Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Heavy rains in Dubai: Police deploy 22 rescue teams; 120 cranes on standby for emergencies

    Heavy rains in Dubai: Police deploy 22 rescue teams; 120 cranes on standby for emergencies

    Dubai authorities have initiated a massive emergency preparedness operation as unstable weather conditions approach the emirate. The comprehensive safety deployment includes 22 specialized land and marine rescue teams strategically positioned across Dubai, complemented by 120 heavy-duty cranes placed on standby for potential emergency operations.

    The emergency framework establishes 13 land-based rescue stations, including dedicated units in the Hatta region, alongside nine marine response points along Dubai’s coastline. This geographical distribution ensures rapid intervention capabilities for weather-related incidents including flash flooding, vehicular accidents, or structural damage caused by strong winds.

    Colonel Khalid Al Hammadi, Director of the Search and Rescue Department at the General Department of Transport and Rescue, clarified the operational strategy. The crane deployment, coordinated through Emirates Auctions, provides critical heavy-lift capacity for complex scenarios requiring vehicle extraction or infrastructure stabilization.

    Land rescue units are equipped with specialized 4×4 vehicles, rescue trucks, and advanced hydraulic equipment including cutters and saws designed for complex emergency extraction. Marine teams maintain continuous coastal and valley surveillance supported by rescue boats, jet skis, and professional divers trained for maritime emergencies.

    Authorities have issued renewed calls for residents to monitor official weather advisories and adhere to safety protocols. Emergency services emphasize the importance of providing precise location details when contacting the 999 emergency number to facilitate rapid response times during critical situations.

  • Dubai: Hatta Winter Festival to be shut on Thursday, Friday due to unstable weather

    Dubai: Hatta Winter Festival to be shut on Thursday, Friday due to unstable weather

    Dubai’s popular Hatta Winter Festival has been temporarily closed as a precautionary response to unstable weather conditions affecting the UAE. The closure, effective Thursday and Friday, was announced following coordinated meetings between Hatta Police Station, government agencies, and private sector partners.

    Colonel Ali Obaid Al Badwawi, Acting Director of Hatta Police Station, confirmed that security forces are operating at maximum readiness to address potential emergencies. Authorities have issued strong advisories urging residents and visitors to avoid mountain areas, watercourses, and valley crossings during the rainfall period. The public has been instructed to contact the Command and Control Center at 999 for emergencies, with emphasis on providing precise location details to facilitate rapid response.

    The comprehensive safety operation involves multi-agency coordination with Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, Civil Defence, and Ambulance Services. This marks the ninth consecutive implementation of the rain safety campaign titled ‘Rain is a blessing, do not turn it into harm,’ designed to enhance preparedness for weather-related incidents including water-trapped vehicles, falls from heights, and traffic accidents.

    Major Ghdayer Mohammad bin Suroor, Head of the Traffic Registration Section, detailed that patrol deployments intensify immediately with rainfall onset. All roadways are being monitored with activated electronic message boards alerting drivers to reduce speed. Specialized patrol units equipped for rugged terrain and modern communication systems are focusing on valley flow areas and mountainous routes, with the Brave Team rescue unit maintaining 24/7 emergency readiness.

  • Germany approves $3.1bn Israel arms deal despite Gaza genocide

    Germany approves $3.1bn Israel arms deal despite Gaza genocide

    Germany has authorized a contentious $3.1 billion weapons agreement with Israel, approving the acquisition of Arrow 3 missile defense systems despite ongoing international legal proceedings against Israel for alleged genocide in Gaza. The Israeli defense ministry confirmed the transaction on Thursday, marking one of Israel’s largest-ever arms exports.

    This latest deal follows a previous $3.5 billion agreement signed between the two nations in 2023, bringing their total defense cooperation to over $6.6 billion. The arrangement provides significant financial reinforcement to Israel’s defense industry while the country faces International Criminal Court arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza.

    The approval comes despite Germany’s temporary arms embargo imposed in summer 2024 in response to Israel’s planned full occupation of Gaza, which was reversed by November. Germany remains Israel’s second-largest weapons supplier after the United States, providing approximately 30% of Israel’s defense imports.

    Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz characterized the approval as “a clear expression of the deep trust that Germany places in the State of Israel.” Defense Ministry Director-General Major General Amir Baram noted the deal would accelerate Arrow production and channel billions into strengthening Israel’s defense industries.

    The transaction occurs against the backdrop of South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice, which in January 2024 recognized a plausible risk of genocide in Gaza. This recognition created legal obligations for states to avoid aiding Israel’s actions against Palestinians.

