Recent intelligence reports from U.S. agencies reveal that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has significantly increased its supply of advanced Chinese drones and other weapon systems to Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). This development, reported as recently as October, underscores the UAE’s deepening involvement in the Sudanese conflict. The RSF, accused of committing genocide in Darfur, has received a steady flow of arms, including small arms, heavy machine guns, vehicles, artillery, mortars, and ammunition, according to a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) report published on Tuesday. The UAE’s support for the RSF has been well-documented, with Middle East Eye (MEE) previously reporting in January 2024 on the UAE’s complex network of supply lines stretching across Libya, Chad, Uganda, and breakaway regions of Somalia. In May, Amnesty International confirmed the UAE’s delivery of Chinese-made weaponry, such as GB50A-guided bombs and 155mm AH-4 howitzers, to Darfur, where the RSF has been besieging cities. The RSF’s recent capture of el-Fasher in North Darfur, accompanied by documented civilian massacres, follows the collapse of U.S.-sponsored peace talks. Sources indicate that the UAE, the RSF’s primary patron, has refused to address the ongoing siege of el-Fasher, which has persisted for over 500 days. The WSJ report highlights that the UAE’s weapon supply to the RSF intensified after March, when the Sudanese Army, backed by Iran, Turkey, and Egypt, reclaimed Khartoum. MEE also reported in May that the UAE orchestrated precision drone attacks on government-controlled Port Sudan, injuring members of a Turkish technical team assisting the Sudanese military. The UAE is now supplying the RSF with advanced Chinese drones, including the CH-95 model, capable of precision strikes and long-range reconnaissance. The RSF, originally formed as the janjaweed militia under Omar Bashir’s regime, has expanded its operations in Darfur, leveraging its close ties with the UAE. RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemeti, has established a commercial empire in Dubai, using the emirate to smuggle gold from Darfur’s mines under his control.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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WWI soldiers’ messages in a bottle found on Australian beach more than 100 years later
In a remarkable discovery, messages in a bottle written by two Australian soldiers during World War I have been found over a century later on Australia’s coastline. The Brown family stumbled upon the Schweppes-brand bottle on October 9, 2025, during a routine beach cleanup at Wharton Beach near Esperance in Western Australia. Inside the bottle were cheerful letters penned in pencil by Privates Malcolm Neville, 27, and William Harley, 37, dated August 15, 1916. The soldiers were aboard the troop ship HMAT A70 Ballarat, which had departed Adelaide on August 12, 1916, bound for the Western Front in Europe. Neville tragically lost his life in action a year later, while Harley survived the war but succumbed to cancer in 1934, believed to be a result of being gassed in the trenches. Neville’s letter requested the finder deliver it to his mother, Robertina Neville, while Harley was content for his note to be kept by the discoverer. The bottle, found in pristine condition, likely spent decades buried in sand dunes before being dislodged by recent erosion. The legible letters have since connected the soldiers’ descendants, who expressed profound astonishment and emotional resonance with the discovery. Harley’s granddaughter described it as a ‘miracle,’ while Neville’s great nephew reflected on the pride and sorrow tied to his ancestor’s sacrifice.
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Israel says Hamas attacked troops in Gaza, warns group will ‘pay heavy price’
Israel has accused Hamas of launching an attack on its troops in Gaza, despite an ongoing ceasefire, and has vowed to make the group ‘pay a heavy price.’ The incident has further escalated tensions in the region, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering intense military strikes on the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu accused Hamas of violating a US-brokered ceasefire agreement, which had temporarily halted hostilities. Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, condemned the attack, calling it a ‘crossing of a bright red line’ and promising a forceful response. Katz stated that Hamas would be held accountable not only for the attack on Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers but also for violating the agreement to return the bodies of hostages. The situation has reignited fears of a broader conflict, as both sides appear to be preparing for further confrontations. The ceasefire, which had been brokered to de-escalate the violence, now hangs in the balance as Israel intensifies its military operations in Gaza. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, with concerns over the potential humanitarian impact on civilians in the region.
