In a contentious parliamentary debate, Nissim Vaturi, the deputy speaker of the Knesset and a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party, openly endorsed the late ultranationalist rabbi Meir Kahane. Kahane, whose Kach movement is banned as a terrorist organization, had advocated for the expulsion of Palestinians from Israel. Vaturi criticized former Likud leaders for ostracizing Kahane, stating, ‘Kahane was right in many ways where we were wrong.’ His remarks drew immediate backlash from fellow lawmakers, with some calling for a criminal investigation into his support for a terrorist organization. The controversy comes amid growing visibility of Kahanist ideology in Israeli politics, exemplified by the Jewish Power party, which is inspired by Kahane’s extremist views. Analysts warn that the normalization of such rhetoric reflects a broader shift toward the far right in Israeli society, with traditional political boundaries increasingly blurred.
标签： Asia
亚洲
-
Israeli troops kill two Palestinians in West Bank; settlers set mosque ablaze
In a troubling escalation of violence in the occupied West Bank, Israeli troops killed two Palestinians on Thursday, labeling them as suspected militants. Concurrently, Palestinian officials accused Israeli settlers of setting fire to a mosque in the region. The Israeli military stated that the two individuals were eliminated while allegedly planning a terror attack near the community of Karmei Zur, though no further details were provided. Palestinian authorities also remained silent on specifics. Meanwhile, the Palestinian foreign ministry in Ramallah condemned the arson attack on the Hajja Hamida mosque near Deir Istiya, describing it as a violation of religious sanctity and a manifestation of deep-seated racism among settlers. Photographs from the scene revealed charred copies of the Koran and smoke-damaged walls, with graffiti also defacing the mosque. This incident followed a pledge by Israeli army chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir to curb settler violence, which he labeled as contradictory to Israeli values and a diversion from military missions. Despite his assurances, settler violence has surged, with October 2025 marking the worst month since records began in 2006, according to the UN. The ongoing conflict has claimed the lives of over 1,000 Palestinians and 43 Israelis in the West Bank since the Gaza war erupted in October 2023.
-
Bold or bizarre? UAE influencers react to Apple’s iPhone pocket
The tech world is abuzz with mixed reactions from UAE influencers following Apple’s unveiling of the iPhone Pocket, a unique 3D-knitted accessory designed in collaboration with fashion icon Issey Miyake. Scheduled for release on Friday, the product has sparked a range of opinions, from admiration for its boldness to amusement over its unconventional design. Priced between Dh550 and Dh845, the iPhone Pocket is designed to accommodate any iPhone and other pocketable items, offering both long and short strap options. However, Apple has confirmed that the product will not be available in the UAE, leaving local tech enthusiasts curious about its potential future launch. Prominent UAE-based tech influencer Emkwan praised the product as a trendsetter, highlighting Apple’s move into lifestyle accessories. Meanwhile, tech geek Aaron Jon acknowledged the product’s practicality despite its initial strangeness, noting its alignment with modern demands for hands-free convenience. Tech blogger Saurabh Kishu speculated that Apple is testing the waters with limited releases, suggesting that the UAE’s appetite for premium and fashion-tech items could drive future demand. Online, the product has been met with both amusement and skepticism, with some users comparing it to a “cut-up sock” while others appreciated its nod to Apple’s history. Emkwan also emphasized the significance of the Issey Miyake collaboration, recalling Steve Jobs’ fondness for the designer. Aaron Jon predicted that the iPhone Pocket could pave the way for similar innovations, as the demand for convenience continues to shape tech trends.
-
Mbank and East & West International Group lead the future of real estate payments with AE Coin
In a groundbreaking move, Al Maryah Community Bank (Mbank), the UAE’s first fully integrated digital bank, has partnered with East & West International Group (EWIG) to introduce AE Coin as a payment solution for real estate transactions. This collaboration signifies a transformative step in the practical application of blockchain technology within the real estate sector, offering buyers and tenants a secure, instant, and cost-effective payment method. AE Coin, the UAE’s first AED-backed stablecoin regulated by the Central Bank of the UAE, is now accessible through the AEC Wallet, powered by Mbank. This initiative underscores EWIG’s leadership in the UAE real estate market by pioneering blockchain-powered payments. The partnership aims to enhance transaction efficiency, transparency, and compliance within a regulated ecosystem. Dr. Hussein Abdelqader Harhara, General Manager of EWIG, emphasized the Group’s commitment to innovation and alignment with the UAE’s vision for a digital economy. Mohammed Wassim Khayata, CEO of Mbank, highlighted the collaboration as a milestone in accelerating blockchain adoption in high-value use cases. Ramez Rafeek, General Manager of AED Stablecoin, noted that this initiative marks the beginning of real-world blockchain adoption in real estate. The AEC Wallet is now available on iOS, Android, and AppGallery, enabling verified users to make instant payments for property transactions, rent, and other real estate services. This integration ensures seamless, real-time settlements within the UAE’s first regulated digital currency framework.