    Security expert Andreas Krieg of King’s College London warned that “the scale of reported harm [in Gaza], the legal warnings and the live ICJ case raise the risk level to a point where continued transfers and major deals become hard to square with Germany’s own stated standards.”

    Palestinian journalist Hebh Jamal, based in Germany, criticized Berlin’s reliance on the concept of “Staatsrason”—the doctrine that Israel’s security constitutes Germany’s “reasons of state”—arguing that “the protection of a foreign state is more important for the German political establishment than their responsibility to the public and the ICC.”

    The agreement reflects Germany’s most substantial rearmament initiative since World War Two, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz approving nearly $60 billion in military spending this week. Independent analyst Ori Golberg observed that “Germany, under [Merz], is building a war machine and Israel stands ready to supply the war machines,” characterizing the arrangement as “a smart business deal” for both parties despite the controversial timing.

  • ‘Dark turn of events’: Met Police under fire for intifada chant arrests

    ‘Dark turn of events’: Met Police under fire for intifada chant arrests

    British law enforcement agencies are confronting significant criticism following their controversial decision to criminalize the use of the Arabic term ‘intifada’ during protests. The Metropolitan Police and Greater Manchester Police announced they would arrest individuals chanting ‘globalise the intifada’ or displaying the phrase on placards, claiming the phrase could incite violence following recent international events.

    The policy implementation occurred during a Wednesday protest outside the Ministry of Justice, where four individuals were detained for racially aggravated public order offenses related to their use of the term. Police authorities justified their position stating, ‘Violent acts have taken place, the context has changed – words have meaning and consequence. We will act decisively and make arrests.’

    This enforcement approach emerged shortly after the Bondi Beach shooting in Sydney, where attackers targeted a Hanukkah celebration, resulting in 15 fatalities. Several public figures, including British Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, attempted to connect the tragedy to Palestinian activism, specifically referencing the controversial chant. Rabbi Mirvis declared the phrase ‘unlawful’ and suggested Australians had ‘discovered what is meant by those words’ after the attacks.

    However, Palestinian rights advocates and civil society organizations have vigorously challenged the characterization of ‘intifada’ as inherently antisemitic or violent. They emphasize the word’s linguistic meaning as ‘uprising’ or ‘shaking off’ in Arabic and note its historical usage across various peaceful and resistance movements in the Arab world.

    Journalist Asa Winstanley condemned the policy as ‘pure anti-Palestinian racism,’ while foreign policy analyst Jasmine el-Gamal described it as ‘a dark, dark turn of events.’ Social media users and free speech advocates have raised concerns about the implications for democratic rights, questioning whether Arabic terms are being disproportionately targeted and whether English equivalents like ‘globalise the revolution’ would face similar restrictions.

    Critics argue that the policy represents concerning government overreach, noting that no official reports have linked the Sydney attacks to Palestinian activism. The debate has expanded beyond immediate concerns about Palestinian expression to broader anxieties about increasing infringement on protest rights and freedom of speech in the United Kingdom.

  • Huaihai fashion season ignites consumption vitality in Shanghai’s iconic area

    Huaihai fashion season ignites consumption vitality in Shanghai’s iconic area

    Shanghai’s prestigious Huaihai Road commercial district has inaugurated an ambitious cross-season fashion event designed to stimulate economic activity through immersive retail experiences. The Huaihai Fashion Season, officially launched Wednesday at Xintiandi, will continue through February 2026, offering residents and visitors an extended program of commercial and cultural attractions.

    Under the guidance of Huangpu District Commerce Commission and organized by the Huaihai Road Economic Development Promotion Association, the initiative represents a coordinated effort among district retailers to create sustained consumer engagement. More than two dozen shopping complexes are participating in nearly 100 scheduled events featuring limited-edition product launches, thematic markets, cultural displays, and interactive art installations.

    Li Zhenhui, Senior Commercial Director of Shui On Xintiandi, identified the recently upgraded Xintiandi Dongtaili complex as the festival’s central hub. The development has incorporated winter-themed attractions including simulated aurora displays, seasonal performances, and an artisanal market showcasing creative merchandise, gourmet foods, and designer toys. The programming strategically combines winter aesthetics with commercial offerings to create a multidimensional shopping experience.

    The extended timeline, spanning multiple seasonal transitions, reflects Shanghai’s approach to creating sustained commercial vitality rather than limited-duration shopping events. By coordinating across multiple retail establishments, the district aims to establish Huaihai Road as a continuously evolving destination that merges commerce, culture, and entertainment.

