标签: Asia

亚洲

  • Three killed in explosion at mosque in Syria’s Homs, says local official

    Three killed in explosion at mosque in Syria’s Homs, says local official

    A deadly explosion ripped through a mosque in Syria’s Homs province on Friday, resulting in three fatalities and leaving five individuals wounded, according to local authorities. The incident occurred within an Alawite neighborhood, prompting immediate security lockdowns and investigative operations.

    Syrian state media confirmed that security forces swiftly established a perimeter around the blast site as part of standard investigative protocols. While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, preliminary reports from officials suggest two possible scenarios: either a suicide bomber detonated explosives within the mosque, or concealed devices were strategically placed beforehand.

    The timing and location of the explosion carry significant implications, given Homs province’s strategic importance in Syria’s prolonged conflict. The targeting of a religious site in an Alawite community raises concerns about renewed sectarian tensions in the region.

    International observers are monitoring the situation closely, as this attack could represent either an isolated incident or the beginning of a new wave of violence in the relatively stabilized area. The Syrian government has intensified security measures nationwide while investigations continue to determine the precise nature and perpetrators of the attack.

  • Wife of S. Korea’s ex-president Yoon indicted on charge of receiving bribes for influence peddling

    Wife of S. Korea’s ex-president Yoon indicted on charge of receiving bribes for influence peddling

    In an unprecedented development in South Korean political history, Kim Keon-hee, spouse of former impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol, has been formally indicted on corruption charges involving influence peddling and bribery. The special counsel team led by independent investigator Min Joong-ki announced the indictment on Friday, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation into corruption allegations surrounding the former presidential couple.

    The prosecution alleges that Kim engaged in a systematic pattern of accepting luxury items in exchange for political favors during her husband’s presidency. According to the indictment, she received high-value jewelry valued at approximately 103.8 million won ($71,860) from a business executive between March and May 2022. These gifts were allegedly provided in exchange for promising business advantages and securing a government position for the businessman’s son-in-law.

    Additional charges detail that Kim accepted a golden turtle figurine and a reproduction of a famous painting worth 2.65 million won, allegedly in connection with the appointment of a national education commission chief. The indictment further specifies that she received a luxury wristwatch valued at 39.9 million won from another business figure in return for promised commercial favors.

    The special counsel team has recommended a 15-year prison sentence for Kim, who has been detained since August on separate corruption charges including violations of the Capital Markets Act, Political Funds Act, and anti-bribery legislation. The sentencing hearing has been scheduled for January 28 next year, setting the stage for a landmark judicial proceeding.

    This case represents a historic moment as Kim becomes the first wife of a former South Korean president to face trial while in detention, highlighting the ongoing anti-corruption efforts within the country’s political system.

  • NYE 2026 in Dubai: Phased road closures to start from 4pm; list of streets revealed

    NYE 2026 in Dubai: Phased road closures to start from 4pm; list of streets revealed

    Pure Bliss Development, a subsidiary of the prominent Lals Group, has officially announced the successful topping out ceremony for its flagship Bliss Tower project. This significant construction milestone was reached at the prestigious Dubai Land Residence Complex, marking a pivotal moment in the development’s timeline.

    The achievement signals the completion of the tower’s structural framework, paving the way for subsequent interior finishing phases and exterior cladding installations. The ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, project developers, and construction partners who celebrated this noteworthy progress in Dubai’s dynamic real estate landscape.

    Bliss Tower represents a substantial investment in Dubai’s property sector, incorporating contemporary architectural design with premium residential amenities. The development is strategically positioned within the Dubai Land Residence Complex, a master-planned community known for its integrated facilities and strategic location offering connectivity to major city attractions and business districts.

    Industry analysts note that this milestone demonstrates continued confidence in Dubai’s real estate market despite global economic fluctuations. The project’s progression aligns with Dubai’s broader vision of expanding its residential offerings to accommodate the city’s growing population and status as a global business hub.

    Construction timelines remain on schedule with anticipated completion dates expected to meet initial projections. The development is projected to contribute significantly to the available luxury housing inventory in the Dubai market upon finalization.

