Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • US seizes second Chinese-owned, Venezuela-linked oil tanker

    US seizes second Chinese-owned, Venezuela-linked oil tanker

    In a continued escalation of its military campaign targeting Venezuela’s petroleum resources, United States forces have intercepted and seized a seventh oil tanker in the Caribbean Sea. The operation against the Liberian-flagged MV Sagitta occurred Tuesday morning without incident, according to US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).

    This seizure represents the latest development in President Donald Trump’s quarantine initiative against sanctioned vessels transporting Venezuelan oil. The Sagitta, owned and managed by a Chinese company, becomes at least the second Chinese-operated tanker apprehended since the US administration announced its blockade policy last month.

    SOUTHCOM officials defended the action, stating: “The apprehension of another tanker operating in defiance of President Trump’s established quarantine demonstrates our resolve to ensure that the only oil leaving Venezuela will be oil that is coordinated properly and lawfully.”

    The US Department of Justice has previously indicted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on multiple charges including conspiracy to commit narco-terrorism, conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States, and weapons-related violations. Maduro has pleaded not guilty to all charges and declared himself a “prisoner of war.”

    International response to these actions has grown increasingly critical, with regional and world leaders condemning the seizures as acts of piracy. Legal experts contend that the blockade, sanctions, and military operations—which have reportedly resulted in over 120 casualties—violate international law. These operations have included strikes on vessels allegedly transporting drugs, bombing campaigns, invasion attempts, and the attempted kidnapping of President Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

  • Three journalists among 11 killed by Israel in Gaza bombing

    Three journalists among 11 killed by Israel in Gaza bombing

    A deadly Israeli airstrike in central Gaza on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of at least 11 Palestinians, including three journalists on assignment for the Egyptian relief committee. The journalists—identified as Mohammad Salah Qishta, Abdul Raouf Samir Shaat, and Anas Ghanem—were killed when their clearly marked vehicle was struck while they documented conditions at a displacement camp operated by the Egyptian committee.

    A spokesperson for the committee expressed profound shock, stating, ‘They were on a humanitarian mission. Everyone knew the vehicle and that those inside worked for the committee. We were devastated to see it directly targeted.’ A source within the committee described the incident as a ‘dangerous precedent,’ raising grave concerns about the safety of humanitarian operations throughout Gaza.

    The Israeli military confirmed the strike, asserting it targeted individuals allegedly operating a drone on behalf of Hamas. This incident occurred alongside separate artillery and gunfire attacks in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis, which local media reported claimed five more lives, including two children and a woman.

    Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem condemned what he characterized as a significant escalation by Israel since the ceasefire agreement entered its second phase. In a video statement, Qassem accused Israel of attempting to undermine truce efforts and sabotage mediation led by the United States, alongside efforts to establish a new administrative committee. He urgently called on international mediators to intervene effectively to compel Israel to halt these alleged violations.

    According to Gaza’s Government Media Office, Israel has committed approximately 1,300 violations since the ceasefire began on October 10th. These reported breaches include airstrikes, civilian casualties, arrests, home demolitions, and restrictions on aid delivery. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reports that at least 450 Palestinians have been killed since the ceasefire was signed, adding to a devastating toll that has seen over 71,000 killed and 170,000 wounded during the conflict.

  • Israel’s demolition of Unrwa HQ ‘blatant violation of international law’

    Israel’s demolition of Unrwa HQ ‘blatant violation of international law’

    European governments have issued strong condemnations against Israel’s demolition of a United Nations compound in occupied East Jerusalem, characterizing the action as a severe breach of international legal obligations. The raid, led by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, targeted the premises of UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, in Sheikh Jarrah on Tuesday.

    UK Minister for the Middle East and North Africa Hamish Falconer expressed being ‘appalled’ by the demolition, labeling it ‘another attack on the UN’s vital work for Palestinians.’ Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxime Brevot denounced the operation as ‘a flagrant violation of international law and UN immunities,’ while EU Commissioner Hadja Lahbib reaffirmed the EU’s support for the UN and rules-based international order.

