Global Pulse

标签： Asia

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  • LIV Golf at the crossroads: How Koepka, Reed and DeChambeau could shape what happens next

    LIV Golf at the crossroads: How Koepka, Reed and DeChambeau could shape what happens next

    Professional golf stands at a pivotal crossroads as seismic player movements threaten to reshape the competitive landscape. The recent return of Brooks Koepka to the PGA Tour, followed by Patrick Reed’s confirmed departure from LIV Golf, has ignited intense speculation about the Saudi-backed circuit’s long-term viability.

    Koepka’s reinstatement required intricate negotiations, resulting in a customized agreement that bypassed standard protocols. Meanwhile, Reed’s transition unfolds through a different pathway. The 2018 Masters champion has recommitted to the DP World Tour, leveraging his honorary lifetime membership. Currently ranked 29th in the Official World Golf Ranking, Reed has virtually guaranteed his participation in all four Majors while positioning himself for PGA Tour reinstatement in 2027 via the Past Champions category.

    The spotlight now intensifies on Bryson DeChambeau, who represents the most compelling case study in golf’s ongoing power struggle. Publicly committed to LIV Golf through 2026 as captain of Crushers GC, DeChambeau commands unprecedented leverage. Industry insiders suggest his retention cost could approach $500 million—staggering figures that dwarf the estimated $50-85 million Koepka forfeited for his early return.

    DeChambeau’s influence transcends conventional metrics. With a combined social media following exceeding 8.8 million across platforms, he has cultivated a digital empire that generates substantial independent revenue. This global brand presence arguably rivals the institutional reach of both tours themselves, making him perhaps the most powerful individual voice in contemporary golf.

    The underlying tension between tradition and innovation continues to redefine professional golf’s economics. LIV’s Saudi-backed entry forced the PGA Tour to dramatically elevate prize money, while simultaneously creating a player mobility crisis. Current negotiations behind closed doors suggest increasingly flexible regulations as both circuits jockey for competitive advantage.

    This evolving saga represents more than financial maneuvering—it reflects fundamental questions about legacy, career autonomy, and the sport’s future direction. As the February 2 deadline passed without action from DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, or Cam Smith, the golf world awaits the next chapter in this high-stakes transformation.

  • ‘God of War’ TV series: Cast, story details, and what we know so far

    ‘God of War’ TV series: Cast, story details, and what we know so far

    Amazon Prime Video’s ambitious live-action adaptation of the iconic ‘God of War’ video game franchise is rapidly progressing toward production, with significant developments emerging about the highly anticipated series. The streaming giant has committed to a two-season order for the project, which is scheduled to commence filming in Vancouver later this year under the guidance of Emmy-winning director Frederick E.O. Toye.

    The narrative foundation will draw from the critically acclaimed 2018 soft reboot and its 2022 sequel, ‘God of War Ragnarök,’ focusing primarily on the emotionally charged journey of Spartan warrior Kratos and his son Atreus within the harsh landscape of Norse mythology. While casting for Atreus remains undisclosed, the production has assembled an impressive ensemble of established actors to portray key mythological figures.

    Ryan Hurst, recognized for his performances in ‘Sons of Anarchy’ and ‘The Walking Dead,’ transitions from voicing Thor in the games to embodying the lead role of Kratos. The supporting cast features Ólafur Darri Ólafsson as the tormented God of Thunder, Teresa Palmer as Sif, Max Parker as Heimdall, and Mandy Patinkin as the manipulative All-Father Odin. Notably, Alastair Duncan will reprise his game role as Mimir, marking the first actor to portray the same character across both mediums.

    Creative oversight falls to Ronald D. Moore, celebrated for his work on ‘Battlestar Galactica’ and ‘Outlander,’ who serves as showrunner, writer, and executive producer. This adaptation represents Amazon’s continued investment in video game properties, joining successful ventures like ‘Fallout’ alongside upcoming projects including ‘Tomb Raider’ starring Sophie Turner and ‘Life is Strange.’

  • Saudi Arabia suspends 1,800 Umrah travel agencies due to poor performance

    Saudi Arabia suspends 1,800 Umrah travel agencies due to poor performance

    In a significant regulatory move, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has suspended approximately 1,800 international travel agencies from operating in the Umrah pilgrimage sector. The decision, announced on Sunday, February 1, 2026, affects nearly one-third of the 5,800 agencies currently authorized to facilitate pilgrim visits.

    The suspension follows comprehensive performance evaluations that identified substantial deficiencies in service quality and operational standards. Affected agencies have been granted a ten-day grace period to rectify identified shortcomings and demonstrate compliance with approved requirements.

