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标签： Asia
亚洲
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Ulster MP’s claim police caved to Muslim ‘pressure’ over Maccabi row ‘disgraceful and divisive’
A Member of Parliament has been reported to the parliamentary standards commissioner following controversial remarks alleging that West Midlands Police banned Israeli football fans from a match due to pressure from Muslim politicians and activists. The incident, which occurred during a parliamentary session on Monday, involved Democratic Unionist Party MP Sammy Wilson, who claimed that the police decision to bar Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from a November 6 fixture at Villa Park was influenced by “Muslim politicians and Muslim thugs.
The ban, which sparked significant political backlash and was labeled as antisemitic by the British government last month, has been a contentious issue. Middle East Eye previously reported that a confidential West Midlands Police document cited Dutch police warnings about Maccabi Tel Aviv fans being “experienced fighters” and “intent on causing serious violence” during a 2024 incident in Amsterdam. However, a Sunday Times report later contradicted this, alleging that West Midlands Police exaggerated the threat, a claim the force denies.
During the parliamentary session, Wilson questioned Home Office minister Sarah Jones, accusing the police of fabricating their assessment. He argued that the decision left the Jewish community feeling marginalized and demanded an inquiry into potential political pressure on the police. Despite Wilson’s claims, there is no evidence to suggest that West Midlands Police were influenced by external political forces. Numerous MPs, including Muslim and non-Muslim representatives, supported the ban, emphasizing public safety concerns.
Independent Alliance MP Ayoub Khan, a vocal supporter of the ban, condemned Wilson’s remarks as “disgraceful, inflammatory, and deeply irresponsible” and announced plans to file a formal complaint with the standards commissioner. Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn echoed these sentiments, stating that the ban was not about targeting Jewish individuals but addressing extremist behavior among football fans.
In response, Home Office minister Jones emphasized the importance of public confidence in policing but refrained from commenting on the specifics of Wilson’s allegations. Labour MP Kim Johnson criticized Wilson’s comments as “reckless, baseless, and deeply divisive,” stressing that the police decision was based on evidence and public safety, not sectarian pressure.
West Midlands Police reiterated their stance, asserting that their evaluation was informed by credible intelligence and aimed at ensuring public safety. The controversy highlights broader concerns about Islamophobia and the use of divisive language in political discourse.
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Fun City unveils four-hour triple deal takeover
In a strategic move timed with the approaching Eid Al Etihad long weekend, Middle Eastern entertainment giant Fun City has unveiled an unprecedented promotional event set for November 29, 2025. The limited-time offer, available exclusively between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM, represents one of the most substantial value propositions in the regional family entertainment sector.
The promotion enables UAE families to acquire a comprehensive entertainment package valued at Dh1,500 for merely Dh450. This exceptional bundle includes 116 play credits redeemable across Fun City’s extensive network of arcade games, amusement rides, and interactive play zones, complemented by three premium toys. The play credits maintain validity for six months, providing extended flexibility for family entertainment planning throughout the winter season and beyond.
Accessibility remains a cornerstone of this initiative, with the offer available both at physical locations including Fun City, Fun Block, and Fun Works venues throughout the Emirates, and through the company’s official digital portal at funcityarabia.com. This dual-channel approach accommodates both in-person and online purchasing preferences.
The timing of this promotion aligns strategically with seasonal patterns, coinciding with school breaks and holiday celebrations. Industry analysts note that such aggressive pricing strategies reflect the competitive landscape of family entertainment, where established brands like Fun City leverage their scale to deliver exceptional value while maintaining quality standards.
As a recognized leader in indoor family entertainment across the Middle East, Fun City continues to demonstrate its commitment to creating affordable, memorable experiences. The current promotion not only serves as a customer acquisition tool but also reinforces brand loyalty during a period of increased discretionary spending among UAE families.
The limited four-hour availability window creates both urgency and exclusivity, elements that have proven effective in previous promotional campaigns within the entertainment sector. With the long weekend approaching, this offer presents families with a compelling alternative to traditional leisure activities while providing substantial economic advantages compared to standard pricing models.
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Dubai’s 3-day super sale to extend until December 2 during UAE National Day weekend
Dubai’s retail landscape is set for a spectacular transformation as the annual 3 Day Super Sale expands into a five-day shopping extravaganza from November 28 to December 2. This strategic extension coincides with the UAE’s 54th National Day celebrations, creating an unprecedented opportunity for consumers to access massive discounts across the city’s retail ecosystem.
The Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) has orchestrated this citywide event featuring remarkable price reductions of up to 90% at over 2,000 retail outlets representing more than 500 brands. The extended shopping period aligns perfectly with the four-day national holiday period, providing residents and visitors ample time to explore the extensive offerings.
The commercial festivities commence with a groundbreaking 24-Hour Sale at Dubai Festival City Mall on November 28, launching at 10am with live performances, laser displays, and exclusive flash deals. The inaugural event includes special incentives for early shoppers: the first 500 attendees will receive premium Kiehl’s goodie bags, while customers spending Dh300 or more become eligible for a raffle draw to win a Toyota Urban Cruiser vehicle.
