Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Kolkata fire tragedy: Wow! Momo manager, deputy arrested; Modi announces compensation

    Kolkata fire tragedy: Wow! Momo manager, deputy arrested; Modi announces compensation

    In the aftermath of a devastating warehouse fire in Kolkata’s Anandpur area on January 26, 2026, significant developments have emerged regarding accountability and victim compensation. The blaze, which originated in a neighboring facility around 3 AM before spreading to Wow! Momo’s storage premises, resulted in multiple fatalities and numerous missing persons reports.

    Law enforcement authorities have intensified their investigation with the arrests of two additional suspects connected to the incident. Baruipur Police confirmed the detention of Manoranjan Sheet, the company manager, and Raja Chakraborty, the deputy manager. These apprehensions follow the earlier arrest of Gangadhar Das, owner of the adjacent Pushpanjali Decorators warehouse, who faces charges of criminal negligence resulting in death.

    The human toll has prompted substantial response from both governmental and corporate entities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced immediate financial assistance through the PM National Relief Fund, allocating ₹200,000 to families of deceased victims and ₹50,000 for injured individuals. The Prime Minister’s Office expressed profound sorrow regarding the incident, extending condolences to affected families.

    Wow! Momo has instituted an extensive support program for victims’ families, surpassing statutory requirements. The company has committed to providing ₹1 million lump-sum compensation per family, guaranteed lifetime monthly salary continuation, and comprehensive educational support for children who lost parents in the tragedy. Company representatives have personally met with all affected families to ensure transparent communication regarding these commitments.

    Forensic investigation continues with 21 DNA samples submitted for profiling, while police have registered 27 official missing persons reports related to the incident. The exact death toll remains unconfirmed as recovery and identification efforts persist.

    The restaurant chain’s official statement conveyed profound emotional impact, noting the fire “engulfed not only our men but our spirit too,” while pledging full cooperation with ongoing governmental investigations into the catastrophe’s causes.

  • ‘Unbelievable tragedy’: UAE’s business community mourns loss of Dr CJ Roy

    ‘Unbelievable tragedy’: UAE’s business community mourns loss of Dr CJ Roy

    The business communities of the United Arab Emirates and India have been plunged into mourning following the sudden and tragic death of renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist Dr. CJ Roy. The prominent figure, who served as founder and chairman of Confident Group, passed away during an income tax raid at his office premises in India on Friday, January 30, 2026.

    According to reports from Indian media and confirmed by family friends, the multimillionaire’s death is being investigated as a possible suicide after a gunshot was heard from his office room. The circumstances surrounding the incident have sent shockwaves through business circles in both nations where Dr. Roy maintained significant operations and personal relationships.

    Close associates remembered the businessman as an extraordinarily generous individual deeply committed to both his family and community. Dubai restaurateur Shaijil Hussain, a long-time friend, expressed profound disbelief upon hearing the news. “I didn’t believe it initially,” Hussain told Khaleej Times. “I immediately went to his house in Emirates Hills. That is when I realized the tragic news was true.”

    Hussain described his final interactions with Dr. Roy, noting that just last week they had discussed a potential restaurant venture in Bangalore. “He sounded very positive about the project and insisted I do it in one of his buildings,” Hussain recalled. “That is how he was—always ready to help anyone.”

    The businessman’s philanthropic legacy was highlighted by Nizar Thalangara, President of the Indian Association Sharjah, who noted Dr. Roy’s role as main sponsor for KMCC UAE’s project providing free heart surgeries to 100 underprivileged people in Kerala. “He was someone who was the source of livelihood for tens of thousands of people and a beacon of hope for an entire generation,” Thalangara stated.

    Personal friends emphasized Dr. Roy’s devotion to his family. Faizal Malabar, who became close with the entrepreneur over the past year, described him as “someone with a very generous heart” who was “always ready to help those close to him.” Paul, a Dubai-based architect who designed Dr. Roy’s Emirates Hills residence, characterized the death as “truly an unbelievable tragedy,” noting the close personal relationship he had developed with the businessman and his family during the project.