    The incident represents an escalation in Israel’s systematic campaign against UNRWA, which serves as the primary humanitarian provider for approximately 5.9 million Palestinian refugees across the region. The agency delivers essential services including education, food distribution, medical care, and fuel supplies, with its potential closure threatening catastrophic consequences for vulnerable populations.

    Ardi Imseis, who represented Palestine before the International Court of Justice, stated the demolition directly contravenes the ICJ’s advisory opinion regarding Israel’s obligations toward UN entities operating in occupied territories. ‘This is but the latest blatant violation of Israel’s obligations both as an occupying power and as a member of the United Nations,’ Imseis told Middle East Eye.

    UNRWA spokesperson Jonathan Fowler described the operation as ‘the latest low’ in an escalating effort to dismantle the agency’s presence, characterizing it as ‘shocking – the absolute, deliberate, unabashed defiance of international law.’ Fowler warned that the Qalandia Training Center, serving 350 vocational students, may be the next target for expropriation.

    The demolition occurs alongside Israel’s ongoing blockade preventing UNRWA from delivering aid to Gaza since March 2025, despite the agency continuing operations with approximately 12,000 staff providing essential services. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has repeatedly warned Israel that its actions violate UN legal protections, with diplomatic correspondence suggesting potential ICJ proceedings regarding alleged breaches of the 1946 Convention on UN Privileges and Immunities.

    Israel’s hostility toward UNRWA stems partially from the agency’s maintenance of refugee status for Palestinians displaced since the 1948 Nakba. Previous Israeli allegations against UNRWA staff were found unsubstantiated by UN reviews and the ICJ, which emphasized the agency’s impartiality and indispensable role in Palestinian relief operations.

  • Pakistan accepts invitation to join Trump’s Board of Peace in support of Gaza peace plan

    Pakistan accepts invitation to join Trump’s Board of Peace in support of Gaza peace plan

    Pakistan has formally accepted an invitation from former US President Donald Trump to participate in a newly proposed international peace initiative focused on resolving the Gaza conflict. The country’s foreign ministry confirmed its participation in the so-called “Board of Peace” on Wednesday, joining several Arab nations in supporting this diplomatic effort.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced the decision through an official statement on social media platform X, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to the Gaza Peace Plan framework established under UN Security Council Resolution 2803. The South Asian nation’s endorsement specifically backs key elements including a permanent ceasefire arrangement, comprehensive humanitarian assistance delivery, reconstruction efforts for the devastated Gaza Strip, and establishing a clear timeline for Palestinian statehood with East Jerusalem as its designated capital.

    The diplomatic coalition continues to expand with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, and Egypt all confirming their participation in the US-proposed peace body. This collective engagement represents a significant multilateral approach to addressing one of the world’s most intractable conflicts, with both regional powers and international players converging on a structured peace process.

    The development marks a notable moment in Middle Eastern diplomacy, particularly given Pakistan’s historical stance on Palestinian self-determination and its strategic relationships throughout the Muslim world. The involvement of multiple Arab states alongside Pakistan suggests a broadening consensus around the proposed framework, though details regarding the board’s operational mechanisms, meeting schedule, and specific mandate remain undisclosed.

  • How an Islamist party is gaining ground in Bangladesh, worrying moderates

    How an Islamist party is gaining ground in Bangladesh, worrying moderates

    In a remarkable political transformation, Bangladesh’s historically marginalized Jamaat-e-Islami party is experiencing unprecedented resurgence ahead of February’s parliamentary elections. The Islamist organization, previously banned from electoral politics for over a decade due to its opposition to Bangladeshi independence and conflicts with the secular constitution, has strategically repositioned itself as a viable alternative to established political forces.

