Global Pulse

标签： Africa

非洲

  • UN human rights body holds special session on Sudan after hundreds killed in Darfur’s el-Fasher

    UN human rights body holds special session on Sudan after hundreds killed in Darfur’s el-Fasher

    The United Nations Human Rights Council convened a special one-day session in Geneva on Friday to address the escalating human rights violations in Sudan’s Darfur region. The session focused on the recent massacre at a hospital in el-Fasher, where over 450 people were killed by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group engaged in conflict with the Sudanese army. The RSF’s brutal campaign included house-to-house killings, sexual violence, and attacks on healthcare facilities, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

    Volker Türk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, condemned the atrocities as “the gravest of crimes,” emphasizing that the violence was both foreseeable and preventable. He highlighted reports of mass civilian killings, ethnically targeted executions, sexual assaults, abductions, and widespread detentions since the RSF seized control of el-Fasher, the capital of North Darfur.

    The council debated a draft resolution, led by several European nations, calling for an urgent investigation by an existing team of independent experts. The resolution aims to identify those responsible for the crimes and hold them accountable. Mona Rishmawi, a member of the investigative team, described el-Fasher as a “crime scene,” detailing evidence of torture, rape, abductions, and enforced disappearances on a massive scale.

    While the Human Rights Council lacks enforcement power, it plays a critical role in documenting violations and raising international awareness, potentially aiding future prosecutions at institutions like the International Criminal Court. The ongoing conflict between the Sudanese military and the RSF, which began in 2023, has resulted in at least 40,000 deaths and displaced 12 million people, with aid groups warning the actual toll could be far higher.

  • More than 150 Palestinians were held on a plane for around 12 hours in South Africa

    More than 150 Palestinians were held on a plane for around 12 hours in South Africa

    South African authorities have come under intense scrutiny following the detention of over 150 Palestinian travelers, including a woman in her ninth month of pregnancy, on a plane for approximately 12 hours due to issues with their travel documentation. The incident occurred at Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport on Thursday morning after the charter flight made a stopover in Nairobi, Kenya. According to the Border Management Authority, the passengers lacked exit stamps from Israeli authorities, failed to specify their intended length of stay in South Africa, and did not provide local addresses, prompting immigration officials to deny them entry. A pastor who visited the stranded passengers described the conditions as unbearable, with extreme heat causing children to scream and cry. The situation was resolved late Thursday night after the Ministry of Home Affairs intervened, and the NGO Gift of the Givers offered to accommodate the travelers. Of the 153 passengers, 23 have since departed for other countries, leaving 130 in South Africa. This marks the second such incident in two weeks, with both flights reportedly carrying individuals from war-torn Gaza. The treatment of the travelers has sparked outrage, particularly given South Africa’s longstanding support for the Palestinian cause. Many of the passengers now intend to seek asylum in South Africa, a right guaranteed under the country’s constitution.

  • ‘Peak brand delusion’: Apple’s new iPhone Pocket sparks viral meme fest

    ‘Peak brand delusion’: Apple’s new iPhone Pocket sparks viral meme fest

    Apple’s latest product, the iPhone Pocket, has ignited a storm of online humor and criticism, with many labeling it as the company’s most unintentionally amusing creation yet. Launched in collaboration with Japanese fashion house Issey Miyake, the minimalist pouch is designed to offer a ‘seamless blend of function and fashion,’ allowing users to carry their iPhones hands-free while making a style statement. However, its uncanny resemblance to a sock and its hefty price tag—ranging from $149.95 for the short strap to $229.95 for the long strap—have made it the subject of widespread ridicule on social media. Users have flooded platforms like X with memes, comparing the accessory to a gym sock or even the infamous ‘mankini’ from the ‘Borat’ movie. Despite the backlash, Apple’s ability to turn everyday items into luxury collectibles continues to captivate its audience, ensuring the iPhone Pocket remains a topic of global conversation.