    As investigations continue into the precise circumstances surrounding Dr. Roy’s death, the business communities of both UAE and India are grappling with the loss of a figure described by associates as both a successful entrepreneur and compassionate humanitarian.

  • Iranian armed forces on high alert, warns Tehran

    Iranian armed forces on high alert, warns Tehran

    Iran’s military leadership has issued a stern warning to the United States and Israel against potential military action, declaring its armed forces at maximum alert status following significant US military deployments in the Persian Gulf region.

    Defense Minister Amir Hatami stated through the official IRNA news agency that any hostile move by adversaries would jeopardize regional security and specifically endanger Israel’s stability. He emphasized Iran’s complete defensive preparedness, noting that any miscalculation by opponents would have severe consequences.

    The escalating tensions coincide with substantial US military reinforcements in the Middle East, including the strategic positioning of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier battle group. President Donald Trump previously characterized this deployment as a ‘massive armada’ approaching Iranian territory, simultaneously indicating that diplomatic opportunities were diminishing.

    The current crisis stems from nearly a month of escalating rhetoric from the Trump administration, which has considered military options following Iran’s suppression of widespread protests. The demonstrations, initially triggered by economic hardships including rampant inflation, resulted in significant casualties according to various reports.

    Middle East Eye reported earlier this week that Washington contemplated precision strikes against Iranian officials allegedly responsible for protester deaths during recent civil unrest. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian countered these allegations, accusing Western powers and Israel of exploiting domestic economic challenges to destabilize the nation.

    Casualty figures from the unrest vary considerably, with HRANA documenting over 6,500 fatalities while Iranian officials acknowledge approximately 3,100 deaths, including numerous security personnel.

    Regional powers including Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia have intensified diplomatic initiatives to prevent military confrontation. Meanwhile, the fundamental disagreement persists regarding Iran’s ballistic missile program, which Washington demands be curtailed as a precondition for negotiations—a condition Tehran consistently rejects.

    Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, speaking from Turkey, unequivocally stated that Iran’s defense capabilities remain non-negotiable while expressing openness to equitable diplomatic discussions. Despite these declarations, no formal communication channels between the two nations have been established regarding potential dialogue frameworks.

  • Look: Rare, throwback photos of Benazir Bhutto, Dubai Ruler shows strong UAE-Pakistan ties

    Look: Rare, throwback photos of Benazir Bhutto, Dubai Ruler shows strong UAE-Pakistan ties

    A collection of rare archival photographs has surfaced, offering a visual testament to the enduring diplomatic relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Pakistan. The images, shared by Bakhtawar Bhutto Zardari, daughter of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, reveal intimate moments between the nations’ leadership across generations.

    The photographs capture Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, engaging with the Bhutto family during their childhood years. One particularly poignant image shows Sheikh Mohammed attentively listening to Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, now Pakistan’s First Lady, and her siblings during a meeting with their mother Benazir Bhutto. Remarkably, the Dubai Ruler’s demeanor exhibits the same ‘kindness, love and humility’ that characterizes his contemporary interactions, according to Bakhtawar’s commentary.

    This visual history traces back to the 1970s when the UAE’s Founding Father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan established brotherly ties with Pakistan’s former president Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. These foundational relationships have created an enduring partnership that has weathered regional challenges and geopolitical shifts.

    The historical connection extends beyond political leadership. Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President and Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, appears in the photographs, representing the continuity of diplomatic engagement since the Emirates’ formation.

    The relationship is further symbolized by recent interactions where Sheikh Mohammed referred to Aseefa Bhutto Zardari as a ‘daughter of Dubai,’ during Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari’s official visit to the UAE last week. The current generation of leaders, including Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, continue to strengthen these cross-generational bonds.

    The nations’ interconnected history is both deep and practical. Pakistan was among the first countries to recognize the UAE’s formation, and over 1.7 million Pakistanis now reside in the Emirates. The relationship includes significant infrastructure contributions, most notably Pakistan International Airlines’ instrumental role in launching Emirates airline in 1985. The inaugural flights from Dubai to Karachi and Mumbai utilized aircraft wet-leased from PIA, with Pakistani pilot Fazle Ghani Mian not only commanding the flights but also training the first generation of UAE national pilots.

