Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • British journalist Sami Hamdi reunited with family after release from Ice detention

    British journalist Sami Hamdi reunited with family after release from Ice detention

    British journalist and political commentator Sami Hamdi has been reunited with his family following his release from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention. Hamdi arrived in London on Thursday, three weeks after being detained by ICE agents during a speaking tour in the United States. The detention occurred despite Hamdi entering the U.S. on a valid visitor visa on October 19. His visa was abruptly revoked on October 24 without prior notice, according to Zahraa Billo, executive director of the San Francisco Bay Area chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-SFBA).

    Hamdi was accused of overstaying his visa on October 26 while at San Francisco International Airport. He was subsequently transferred to the Golden State Annex in McFarland, California, where he was held in a cell with approximately 80 other detainees. Hamdi reported being denied medical care for severe abdominal pain until his condition gained media attention.

    During a hearing on Monday, Hamdi and the U.S. government reached an agreement for his voluntary departure from the country. Upon his return to London, Hamdi stated, ‘What they want is to ensure that people like us don’t go to America. And we will defy them and we will exert our constitutional rights and speak truth against hatred.’

    Hamdi’s detention is part of a broader pattern of ICE targeting individuals, particularly those involved in pro-Palestinian activism. Earlier this year, Tufts University student Rumeysa Ozturk, Columbia University graduate Mahmoud Khalil, and Georgetown University postdoctoral scholar Badar Khan Suri were all detained by ICE without criminal charges. Columbia University students Yunseo Chung and Ranjani Srinivasan were also targeted, with Srinivasan leaving the U.S. voluntarily after her student visa was revoked.

    Hamdi’s case has sparked concerns about freedom of speech and the treatment of activists in the U.S. He alleged that the U.S. government is ‘trying to curb freedom of speech because there’s a concern among the extremist Israeli lobby that American public opinion is shifting.’ His detention highlights ongoing tensions surrounding activism and immigration enforcement in the United States.

  • UK charity regulator opens case into right-wing Policy Exchange think-tank

    UK charity regulator opens case into right-wing Policy Exchange think-tank

    The UK’s Charity Commission has initiated a compliance case into Policy Exchange, a prominent think-tank, following a detailed complaint by the Good Law Project. The 27-page complaint alleges that Policy Exchange, registered as a charity, has violated charity law by engaging in partisan activities rather than fulfilling its stated mission of non-partisan public education. The think-tank, founded in 2002 by Conservative MPs, is accused of lobbying, influencing government policy, and producing biased reports. The Good Law Project claims that Policy Exchange’s activities are primarily aimed at policymakers, politicians, and journalists, rather than educating the public in a balanced manner. The complaint also highlights the think-tank’s focus on right-wing politics, including a year-long festival celebrating Margaret Thatcher’s centenary and its controversial stance on transgender issues. Policy Exchange has been influential in shaping counter-terrorism policies and was a key promoter of the discredited ‘Trojan Horse’ narrative, which falsely accused Muslim teachers of plotting to Islamize Birmingham schools. Despite the controversy, Policy Exchange continues to produce reports on topics such as Islamophobia and Churchill’s legacy. The Good Law Project has urged the Charity Commission to take action, warning of potential legal challenges if the regulator fails to address the alleged breaches.

  • Shanghai youth center evolves to mental health support network

    Shanghai youth center evolves to mental health support network

    The Shanghai Youth Online Public Service Center, initially established in 2005 as a local counseling service, has grown into a robust mental health support network, serving over 594,000 individuals and addressing critical emergencies. The center offers a wide range of services through multiple channels, including the 12355 hotline, online platforms, face-to-face consultations, and crisis intervention. Wu Zhihui, the center’s director general, emphasized the platform’s comprehensive approach, which includes mental health support, legal consultation, and youth rights protection. The center handles approximately 300 calls daily, with peaks reaching 500, reflecting a significant shift in public attitudes toward mental health. Wu noted that the increasing call volume, rather than being a cause for concern, indicates a growing awareness and willingness to seek help. The center has shifted its focus toward preventive measures and early intervention, maintaining rigorous professional standards. All volunteer counselors are required to hold certifications in psychological counseling or social work, pass strict examinations, and undergo background checks. The diverse volunteer team, ranging from individuals in their 20s to 70s, with an average age of 40, underscores the center’s broad appeal and expertise. A notable trend is the increasing number of direct calls from teenagers themselves, rather than their parents, with children as young as 13-14 and university students reaching out for support. The service has expanded beyond Shanghai, assisting callers from other provinces through both online chat services and offline counseling. The center has handled various critical situations, including rescuing a teenager trapped in Myanmar, addressing adolescent depression, and responding to domestic violence cases. Song Yaru, a 79-year-old psychological counseling expert with nearly two decades of experience at the center, shared a memorable case involving a suicidal 26-year-old. The young man later told her, ‘Seeing how you’re still helping others at your age makes me believe I too can live a good life.’ Song expressed her dedication to the center, motivated purely by her commitment to youth work. He Lingfeng, a psychology professor at Shanghai University of Sports and a counseling expert on 12355, highlighted the platform’s broader impact. With over 1,300 volunteer counselors and experts, the 12355 team has become increasingly professional, serving not only as a social service but also as a valuable platform for talent development and practical psychology training.

