In a significant diplomatic development, the White House has issued an apology to Hyundai CEO José Muñoz following a controversial immigration raid at a Georgia-based battery plant jointly operated by Hyundai and LG. The incident, which occurred in September, resulted in the detention of over 300 South Korean workers, sparking widespread outrage in South Korea and straining US-South Korea relations. During a business leaders’ conference in Singapore, Mr. Muñoz revealed that both the White House and the Georgia governor had expressed regret over the raid, with the latter stating that the action was beyond state jurisdiction. The detained workers were reportedly shackled and forced to sit on the factory floor before being held for over a week. They were eventually repatriated after urgent diplomatic negotiations between the US and South Korean governments. Mr. Muñoz emphasized that the raid was based on unfounded claims of illegal immigration and described it as ‘a bad surprise.’ Despite the incident, Hyundai remains committed to its US manufacturing operations. The raid delayed the plant’s opening due to labor shortages, but US President Donald Trump later expressed opposition to the action, highlighting the importance of international expertise in specialized facilities. In a positive turn, the US and South Korea announced a broad trade deal in October, reducing reciprocal tariffs and pledging significant investment in the US.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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‘I grab that hand’: Saudi crown prince showered with praise in rare meet the press
In a rare and unscripted Oval Office press briefing, U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman addressed a wide array of topics, ranging from the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi to artificial intelligence and arms sales. The 40-minute session, marked by Trump’s characteristic bravado, offered a unique glimpse into the relationship between the two leaders. Trump emphasized the unprecedented transparency of the meeting, stating, ‘There has never been transparency like this. We didn’t put restrictions.’ The Saudi Crown Prince, known for his diplomatic finesse, responded to questions with measured answers, particularly on the Khashoggi case, which he termed a ‘painful’ and ‘huge mistake.’ He also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s efforts to improve its systems to prevent such incidents in the future. The meeting underscored the strategic importance of the U.S.-Saudi relationship, with the Crown Prince pledging nearly $1 trillion in investments in the U.S., including in AI and rare-earth materials. Trump’s defense of the Crown Prince in front of the press contrasted sharply with his treatment of other world leaders, such as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa. The dynamics of the meeting also revealed Riyadh’s success in rebalancing its relationship with Washington, dating back to World War II, and its growing influence in the shifting global power balance. The Crown Prince’s poised demeanor, despite occasional awkward moments, highlighted his diplomatic acumen and the strategic depth of Saudi-U.S. relations.
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Texas governor designates Muslim Brotherhood, Cair as terror organisations
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has declared the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as foreign terrorist organizations and transnational criminal entities. This designation, announced on Tuesday, prohibits these groups from acquiring or purchasing land within Texas. Abbott’s proclamation also empowers the state’s attorney general to initiate legal actions against these organizations.
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Sharjah International Book Fair concludes with 1.4 million visitors from 206 countries
The 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) concluded on November 18, 2025, marking a historic milestone with 1.4 million visitors from 206 countries. Held under the theme ‘Between You and a Book,’ the 12-day event solidified Sharjah’s reputation as a global epicenter for cultural exchange and literary innovation. This year’s fair featured an unprecedented level of international diversity, with 2,350 publishers and exhibitors from 118 countries, making it one of the most globally inclusive editions to date. The fair also reinforced Sharjah’s dominance as the world’s largest marketplace for publishing rights, a title it has held for five consecutive years. The Sharjah Publishers Conference, a highlight of the event, saw 1,599 publishers from 116 countries engage in 3,321 rights meetings, underscoring the fair’s role as a hub for commercial and creative collaboration. Attendee demographics revealed broad appeal, with the largest age group being 35-44 (29%), followed by 25-34 (28%). Over 125,890 school students participated in educational and cultural activities, while 87,674 visitors utilized marine transport from Al Qasba and the Sharjah Aquarium. Satisfaction rates were exceptionally high, with 96.3% of visitors, 90.91% of exhibitors, and 97.14% of Publishers Conference participants expressing positive feedback. The event also highlighted Sharjah’s commitment to cultural enrichment, with a Dh4.5 million grant allocated to replenish public and government library collections. Additionally, a dedicated initiative led by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi waived participation fees for Sudanese publishers, ensuring their continued presence in the global publishing landscape despite economic challenges.