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Ms Rachel’s activism on Gaza lauded in Glamour Women of the Year nod
In a bold move that transcends traditional celebrity accolades, Glamour magazine’s 2025 ‘Women of the Year’ list has spotlighted two remarkable figures for their unwavering courage and moral clarity in the face of global controversy. YouTube educator Ms Rachel and actress Rachel Zegler have been celebrated for their vocal support of Palestine amidst Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza, a conflict that has claimed over 68,000 lives and left tens of thousands injured. Their inclusion in the prestigious list has been hailed as a cultural turning point, signaling a shift in how public figures use their platforms to advocate for justice and compassion. Ms Rachel, a beloved children’s educator known for her sing-along lessons, has faced both praise and backlash for her outspoken stance. Her recent attempt to host a party for Rahaf, a Palestinian child who survived Israeli air strikes, was met with rejection from three venues, sparking outrage online. Zegler, a rising star in Hollywood, has similarly faced criticism for her pro-Palestinian posts, including a public clash with Disney executives who reportedly sought to silence her. Despite the challenges, both women have remained steadfast in their advocacy, earning widespread admiration from fans and activists alike. Their recognition by Glamour has resonated deeply with audiences disillusioned by the silence of many public figures, offering a rare moment of moral victory and hope. This honor also reflects a broader cultural movement, as a new generation of artists, educators, and influencers continues to normalize open support for Palestinian rights, despite repression and boycotts. Ms Rachel and Zegler’s joint recognition symbolizes a shifting tide, proving that compassion and courage can still trend in an increasingly polarized world.
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After Pakistan controversy, Suryakumar faces big test in Australia T20s
Suryakumar Yadav, the Indian cricket captain, is under intense scrutiny as he leads the Men in Blue into a five-match T20 series against Australia. Despite India’s dominant performance in the recent Asia Cup, Yadav’s personal batting form has been a cause for concern. The 35-year-old, renowned for his explosive shot-making in the T20 format, managed only 72 runs across seven matches in the Asia Cup, averaging a meager 18. His struggles were overshadowed by India’s all-round superiority and their three consecutive victories over arch-rivals Pakistan, including a controversial final. However, as India prepares to face Australia, a formidable opponent and a precursor to next year’s T20 World Cup, Yadav’s form will be under the microscope. Critics who overlooked his poor performance in the Asia Cup are now questioning his place in the team. Yadav’s recent IPL 2025 campaign with the Mumbai Indians was stellar, amassing 717 runs at an average of 65.18 and a strike rate of 167.91. Yet, his international T20 form has been dismal, with no half-centuries in his last 14 innings. At the pre-match press conference, Yadav remained optimistic, stating, “I have had good practice sessions, and I am in a good space. Runs will come eventually, but the team’s goal is more important.” The Indian team management hopes Yadav can rediscover his magic as they face Australia, the world’s second-ranked T20 team, in what promises to be a high-stakes series.
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Three Dubai sisters empower Tanzanian students through Arise Foundation
At an age when most teenagers are still figuring out their life paths, three Dubai-based sisters—Inaya, Simar, and Rania Bhasin—are making a profound impact on communities in Tanzania through their non-profit organization, the Arise Foundation. Founded on the principles of ‘Educate, Empower, and Conserve,’ the foundation aims to uplift underprivileged students and communities, demonstrating how youthful energy and determination can drive global change. The sisters began their journey with small initiatives, such as organizing recycling drives in Dubai and selling artwork to raise funds. Their efforts have since evolved into structured programs addressing critical issues like education, food security, and environmental sustainability. Partnering with Diamond Trust Bank Tanzania Plc (DTB), the foundation has donated 100 desktop computers to Songoro Mnyonge School, revolutionizing teaching methods and enhancing students’ digital skills. Additionally, their women-led school lunch initiative provides daily nutritious meals to 1,300 students, significantly improving attendance and academic performance while empowering local women through employment. The sisters also launched the Adopt a Tree initiative, planting 135 seedlings to foster environmental awareness and climate resilience. Despite its youth, the Arise Foundation has already made a tangible impact, proving that young leaders can address global challenges with innovative solutions and optimism.