  • Malaysia’s former PM Najib found guilty on all charges in 1MDB-related case

    Malaysia’s former PM Najib found guilty on all charges in 1MDB-related case

    In a landmark judicial ruling that concludes a seven-year legal battle, Malaysia’s High Court has convicted former Prime Minister Najib Razak on all criminal charges related to the massive 1MDB financial scandal. Justice Collin Lawrence Sequerah delivered the verdict on Friday, finding the former leader guilty of four counts of abuse of power and twenty-one counts of money laundering involving approximately 2.2 billion ringgit ($544.15 million).

    The conviction represents the most significant development to date in the global 1MDB corruption case, which involved the systematic misappropriation of funds from Malaysia’s state development fund. The scandal triggered investigations across multiple continents and led to the collapse of Najib’s government in the 2018 general elections.

    Najib, who is already serving a prison sentence at Kajang Prison for a separate SRC International case connected to the same scandal, now faces additional decades in prison. The SRC International case involved a former subsidiary of 1MDB, where Najib was previously convicted of diverting 42 million ringgit ($10 million).

    The verdict culminates one of the most extensive corruption trials in Malaysian history, featuring hundreds of witnesses and thousands of documents presented as evidence. Prosecutors successfully demonstrated how Najib utilized his position to orchestrate the transfer of state funds into his personal accounts between 2011 and 2014.

    Legal experts describe the ruling as a watershed moment for Malaysia’s judicial system and anti-corruption efforts. The case has been closely watched internationally as a test of Malaysia’s commitment to addressing high-level corruption and upholding the rule of law.

  • Beijing IP court’s move to appoint technicians as investigators pays off

    Beijing IP court’s move to appoint technicians as investigators pays off

    In a groundbreaking judicial innovation, the Beijing Intellectual Property Court has demonstrated remarkable success with its decade-long program incorporating technical specialists as case investigators. The court’s appointment of 306 technically-qualified investigators has fundamentally transformed how complex technology disputes are adjudicated.

    Since establishing its specialized Technical Investigation Office in October 2015, these expert appointments have contributed technical expertise to resolving over 4,500 complex cases. Zhao Ruigang, a standing member of the court’s adjudication committee, revealed that these technical professionals have been instrumental in handling major, complex cases involving cutting-edge technologies.

    ‘The integration of technical expertise has ensured that cases involving national scientific advancements and matters of international competitiveness receive both fair and efficient adjudication,’ Zhao stated during a recent press conference.

    As China’s pioneering specialized IP court, the Beijing institution handles administrative cases spanning patents, trademarks, new plant varieties, and integrated circuit layout designs. The court also adjudicates antitrust administrative disputes involving the State Council and civil litigation concerning pharmaceutical patent linkages.

    The court has developed a structured three-tier participation system for technical investigators: simple consultation, involvement in litigation proceedings, and general consultation. For particularly complex cases involving interdisciplinary technical challenges, the court mandates the participation of at least two technical experts in the clarification process.

    The results have been quantitatively impressive: technical case resolutions surged from 1,430 in 2016 to 4,524 in 2024, while average trial duration decreased by approximately 25%. This enhanced efficiency provides robust judicial support for technological innovation activities nationwide.

    Looking forward, the court will prioritize cases involving integrated circuits and artificial intelligence, leveraging technical investigators’ expertise in patent and computer software copyright disputes. The institution has also committed to strengthening team development and talent cultivation for technology-related cases, further promoting a rule-of-law business environment conducive to technological innovation.

  • Not just fireworks: Dubai Frame to host drone shows for first time to ring in New Year

    Not just fireworks: Dubai Frame to host drone shows for first time to ring in New Year

    Dubai is poised to revolutionize its New Year’s Eve celebrations with an unprecedented integration of technology and traditional fireworks. For the first time in its history, the iconic Dubai Frame will serve as the centerpiece for a dazzling drone light spectacle alongside its customary fireworks display on December 31, 2025.

