The National Commission for Palestinian Popular Action has issued a strong condemnation of US proposals to establish an externally imposed transitional administration in Gaza, labeling the move as ‘a new colonialism.’ In a statement released on Sunday, the commission argued that such a plan violates the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and merely repackages old forms of domination under modern terminology. The commission emphasized that decisions regarding Gaza’s future must originate from Palestinians themselves, ensuring the unity of their land, the legitimacy of resistance to Israeli occupation, and the rights to freedom and self-determination as enshrined in international law. A US draft resolution, set to be presented to the UN Security Council on Monday, has drawn sharp criticism from legal experts and Palestinian groups. They argue that the proposal seeks to institutionalize Israel’s actions in Gaza within an international framework. The resolution endorses the Trump Peace Plan, known as the ‘Comprehensive Plan,’ and proposes the creation of two new bodies: the Board of Peace, a civilian transitional administration, and an ‘International Stabilisation Force.’ Critics contend that the Board of Peace would wield extensive powers, including governance oversight, reconstruction, economic recovery, and humanitarian coordination, effectively normalizing foreign control over Gaza. The commission warned that if passed, the resolution would undermine international law and strip Palestinians of their right to self-determination. While acknowledging the potential benefits of a limited international presence to monitor ceasefires and protect civilians, the commission insisted that such a force must not assume administrative or political roles. It called on Palestinian political movements, institutions, and communities worldwide to reject external control and oppose proposals that undermine national decision-making. The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of its commitment to unified action in defense of Palestinian rights and steadfastness until full freedom is achieved. Meanwhile, Israel continues its assault on Gaza, despite a so-called ceasefire, blocking aid convoys, restricting humanitarian access, and conducting daily bombings that result in civilian casualties.
标签: Asia
亚洲
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UAE launches mass wedding initiative for Gazans; registrations open
In a heartwarming gesture to mark the UAE’s 54th Union Day, the nation has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative titled ‘The Dress of Joy,’ aimed at supporting mass weddings in the Gaza Strip. The project, launched on November 16, 2025, seeks to alleviate the hardships faced by Gazan families following two years of devastating conflict. By facilitating the weddings of 54 grooms, the initiative not only celebrates love but also underscores the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian aid. The project coincides with the UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad, symbolizing unity and hope. To participate, eligible grooms must meet specific criteria, including Palestinian nationality, permanent residency in Gaza, and low-income status. Registrations are open from November 16 to November 19, 2025, through the Operation Chivalrous Knight’s website. This initiative reflects the UAE’s ongoing efforts to support vulnerable communities and foster resilience in times of crisis.
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Japan tourism and retail stocks slide after row with China over Taiwan
Japanese tourism and retail sectors faced significant setbacks on Monday as China issued a stark warning to its citizens against traveling to Japan. This advisory comes amidst escalating tensions between Tokyo and Beijing over Taiwan, a contentious issue that has strained bilateral relations. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, known for her critical stance on China’s military maneuvers in the region, recently hinted at potential military intervention should Beijing attempt to seize Taiwan. Her remarks, made in parliament on November 7, referenced Japan’s 2015 security law, which permits military action in ‘survival-threatening situations’—scenarios where an armed attack on allies poses an existential threat to Japan. The fallout was immediate: shares in Shiseido, a leading cosmetics firm, plummeted nearly 10%, while Takashimaya, a prominent department store chain, and Fast Retailing, the parent company of Uniqlo, saw declines exceeding 5%. China, a top contributor to Japan’s tourism industry, further intensified the rift by summoning Japan’s ambassador last week, urging its citizens to avoid travel to the country. Taiwan, located approximately 100 kilometers south of Japan’s nearest island, remains a flashpoint. Beijing views Taiwan as a renegade province destined for reunification, even if by force, while many Taiwanese favor maintaining the current status quo—neither declaring independence nor unifying with China. The ongoing dispute underscores the fragile geopolitical balance in the region, with economic and political ramifications reverberating across markets.