    Ministry spokesperson Ghassan Alnwaimi clarified that the suspension applies exclusively to new visa processing, ensuring no disruption for pilgrims holding valid visas or existing bookings. All services for current visitors will continue without interruption throughout the regulatory process.

    This initiative represents part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to enhance reliability within the Umrah sector through rigorous monitoring and evaluation protocols. The ministry has emphasized its commitment to safeguarding pilgrim rights while maintaining the spiritual journey’s integrity.

    Agencies that successfully address performance issues within the designated timeframe will have their contracts reinstated. Those failing to meet compliance standards by the deadline will face further regulatory action, potentially including permanent revocation of operating privileges.

    The regulatory crackdown reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to modernize pilgrimage management systems while ensuring high-quality service delivery for the millions of Muslims undertaking Umrah journeys annually.

  • Israel bans MSF from Gaza after charity refuses to hand over staff list

    Israel bans MSF from Gaza after charity refuses to hand over staff list

    Israel has revoked the operating privileges of the international medical organization Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), commonly known as Doctors Without Borders, within the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank. This decisive action follows a protracted dispute concerning the charity’s refusal to submit comprehensive staff rosters to Israeli authorities.

    The Israeli Foreign Ministry, in an official statement released on Sunday, characterized MSF’s reluctance as indicative of having ‘something to hide.’ The ministry framed its demand for staff lists as a fundamental issue of transparency and national security, essential for protecting all involved parties. The confrontation escalated through social media channels, with the ministry publicly criticizing the organization’s stance.

    Israeli officials further substantiated their position by alleging connections between two MSF employees and Palestinian militant factions, namely Hamas and Islamic Jihad—claims that MSF has vehemently and categorically denied.

    According to the Israeli Foreign Ministry, MSF had initially committed in early January to providing staff information as a component of a mandatory registration protocol. However, the ministry asserts that the organization subsequently reneged on this commitment, ultimately announcing its withdrawal from the registration process altogether. This reversal, deemed a contradiction to prior agreements, prompted the Israeli directive for MSF to completely cease its humanitarian operations and depart the Gaza Strip by February 28, 2026.

    In a counter-statement published on its website the preceding Friday, MSF presented a contrasting narrative. The medical charity confirmed it had, as an ‘exceptional measure,’ agreed in principle to share names of its Palestinian and international personnel. However, the organization stated it was unable to secure fundamental guarantees from Israeli authorities regarding the safeguarding and permissible use of this highly sensitive data.

    MSF detailed its efforts to engage with Israeli officials to obtain concrete assurances that staff details would be utilized strictly for administrative purposes and would not jeopardize the safety or security of its employees. These efforts, according to MSF, proved futile. Facing a lack of adequate protections, the organization concluded it could not in good conscience share staff information under the prevailing circumstances.

    This internal decision to initially comply had already generated significant controversy within the global medical community. Prominent figures, including world-renowned Palestinian surgeon Dr. Ghassan Abu Sittah, condemned the potential compliance, warning it would further endanger aid workers.

    This expulsion occurs against a backdrop of increasing Israeli restrictions on humanitarian entities operating in Gaza. In December, authorities unveiled intentions to block 37 aid groups from working in the enclave starting March 1, citing similar failures to submit detailed information on Palestinian staff members. Human rights organizations have consistently warned that such measures severely cripple humanitarian access in Gaza, where the healthcare infrastructure lies in ruins from ongoing military operations and the population faces extreme dependence on international aid for survival.

  • Dubai Police take part in Haq Al Laila celebrations with people of determination

    Dubai Police take part in Haq Al Laila celebrations with people of determination

    In a vibrant display of community inclusion, Dubai Police actively participated in the Haq Al Laila festivities organized by the Dubai Club for People of Determination this Saturday. The event, timed to coincide with the approaching mid-Shaaban night observance, created a festive heritage atmosphere emphasizing core Emirati values of tolerance, generosity, and social solidarity.

    The celebration saw significant attendance from community leaders including Thani Juma Berregad, Chairman of the Dubai Club for People of Determination, and Fatima Bohjair, Chairperson of the Positive Spirit Council. Numerous club members and children participated enthusiastically in the activities, receiving gifts and enjoying various entertainment options.

    A highlight of the event featured students from Hemaya Schools for Education performing traditional folk dances, adding cultural richness to the occasion. This participation forms part of the broader Season of Wulfa initiative, which focuses on strengthening social inclusion and empowering people of determination within community settings.

    The initiative specifically aims to promote values of tolerance, giving, and community cohesion by ensuring people of determination can actively engage in cultural and social occasions within fully inclusive environments. This approach reflects Dubai’s ongoing commitment to creating an accessible and welcoming society for all citizens regardless of abilities.