  • Gold, silver prices plunge in Dubai; investors sell in panic

    Gold, silver prices plunge in Dubai; investors sell in panic

    Dubai’s gold market experienced unprecedented volatility on Saturday, January 31st, 2026, as prices collapsed dramatically from recent record highs, triggering widespread panic selling among investors. The precious metal plummeted to Dh589.5 per gram for 24K gold, representing a staggering decline of Dh76.5 from Thursday’s peak of Dh666 per gram.

    The sharp correction followed global trends where spot gold prices retreated from over $5,500 per ounce to $4,893.2, marking a significant pullback after weeks of sustained gains. Market analysts attributed the sudden downturn to profit-taking activities and a strengthened US dollar following the appointment of a new Federal Reserve Chair.

    All gold variants witnessed substantial declines, with 22K, 21K, 18K and 14K trading at Dh545.75, Dh523.25, Dh448.5 and Dh349.75 per gram respectively. The sell-off extended beyond gold, with silver experiencing an even more dramatic collapse of 34 percent, equivalent to $40 per ounce.

    The Dubai Gold Market saw extraordinary scenes as long queues formed of investors seeking to liquidate their holdings amid the precipitous price drops. This panic selling reflected market nervousness following the abrupt reversal of the sustained bull run in precious metals.

    Market experts offered contrasting perspectives on the developments. Aaron Hill, Chief Market Analyst at FP Markets, suggested this remains a buyer’s market where price dips would likely continue to attract investment, particularly if gold retests the $5,000 psychological barrier.

    Conversely, Alex Kuptsikevich, Chief Market Analyst at FxPro, interpreted the dramatic events as signaling a market peak. He noted that Thursday and Friday’s cumulative 10 percent decline from peak levels, while keeping prices near the week’s opening levels, represented a synchronous sell-off across all metals that typically follows moments of market extreme.

    The volatility underscores the fragile nature of commodity markets and demonstrates how quickly sentiment can shift even amid strong fundamental trends, leaving investors reassessing their positions in precious metals.

  • Emergency Management Minister Wang Xiangxi under investigation

    Emergency Management Minister Wang Xiangxi under investigation

    China’s top anti-graft authorities have launched a formal investigation into Wang Xiangxi, the sitting Minister of Emergency Management, for suspected serious violations of disciplinary and legal standards. The probe is being conducted jointly by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) and the National Supervisory Commission, the country’s highest anti-corruption bodies.

    Wang, 61, has held his ministerial position since September 2022 after being appointed Party Secretary of the ministry in July of the same year. His career spans decades in both the coal industry and government service. A native of Xiantao in Hubei province, Wang began his professional journey after graduating from the Jiaozuo Mining Institute in Henan province, rising through the ranks of the coal sector before transitioning to government leadership roles.

    Prior to his emergency management appointment, Wang served as a member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party of China Hubei Provincial Committee and Secretary of the Political and Legal Affairs Commission in 2017. The investigation comes as part of President Xi Jinping’s ongoing anti-corruption campaign that has targeted officials at all levels of government and state-owned enterprises.

    The Ministry of Emergency Management, established in 2018, holds crucial responsibilities including disaster response, industrial safety oversight, and earthquake administration. Wang’s investigation marks one of the highest-profile corruption cases involving a sitting cabinet minister in recent years, reflecting the continued intensity of China’s anti-graft efforts.

  • Connection by the sea: A Valentine’s escape at Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah

    Connection by the sea: A Valentine’s escape at Rixos Al Mairid Ras Al Khaimah

    Ras Al Khaimah’s shoreline sets the stage for an intimate Valentine’s celebration as Rixos Al Mairid resort announces specially curated romantic experiences available from February 13th to 15th, 2026. The luxury destination offers couples an opportunity to escape routine and reconnect through premium accommodations and bespoke dining experiences amidst stunning beachfront surroundings.