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Ahead of Hasina court verdict, son warns of Bangladesh violence if party ban stays
Bangladesh is on the brink of significant political unrest as a Dhaka court prepares to deliver a verdict on ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who faces charges of crimes against humanity. The verdict, expected to be televised, could result in a death sentence for Hasina, who has been living in exile in New Delhi since August 2024. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed, has warned that if the ban on her Awami League party is not lifted, supporters will disrupt the upcoming national election in February, potentially escalating into widespread violence. Wazed emphasized that Hasina is safe in India, where she is being treated ‘like a head of state,’ and that the verdict is a ‘foregone conclusion’ due to what he describes as a politically motivated trial. The charges stem from a deadly crackdown on student-led protests in 2024, which a UN report estimated resulted in up to 1,400 deaths and thousands injured. The political climate in Bangladesh has already turned volatile, with multiple crude bomb explosions reported in Dhaka and heightened security measures in place. Wazed has vowed that the Awami League will not allow elections to proceed without their participation, warning of increased protests and potential confrontations. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has yet to comment on the situation. Hasina, who has been credited with transforming Bangladesh’s economy but also accused of rights abuses, remains determined to fight back against what she views as an unjust verdict.
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Japan’s economy contracts as exports get hit by US tariffs
Japan’s economy experienced a notable downturn in the July-September quarter, contracting at an annualized rate of 1.8%, according to government data released on Monday. This marks the first economic contraction in six quarters, with the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) declining by 0.4% on a quarterly basis. The downturn was primarily driven by a sharp decline in exports, which fell by 1.2% from the previous quarter and by 4.5% on an annualized basis. The slump in exports is largely attributed to the impact of U.S. tariffs, which have posed significant challenges for Japan’s export-reliant economy, particularly for major automakers like Toyota Motor Corp. Despite the contraction, the decline was less severe than the 0.6% drop anticipated by market analysts. Imports for the quarter saw a marginal decrease of 0.1%, while private consumption edged up by 0.1%. The U.S. currently imposes a 15% tariff on nearly all Japanese imports, a reduction from the earlier 25% rate. Japan’s recent political landscape also saw a shift with Sanae Takaichi assuming the role of prime minister in October, adding another layer of complexity to the nation’s economic outlook.
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Look: India and Pakistan blind cricket female players shake hands defying recent trend
In a heartwarming display of sportsmanship, blind women cricketers from India and Pakistan defied recent political tensions by shaking hands and exchanging compliments during a historic tournament in Sri Lanka. The event, described as the world’s first blind women’s T20 cricket tournament, took place at the Free Trade Zone grounds in Katunayake, 30 kilometers north of Colombo. The players, who traveled together on the same bus, showcased unity and mutual respect, contrasting sharply with the strained relations between their national teams. India secured a decisive victory, winning by eight wickets after restricting Pakistan to 135 runs in their 20 overs. Pakistan’s captain, Nimra Rafique, congratulated India on their win, while India’s captain, T. C. Deepika, praised Pakistan’s performance. The match, broadcast live on Sri Lanka’s national television, Rupavahini, was also followed by blind officials via YouTube commentary. Indian team manager Shika Shetty highlighted the tournament’s significance, calling it a groundbreaking opportunity for visually impaired women to excel in sports and inspire others. Pakistan’s coach, Tahir Mehmood Butt, emphasized the potential for blind cricket to empower young players. The tournament, which began in India and moved to Sri Lanka for its final stages, includes teams from Australia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the US, with the final scheduled for next Sunday in Colombo.
