Global Pulse

标签： Asia

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  • Surprise fireworks, sunset yoga: Dubai residents stretch together on final day of 30×30

    Surprise fireworks, sunset yoga: Dubai residents stretch together on final day of 30×30

    Dubai’s month-long 30×30 Fitness Challenge culminated in a breathtaking spectacle on Sunday evening as thousands of residents gathered at Zabeel Park for an unprecedented mass sunset yoga session. The event, which transformed the park into a vast open-air wellness arena, attracted participants spanning all ages and fitness backgrounds just as daylight began to fade.

    The historic finale featured a surprise fireworks display that illuminated the sky immediately following the yoga practice, creating a memorable conclusion to the ninth edition of Dubai’s flagship fitness initiative. Families, beginners, seasoned practitioners, and curious first-timers moved in synchronized harmony, stretching and breathing together in one of the largest organized yoga gatherings the city has ever witnessed.

    Leading one of the evening’s most anticipated sessions was Yash Moradiya, a 24-year-old yoga instructor holding ten Guinness World Records with over 818,000 followers. Moradiya, who began his practice at age seven in a traditional Indian Gurukul, credited Dubai’s fitness-oriented community for inspiring his extraordinary achievements, including breaking the scorpion pose record from four minutes to twenty-nine minutes.

    The event demonstrated yoga’s cross-generational appeal in Dubai, with participants ranging from ten-year-old Salma Fatima who practices yoga at school, to long-term residents like Easel Lazarte who rediscovered their practice through the event. The gathering even drew dedicated participants like South Korean expat Ji Young, who attended despite having an international flight scheduled for the same evening.

    Al Reem Al Redha, Manager at Dubai Fitness Challenge, emphasized the event’s significance in promoting accessible wellness culture across the emirate. “We’re very proud that Dubai can host events at this scale and bring together different demographics and ages,” she stated, noting that all activities were designed to be fully inclusive for people of determination. The sunset yoga session represented a major new addition to Dubai’s fitness strategy, specifically created to cater to the entire city’s wellness aspirations while solidifying fitness as an integral part of Dubai’s urban identity.

  • Amorim credits United’s attention to details for win at Palace

    Amorim credits United’s attention to details for win at Palace

    In a dramatic Premier League turnaround, Manchester United secured a crucial 2-1 comeback victory against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, ending the host’s formidable nine-month unbeaten home streak. Manager Ruben Amorim attributed the triumph to his team’s enhanced tactical discipline and intensified second-half performance.

    The breakthrough came through substitutes Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount, whose second-half strikes propelled United to sixth position in the league table. This victory marked only United’s second away win in their last twelve attempts, achieved at one of England’s most challenging venues where Palace hadn’t suffered a league defeat since February.

    Amorim emphasized the significance of minute details in securing the three points. ‘The certainty on the pass, the movements, we work on that in a different pace,’ he explained. ‘Today proved that if you increase how we fight for every ball and improve the small details, we can beat anyone.’

    The Portuguese manager acknowledged his team’s sluggish first-half performance but praised their transformed intensity after the interval. ‘We sensed Palace’s fatigue in the final fifteen minutes of the first half and exploited it mercilessly after the break. The rhythm and quality of our connections, particularly with Zirkzee, changed completely.’

    Zirkzee’s contribution proved particularly meaningful as the striker netted his first league goal in nearly a year, filling the void left by injured Matheus Cunha. Amorim highlighted the psychological importance of the goal for both player and team: ‘For a striker to score is vital, but his overall response in the second half mattered more than just the goal. Those small details—winning first balls to secure second balls—define our game.’

    The victory provides crucial momentum for United following their disappointing loss to 10-man Everton earlier in the week, offering fans hope of a sustained resurgence under Amorim’s leadership.

  • Pope Leo XIV arrives in Lebanon with message of peace for crisis-hit country

    Pope Leo XIV arrives in Lebanon with message of peace for crisis-hit country

    Pope Leo XIV commenced his inaugural international journey as pontiff with a significant diplomatic mission to Lebanon on Sunday, November 30, 2025. The spiritual leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics arrived in Beirut amid elaborate ceremonial welcomes, including a 21-gun salute, military aircraft escorts, and enthusiastic crowds lining the route from the airport.

    The pontiff’s visit carries profound symbolic weight for Lebanon, a nation grappling with multiple overlapping crises including economic collapse, the aftermath of the 2020 port explosion, and lingering tensions from recent hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel. President Joseph Aoun, the Arab world’s sole Christian head of state, personally welcomed the Pope alongside other high-ranking officials.

    In statements to journalists during his flight, Pope Leo XIV emphasized that his two-nation tour—which began in Turkey—centered on being “a messenger of peace” dedicated to promoting regional stability. His arrival sparked remarkable displays of interfaith solidarity, with both Christian and Muslim citizens expressing enthusiasm for his visit. Zahra Nahleh, a 19-year-old from Lebanon’s conflict-affected southern regions, articulated the shared sentiment: “The pope is not just for Christians but for Muslims too.”

    The visit presented a distinctive diplomatic challenge for the first American pope, whose restrained leadership style contrasts markedly with his predecessor’s approach. While his earlier stop in Turkey focused primarily on ecumenical dialogue between Christian denominations, the Lebanon segment addresses more complex geopolitical tensions.

    Notably, scouts affiliated with Hezbollah joined welcoming committees along the pontiff’s route through Beirut’s southern suburbs, where banners honoring the Pope stood adjacent to posters of slain Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. The Iran-backed group had previously urged the spiritual leader to condemn Israeli military actions in Lebanon.