    The resort’s most exclusive offering, the Two-Bedroom Premium Villa with Private Pool and beach access, provides complete seclusion just steps from the water’s edge. Priced from AED 7,800, this ultimate romantic package includes customized villa decorations, a chilled bottle of premium champagne, and an Instagram-worthy floating breakfast served in the privacy of one’s pool. The villa experience combines homely comfort with five-star service, creating a personal seaside sanctuary.

    For those preferring traditional accommodations, the resort offers Valentine’s room packages starting from AED 1,780, featuring intimate decorations and inclusive access to all resort facilities. Both villa and room guests can enhance their experience with two distinctive dining options.

    The Destination Dinner on the Beach presents a cinematic private dining experience with tables set directly on the sand, soft lighting, customized menus, and the natural symphony of waves. Starting at AED 3,000 per couple, this includes specialty beverages. Alternatively, SOL Seafood Grill & Bar provides an elegant restaurant setting with refined seafood cuisine and sunset views, with packages beginning at AED 2,000 per couple including beverages.

    Beyond accommodations and dining, the resort offers complementary experiences including spa treatments, beach walks, and live entertainment, creating a comprehensive romantic getaway. The extended date range from February 13th to 15th allows couples to customize their celebration as either a focused romantic evening or an extended weekend escape.

    Reservations and detailed information are available through direct contact with the resort via email at reservations.rixosmairid@accor.com or telephone at +971 7 228 8844.

  • Overseas-Chinese group tours Xinjiang as special guests

    Overseas-Chinese group tours Xinjiang as special guests

    A delegation of five prominent overseas Chinese representatives from four Central Asian nations concluded a significant observation tour of China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region as specially invited guests during the region’s annual political advisory session. The delegation, comprising business leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, engaged in comprehensive meetings while touring key development sites including exhibition centers, winter sports facilities, and industrial enterprises across Urumqi and Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture.

    The visit provided first-hand insight into Xinjiang’s rapid economic transformation and infrastructure advancement, particularly highlighting the region’s strategic integration within China’s Belt and Road Initiative framework. MaNate Yibulayin, Deputy Director of the Kyrgyzstan Chinese Assist Center and Chairman of MINT Investment Co, emphasized the tangible benefits observed, noting: ‘Xinjiang’s deepening participation in BRI has generated substantial operational efficiencies for enterprises. The implementation of same-day customs clearance procedures at Kashgar and Tacheng prefecture ports has dramatically accelerated our goods turnover rates.’

    As head of a thriving trade logistics enterprise with expanding operations in Kashgar, Yibulayin attested to Xinjiang’s accelerating economic openness. His company has experienced consistent business volume growth and steadily expanding trade scales throughout the region. The delegation’s presence coincided with the fourth session of the 13th Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference of Xinjiang, which convened from Monday through Friday, providing a platform for cross-border dialogue and mutual development planning.

    Yibulayin further committed to enhancing support mechanisms for Chinese enterprises expanding globally, stating: ‘As BRI advancements continue, we will strengthen our consultation services and operational guidance through the China-assistance Center to facilitate successful overseas expansion for Chinese companies.’ The visit underscored growing transnational economic cooperation and reinforced the critical role overseas Chinese communities play in fostering international partnerships through China’s flagship connectivity project.

  • The currency crisis behind Iran’s protest explosion

    The currency crisis behind Iran’s protest explosion

    A catastrophic currency collapse has plunged Iran into its most severe domestic crisis since the 1979 revolution, triggering nationwide protests and drawing international condemnation. In early January 2026, the Iranian rial’s value plummeted so dramatically that major currency tracking systems briefly displayed it as worthless ($0.00), rendering it untradeable on global platforms. This economic freefall sparked initial demonstrations in Tehran’s historic bazaar district that rapidly escalated into countrywide unrest.

    Unlike previous protest movements, this uprising originated within Iran’s merchant class—traditionally government supporters—who framed their rebellion as a “battle for survival” against deteriorating economic conditions. The decentralized protests drew participation from students, labor groups, and minority communities without centralized leadership, making them both pervasive and difficult to suppress.