Retail participants span multiple categories including fashion, beauty, electronics, homeware, and accessories. Prominent international and local brands such as Michael Kors, Ted Baker, US Polo Association, Virgin Megastore, Pottery Barn, Sephora, and Damas Jewelry are among those offering substantial discounts throughout the extended sale period.
This retail expansion arrives during optimal conditions for consumer engagement, as UAE residents enjoy an extended break from November 29 to December 2 for National Day observances. Retail analysts anticipate record-breaking foot traffic and sales volume as shoppers capitalize on one of Dubai’s most significant discount periods of the year.
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At least 13 dead as major fire breaks out in northern HK housing estate
A devastating fire erupted at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate in Tai Po, Hong Kong, on the evening of November 26, 2025, resulting in at least 13 fatalities and leaving numerous residents trapped. The blaze, which quickly escalated to a No. 5 alarm by 6:22 pm, engulfed multiple buildings wrapped in bamboo scaffolding, creating a perilous situation for both residents and emergency responders. Among the casualties was a firefighter who lost his life while battling the inferno. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu expressed profound grief on social media, extending condolences to the families of the deceased and the injured. As of 6 pm, authorities reported four deaths, with three individuals in critical condition, one in serious condition, and another in stable condition. Nine victims were rushed to Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital for urgent medical care. The incident has cast a somber shadow over the community, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced fire safety measures in densely populated residential areas.
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Top winter destinations for UAE residents: From quick getaways to extended holiday adventures
As the winter season approaches, UAE residents are actively planning their holiday travels, creating one of the busiest periods for international departures. Leading visa processing platform Atlys has identified key destinations that are capturing the interest of the Emirates’ diverse population during the December-January period.
According to Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys, the company’s mission aligns with the seasonal travel surge. “The UAE’s population represents one of the world’s most diverse communities, and travel aspirations are equally varied,” Nahta stated. “Winter is a meaningful season when people seek connection, exploration, and celebration. We’re honored to facilitate these moments seamlessly.”
For shorter getaways, three regional destinations dominate travel preferences. Egypt remains a perennial favorite, offering its iconic Pyramids, ancient temples in Luxor, and Red Sea resorts that provide ideal winter warmth. Georgia has established itself as a winter destination with Tbilisi’s charming old town, cozy cafés, and mountain escapes in Gudauri that deliver authentic winter ambiance without extensive travel time. Morocco completes the regional selection with its cooler climate, featuring Marrakech’s bustling souks, the majestic Atlas Mountains, and expansive desert trails.
For extended holiday adventures, European destinations lead preferences. The United Kingdom attracts travelers seeking authentic European winter experiences, from London’s illuminated streets and premium shopping to Edinburgh’s festive celebrations and the English countryside’s quintessential charm. The Schengen Zone serves as a comprehensive gateway to winter experiences across 27 countries, enabling access to Christmas markets in France and Germany, alpine slopes in Switzerland and Austria, and cultural experiences throughout Italy.
Atlys addresses the complex visa requirements facing the UAE’s predominantly expatriate population, which represents over 200 nationalities. The platform streamlines travel planning by providing a unified system for eligibility verification, document submission, and application tracking, reducing administrative barriers for travelers.
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Israel launches major assault in West Bank city as helicopters shoot at homes
Israeli forces initiated a large-scale military operation in the northern occupied West Bank city of Tubas on Wednesday, marking a significant escalation in the region. The assault began in the early hours, with troops forcibly entering Palestinian homes in Tammun, Tayasir, and Aqaba, converting several residences into temporary military barracks. Residents were evicted from their homes, and roads were sealed off with earth mounds, severely restricting movement across the area. Local media reported the presence of Apache helicopters overhead, allegedly firing indiscriminately at civilian properties. Videos circulating online depicted Israeli forces setting up equipment on rooftops and obstructing ambulance crews attempting to aid injured Palestinians. The Tubas Governorate responded by suspending operations in all governmental and private institutions, including schools, which transitioned to online activities for the day. Tubas’ governor refuted Israeli claims that the operation targeted wanted individuals, asserting that no such persons were present. The Israeli military, collaborating with the Shin Bet intelligence agency and Border Guard forces, justified the campaign as a necessary measure to combat ‘terrorist activities’ in the occupied territory. Hamas and the Islamic Jihad movement condemned the incursion, accusing Israel of systematic aggression aimed at displacing Palestinians and seizing their land. Similar military raids were reported in Tulkarm, Nablus, and Hebron, part of a broader escalation since October 2023. Over the past two years, Israeli forces have killed over 1,000 Palestinians and arrested thousands more, with human rights groups documenting arbitrary arrests and civilian casualties. The recent operation echoes earlier large-scale incursions, such as the 2025 attacks on Jenin and Tulkarm, which displaced approximately 30,000 people and caused extensive destruction.