    The party’s rehabilitation follows the youth-led uprising that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, which resulted in approximately 1,400 casualties according to UN estimates. Capitalizing on public disillusionment with traditional parties, Jamaat has emphasized anti-corruption initiatives and welfare programs including medical camps and flood relief operations.

    A December opinion poll by the International Republican Institute revealed Jamaat as Bangladesh’s most ‘liked’ political entity, projecting a highly competitive race with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. This surge in popularity stems from strategic alliances with groups like the Gen-Z National Citizen Party and outreach to minority communities, including the unprecedented nomination of a Hindu candidate.

    Despite public assurances of women’s rights, the party faces scrutiny for fielding no female candidates for 300 parliamentary seats. Party chief Shafiqur Rahman suggests women might gain representation through 50 proportionally allocated seats post-election, but women’s rights activists dismiss these promises as electoral ploys.

    The political shift has raised concerns among religious minorities and moderates, with reports of increased attacks on Hindu and Sufi sites since Hasina’s departure. Minority community leaders express unprecedented fears about their security under potential Islamist governance, though Jamaat officials deny involvement in religious violence and call for investigations.

    Jamaat has formed a broad network of alliances with other Islamist parties, planning to contest 179 seats while distributing 74 to allies. The party employed international agencies to assess voter sentiment and recruited prominent figures including Mir Ahmad bin Quasem, son of an executed Jamaat leader.

    Analysts note the party’s evolution from a ‘stigmatized force’ to a ‘pragmatic contender’ reflects public anger over abuses during Hasina’s administration. While some speculate about potential foreign policy shifts toward Pakistan, party leadership maintains they will pursue balanced international relations rather than leaning toward any particular nation.

  • ‘The US destroyed the Kurdish nation’: Fury and betrayal in northeast Syria

    ‘The US destroyed the Kurdish nation’: Fury and betrayal in northeast Syria

    A wave of cross-border solidarity is sweeping through Kurdish communities as demonstrators gather at the Semalka bridge connecting Iraq and Syria, waving flags and protesting recent military advancements by Damascus. The gatherings represent a unified Kurdish response to a sweeping Syrian government operation that has reclaimed significant territories from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northern Syria.

    This display of unity comes amid a dramatic shift in the region’s power dynamics. Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s administration has announced a four-day ceasefire with Kurdish forces, presenting an ultimatum for their integration into the central state apparatus. This development marks the most substantial redistribution of control since al-Sharaa assumed power in December 2024.

    The geopolitical landscape has transformed considerably since the SDF, previously backed by a US-led coalition, controlled extensive territories across northern and eastern Syria after defeating Islamic State militants. The current withdrawal from predominantly Arab provinces including Raqqa and Deir Ezzor signifies a strategic retreat.

    Washington’s shifting foreign policy priorities under the renewed Trump administration have redirected support toward Damascus, creating palpable anxiety among Kurdish populations. President Trump’s recent comments characterizing Kurdish motivations as primarily financial have further strained relations.

    The ceasefire agreement, brokered by Damascus, offers Kurdish authorities four days to formulate an integration plan for Hasakah province. Syrian forces have pledged non-entry into urban centers including Hasakeh and Qamishli if terms are finalized.

    US Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack declared the SDF’s counter-terrorism role effectively obsolete, asserting Damascus’s readiness to assume security responsibilities. This position was demonstrated practically as Syrian forces took control of the sensitive al-Hol camp housing IS affiliates following Kurdish withdrawals.

    Kurdish civilians express profound mistrust toward both the ceasefire’s stability and American intentions. Many are preparing to relocate to Iraqi Kurdistan, while businesses in border towns like Derik are removing assets amid escalating uncertainty.

    The security situation remains volatile with reported drone strikes and suicide bombings targeting Kurdish-held Qamishli. Kurdish leaders like YPG co-founder Polat Can warn that abandoning Kurdish forces will enable terrorist networks to regenerate, potentially making Syria a renewed terrorism hotspot.