  • Nagelsmann backs Woltemade to shine for injury-hit Germany

    Nagelsmann backs Woltemade to shine for injury-hit Germany

    Germany’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann has expressed strong confidence in Newcastle striker Nick Woltemade to lead the national team’s attack during their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Germans are set to face Luxembourg on Friday before hosting Slovakia on Monday in a decisive match that will likely determine the Group A winner. Woltemade, 23, has emerged as a key figure for Germany, scoring the winning goal in their 1-0 victory over Northern Ireland in October. Despite having only six caps to his name, his recent form and versatility have made him indispensable for the injury-plagued squad. Nagelsmann praised Woltemade’s pressing, ball retention, and goal-scoring abilities, highlighting his seamless transition to the Premier League with Newcastle, where he scored in four of his first five games. However, Germany’s injury woes continue to mount, with captain Joshua Kimmich ruled out of the Luxembourg match due to an ankle injury. Bayern Munich’s Jonathan Tah will step in as captain in his absence. Other notable absentees include Kai Havertz, Jamal Musiala, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, among others. Germany, currently level on points with Slovakia but ahead on goal difference, must secure a win on Monday to guarantee direct qualification for the World Cup. Slovakia, who face Northern Ireland on Friday, will also be vying for the top spot in Leipzig. With Luxembourg already out of contention after four consecutive losses, Germany remains focused on maintaining their perfect World Cup qualification record.

  • ‘They want to distract us’: UAE official hits back at boycott calls amid Sudan crisis

    ‘They want to distract us’: UAE official hits back at boycott calls amid Sudan crisis

    A senior UAE official has robustly countered what he described as systematic “demonisation campaigns” aimed at undermining the nation’s reputation, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Dr. Ali Rashid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Defence, Interior, and Foreign Affairs Committee at the Federal National Council, addressed these allegations during an interview on Podcast 71. He asserted that these campaigns are not new but part of a long-standing effort by state-backed groups to tarnish the UAE’s image. Dr. Al Nuaimi emphasized that the UAE’s success and forward-looking model have made it a target for those with conflicting ideologies. He stated, “The presence of the UAE in this context embarrasses many, and so everyone sees you as a challenge.” Dr. Al Nuaimi clarified that the UAE’s response to such campaigns would be rooted in actions and achievements rather than engaging in a war of words. He also refuted claims that the UAE is fueling the conflict in Sudan by supporting one side, highlighting the nation’s significant investments and humanitarian contributions in Africa. Since the conflict began, the UAE has provided nearly $700 million in humanitarian aid, and between 2014 and 2025, it has contributed close to $3.95 billion to the Sudanese people. Dr. Al Nuaimi stressed the UAE’s commitment to Sudan’s unity and called for a Sudanese-led solution to the crisis, urging all factions to prioritize their national agenda. He concluded with a call for national unity and vigilance, emphasizing the importance of protecting children from extremist ideologies.

  • Dr. Muna Tahlak concludes term as President of the International Hospital Federation

    Dr. Muna Tahlak concludes term as President of the International Hospital Federation

    Dr. Muna Tahlak, a prominent figure in the healthcare sector, has recently concluded her term as President of the International Hospital Federation (IHF). Her presidency, which began in 2023, marked a historic milestone as she became the first Arab woman to hold this prestigious position. Her tenure concluded during the 48th World Hospital Congress in Geneva, an event she inaugurated alongside key figures such as Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Director General of the Dubai Health Authority, and Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health and President of Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences. Throughout her leadership, Dr. Tahlak spearheaded initiatives that expanded the IHF’s collaboration with global health organizations, reinforcing its mission to enhance healthcare management and quality worldwide. Her achievements were widely celebrated, with Dr. Alsheikh-Ali highlighting her role as a trailblazer for Emirati women in global healthcare leadership. Dr. Sharif also praised her for setting an inspiring example and advancing the UAE’s representation on the international stage. In her farewell remarks, Dr. Tahlak expressed gratitude to the UAE leadership for their unwavering support and to the IHF team for their contributions to her impactful tenure.

  • Pakistan deploys army to protect Sri Lankan cricketers

    Pakistan deploys army to protect Sri Lankan cricketers

    In response to heightened security concerns following a recent suicide bombing in Islamabad, Pakistan has mobilized its army and paramilitary forces to safeguard the Sri Lankan cricket team during their ongoing tour. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the deployment during a live televised parliamentary session on Thursday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to the team’s safety. Army Chief Asim Munir had previously assured Sri Lankan Defence Minister Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon of comprehensive protection measures. The Sri Lankan players, initially expressing apprehension about staying in Pakistan after the attack, were reassured following a personal intervention by Sri Lanka’s president, who encouraged them to continue their tour. The cricket stadium and the team’s hotel are located within 10 kilometers of the bombing site, raising concerns about proximity to potential threats. The Sri Lanka Cricket Board confirmed that several players had requested to return home but were instructed to remain after receiving assurances of ‘foolproof’ security from Pakistani authorities. Players opting to leave early would face a formal review of their actions. The suicide bombing outside an Islamabad court on Tuesday, which killed 12 and injured 27, marked one of the capital’s deadliest attacks in years. Concurrently, militants stormed a military-run school in Wana, resulting in three fatalities before security forces neutralized the assailants. Pakistan has accused militants based in Afghanistan, with alleged Indian support, for the attacks—claims denied by both Kabul and New Delhi. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif declared the country to be in a ‘state of war.’ The incidents have reignited memories of the 2009 Lahore attack on Sri Lanka’s cricket team, which halted international cricket in Pakistan for nearly a decade. Security improvements in recent years have since allowed international teams to return, with Sri Lanka’s 2019 tour marking the resumption of Test cricket in Pakistan. The current tour includes a three-match one-day series in Rawalpindi, followed by a Twenty20 tri-series involving Zimbabwe.