    Engineer Adel Al Marzooqi, CEO of Dubai Municipality’s Waste and Sewerage Agency, revealed that the Dubai Frame exhibition constitutes just one component of an expansive emirate-wide celebration strategy. The comprehensive plan encompasses fireworks presentations across 40 distinct locations, culminating in an extraordinary total of 48 separate pyrotechnic shows throughout the evening.

    In a significant move toward ensuring family-oriented festivities, municipal authorities have designated all public beaches as exclusive family zones during the New Year’s Eve celebrations. This initiative forms part of an intricate preparedness strategy developed through coordinated efforts between Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, the Roads and Transport Authority, and the Dubai Resilience Centre.

    The multi-faceted safety and comfort program addresses numerous aspects of public welfare including beach management, park operations, recreational facilities, waste management protocols, and public health standards. Enhancing accessibility for family viewing, fourteen public parks will extend operational hours until 1:00 AM, providing secure and comfortable vantage points for celebration spectators.

    This technological advancement in celebration methodology represents Dubai’s continuous innovation in public entertainment while maintaining its commitment to safety and family values, setting a new benchmark for global New Year’s events.

  • Yearender: Diversity, integration drive Macao’s new chapter in 2025

    Yearender: Diversity, integration drive Macao’s new chapter in 2025

    As 2025 concludes, Macao demonstrates remarkable progress in economic revitalization and governance restructuring under its sixth-term SAR government. The iconic Ruins of St. Paul’s bustled with year-end visitors, symbolizing the territory’s tourism recovery. Local businessman Mr. Lei reported a 10-20% sales increase at his traditional pastry shop, reflecting broader economic momentum.

    The political landscape transformed through September’s Legislative Assembly elections, which implemented strengthened “patriots administering Macao” principles via updated electoral laws. The newly formed 33-member legislature features enhanced representation across demographics and professions while maintaining firm patriotic foundations. Macao Polytechnic University’s Yin Yifen notes this assembly will uphold constitutional responsibilities under the Basic Law while advancing the “one country, two systems” framework.

    Economically, the “1+4” diversification strategy propelled substantial growth. Tourism metrics show impressive recovery with 36.49 million visitor arrivals in January-November 2025—a 14.4% year-on-year increase. Hotel occupancy rates climbed 3.9 percentage points, while non-gaming visitor spending grew 3.6%. Emerging sectors flourished as the Chongwa Financial Asset Exchange surpassed 1 trillion patacas in listed bond value, and major expositions like BEYOND Expo 2025 showcased technological advancement.

    Macao’s GDP reached 301.33 billion patacas in the first three quarters, achieving 4.2% real growth. Macao Economic Association president Lao Pun Lap projects full-year growth exceeding 5%, citing stable indicators, sound fiscal operations, and low unemployment.

    National integration accelerated through landmark events including Macao’s inaugural participation in the 15th National Games alongside Guangdong and Hong Kong. Athlete Kuok Kin Hang’s gold medal in karate highlighted this historic collaboration. The territory advanced the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin through new leadership structures, industrial development plans, and the groundbreaking of University of Macao’s Hengqin campus.

    Legislator Lao Chi Ngai confirms Macao’s strengthened role in national development as “one center, one platform, and one base.” Future priorities include aligning Macao’s third Five-Year Plan with China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, ensuring continued high-quality growth and strategic contribution to national development objectives.

  • China launches steps against US defense firms, individuals arming Taiwan region

    China launches steps against US defense firms, individuals arming Taiwan region

    China has formally implemented countermeasures targeting twenty United States defense contractors and ten senior executives for their involvement in supplying military equipment to Taiwan. The sanctions, announced by China’s Foreign Ministry on December 26, 2025, represent a direct response to recent US arms sales to the self-governing island.

    The ministry’s statement clarified that these measures are enacted under China’s Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law, which provides the legal framework for responding to external actions deemed threatening to national sovereignty. A ministry spokesperson emphasized that any attempts to challenge China’s territorial integrity through weapons transfers would encounter determined opposition.

    “Those who participate in arms sales to Taiwan will inevitably face consequences for their actions,” the spokesperson declared, underscoring Beijing’s firm stance on protecting what it considers core national interests.