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It may get harder to secure US green card if you come from a travel ban-listed country
The Trump administration is reportedly considering a new policy that would make it significantly harder for immigrants from countries listed under the existing travel ban to obtain U.S. permanent residency. This potential shift could impact green card approvals, asylum grants, and higher-tier long-term visas, according to internal documents from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) obtained by The New York Times. The move aligns with the administration’s broader efforts to curb immigration, which have included crackdowns on undocumented immigrants, visa revocations, and increased application fees. Since President Trump took office in January 2017, these measures have already contributed to a 17 percent decline in foreign student enrollment at U.S. universities, the largest drop in a decade. The travel ban, initially implemented in 2017 and revised in June 2020, targets 12 countries: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Nationals from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela face partial restrictions. The proposed policy would treat an applicant’s country of origin as a ‘negative factor’ in their immigration application, even if they are otherwise law-abiding and have undergone rigorous vetting. Critics, including a former staffer from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), have labeled the plan a ‘radical change’ and ‘absurd,’ arguing that applicants have already passed national security screenings by the time they apply for permanent residency. Jamal Abdi, president of the National Iranian American Council, has urged DHS to reconsider, citing federal laws that prohibit discrimination based on national origin. The revised travel ban, which has faced less public backlash than its predecessor, is considered more legally robust. While those already in the U.S. are exempt, individuals abroad must meet specific criteria to enter, such as holding a green card, preauthorized visa, or being an immediate family member of a U.S. citizen. Athletes participating in the World Cup or Summer Olympics are also exempt. However, increased scrutiny at ports of entry and directives from Secretary of State Marco Rubio could lead to visa revocations. The administration maintains that the ban and heightened vetting measures are necessary to address visa overstays, which it views as a national security risk. Immigration lawyers note that the current ban is likely to remain in effect, as the Supreme Court upheld the president’s authority to implement such measures in a 2017 ruling. Despite the challenges, some legal experts emphasize the importance of perseverance in navigating the U.S. immigration system.
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From obscurity to orbit: Space law gains momentum in UAE as sector expands
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is witnessing a transformative shift in its approach to space exploration, with space law emerging as a critical discipline in the nation’s rapidly expanding space sector. Once an obscure academic field, space law is now gaining significant traction, driven by the UAE’s ambitious lunar missions and a growing interest among its youth and educational institutions. This development was highlighted during a session titled ‘Forging New Frontiers Through Global Partnerships’ at the Dubai Airshow 2025. Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, emphasized that the rise of space law reflects the country’s broader space ambitions and the need for robust legal frameworks to guide political, commercial, and international cooperation. As the UAE prepares for its next steps in space exploration, including lunar missions, experts underscored the importance of space law in navigating the complexities of the global space economy. The UAE’s expanding space sector has also spurred a ripple effect across higher education institutions, with universities introducing specialized programs to meet industry demands. For the first time, space law is being taught as a degree program in the UAE, marking a significant milestone in the region’s academic landscape. Mike Gold, President of Civil and International Space at Redwire Space, noted that while engineers handle the technical aspects, lawyers face the challenging task of addressing the political and commercial dimensions of space exploration. The growing visibility of astronauts has also played a pivotal role in inspiring the next generation. Initiatives that allow students to engage with astronauts have had a profound impact on youth, fostering a sense of responsibility and ambition. This has led to a surge in demand for skills beyond engineering, including governance, regulation, policy, and legal expertise. Chris White-Horne, Deputy CEO of the UK Space Agency, highlighted that space has transitioned from being a luxury or a novelty to a critical component of modern society. He emphasized the shared responsibility of the global community in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by space exploration. The UAE’s focus on space law and education is shaping career aspirations across the region, positioning the country as a leader in the global space economy.
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NYC bids goodbye to beloved Muslim activist and imam, Talib Abdur-Rashid
The iconic Malcolm Shabazz Mosque in Harlem was filled to capacity as hundreds gathered to pay their final respects to Imam Talib Abdur-Rashid, a revered social activist and spiritual leader. The funeral, held at 9 a.m. on a Monday morning, drew people from all walks of life, reflecting the profound impact Abdur-Rashid had on his community over his 50 years of service at the Mosque of Islamic Brotherhood (MIB).
Abdur-Rashid, who passed away on November 15, was remembered as a selfless leader who dedicated his life to serving others. His daughter, Hawwa Minnie Gilmore, delivered an emotional tribute, describing her father as a kind, loving, and caring man who was always there for his family and community. ‘He was everything to us,’ she said, highlighting his tireless efforts to uplift those around him.
The service also featured tributes from faith leaders, academics, and politicians, including co-founder of MIB Professor Halima Toure, Imam Zaid Shakir of Zaytuna College, and New York City council member Yusef Salaam. Attendees spoke of Abdur-Rashid’s unwavering commitment to interfaith dialogue, civil rights, and social justice. He was instrumental in advocating for the adhan (call to prayer) to be broadcast from the mosque, securing halal options in public schools, and adding Eid to the public school calendar.