  • Spinners decide the game, says Gill as India face South Africa

    Spinners decide the game, says Gill as India face South Africa

    As India prepares to face South Africa in the opening Test at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, captain Shubman Gill highlighted the pivotal role spinners are expected to play in determining the outcome of the match. The pitch at Eden Gardens is anticipated to favor batsmen during the initial days of the Test, which begins on Friday, before gradually assisting spin from the third day onward. However, Gill noted that early morning moisture could provide opportunities for fast bowlers to make an impact. With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj in the lineup, India will rely on their ability to exploit reverse swing. ‘Generally, fast bowlers get a little help in the morning and evening,’ Gill remarked during a pre-match press conference. ‘But in India, spinners usually decide the game. The better the quality of your spin attack, the higher your chances of winning.’ India’s spin arsenal includes Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav, offering a variety of options for the team. Gill also reflected on India’s recent Test performances, including a 2-0 whitewash against the West Indies and a hard-fought 2-2 draw in England. A series win against South Africa, the reigning World Test champions, would significantly bolster India’s chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. ‘These two Tests are crucial for our WTC ambitions,’ Gill emphasized. The 26-year-old captain, who excels across all three formats, acknowledged the mental challenges of leading the team but expressed confidence in his physical readiness. ‘It’s a good challenge and a learning curve for me,’ he concluded.

  • Top economists call on world leaders to set up an international panel on inequality

    Top economists call on world leaders to set up an international panel on inequality

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa — In a significant move, hundreds of prominent economists and experts, including former U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, have issued a compelling call for the establishment of an independent international panel to address income and wealth inequality. This appeal was made in an open letter released on Friday, just ahead of the Group of 20 (G20) summit scheduled for November 22-23 in South Africa. The summit is expected to feature a groundbreaking report on global inequality, chaired by Nobel Prize-winning economist Joseph Stiglitz, which will be presented to world leaders. The report, published earlier this month, highlights a dual crisis of inequality and climate change, warning of increased political instability, conflicts, and a decline in democratic trust. It reveals that between 2000 and 2024, the wealthiest 1% captured 41% of all new global wealth, while 2.3 billion people—approximately one in four globally—face moderate or severe food insecurity, a figure that has surged by 335 million since 2019. The report advocates for the creation of an International Panel on Inequality, modeled after the U.N.’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, to guide governments in addressing this pressing issue. The letter, signed by Nobel laureates and former senior officials from the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, emphasizes that extreme wealth concentration undermines democratic governance, erodes societal trust, and fuels political polarization. South Africa, the G20 host and the world’s most unequal country according to the World Bank, has prioritized global inequality as a key summit agenda item.

  • Resura Real Estate launches advisory-led investment model to protect international buyers in the UAE

    Resura Real Estate launches advisory-led investment model to protect international buyers in the UAE

    Resura Real Estate has unveiled a pioneering advisory-led investment model aimed at protecting international investors navigating Dubai’s dynamic property market. Departing from conventional brokerage services, the firm offers a structured, consultative approach that supports clients through every phase of their investment journey — from acquisition and legal structuring to asset management and long-term protection. Rooted in education, compliance, and strategic clarity, Resura’s model ensures investors make informed decisions while avoiding common pitfalls in the UAE market. Many foreign buyers often lack understanding of local legal frameworks, inheritance planning, or international fund transfer processes, which can lead to costly delays or unexpected expenses. Resura addresses these challenges through its core advisory services, including tailored investment structuring, asset management, legal and inheritance planning, regulated international fund transfer guidance, and exit and diversification strategies. Muhammad Rahman, CEO of Resura Real Estate, emphasized the importance of establishing proper legal frameworks to safeguard assets and legacy. He also highlighted the firm’s role in optimizing international fund transfers by connecting clients with regulated FX partners to minimize costs and ensure compliance. Resura’s advisory-first approach sets a new standard for transparency and trust in UAE real estate investment, prioritizing investor protection over sales volume.