    The Chinese government further called on Washington to immediately cease military support for Taiwan, warning that such actions destabilize the Taiwan Strait and encourage separatist movements. Beijing reaffirmed its commitment to taking all necessary measures to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial unity, maintaining that Taiwan has been an inseparable part of Chinese territory throughout history.

  • NYE 2026 in Dubai: Sheikh Zayed Road, Burj Khalifa metro station to close; timings revealed

    NYE 2026 in Dubai: Sheikh Zayed Road, Burj Khalifa metro station to close; timings revealed

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has implemented an elaborate traffic management strategy for New Year’s Eve 2026 celebrations centered around Burj Khalifa, featuring phased road closures and enhanced public transportation options. The comprehensive plan aims to ensure safety and accessibility for the anticipated massive gatherings while maintaining urban mobility.

    The operational blueprint initiates progressive road closures starting at 4:00 PM on December 31, 2025, with initial restrictions affecting key arteries including Al Asayel Street, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, and Burj Khalifa Street. Subsequent phases will see Al Sukook Street closing at 8:00 PM, Upper Financial Centre Street at 9:00 PM, and critical segments of Sheikh Zayed Road between Al Maidaan intersection and Commercial Centre roundabout commencing at 11:00 PM.

    Public transportation infrastructure will undergo significant adaptations, with the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station closing to entries from 5:00 PM or earlier if capacity is reached. In a remarkable service expansion, both Red and Green Metro lines will operate continuously for 43 hours from 5:00 AM on December 31 through midnight on January 2, 2026. Similarly, Dubai Tram services will maintain uninterrupted operations for 43 hours from 6:00 AM December 31 until 1:00 AM January 2.

    The RTA has designated alternative parking facilities at Al Wasl Club and Al Alkifaf Parking with complimentary shuttle services to the celebration venue. Early arrivals can utilize over 20,000 parking spaces in Emaar zones including Dubai Mall Parking and Pointview Parking. Strict parking prohibitions will be enforced on major thoroughfares including Al Khail Street, Sheikh Zayed Road, and Oud Metha Street.

    Post-fireworks transportation measures include dedicated shuttle buses to metro stations, taxi stands, and parking facilities. Two primary taxi collection points at Al Wasl Club Parking and Al Kifaf Parking will be accessible via shuttle services. For early departures, complimentary shuttle buses will operate from Swissôtel Al Murooj Dubai between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

    All pedestrian bridges and elevators spanning Dubai Creek will close from 4:00 PM onward to facilitate traffic flow and ensure public safety during the celebrations.

  • Israel attacks Khan Younis by air and sea in latest Gaza ceasefire violations

    Israel attacks Khan Younis by air and sea in latest Gaza ceasefire violations

    Israeli military operations escalated dramatically in southern Gaza on Friday as warplanes conducted intensive aerial bombardments east of Khan Younis. According to Palestinian media reports, the assault included multiple coordinated attack modalities across the region.

    Palestinian news agency Wafa documented sustained artillery shelling and systematic demolition operations throughout eastern Gaza territories. Military observers reported at least four distinct airstrike events targeting Khan Younis districts, accompanied by concentrated helicopter gunship fire and heavy weapons deployment from Israeli armored vehicles encircling the urban center.

    The offensive included large-scale engineering operations that resulted in the destruction of residential structures, with warplanes providing aerial support during demolition activities. Simultaneously, Israeli naval vessels stationed offshore commenced sustained bombardment of Khan Younis coastal areas while helicopter units targeted residential neighborhoods in Rafah.

    This escalation occurs despite an internationally brokered ceasefire agreement that initially took effect in early October. Palestinian health authorities report that Israeli operations have resulted in 406 Palestinian fatalities since the ceasefire implementation through Tuesday, with total casualties reaching 70,942 killed and 171,195 wounded since hostilities began on October 7, 2023.

    Independent demographic research institutions, including Germany’s Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research, suggest the actual death toll may substantially exceed official figures, potentially reaching 100,000 casualties when accounting for thousands missing and presumed buried beneath rubble. Palestinian civil authorities acknowledge severe challenges in maintaining accurate casualty records due to targeted attacks on administrative offices and staff.