  • Lantern Festival lights bring the Dunhuang grottoes to life

    Lantern Festival lights bring the Dunhuang grottoes to life

    The ancient Buddhist cave art of Dunhuang is experiencing a spectacular revival through modern illumination technology as part of China’s Lantern Festival celebrations. Thousands of intricately designed lanterns are transforming the night sky into a living canvas, creating an immersive experience where historical mural artistry converges with contemporary light installations.

    This extraordinary visual spectacle offers visitors a multisensory journey through time, allowing them to witness how traditional motifs from the UNESCO World Heritage site can be reimagined through modern interpretive techniques. The event represents a innovative approach to cultural preservation, making ancient artistic traditions accessible to contemporary audiences through dramatic nighttime displays.

    China Daily is providing exclusive coverage of this cultural phenomenon, with a scheduled live broadcast set for Monday at 8 pm local time. The program promises to guide viewers through this unique fusion of historical artistry and modern illumination technology, showcasing how traditional Chinese festival customs can serve as a bridge between ancient cultural heritage and contemporary artistic expression.

    The Dunhuang caves, located along the historic Silk Road, contain some of China’s most significant Buddhist art spanning multiple dynasties. This Lantern Festival event represents a continuing effort to make this cultural treasure more engaging to both domestic and international audiences through innovative presentation methods.

  • Khamenei warns of ‘regional war’ if US attacks Iran

    Khamenei warns of ‘regional war’ if US attacks Iran

    Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stark warning on Sunday, declaring that any American military action against Iran would trigger a full-scale regional conflict. This statement comes amid significant US naval deployments to the Persian Gulf region.

    The heightened tensions follow President Donald Trump’s repeated threats of military intervention unless Iran accepts nuclear agreement terms and ceases its suppression of domestic protests. Khamenei, speaking through state media channels, emphasized that while Iran does not seek conflict, it would deliver a ‘strong blow’ against any aggressor.

    Current US naval presence in the region includes six destroyers, one aircraft carrier, and three littoral combat ships—a force characterized by Trump as a ‘massive armada.’ Despite this show of force, Khamenei asserted that such displays would neither intimidate Iran nor sway its political resolve.

    The protests referenced by both nations began in late December amid severe economic pressures including rampant inflation and rising living costs. Iranian authorities have characterized the demonstrations as attempted ‘sedition’ aimed at undermining governmental institutions.

    Casualty figures remain disputed, with official Iranian sources reporting 3,117 deaths while independent monitoring groups verify nearly 6,713 fatalities. This crackdown prompted the European Union to designate Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization, met by reciprocal measures from Iranian lawmakers against European military forces.

    Despite escalating rhetoric, diplomatic channels remain active. Ali Larijani, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, confirmed that negotiation frameworks are progressing, while Trump acknowledged ongoing dialogue without retracting previous threats. Both nations appear to maintain parallel tracks of military posturing and diplomatic engagement.

  • Ekitike, Wirtz give Liverpool sight of bright future in Newcastle win

    Ekitike, Wirtz give Liverpool sight of bright future in Newcastle win

    Anfield witnessed a dramatic resurgence on Saturday as Liverpool overturned an early deficit to secure a commanding 4-1 victory against Newcastle United, marking their first Premier League triumph of 2026. The match, characterized by strategic brilliance and emotional moments, showcased the burgeoning potential of the club’s high-profile signings.

    Newcastle initially seized control, dominating possession and deservedly taking the lead through Anthony Gordon’s first open-play Premier League goal in over a year. The Magpies’ early dominance exposed lingering vulnerabilities in Liverpool’s defense, continuing a concerning trend for manager Arne Slot.

    The game’s momentum shifted decisively just before halftime through French striker Hugo Ekitike’s remarkable two-goal burst within two minutes. The £69 million signing from Eintracht Frankfurt first demonstrated clinical finishing after combining brilliantly with Florian Wirtz, then showcased electrifying pace to latch onto Milos Kerkez’s long ball and fire into the far corner.

    The second half saw German international Florian Wirtz continue his impressive scoring form, netting his sixth goal in ten matches after connecting with Mohamed Salah’s pass. The £100 million acquisition from Bayer Leverkusen has progressively justified his substantial transfer fee after initially struggling to find his scoring touch.

    The emotional climax arrived when Ibrahima Konate, returning from compassionate leave following his father’s passing, capitalized on a goalkeeping error to complete the scoring. The French defender’s tearful celebration provided a poignant moment that resonated throughout the stadium.