    Can specifically criticized Envoy Barrack for supporting a Syrian government now influenced by former members of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, despite its formal dissolution in January 2025. He maintains that while coalition soldiers retain loyalty to Kurdish partners, policymakers perpetuate colonial-era perspectives on the region.

  • Journalists in Jammu and Kashmir asked to sign pledge vowing to keep peace

    Journalists in Jammu and Kashmir asked to sign pledge vowing to keep peace

    In a significant development for press freedom in the contested region, Jammu and Kashmir police have compelled multiple journalists to sign a formal commitment vowing not to “disturb peace” through their reporting. This move has sparked immediate concerns among media watchdogs and press freedom advocates.

    According to verified reports, at least three journalists received official summons to police stations in Srinagar, the capital of the federally administered territory. While two journalists confirmed receiving these directives, one assistant editor from the respected Indian Express newspaper notably refused to sign the document despite repeated police summons between January 15-19.

    The situation emerges against the backdrop of India’s 2019 revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s constitutional autonomy, which was followed by numerous restrictions in the Muslim-majority region. These developments include established guidelines governing how media outlets cover the ongoing insurgency and related security matters.

    The Press Club of Kashmir confirmed in an official statement that multiple members had received either formal summons or informal advisories from authorities requesting they cease reporting on police investigations into religious institutions’ funding and management structures.

    Kunal Majumder, Asia-Pacific coordinator for the Committee to Protect Journalists, characterized these actions as “part of a pattern of intimidation against the media in Jammu and Kashmir,” emphasizing that using police powers to summon journalists over legitimate reporting represents a concerning trend for democratic principles.

    The Srinagar police spokesperson has not yet responded to requests for commentary regarding these developments. Meanwhile, the Indian Express has publicly affirmed its commitment to “uphold and protect the rights and dignity of its journalists” in response to these pressures.

  • Middle Eastern leaders including Netanyahu and Sisi line up to join Trump ‘Board of Peace’

    Middle Eastern leaders including Netanyahu and Sisi line up to join Trump ‘Board of Peace’

    A significant diplomatic schism is forming within the international community regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s newly proposed ‘Board of Peace’ initiative. While several Middle Eastern and regional powers have confirmed participation, key European nations are expressing reservations or outright refusing to join the controversial body.

    Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan both confirmed their nations’ involvement on Wednesday, with Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan representing the country at Thursday’s signing ceremony during the World Economic Forum in Davos. This follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s earlier acceptance of membership.

    The initiative, which would feature Trump as lifetime chairman, requires a $1 billion fee from participating nations for permanent membership, though Turkish officials confirmed the first three years would be fee-exempt. Approximately 50 countries have received invitations, with about 35 reportedly agreeing to join according to sources close to Trump.

    Notable participants include Hungary, United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, Bahrain, Armenia, Morocco, Argentina, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Belarus. Egypt’s foreign ministry stated its agreement came “after completing the relevant legal and constitutional procedures,” while expressing appreciation for “Trump’s leadership and his commitment to ending the war in Gaza.”

    However, the initiative faces substantial opposition from European powers. France declared it could not give a “favourable response” at this stage, while Norway outright refused participation, citing the board “raises a certain number of questions.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated he “does not imagine” participating alongside Russia, calling it inconceivable given ongoing conflicts.

    The United Kingdom expressed apprehension about Russia’s potential involvement, noting concern over inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin who “has proven time and again that he is not seriously committed to peace.” Germany confirmed Chancellor Friedrich Merz would not attend the signing ceremony, departing Davos prior to the event.

    The diplomatic tensions coincide with ongoing strains between Europe and the U.S. regarding Trump’s repeated threats to annex Greenland, though he stated at Davos he would not use force in pursuing negotiations for its acquisition.