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Dubai Fitness Challenge: Free events, classes, full calendar for November 2025
The Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) is set to return for its ninth edition on November 1, 2025, promising a month-long extravaganza of free fitness activities designed to inspire and engage residents of all ages and abilities. Running until November 30, this city-wide initiative will feature an array of events, including four flagship mass-participation events, three fitness villages, over 25 community hubs, and thousands of classes across Dubai. Highlights include the Dubai Ride on November 2, where cyclists can choose between a family-friendly 4-km route or a challenging 12-km course along iconic landmarks. The Dubai Stand Up Paddle event on November 8 and 9 at Hatta Dam offers a mix of fitness and adventure, while the Dubai Run on November 23 transforms Sheikh Zayed Road into the world’s largest free community fun run. The Challenge concludes with the inaugural Dubai Yoga event on November 30, a mass yoga session at Zabeel Park. Additionally, three fitness villages at Kite Beach, Zabeel Park, and Al Warqa’a Park will offer a variety of activities, from beach sports to yoga and cycling, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Registration for these events is now open, making it easy for participants to join in and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
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Oil falls 2% as investors weigh Russia sanctions, OPEC+ output plans
Global oil prices experienced a 2% decline on Tuesday, marking a third consecutive day of losses as market participants assessed the implications of U.S. sanctions on Russia’s major oil firms and potential output adjustments by OPEC+. Brent crude futures fell by $1.36 (2.1%) to $64.26 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dropped $1.29 (2%) to $60.02. The downturn follows last week’s significant gains, driven by U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose Ukraine-related sanctions on Russia’s Lukoil and Rosneft, two of the country’s largest oil producers. However, Germany’s economy minister revealed that Rosneft’s German operations would be exempt from sanctions, easing immediate supply concerns. Phil Flynn, senior analyst at Price Futures Group, noted that the waiver introduced uncertainty, reducing fears of a dramatic supply squeeze. Meanwhile, Lukoil announced plans to sell its international assets, marking a significant response to Western sanctions. Indian refiners have paused new orders for Russian oil, awaiting clarity from the government and suppliers. OPEC+ is reportedly considering a modest output increase in December, raising questions about the group’s spare capacity. Saudi Aramco’s CEO highlighted robust crude demand, particularly from China, while analysts suggested that rising OPEC+ output could offset potential Russian supply disruptions. Investors are also monitoring potential U.S.-China trade developments, with Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping set to meet in South Korea later this week.
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7 killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza, Hamas postpones hostage body handover
In a tragic escalation of tensions, seven Palestinians, including children and an infant, were killed, and four others injured in Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday evening, despite an ongoing ceasefire. The Palestinian Civil Defense reported the casualties, which occurred in separate incidents in Khan Younis and Gaza City. According to Mahmoud Basal, a spokesman for Gaza authorities, an Israeli strike targeted a vehicle on Al-Qassam Street in Khan Younis, killing five, while another strike hit a residential building in the al-Sabra neighborhood, killing two and injuring four. Rescue teams worked tirelessly to recover victims from the rubble. Hamas condemned the strikes as a ‘blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement,’ urging mediators to pressure Israel to halt its actions. Meanwhile, Hamas’s armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, postponed the handover of an Israeli hostage’s body, citing Israeli violations of the ceasefire. The group discovered the body during search operations in a southern Gaza tunnel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered ‘immediate and powerful’ strikes in response to alleged ceasefire breaches by Hamas. The conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in significant casualties, with over 68,000 dead and 170,000 wounded in Gaza. Since the latest ceasefire took effect on October 10, 94 Palestinians have been killed and 344 injured. Both sides continue to exchange blame, with Israel vowing a forceful response to any violations.
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Tata Group – the divided empire facing boardroom drama
The Tata Group, one of India’s most iconic conglomerates, is grappling with a series of internal and external challenges that threaten its stability and growth. A year after the passing of Ratan Tata, the visionary leader who transformed the group into a global powerhouse, the company is embroiled in a boardroom power struggle and facing significant business headwinds. The group, which owns renowned brands like Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) and Tetley Tea, is also navigating crises in its newer ventures, including semiconductors, electric vehicles, and the revival of Air India. Recent reports suggest that Mehli Mistry, a close confidant of Ratan Tata and a trustee on the board of Tata Trusts, has been ousted, though this remains unverified. The internal discord stems from disagreements among trustees over board nominations, funding approvals, and the potential public listing of Tata Sons, the group’s holding company. The SP Group, Tata Sons’ largest minority shareholder, is pushing for a public listing, while most trustees oppose the move, fearing it would dilute decision-making authority and expose the company to market pressures. The conflict has raised governance concerns and tarnished the group’s reputation, compounded by recent setbacks such as the Air India crash and a cyber-attack on JLR. Amid these challenges, the tenure of Tata Sons’ chairman, N Chandrasekaran, has reportedly been extended. Experts warn that the group’s current instability could have short-term destructive effects but may eventually lead to a more transparent and accountable structure.