  • China targets world-class Earth system forecasting network by 2035

    China targets world-class Earth system forecasting network by 2035

    China has launched an ambitious decade-long strategic initiative to develop a globally advanced Earth system forecasting network by 2035. The comprehensive Earth System Forecasting Development Strategy (2025-2035), recently published by the China Meteorological Administration, establishes a detailed roadmap to significantly enhance extreme weather early warning systems and strengthen public safety protections through sophisticated analysis of complex atmospheric, oceanic, and terrestrial interactions.

    According to Bi Baogui, Deputy Administrator of the China Meteorological Administration, the strategy incorporates a dual-technical approach that merges the precision of traditional numerical prediction—utilizing supercomputers to simulate physical laws across Earth’s systems—with the computational speed and pattern recognition capabilities of artificial intelligence. “We will continue to advance numerical prediction grounded in physical principles while simultaneously harnessing AI’s potential to extract forecasting patterns from massive meteorological datasets,” Bi stated.

    This integration aims to establish a forecasting system that achieves both scientific rigor and operational efficiency. Gong Jiandong, Director of the Earth System Modeling and Prediction Center, confirmed that China’s core forecasting capabilities are projected to reach world-class standards within the designated timeframe.

    Key technological benchmarks include achieving kilometer-level global Earth system modeling and hundred-meter-level local modeling, enabling seamless forecasting products ranging from minute-by-minute updates to decade-long climate projections. These advanced capabilities are expected to support disaster prevention and mitigation efforts, particularly for nations participating in the Belt and Road Initiative.

    The initiative promises substantial benefits for daily life and national development through significantly improved forecast accuracy and reliability. Liang Feng, Head of the Department of Forecasting and Prediction, emphasized that enhanced weather predictions will dramatically improve convenience and safety for citizens. Through high-resolution modeling and AI integration, the administration aims to refine predictions for typhoons, thunderstorms, hail, and cold waves, providing longer lead times for warnings of flash floods and landslides while enabling more effective evacuation planning and resource allocation.

    Additionally, deeper research into extreme weather mechanisms will support China’s carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals by optimizing emission reduction pathways. The Earth system forecasting network is also anticipated to guide climate-resilient urban planning, helping cities develop enhanced defenses against waterlogging and heat waves.

  • Crossing the red line means resolute counterattack, warns Chinese mainland

    Crossing the red line means resolute counterattack, warns Chinese mainland

    The Chinese mainland has delivered an unequivocal warning regarding Taiwan-related matters, emphasizing that any actions perceived as crossing established “red lines” will trigger determined countermeasures. This declaration reinforces Beijing’s longstanding position on safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

    Official statements characterize Taiwan as an inseparable component of China’s territory, rejecting any form of separatist activities or external interference. The warning specifically addresses what authorities describe as “collusion” between Taiwan’s leadership and foreign powers, particularly concerning military cooperation and diplomatic engagements that challenge the One-China principle.

    Analysts interpret this messaging as part of China’s broader strategy to deter perceived challenges to its core interests while maintaining strategic ambiguity regarding specific response scenarios. The timing coincides with increased regional security discussions and follows patterns of heightened rhetoric during periods of cross-strait tension.

    The mainland’s approach combines diplomatic messaging with continued emphasis on peaceful development pathways, while simultaneously reserving the right to employ “all necessary measures” should fundamental boundaries be breached. This dual-track policy reflects the complex balance between conflict prevention and demonstration of resolve in handling Taiwan-related matters.

    International observers note that such warnings serve multiple purposes: reinforcing domestic political narratives, signaling seriousness to external actors, and establishing clear parameters for acceptable behavior within the cross-strait relationship framework.

  • Dubai: Unstable weather conditions till Friday; list of emergency contact numbers

    Dubai: Unstable weather conditions till Friday; list of emergency contact numbers

    The United Arab Emirates is currently confronting a significant meteorological event as unstable weather conditions persist across the region until Friday, December 19. Meteorological authorities have issued comprehensive warnings indicating intermittent rainfall of varying intensity, potentially reaching thunderstorm levels with accompanying lightning and hail phenomena.

    Current atmospheric modeling indicates wind velocities accelerating to 65 km/h, generating substantial dust and sand particles that severely compromise visibility across the region. Maritime conditions have deteriorated significantly, with wave heights projected to reach 9 feet in both the Arabian Gulf and Oman Sea, prompting authorities to strongly discourage all marine activities.