    This crucial victory elevates Liverpool to fifth position, virtually guaranteeing Champions League qualification next season due to English clubs’ strong European performances. Meanwhile, Newcastle’s dismal record at Anfield extends to 30 league visits without victory, with Eddie Howe’s side slipping to tenth place and six points adrift of European qualification.

  • Dubai Duty Free posts record January sales of Dh858 million

    Dubai Duty Free posts record January sales of Dh858 million

    Dubai Duty Free has commenced 2026 with unprecedented commercial success, achieving a historic January sales record of Dh858.21 million. This remarkable figure represents an 18.53% surge compared to the same period last year, establishing the strongest January performance in the company’s history and positioning it as the third-highest sales month overall, trailing only December 2025 (Dh922.77 million) and November 2025 (Dh876.56 million).

    The retail phenomenon demonstrated particularly impressive performance on January 31st, which recorded the month’s peak daily revenue of Dh35.6 million. Notably, sales growth significantly outpaced passenger traffic increases at Dubai International Airport by an estimated 13.5%, indicating substantially higher per-passenger spending patterns.

    Category performance analysis reveals extraordinary growth across multiple sectors. Gold emerged as the standout performer with a 45.74% increase generating Dh104 million in revenue. Fashion merchandise followed closely with a 36.68% surge contributing nearly Dh82 million, while electronics experienced parallel growth of 36.61% amounting to Dh65 million. Precious jewellery demonstrated the most dramatic percentage growth at 69.51% with sales reaching Dh28 million.

    Additional strong performers included perfumes (13.61% growth to Dh147 million), confectionery (15.35% increase to Dh80.69 million), cosmetics (7.67% rise to Dh40 million), watches (30.94% climb to Dh33 million), and delicatessen (8.36% growth to Dh27.77 million). Dubai Chocolates particularly shined with sales doubling to Dh36 million from 83 tonnes sold, compared to Dh24 million from 42 tonnes during January 2025.

    Regional market analysis revealed Europe and Russia leading geographical growth with increases of 35% and 36% respectively. Africa followed with robust 29% growth, while the Americas registered 22.5% expansion. The Indian subcontinent, Far East, and Middle East markets posted gains of 11%, 10.5%, and 5.3% respectively.

    Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi commented: ‘We are extremely pleased to begin 2026 with our strongest January performance ever, following a record-breaking 2025. The significant outperformance relative to passenger growth demonstrates higher spend per passenger, strong demand across key categories, and expansion across all major geographical regions.’

    The exceptional start to 2026, characterized by record sales, diversified category growth, and increased passenger expenditure, establishes a profoundly positive trajectory for Dubai Duty Free’s annual performance.

  • ‘Quiet assassin’ Rybakina targets world number one after Melbourne win

    ‘Quiet assassin’ Rybakina targets world number one after Melbourne win

    Elena Rybakina has solidified her status as tennis’s premier ‘quiet assassin’ following a spectacular Australian Open victory that positions her for a potential ascent to world number one. The Moscow-born Kazakh star demonstrated remarkable composure under pressure to dethrone defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in a gripping three-set final (6-4, 4-6, 6-4) that showcased the sport’s most explosive power game.

    The 26-year-old’s Melbourne triumph represents her second Grand Slam title, coming more than three years after her breakthrough Wimbledon victory in 2022. This latest achievement gains additional significance considering Rybakina’s path to the championship included victories over both the world’s top-ranked players—Sabalenka and Poland’s Iga Swiatek, whom she dispatched in straight sets during the quarterfinals.

    Rybakina’s journey to tennis elite status has been marked by significant challenges. Since switching allegiance to Kazakhstan in 2018 for financial support reasons, her career has been periodically hampered by physical ailments including chronic back issues and insomnia. These struggles made her recent 20-win streak from the past 21 matches particularly impressive.

    The final itself represented a dramatic reversal of fortune from the 2023 Australian Open championship, where Sabalenka had rallied from a set down to claim victory. This time, despite the Belarusian establishing a 3-0 advantage in the decisive third set, Rybakina maintained her characteristic composure to stage a remarkable comeback.

    Post-victory, Rybakina revealed the intense psychological pressure she experienced during her previous Grand Slam final appearances, contrasting it with her ability to genuinely enjoy this latest achievement. When questioned about statistical evidence suggesting she has been the world’s best player since mid-2023, the typically reserved athlete appeared almost embarrassed by the recognition.

    With her aggressive serving game and improved mental fortitude, Rybakina now stands poised to challenge for the top ranking position. Her current career-high ranking of world number three seems certain to improve as she carries forward the momentum from what Australian media have dubbed a ‘quiet assassin’ campaign style.