  • China, Italy strengthen higher education exchanges

    China, Italy strengthen higher education exchanges

    In a significant move to bolster educational and innovative synergies, China and Italy have pledged to enhance their cooperation in higher education. This commitment was formalized during the 2025 China-Italy University Presidents Forum held in Beijing, where over 60 universities and institutions from both nations convened. The event saw the signing of 16 memorandums and agreements, underscoring a mutual dedication to fostering talent and driving innovation. Chinese Minister of Education Huai Jinpeng and Italian Minister of University and Research Anna Maria Bernini inked a joint statement, marking a pivotal moment in the educational partnership between the two countries. Minister Huai highlighted the evolution of this partnership from individual exchanges to a structured framework emphasizing talent development, technological innovation, and cultural exchange. He urged universities to adapt to the latest technological and industrial transformations, advocating for interdisciplinary collaboration and industry-academia integration. Minister Bernini emphasized the integration of science with humanities and arts, expressing Italy’s eagerness to deepen cultural and artistic exchanges with China. This forum not only strengthens the educational ties but also sets a foundation for future collaborative ventures in various fields.

  • Happy birthday, Sheikh Hamdan! How Dubai’s Crown Prince embraces life at 43

    Happy birthday, Sheikh Hamdan! How Dubai’s Crown Prince embraces life at 43

    Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, celebrated his 43rd birthday on November 14, 2025, by continuing to inspire the emirate’s residents with his dynamic and active lifestyle. Known for his leadership as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Sheikh Hamdan defies the stereotype of slowing down in mid-life, instead embracing physical fitness and encouraging others to do the same. Through his social media presence, particularly on Instagram where he boasts over 17 million followers, he shares glimpses of his daily gym routines and promotes the benefits of an active lifestyle. His passion for sports has also led to Dubai hosting the World Sports Summit from December 29 to 30, 2025, which is expected to attract global sports stars, industry leaders, and policymakers. Beyond his personal fitness, Sheikh Hamdan actively participates in community events such as the Dubai Marathon and Mallathon, further engaging with residents and fostering a culture of health and vitality. From skydiving over The Palm to climbing the Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Hamdan’s adventurous spirit and commitment to wellness serve as a powerful example for Dubai and beyond.

  • All Shenzhou-XX astronauts out of return capsule

    All Shenzhou-XX astronauts out of return capsule

    In a historic moment for China’s space program, the three astronauts of the Shenzhou-XX mission—Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie—successfully exited their return capsule on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 5:21 pm Beijing Time. The crew had completed a remarkable 204-day mission in orbit, marking another milestone in China’s manned space exploration efforts. The China Manned Space Agency confirmed that all three astronauts are in excellent health following their return to Earth. Chen Dong, the mission commander, was the first to emerge from the capsule, solidifying his status as the first Chinese astronaut to accumulate over 400 days in space. This achievement underscores China’s growing capabilities in space technology and its commitment to advancing human spaceflight. The successful return of the Shenzhou-XX crew highlights the nation’s progress in long-duration space missions and paves the way for future endeavors, including the planned construction of a permanent space station.

  • Pakistan says arrested 4 from Afghanistan-based group over Islamabad bombing

    Pakistan says arrested 4 from Afghanistan-based group over Islamabad bombing

    Pakistan announced on Friday the arrest of four individuals connected to a suicide bombing in Islamabad, an attack allegedly orchestrated by a group based in Afghanistan. The bombing, which occurred outside court buildings on Tuesday, was claimed by a faction of the Pakistani Taliban, known as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The attack resulted in 12 fatalities and left dozens injured. According to a government statement, the network responsible for the bombing was ‘handled and guided at every step by the high command based in Afghanistan.’ The arrested individuals include the cell’s alleged commander and three other members, though the specific locations of the arrests were not disclosed. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi informed the Senate that the bomber, identified as Usman alias Qari, was a resident of Nangarhar province in eastern Afghanistan. Investigations are ongoing, with more revelations and arrests anticipated. The Islamabad bombing marks a resurgence of militant violence in Pakistan, which officials attribute to armed groups allegedly sheltered in Afghanistan. This incident follows a recent attack on Cadet College Wana, a military-linked school in northwest Pakistan, in which Afghan nationals were reportedly involved. The Taliban government has not directly addressed Pakistan’s allegations but expressed ‘deep sorrow & condemnation’ over both attacks. The accusations have exacerbated the already strained relations between Islamabad and Kabul, leading to recent cross-border clashes that resulted in over 70 deaths, including dozens of Afghan civilians. Despite agreeing to a fragile ceasefire, negotiations to finalize its details have stalled, with each side blaming the other for the impasse. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing parliament, condemned the Islamabad bombing as a ‘horrific act of terrorism’ and emphasized Pakistan’s desire for peace, urging Afghanistan to be a partner in combating terrorism.