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Bangladesh tense ahead of ousted PM Hasina’s verdict
Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, was rocked by several crude bomb explosions on Sunday, escalating tensions ahead of a highly anticipated verdict in the case against ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The explosions, which caused no casualties, have further unsettled a city already grappling with political unrest. Hasina, 78, is being tried in absentia for crimes against humanity, accused of ordering a deadly crackdown on student protests in mid-2024. She denies the allegations and has remained in India since fleeing Bangladesh after her ouster in August last year. In response to the escalating violence, Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner has authorized officers to use lethal force against anyone involved in arson or bomb attacks. Security has been significantly tightened across Dhaka, Gopalganj — Hasina’s ancestral home and a stronghold for her party — and two neighboring districts, with Border Guard Bangladesh personnel deployed to assist local authorities. Police and Rapid Action Battalion teams have been stationed around key government buildings and major intersections, resulting in an unusually quiet city. ‘It’s very tense — hardly anyone is coming out,’ said Ramjan Ali, an autorickshaw driver in Dhaka. ‘I’ve been on the road since morning, but I’ve barely earned anything today.’ In the days leading up to the verdict, authorities recorded over 30 crude bomb explosions and reported dozens of buses torched in Dhaka and several other districts. Additionally, dozens of Awami League activists have been arrested for alleged involvement in explosions and acts of sabotage.
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Hackers steal maternity ward CCTV videos in India cybercrime racket
Indian authorities have uncovered a sprawling cybercrime operation involving the hacking and sale of sensitive CCTV footage from hospitals and other institutions across the country. The breach, which compromised over 50,000 surveillance systems, has raised significant concerns about privacy and cybersecurity in India, where CCTV cameras are ubiquitous. The investigation began after videos from a maternity hospital in Gujarat were discovered on YouTube and Telegram, showing intimate medical procedures involving pregnant women. These videos were linked to Telegram channels where longer clips were sold for 800–2,000 rupees ($9–22). The hospital director claimed the cameras were installed to protect doctors from false allegations, but they have since been removed from sensitive areas. Police have arrested eight individuals connected to the racket, charging them with violations of privacy, voyeurism, and cyber terrorism. Cybersecurity experts warn that poorly secured systems, often using default passwords, are vulnerable to hacking. They recommend robust passwords, regular audits, and manufacturer warnings to improve security. The case highlights the broader issue of inadequate cybersecurity measures in India, where surveillance systems are widely used but often lack proper safeguards.
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UAE markets face technical weakness amid global headwinds
The equity markets in Dubai and Abu Dhabi experienced a downturn last week, influenced by broader global economic challenges. The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) General Index fell by 1.25%, closing at 5,949, while the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) General Index dropped by 1.56% to 9,917.90, slipping below the significant 10,000 mark. This decline was primarily driven by significant losses in key sectors such as technology, financials, and healthcare, despite some gains in materials and real estate sectors. Analysts attribute this trend to the ongoing global risk-off sentiment, which has overshadowed the strong corporate earnings reported by major companies like Dewa and Salik. Vijay Valecha, Chief Investment Officer at Century Financial, highlighted the cautious outlook, suggesting that the markets may continue to face volatility and limited upside potential in the near term. The technical indicators also support this view, with both indices breaching their 50- and 100-day moving averages and the Relative Strength Index (RSI) indicating weakening momentum. Looking ahead, the market is expected to remain range-bound, with potential short-term rallies likely to encounter resistance unless there is a significant improvement in global risk appetite.
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India: Accomplice of deadly Delhi car blast ‘suicide bomber’ arrested
Indian authorities have announced a significant breakthrough in the investigation of a deadly car explosion in New Delhi, labeling the incident as a ‘suicide bombing’ and arresting an accomplice linked to the attack. The National Investigation Agency (NIA), India’s premier counter-terrorism body, revealed that the suspect, Amir Rashid Ali, facilitated the purchase of the vehicle used in the blast. The driver, identified as Umar Un Nabi, an assistant professor from Kashmir, allegedly carried out the attack using a vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Device (IED). The explosion occurred near a bustling metro station in Old Delhi, close to the historic Red Fort, claiming 10 lives and injuring 32 others. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack as a ‘conspiracy’ and vowed to bring all perpetrators, collaborators, and sponsors to justice. This incident marks the most severe security breach since the April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. The Kashmir region, divided between the two nations since 1947, remains a flashpoint in their ongoing conflict.
