidural stimulation technology that reconnects neural pathways between the brain and body, enabling patients to regain voluntary movement and restore critical autonomic functions. The treatment represents a quantum leap in neurological restoration, offering personalized therapeutic interventions that were previously inaccessible within the Middle East.

    Dr. Mohaymen Abdelghany, Group CEO of Fakeeh Health, emphasized the program’s significance: “Our collaboration with Verita Neuro demonstrates our unwavering commitment to delivering evidence-based, world-class medical care within the UAE. This breakthrough eliminates the necessity for patients to seek treatment abroad, providing advanced neurorehabilitation solutions locally while establishing new standards of neurological care throughout the region.”

    Julian Andriesz, CEO of Verita Neuro, noted the strategic importance of the Dubai location: “The city’s exceptional medical infrastructure and progressive healthcare ecosystem create the ideal environment for deploying our proprietary epidural stimulation technology. Partnering with Fakeeh University Hospital, a respected academic medical institution, ensures these transformative therapies reach those who need them most.”

    The program’s introduction significantly enhances Dubai’s position as a leading medical tourism destination while addressing critical gaps in specialized neurological care. Dr. Nasir Majeed, Chief Medical Officer of Verita Neuro, highlighted the life-changing potential of the treatment, which offers renewed hope for mobility and independence to individuals affected by spinal cord injuries.

    This medical advancement represents a major milestone in the Middle East’s healthcare landscape, potentially reducing treatment costs and travel burdens for patients while accelerating recovery outcomes through state-of-the-art neurological intervention.

  • CIA director meets Venezuela’s acting president in Caracas

    CIA director meets Venezuela’s acting president in Caracas

    In a significant diplomatic development, CIA Director John Ratcliffe conducted a high-level meeting with Venezuela’s Acting President Delcy Rodríguez in Caracas, marking the most senior Trump administration engagement since the extraordinary U.S. military operation that captured former leader Nicolás Maduro. The two-hour discussion on Thursday represented a strategic effort to reshape bilateral relations between the historically adversarial nations.

    The previously undisclosed meeting, confirmed by U.S. officials speaking on condition of anonymity, was personally directed by President Donald Trump as a demonstration of Washington’s willingness to forge improved ties with Venezuela’s current leadership. The diplomatic overture occurred concurrently with opposition figure María Corina Machado’s White House visit, where she presented her Nobel Peace Prize to Trump—an event that highlighted the administration’s complex balancing act with Venezuelan political factions.

    Ratcliffe’s delegation, which included a select team of American officials, focused discussions on potential economic cooperation frameworks and delivered a firm warning regarding Venezuela’s tolerance of U.S. adversaries. The CIA director emphasized that Caracas must prevent the resurgence of drug trafficking networks and other anti-American elements within its borders. This diplomatic mission builds upon the CIA’s instrumental role in providing intelligence support for Maduro’s capture and previous operations targeting cartel infrastructure.

    Meanwhile, Acting President Rodríguez used her inaugural state of the union address to advocate for liberalizing Venezuela’s state-controlled oil industry, seeking increased foreign investment following the Trump administration’s commitment to oversee the nation’s crude oil sales. This policy shift suggests potential alignment with U.S. economic interests despite previous tensions.

  • Trump to unveil home buying plan involving retirement funds

    Trump to unveil home buying plan involving retirement funds

    The Trump administration is preparing to unveil a controversial housing initiative that would permit Americans to utilize retirement savings for home purchases. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett previewed the proposal during a Fox Business appearance, suggesting homeowners could potentially redirect a portion of their home equity back into retirement accounts after purchase.

    ‘Imagine allocating 10% for a down payment, then transferring 10% of the home’s equity into your 401(k). This approach would allow retirement savings to continue growing over time,’ Hassett explained, though he provided limited operational details regarding tax implications or withdrawal mechanisms.

    The announcement, scheduled for next week’s World Economic Forum in Davos, represents the administration’s latest effort to address mounting public concern about housing affordability. Current regulations typically impose penalties and taxes on early 401(k) withdrawals, creating significant financial barriers for prospective homeowners.

    This proposal follows two other major housing initiatives: a proposed ban on corporate investors purchasing single-family homes and a directive for government-backed mortgage firms Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to acquire $200 billion in mortgage bonds. The bond purchase initiative has already contributed to 30-year mortgage rates dipping below 6% for the first time in nearly three years, according to Trump’s recent remarks in Michigan.

    Economic experts express mixed views on the retirement fund proposal. Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather noted that while the plan wouldn’t fundamentally solve the housing affordability crisis, it might provide temporary financial flexibility for some buyers. She compared the concept to pandemic-era policies that allowed penalty-free retirement fund access for down payments.