    Official government estimates acknowledge over 3,000 fatalities, though independent sources suggest the death toll may reach 30,000. On January 23, 2026, the UN Human Rights Council launched an urgent investigation into what it termed a “brutal crackdown” on demonstrators.

    The crisis stems from decades of economic mismanagement exacerbated by comprehensive international sanctions. In 2025, Iran faced perfect storm conditions: energy shortages, Israeli attacks on infrastructure, extreme drought creating “water bankruptcy,” and the restoration of UN sanctions after European powers activated the JCPOA’s trigger mechanism. Executive Order 13902, expanded throughout 2025, systematically targeted Iran’s oil, shipping, and financial networks, while American authorities disrupted billions in “shadow banking” operations across China, Hong Kong, and UAE.

    Despite exporting more oil, Iran’s reliance on intermediaries and steep discounts minimized profits. As hard currency access diminished, the rial lost approximately 50% of its value in eleven months. The government’s attempts to stabilize through money printing created hyperinflation, with food prices soaring past 70% after implementing a three-tier gasoline pricing system.

    The currency collapse mirrors Venezuela’s economic trajectory, where years of sanctions and poor policies led to hyperinflation and eventual dollarization. Similarly, Iran’s managed exchange rate system became largely symbolic as black market rates became the actual benchmark.

    International responses have intensified the crisis. The US announced new sanctions and threatened military action, with President Trump warning on Truth Social: “Time is running out, it is truly of the essence!” Western nations and regional adversaries have allegedly exploited the unrest, with Israel’s Mossad claiming operational presence and reportedly smuggling Starlink terminals to bypass government censorship.

    Iranian authorities accuse external forces—particularly the US, Israel, and exiled opposition group MEK—of orchestrating the unrest. The MEK, removed from the US terrorism list in 2012, has gained renewed Western support with thousands of European lawmakers and US Congress members endorsing its political umbrella organization as a government alternative.

    Despite the scale of protests, Iran’s security apparatus remains entrenched, though the economic costs of suppression are unsustainable long-term. The crisis has forced Tehran to focus inward, potentially limiting its regional proxy activities and nuclear ambitions temporarily. However, the situation remains volatile with potential for further escalation as economic pressures continue to mount.

  • Starmer invites Japan PM to UK after Tokyo talks

    Starmer invites Japan PM to UK after Tokyo talks

    British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer concluded his East Asian diplomatic tour with significant talks in Tokyo, extending a formal invitation to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for a UK visit. The meeting, described by Starmer as reflecting the strongest bilateral relationship in decades, focused on reinforcing shared democratic values and expanding cooperation in defense and trade.

    The discussions at the Prime Minister’s Office addressed growing global instability, with both leaders emphasizing the necessity of responding with strength and clarity. Starmer specifically acknowledged Japan’s steadfast support for Ukraine amidst ongoing conflicts. The dialogue also covered plans to enhance security collaboration, including the trilateral Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) with Italy and joint military exercises across the Indo-Pacific region.

    Trade relations formed another critical pillar of the talks, with both nations committing to improve supply chain resilience in strategic sectors like critical minerals. Starmer highlighted the mutual interest in maintaining free and predictable trade frameworks between the world’s sixth and fourth largest economies.

    The timing of the visit carries significant political implications, occurring just days before Japan’s snap elections on February 8. Political analysts note the meeting provides Takaichi’s Liberal Democrat party with valuable diplomatic visibility during the campaign period. The Tokyo stopover follows Starmer’s four-day China visit that yielded tangible outcomes including tariff reductions on whisky, visa-free travel agreements, and £2.2 billion in export deals.

    Regional security concerns formed an undercurrent to the discussions, particularly following Takaichi’s recent comments regarding potential Japanese involvement in China-Taiwan conflicts that drew sharp criticism from Beijing. Both leaders avoided explicit mention of these tensions during their public appearances, instead emphasizing their shared commitment to regional stability through strengthened defense partnerships.

    The successful diplomatic mission marks Britain’s continued reengagement with East Asian powers, balancing economic opportunities with China against security partnerships with regional allies like Japan.