-
Holcim UAE accelerates sustainable construction drive amid market expansion
Holcim UAE, formerly known as Lafarge Emirates Cement, is spearheading a transformative journey in the United Arab Emirates, focusing on sustainability, innovation, and strategic expansion. The recent rebranding aligns with Holcim Group’s global NextGen Growth 2030 strategy and the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 vision. Ali Said, CEO of Holcim UAE, emphasized that the rebranding is a platform to accelerate innovation, deepen partnerships, and advance sustainability in the construction industry. The company is the only fully integrated player in the market, managing the entire value chain from its quarry in Fujairah to job sites in Dubai, enabling significant carbon footprint reduction and the development of advanced low-carbon mixes. Holcim’s flagship products, EcoPlanet and ECOPact, reduce CO₂ emissions by at least 30%, with potential reductions of up to 70% depending on project specifications. The company is also pioneering thermal insulation concrete and exploring 3D concrete printing technology. Holcim’s commitment to sustainable construction is evident in landmark UAE projects such as Al Shera’a – DEWA Headquarters, Zuhha Island, and Etihad Rail. The company plans to expand into Abu Dhabi and Dubai South while enhancing its Fujairah plant to produce near-zero building materials. Holcim UAE is tackling emissions across all scopes, using alternative fuels, waste heat recovery systems, and partnering with Etihad Rail to reduce transport emissions. One of its most ambitious projects is a carbon capture and mineralization initiative with climate-tech firm 44.01, leveraging Fujairah’s ultramafic rock formations to permanently store CO₂. The pilot is underway, with plans to scale significantly by 2030. Holcim sees robust demand for sustainable materials as awareness grows among developers and consultants. The UAE’s visionary leadership and sustainability agenda align perfectly with Holcim’s global roadmap, positioning the company to shape a smarter, more circular, and more sustainable built environment.
-
AFM Holding bets on tech and sustainability for next growth phase
AFM Holding Group, a diversified conglomerate with roots in IT solutions since 2000, is steering its next growth phase with a focus on technology-driven innovation and sustainable expansion. Founder and Chairman Maqsood Mohommad emphasized that technology is the core of AFM’s operations, stating, “Innovation isn’t a department—it’s part of our DNA.” The group has evolved into sectors such as intelligent transportation systems, renewable energy, real estate, and retail, leveraging advanced technologies like AI, automation, blockchain, and clean energy solutions. Mohommad highlighted the importance of investing in people, fostering teams that think creatively and challenge norms to keep AFM agile and future-ready. The year 2025 has been pivotal for AFM, marked by the expansion of its real estate portfolio, scaling of renewable energy ventures under its Geo Power brand, and entry into the retail space with new brands Miruna and Funky Souq. These initiatives are part of the unified strategy branded as One AFM. One Vision. One Plan. The renewable energy arm is accelerating projects aligned with the UAE’s clean energy goals, reinforcing AFM’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Looking ahead, AFM aims to deepen its real estate footprint, accelerate renewable energy investments, and scale digital and retail ventures, creating a connected ecosystem powered by technology. Talent development remains a priority, with investments in leadership that embodies integrity, innovation, and long-term thinking. Mohommad advised aspiring entrepreneurs to start with passion, embrace technology early, and build strong teams, emphasizing that diversification should align with shared values and long-term goals.
-
Jeffrey Epstein asked US ambassador to Turkey to ‘make him smile’ with ‘child’ photo
A trove of emails released by Congress on Wednesday has unveiled disturbing correspondence between convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and Tom Barrack, the current US ambassador to Turkey. In a 2016 email, Epstein instructed Barrack to “send photos of you and child.. – make me smile.” Epstein later responded, “Photos look good,” though the nature of the photos and the identity of the “child” remain unclear. At the time, Barrack was not affiliated with the US government but was deeply involved in Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, orchestrating introductions between Trump and senior UAE officials. Barrack later chaired Trump’s inaugural committee. The emails reveal Epstein’s continued contact with Trump’s inner circle years after Trump claims to have severed ties with him. Epstein, who died in jail in 2019, was first convicted of sexual offenses in 2008. The disclosure also highlights Barrack’s extensive ties to Middle Eastern investors, including UAE sovereign wealth funds, and his role in Trump’s Middle East foreign policy. Additionally, the emails show Epstein’s direct communication with UAE elites, such as Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman of DP World. The revelations underscore Epstein’s connections to powerful figures and raise further questions about his influence and activities.