Abdur-Rashid’s legacy extended beyond Harlem. As a prison chaplain, he provided spiritual guidance to inmates, including Luqman Yunus, who spoke of the imam’s compassion and support during his incarceration. Abdur-Rashid’s work in championing civil rights for individuals like Amadou Diallo and Yusef Salaam further cemented his reputation as a bridge-builder and advocate for justice.
Born Barry Lee Hicks in North Carolina in 1951, Abdur-Rashid converted to Sunni Islam in 1971 and quickly became a central figure in the Black Muslim community. His influence was felt in the arts, earning him the nickname ‘Hip Hop Imam,’ as he welcomed artists like Yasiin Bey (Mos Def) and Q-Tip to MIB. He also served in leadership roles within the Islamic Leadership Council of New York and the Muslim Alliance in North America.
Abdur-Rashid’s passing coincided with the installation of signage for the Malcolm X Plaza in Harlem, a project he had championed. His daughter described the timing as symbolic, saying, ‘It’s like Allah saying, ‘Your mission is complete.’’ Abdur-Rashid was buried in Rosedale Cemetery in Linden, New Jersey, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and unity.
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Watch: Trump receives Saudi prince with cannon fire, parade of horses at White House
In a display of diplomatic grandeur, U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. The visit, marked by a ceremonial cannon salute, a military flypast featuring F-35 stealth fighters, and a parade of horses, underscored the deepening alliance between the United States and Saudi Arabia. The event also saw the presence of soccer icon Cristiano Ronaldo, adding a touch of star power to the occasion. Trump emphasized the significance of the bilateral relationship, describing Saudi Arabia as a ‘great ally’ and announcing the sale of F-35 jets to the kingdom, despite concerns from Israel and warnings about potential technological espionage by China. Additionally, the two leaders are expected to sign a framework for civilian nuclear cooperation, further cementing their strategic partnership. The Crown Prince’s visit also focused on securing advanced defense systems and high-tech chips to support Saudi Arabia’s AI ambitions. However, progress on normalizing relations with Israel remains stalled, with Riyadh insisting on progress toward a Palestinian state. The visit marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Saudi relations, balancing strategic interests with human rights concerns, particularly in light of the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.
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Gold gains on soft economic data; traders weigh US rate cut chances
Gold prices rebounded from a one-week low on Tuesday, buoyed by weaker-than-expected U.S. employment data, as investors speculated on the possibility of a Federal Reserve interest rate cut in December. Spot gold increased by 0.6% to $4,068.05 per ounce, recovering from its lowest point since November 10 earlier in the day. Meanwhile, U.S. gold futures for December delivery dipped slightly by 0.2% to $4,068.40 per ounce. The rise in gold prices was fueled by data showing that the number of Americans receiving unemployment benefits reached a two-month high in mid-October, with continued jobless claims climbing to 1.9 million for the week ending October 18. Market analysts interpreted this as a sign of economic softening, potentially prompting the Fed to lower interest rates. Tai Wong, an independent metals trader, noted that the data has slightly increased market optimism for a December rate cut, aiding gold and silver in breaking a three-day losing streak. According to the CME FedWatch tool, markets now perceive a 50% chance of a rate cut in December, up from 46% earlier in the day but down from 67% last week. Gold, which performs well in low-interest-rate environments, had previously declined by over 3% on Friday and 1% on Monday as investors tempered expectations for another rate cut this year. Attention now turns to the release of the Fed’s meeting minutes on Wednesday and delayed September jobs data on Thursday, both of which were postponed due to the U.S. government shutdown. Analysts at Deutsche Bank highlighted that elevated official demand for gold is likely to persist, supporting a bullish outlook and potentially driving prices above their forecasted average of $4,000 per ounce for next year. In other precious metals, spot silver rose 1% to $50.67 per ounce, platinum surged 7% to $1,544.66, and palladium fell 1.2% to $1,409.72.
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Fire burning in southwestern Japan damages 170 homes and forces evacuations
A devastating wildfire erupted in the city of Oita, located on Japan’s southern island of Kyushu, on Tuesday evening, rapidly engulfing a residential neighborhood and forcing over 170 people to evacuate. The blaze, which began near a fishing port amid strong winds, quickly spread to nearby forests and homes, causing widespread destruction. According to Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency, at least 170 homes have been damaged, and a man in his 70s remains missing. Local residents described the fire as spreading uncontrollably, with one evacuee telling Kyodo News Agency that she fled in haste, leaving most of her belongings behind. Firefighters are still battling the flames, which remain uncontained as of Wednesday morning. The incident highlights the vulnerability of communities to natural disasters exacerbated by extreme weather conditions.