  • From ‘Ren’ to reality: Dong Yuhui explains China’s culture of hospitality

    From ‘Ren’ to reality: Dong Yuhui explains China’s culture of hospitality

    At the prestigious World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit, Dong Yuhui, a renowned livestream influencer and former English teacher, shed light on the profound cultural ethos of hospitality in China. Addressing a global audience, Yuhui delved into the concept of ‘Ren’—a cornerstone of Confucian philosophy that emphasizes benevolence and harmonious coexistence. He articulated how this ancient principle continues to shape the Chinese approach to interpersonal relationships, fostering a societal inclination towards peace rather than confrontation. Yuhui’s insights not only highlighted the enduring relevance of traditional values but also underscored their practical application in contemporary Chinese society. His discourse served as a bridge between historical wisdom and modern-day practices, offering a nuanced understanding of why the Chinese people prioritize amicable interactions in both personal and professional spheres. This presentation at the summit was a testament to the global appeal of China’s cultural heritage and its potential to inspire harmonious living worldwide.

  • Shanghai to revoke licenses of school meal supplier

    Shanghai to revoke licenses of school meal supplier

    In a significant move to address food safety concerns, Shanghai authorities have announced the revocation of licenses for Shanghai Green Jie Industrial Development Co., following a series of violations uncovered during an investigation. The probe was initiated after complaints from parents regarding contaminated shrimp and scrambled egg dishes served to students on September 15. The investigation revealed multiple illegal activities, including improper food handling, bid rigging, and systematic cover-ups by the company. The company’s operator, surnamed Zhang, along with eight other individuals, has been arrested. Additionally, Bright Food (Group) Co Ltd, a state-owned enterprise, has taken over meal provision for 484 schools across the city since September 23. The investigation team discovered that Green Jie staff failed to wash shrimp before cooking, leading to the discovery of worms in the food. Managers reported the issue to Zhang, who ordered the destruction of all shrimp distributed to 211 schools that day but concealed the incident. Further investigations revealed improper handling of frozen shrimp in seven school kitchens and a history of unreported food safety issues. Due to its organized efforts to falsify and destroy evidence, the company’s food business license will be revoked, and key personnel face fines and a five-year ban from the food industry. Shanghai’s education and market authorities have pledged to strengthen supply chain management and enhance oversight of school meals to prevent future incidents.

  • Fears of ‘catastrophic consequences’ in Gaza as rain floods tents

    Fears of ‘catastrophic consequences’ in Gaza as rain floods tents

    A severe winter storm has brought heavy rainfall and thunderstorms to Gaza, flooding the makeshift tents of displaced Palestinians and raising fears of catastrophic consequences for nearly two million people without adequate shelter. Thousands of families in displacement camps awoke on Friday to find their tents submerged in water, according to local media reports. The Palestinian Civil Defence has issued urgent warnings for residents, particularly the displaced, to take precautions against potential destruction from the storm. The Palestinian Meteorological Department has also alerted the region to the risk of flash floods in low-lying areas and valleys across the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank, with strong winds and heavy rain expected in the coming days. Adnan Abu Hasna, spokesperson for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), emphasized that the storm could have devastating effects on the already vulnerable displaced population. In the al-Mawasi area of southern Gaza alone, over 900,000 displaced individuals are living in tents, with their safety at risk due to the lack of flood-prevention barriers. Across the Gaza Strip, hundreds of thousands more are displaced, many living in cramped conditions with limited access to basic services. The situation is exacerbated by the extensive damage caused during the two-year conflict, with 83% of structures, including homes, schools, and hospitals, destroyed or damaged. The Global Shelter Cluster reports that more than 282,000 homes have been razed or rendered uninhabitable. Despite a ceasefire agreement last month, Israel has restricted the entry of essential shelter supplies and equipment, leaving at least 259,000 families without adequate protection this winter. While the agreement required Israel to allow the entry of tents and mobile shelters, heavy restrictions on relief materials have persisted, with only 150 aid trucks entering Gaza daily—far fewer than the 600 agreed upon. The humanitarian crisis continues to deepen as displaced Palestinians struggle to cope with the harsh winter conditions.