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Xinshengwei Yangtze River Bridge opens in Nanjing
The Xinshengwei Yangtze River Bridge in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, officially commenced operations on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the region’s infrastructure development. After more than five years of meticulous construction, the bridge now drastically reduces travel time between downtown Nanjing and the Jiangbei New Area to a mere 10 minutes. Spanning approximately 13.17 kilometers, the bridge features a six-lane mainline designed for speeds of up to 80 km per hour. Its centerpiece is a single-span suspension bridge with a steel box girder, boasting a main span of 1,760 meters, making it China’s longest and the world’s third-longest in its category. Innovative double-layer reinforcement technology was employed during construction to ensure the stability of deep foundation pits, guaranteeing the bridge’s structural integrity. Beyond enhancing Nanjing’s Yangtze River crossing capacity, the bridge also significantly upgrades the regional road network, fostering economic growth and improving transportation efficiency.
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‘I am devastated’: Hong Kong residents in disbelief after fire destroys blocks of flats
A catastrophic fire engulfed the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday, claiming at least 36 lives and leaving hundreds unaccounted for. The blaze, which rapidly spread across eight blocks, forced over a thousand residents to evacuate, with many seeking refuge in temporary shelters. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it is believed to have been fueled by bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings, which were undergoing renovations. Witnesses described scenes of chaos and despair as flames consumed the high-rise structures, with some residents watching helplessly as their homes burned. Local councillor Mui Siu-fung reported receiving numerous distress calls from families searching for missing relatives. Among the affected was Harry Cheung, a 66-year-old resident of block two, who recounted hearing a loud noise before witnessing the fire erupt in a nearby block. “I don’t even know how I feel right now,” Cheung said, expressing uncertainty about his immediate future. Another resident, Jason Kong, shared his devastation, stating, “I am devastated. There are so many neighbours and friends. I do not know what is going on anymore.” Criticism has been directed at the government’s response, with some residents questioning the lack of immediate action. Ms. Poon, a resident in her sixties, voiced her disappointment, noting the proximity of the fire station and the rapid spread of the flames. Despite the ongoing efforts to contain the fire, officials have not provided a timeline for its complete extinguishment. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee assured that government departments are assisting affected residents, but many expressed frustration and heartbreak over the tragedy. The community has rallied to support victims, with local residents donating supplies such as blankets and heat packs. As the investigation into the fire’s cause continues, the focus remains on preventing further casualties and providing aid to those displaced by the disaster.
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Garmin Fitness Fest UAE – Winter Chapter 2025 concludes with record-breaking participation and community spirit
DUBAI, UAE – The Garmin Fitness Fest UAE Winter Chapter 2025 concluded triumphantly on November 15-16 at Al-Nasr Club, Dubai, setting unprecedented participation records with over 10,000 attendees. This landmark multisport festival, seamlessly integrated with the Dubai Fitness Challenge 30×30 initiative, has solidified its position as the nation’s premier fitness celebration.
The two-day extravaganza featured seven competitive disciplines including cricket, football, badminton, basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and swimming. Beyond competitive events, the festival offered inclusive running activities, diverse fitness challenges, and a massively attended walkathon that emerged as one of the weekend’s most popular attractions.
Participants across all fitness levels and age groups converged in a dynamic environment that promoted accessible physical activity. The festival atmosphere was electrified by entertainment offerings and prizes exceeding Dh500,000 in value, creating continuous excitement across all venues.
Competitive events displayed exceptional athletic prowess and sportsmanship, highlighting the UAE’s growing talent pool across multiple disciplines. The signature walkathon attracted particularly strong participation, with many attendees utilizing Garmin’s specially developed event watch face to track performance metrics and enhance their experience.
The closing ceremony culminated the weekend with spectacular festivities, bringing together athletes, families, and sponsors. The celebration featured live entertainment, an awards ceremony, and special appearances by Garmin’s international team alongside AMIT Retail representatives.
Major sponsors including Kinza, Insurance Market, Prime Healthcare, Masafi, JIMMY, AMIT Care, fnp.ae, Fitness First, Beat Diabetes by Landmark Group, Shokz, and Vibe FM demonstrated strong corporate support for wellness initiatives.
Manvinder Singh Chadha, General Manager of AMIT Retail LLC, expressed profound satisfaction with the event’s impact: ‘This Winter Chapter represents our most successful and engaging edition yet, reflecting our commitment to fostering a health-conscious community in the UAE.’
Tim Spurling, General Manager for Emerging Markets at Garmin, noted the event’s significance: ‘The extraordinary energy witnessed throughout the festival underscores the UAE’s embrace of innovation and active living, reinforcing Garmin’s mission to empower individuals across the region.’
With momentum building from this record-breaking event, Garmin anticipates expanding future offerings with enhanced sports programming, innovative challenges, and broader community engagement opportunities under its #BeatYesterday initiative.