    This weather pattern originates from a low-pressure system dominating Middle Eastern atmospheric conditions, with the most intense phase expected during Thursday. According to meteorological analysis, the system initially impacted Saudi Arabia before progressing eastward toward UAE and Qatari territories.

    Dubai’s leadership has taken proactive measures, with Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum personally addressing residents through social media channels, emphasizing preparedness and caution during this weather event.

    Municipal authorities have disseminated critical safety protocols urging residents to:
    – Avoid wadis and areas prone to water accumulation
    – Refrain from mountainous region travel
    – Abstain from maritime activities
    – Exercise extreme vehicular caution with reduced speeds
    – Monitor exclusively official information channels for updates

    Emergency service accessibility remains paramount with dedicated contact numbers operational: Civil Defense (997), Ambulance (998), Dubai Police (999), DEWA (991), RTA (800 9090), Dubai Municipality (800 900), and Dubai Health Authority (800 60).

    The National Centre of Meteorology continues to monitor developments closely, advising citizens to maintain heightened awareness of changing conditions throughout this weather episode.

  • Dharmendra, Agastya Nanda’s ‘Ikkis’ release date postponed

    Dharmendra, Agastya Nanda’s ‘Ikkis’ release date postponed

    The highly anticipated war drama ‘Ikkis,’ featuring legendary actor Dharmendra in one of his final performances, has undergone a scheduled release adjustment. Originally slated for a December 25, 2025 theatrical debut, the film will now premiere on January 1, 2026. Production company representatives announced the date shift through official social media channels.

    Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, ‘Ikkis’ portrays the heroic true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra military honor. The 21-year-old officer demonstrated exceptional valor during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, with the film promising to bring his previously untold story to contemporary audiences.

    Agastya Nanda, emerging as a prominent new talent in Indian cinema, assumes the lead role of Lieutenant Khetarpal. The supporting cast includes established performers Jaideep Ahlawat and Simar Bhatia in significant roles. The production recently organized a special tribute event in Mumbai honoring Lieutenant Khetarpal’s legacy, attended by high-ranking Indian Army officials including Lieutenant General D.S. Kushwah.

    During emotional remarks at the tribute ceremony, Nanda reflected on the profound impact of portraying such an iconic national figure. Addressing young audience members, the actor emphasized Khetarpal’s remarkable youth and enduring legacy: ‘The most striking aspect of this story is how incredibly young Arun Khetarpal was. I hope when young viewers experience this film, they draw inspiration from his extraordinary courage and dedication to his nation.’

    The release adjustment follows the November 24 passing of co-star Dharmendra, whose participation in the project represents one of the veteran actor’s final screen appearances. Industry observers suggest the date change allows appropriate distance from recent events while maintaining the film’s awards season positioning.

  • France catches second escapee in bedsheet prison break

    France catches second escapee in bedsheet prison break

    French authorities have apprehended the second escaped inmate involved in a dramatic prison break from an overcrowded Dijon facility, marking a significant development in a case that has exposed systemic deficiencies within the nation’s correctional system. The 19-year-old fugitive, wanted in connection with a drug-related attempted murder investigation, was located in a dilapidated apartment complex in Marseille—a known narcotics trafficking hub—following an Interpol red notice issuance.

    The escape occurred in late November when two detainees orchestrated an elaborate breakout using blades to sever cell bars before descending with bedsheets from the Dijon prison, a severely overcrowded facility operating at 173% capacity with 311 inmates occupying space designed for 180. The institution, constructed in 1853, has been documented by the Justice Ministry as structurally deficient and fundamentally inadequate for modern penal requirements.

    This incident has ignited fierce criticism from prison unions accusing the government of neglecting conventional facilities while prioritizing high-security establishments for drug-related offenders. The escape methodology—involving suspected drone deliveries of cutting tools—highlighted persistent security vulnerabilities, with prosecutors confirming previous sentencing for similar drone-assisted contraband operations at the same institution.

    The first fugitive, a 32-year-old facing domestic violence charges, was captured merely a day after the escape while casually drinking coffee at a village bar. Investigators revealed this individual had left a cell message complaining of excessive detention duration. Meanwhile, authorities arrested a 19-year-old accomplice near Besançon in late November on charges of organized escape complicity.

    This event unfolds against France’s worsening prison overcrowding crisis, with national statistics from October showing 135 inmates per 100 available spaces—among Europe’s most severe capacity shortages. Just weeks before the breakout, Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin had announced a €6.3 million security upgrade for Dijon targeting mobile phone proliferation, now overshadowed by more fundamental structural failures.