    However, housing economists caution that both the bond purchase program and retirement fund access could introduce long-term risks. LoanDepot’s head economist Jeff DerGurahian emphasized that ‘the timing and cadence of these purchases will determine whether the impact is healthy or introduces volatility into the mortgage market.’ Critics also warn that draining retirement accounts for home purchases could leave Americans financially vulnerable if property values decline.

  • Qatar fashion show postponed to ‘prioritise safety of designers, talents’, organisers say

    Qatar fashion show postponed to ‘prioritise safety of designers, talents’, organisers say

    Organizers of the Doha Fashion Show announced on Friday the postponement of their biannual luxury event, rescheduling it from January to March 2026 due to escalating regional tensions. The decision follows Qatar’s implementation of precautionary security measures at the US-operated Al Udeid Air Base earlier in the week.

    The fashion showcase, originally scheduled for January 19-21, was delayed following careful consideration of regional security developments. Event coordinators emphasized that the rescheduling was implemented “out of an abundance of caution” to ensure the safety of all participants, including international designers, models, media representatives, and guests.

    The postponement comes amid heightened security alerts in the region, with Qatar’s International Media Office confirming earlier precautionary measures at Al Udeid that included the temporary departure of some personnel. While security levels were reportedly normalized within 24 hours according to sources briefed on the situation, organizers determined that postponement remained the most prudent course of action.

    The Doha Fashion Show represents a significant component of Qatar’s strategic initiative to establish itself as a regional center for luxury fashion and creative industries. The event typically features runway presentations, designer showcases, and professional networking opportunities with particular emphasis on emerging talent from the Middle East and beyond.

    This cultural initiative forms part of Qatar’s broader economic diversification strategy, which includes substantial investments in tourism, sports, and arts sectors alongside fashion. Organizers have committed to maintaining the event’s quality standards and ensuring a secure environment for all participants when the rescheduled event takes place in March.

  • Libya to try a gang member linked to a mass grave of 21 migrants for human trafficking

    Libya to try a gang member linked to a mass grave of 21 migrants for human trafficking

    Libyan authorities have initiated judicial proceedings against a criminal network member implicated in human trafficking operations, following the grim discovery of a mass grave containing 21 migrants. The Attorney General’s office announced the referral to court on Friday via an official Facebook statement, revealing evidence of organized illegal migration activities centered in al-Kufra (southeastern Libya) and Ajdabiya (eastern Libya).

    The investigation uncovered that the criminal organization had detained 195 migrants under torturous conditions to extort ransom payments from families. While one suspect remains in custody, manhunts continue for additional gang members. The statement deliberately withheld identifying information about the criminal network.

    Libya’s strategic position as a primary migration corridor has intensified since the 2011 civil war that ousted dictator Moammar Gadhafi, creating power vacuums exploited by trafficking syndicates. The country remains fractured between rival eastern and western administrations—Prime Minister Ossama Hammad governing the east and Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah leading the western Tripoli-based government—both supported by armed factions and international allies.

    Forensic analysis continues to determine the circumstances and timeline of the 21 deaths. Officially released images depict victims wrapped in black plastic bags with partial soil coverage, though independent verification remains pending.

    This case emerges amid escalating migrant tragedies in the Central Mediterranean. Recent data from the International Organization for Migration’s Missing Migrants Project indicates over 1,000 deaths since January 2025, including 500+ disappearances off Libya’s coast. A separate capsizing incident alone claimed至少 42 lives, highlighting the extreme perils faced by those attempting sea crossings to Europe.

  • Pakistanis in UAE, other nations barred from used car imports under ‘personal baggage’ scheme

    Pakistanis in UAE, other nations barred from used car imports under ‘personal baggage’ scheme

    Pakistan has implemented significant restrictions on vehicle imports by its overseas citizens residing in the UAE, Gulf nations, and other countries. The Ministry of Economy has amended its Import Policy Order 2022 through Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) 61 (I)/2006, effectively eliminating the “personal baggage” scheme for car imports.

    The new regulations now permit vehicle imports exclusively under two categories: “transfer of residence” and “gift schemes.” Vehicles imported through these channels face a mandatory one-year ownership transfer restriction from their import date. Additionally, vehicles brought into Pakistan under the transfer of residence scheme must originate from the same country where the overseas Pakistani resides.

    The policy changes affect approximately 9 million Pakistani diaspora members worldwide, including 5.5 million throughout GCC nations and 1.7 million specifically in the UAE. The ministry has concurrently extended the import timeframe from 700 to 850 days from the date of the last Goods Declaration filing.

    All imported vehicles must now meet minimum safety standards, environmental requirements, and regulatory measures equivalent to those governing commercially imported used vehicles. These standards will be enforced by the Ministry of Industries and Production and the Engineering Development Board.

    The decision follows the Federal Cabinet’s approval of the Economic Coordination Committee’s December 9, 2025 resolution, which authorized the import of used vehicles up to three years old under the revised schemes. This policy shift occurs alongside a 46% increase in domestic car sales during the first half of 2025, with over 13,200 units sold.