  • Watch: Animal lovers save ‘malnourished’ dog stranded on ten-lane Abu Dhabi highway

    Watch: Animal lovers save ‘malnourished’ dog stranded on ten-lane Abu Dhabi highway

    In a remarkable display of community solidarity, animal welfare advocates successfully rescued an severely malnourished Saluki dog stranded on a perilous ten-lane highway in Abu Dhabi’s Al Shawamekh area. The rescue operation, which unfolded on Tuesday afternoon, involved multiple volunteers coordinating efforts to save the endangered canine from traffic moving at speeds exceeding 140km/h.

    The dog, subsequently named Shamekh (Arabic for ‘one who stands tall with dignity, pride, and resilience’), was discovered in critical condition. Veterinary examination revealed severe malnutrition with a body weight of just 15.7kg, anemia, tick fever, ear infections, and visible scars indicating possible trauma. The absence of a microchip suggests the animal had been abandoned.

    Rawan Ghunaim, founder of rescue organization House of Hounds (HOH), spearheaded the coordinated response after being alerted by fellow rescuer Majeda Al Hosani, who initially spotted the dog during her commute. Al Hosani maintained vigil for over two hours to ensure the dog’s safety until experienced Saluki handler Hamad Al Ghanem arrived to execute the actual rescue. The operation was captured on video showing Al Ghanem calmly approaching and comforting the frightened animal before transporting him to the British Veterinary Clinic in Abu Dhabi.

    This incident highlights a disturbing trend in the UAE regarding the treatment of Salukis, a breed traditionally valued as hunting companions and family members. According to Ghunaim, who rescues two to three Salukis daily, many are now abandoned on highways, deserts, or near farms when they’re no longer deemed useful for racing or beauty contests. This represents a significant cultural shift from historical practices where these dogs were respected and integrated into family life.

    Despite their calm, low-maintenance nature often compared to cats, Salukis face adoption challenges within the UAE. Many rescued dogs consequently find homes in Europe through HOH’s international adoption program. The organization, registered as a non-profit in Europe and the United States, facilitates these transfers to families more familiar with the breed’s characteristics.

    Shamekh remains under veterinary care while awaiting eventual placement in a suitable permanent home, representing both a successful rescue story and a sobering reminder of ongoing animal welfare challenges in the region.

  • Syria: Bashar al-Assad’s uncle dies aged 88, say two sources

    Syria: Bashar al-Assad’s uncle dies aged 88, say two sources

    Rifaat al-Assad, the controversial uncle of ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad whose brutal suppression of a 1982 uprising earned him the epithet “butcher of Hama,” has died at age 88, according to multiple sources confirmed on Wednesday.

    The former military officer played a pivotal role in helping his brother Hafez al-Assad seize power through a 1970 coup that established decades of authoritarian rule in Syria. Despite spending most of his life in exile, primarily in France, Rifaat consistently maintained presidential ambitions that would repeatedly clash with the political dynasty he helped create.

    His relationship with the Syrian leadership remained complex and fraught with tension. When Hafez al-Assad died in 2000, Rifaat openly challenged the succession plan that transferred power to his nephew Bashar, declaring himself the legitimate heir in a ultimately unsuccessful bid for control.

    The exiled figure reemerged during Syria’s 2011 uprising, publicly urging his nephew to step down to prevent civil war while simultaneously deflecting blame from Bashar himself, attributing the rebellion to accumulated governance errors rather than personal leadership failures.

    In a remarkable turn of events, Bashar al-Assad facilitated his uncle’s return to Syria in 2021, effectively rescuing him from French legal troubles where he had been convicted for acquiring millions in property using misappropriated Syrian state funds. This familial reconciliation proved short-lived when Rifaat was forced to flee again in 2024 following his nephew’s ouster from power.

    His final escape attempt involved a rejected entry request at a Russian airbase before ultimately crossing into Lebanon via unconventional means—reportedly carried across a river on the back of a close associate according to sources with direct knowledge of the incident.