-
China’s stranded astronauts to return from space station on spacecraft that brought new crew
A trio of Chinese astronauts, who were unexpectedly stranded at the Tiangong space station following a suspected collision with space debris, are set to return to Earth on Friday using the spacecraft that transported their replacement crew, according to state media reports. The astronauts—Chen Dong, Chen Zhongrui, and Wang Jie—had been stationed at the space station since April as part of a six-month mission. Their scheduled return was abruptly halted when their Shenzhou-20 spacecraft was believed to have been struck by a fragment of space debris. Instead, they will now utilize the Shenzhou-21 craft, which arrived at the station on November 1 with a new crew. The China Manned Space Engineering Office confirmed on Tuesday that the astronauts remain in good health and are continuing their work and daily routines without disruption. This incident underscores the challenges posed by space debris, even as China advances its ambitious space program. Since its first manned mission in 2003, China has made significant strides, including the construction of its own space station and plans to land a human on the moon by 2030. Notably, the Shenzhou-21 mission also carried mice for scientific experiments, marking a first for China’s space exploration efforts.
-
YouTube superstar MrBeast opens pop-up park in Saudi Arabia
YouTube sensation MrBeast, renowned for his massive online following exceeding 450 million subscribers, has unveiled a temporary amusement park in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Dubbed ‘Beast Land,’ the pop-up attraction, operational from November 13 to December 27, mirrors the high-energy challenges and competitions featured in his viral videos, offering participants the chance to win substantial cash prizes. This initiative aligns with Riyadh Season, an annual festival aimed at positioning the Saudi capital as a premier tourist destination. MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, emphasized the significance of engaging with his Middle Eastern fanbase, stating, ‘A lot of times when we do stuff, we do it in the West or in other places, and I just really wanted to do something fun for our fans who live around here.’ The park’s entrance, designed as a blue tiger’s head with flashing lightning bolts, pays homage to his iconic logo. With over 75% of Saudi Arabia’s population under 35 and high smartphone and internet penetration rates, the kingdom presents an ideal market for influencers like MrBeast, whose content predominantly appeals to younger audiences. This venture is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its oil-dependent economy by developing leisure and entertainment hubs, such as the ambitious Qiddiya project near Riyadh. Recognized by Time magazine as one of the world’s most influential people in 2023 and boasting a net worth estimated at half a billion dollars by Forbes, MrBeast continues to expand his digital empire while leaving a tangible mark on the global entertainment landscape.
-
Syria ‘does not have a sectarian problem’, says foreign minister
Syria’s Foreign Minister, Asaad al-Shaibani, has asserted that Syria does not face a sectarian problem, emphasizing the government’s commitment to building a pluralistic, election-based state. Speaking at Chatham House in London after meetings with British officials, Shaibani highlighted the need for trust and confidence-building following 13 years of devastating conflict. He envisions a Syria where the state is inclusive and embraced by its people, rather than estranged from them. Responding to concerns about minority rights, Shaibani cited a conversation with a visiting official in Damascus, underscoring Syria’s historical diversity and coexistence. However, the transitional government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, has faced significant challenges since assuming power in December, including internal unrest, Israeli attacks, and strained relations with former allies and adversaries. The recent parliamentary elections, criticized for their lack of inclusivity, bypassed key regions like Sweida and Kurdish-held areas, leaving 32 seats vacant. The government argues that popular elections are unfeasible in the aftermath of the war, which has displaced millions and claimed hundreds of thousands of lives. Despite these hurdles, Shaibani expressed optimism about developing a politically active civil society and establishing a foundation for future participation. Meanwhile, reports of a new political party led by Sharaa and Shaibani have raised concerns about a return to one-party rule. Sectarian violence in regions like Latakia and Sweida has further complicated efforts to reduce tensions, with government forces accused of summarily executing Druze civilians. Shaibani also confirmed ongoing direct negotiations with Israel, aiming for a security agreement and de-escalation, despite Israel’s historical annexation of Syrian territories.