    The papal itinerary included high-level meetings with President Aoun, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, followed by an address to government authorities and diplomatic corps. The visit marks the first by a pope since Benedict XVI’s 2012 journey and occurs as Lebanon’s Christian community—though constitutionally privileged through the reserved presidential office—faces continued demographic decline through emigration.

  • Hazoorilal Legacy unveils the Legacy Collection 2025–2026

    Hazoorilal Legacy unveils the Legacy Collection 2025–2026

    Hazoorilal Legacy has officially introduced its flagship Legacy Collection for the 2025–2026 season, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s storied history of jewelry craftsmanship. This exquisite presentation showcases an extraordinary array of precious materials including polished gold, traditional polki, and an artistically selected spectrum of colored gemstones and diamonds.

    The collection distinguishes itself through its sophisticated blend of timeless elegance and contemporary design sensibility. Featured gemstones range from the profound depth of emeralds to the vibrant energy of tourmalines, complemented by the delicate hues of kunzites and morganites. Each stone undergoes meticulous hand-selection based on its inherent natural beauty and distinctive characteristics.

    Armaan Narang, Director of Hazoorilal Legacy, emphasized the collection’s philosophical foundation: “The Legacy Collection represents the pinnacle of our creative vision—demonstrating an unwavering commitment to design excellence and masterful craftsmanship. As our annual flagship presentation, it embodies our continuous pursuit of refinement and aesthetic perfection in jewelry artistry.”

    Narang further elaborated on the collection’s gemstone narrative: “This year’s edition celebrates the expressive universe of natural gemstones. From the captivating depth of emeralds and tourmalines to the gentle luminosity of morganites and sapphires, each stone was chosen for its unique personality and profound character. Every creation undergoes a transformative journey from conceptual imagination to physical form, shaped with precision, elegance, and the enduring values that define our heritage.”

    The Legacy Collection 2025–2026 serves as both an homage to traditional jewelry-making techniques and a demonstration of innovative design approaches, positioning Hazoorilal Legacy at the forefront of the luxury jewelry industry.

  • Iran says it captured Eswatini-flagged tanker in Strait of Hormuz

    Iran says it captured Eswatini-flagged tanker in Strait of Hormuz

    Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has intercepted a commercial vessel flying the flag of Eswatini, alleging the ship was transporting contraband fuel through strategic Persian Gulf waters. The seizure occurred on Sunday, with naval forces redirecting the ship to the port of Bushehr following the discovery of approximately 350,000 liters of what authorities described as smuggled petroleum products.

    According to IRGC statements published through state media channels, the vessel’s thirteen crew members comprised nationals from India and another neighboring country, though specific details regarding their identities or conditions remain undisclosed. The incident prompted immediate diplomatic pushback from the African nation of Eswatini, which formally denied any association with the ship or its activities.

    In an official communiqué, the Eswatini government asserted: ‘The Kingdom of Eswatini maintains no connection whatsoever to the vessel reportedly seized in Iranian waters. We categorically reject attempts to associate our nation with maritime criminal activities and confirm that no ships are currently authorized to fly the Eswatini flag.’

    This event represents the latest in a series of maritime interceptions conducted by Iranian forces targeting vessels accused of illicit fuel transportation through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Just last month, Iranian authorities similarly captured a Marshall Islands-flagged tanker navigating these geographically pivotal waters, citing violations related to unauthorized cargo without providing comprehensive specifics.

    These escalating maritime incidents unfold against a backdrop of deteriorating diplomatic relations between Iran and Western powers concerning Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. United Nations sanctions, including comprehensive arms embargoes, were reinstated in September following the collapse of multilateral nuclear negotiations. The diplomatic impasse deepened in June when Omani-mediated talks between Iran and the United States collapsed subsequent to military strikes conducted by Israeli and American forces against Iranian interests.

    While Tehran maintains that its nuclear program remains exclusively peaceful and denies pursuing nuclear weapons capabilities, the reinstated sanctions reflect the ‘snapback’ mechanism embedded within the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. This agreement had initially suspended punitive measures in exchange for rigorous restrictions on Iran’s nuclear activities, creating a framework that now appears increasingly fragile amid current geopolitical tensions.

  • Al Baidhaei breaks through as Mullen stars and Al Mheiri takes command

    Al Baidhaei breaks through as Mullen stars and Al Mheiri takes command

    Jebel Ali Racecourse hosted a spectacular display of thoroughbred racing this Saturday, highlighted by significant milestones for key figures in the United Arab Emirates’ racing community. The afternoon’s feature event, the Zayed & Rashid Initiative Cup, witnessed a determined victory from Mashkoor under jockey Richard Mullen, marking a career-defining achievement for emerging trainer Marwan Al Baidhaei.

    The victory represented a crucial breakthrough for Al Baidhaei, who has been steadily building his reputation within the UAE training circuit. Earlier this year, he received the prestigious ERA Najm Award recognizing his dedication, sportsmanship, and horse-first philosophy. Reflecting on Mashkoor’s performance, Al Baidhaei noted: ‘He’s a bit underrated, but he’s been training very well. I was slightly concerned as this was his seasonal debut, but carrying lightweight proved advantageous. When he saw competitors approaching at the 400-meter mark, he demonstrated tremendous fighting spirit.’

    Meanwhile, British jockey Richard Mullen delivered an exceptional performance, securing three victories on the card. The veteran rider, long associated with Zabeel Stables and renowned for his 2013 Dubai Golden Shaheen triumph aboard Reynaldothewizard, demonstrated his enduring skill and tactical expertise. Two of Mullen’s wins came in partnership with reigning champion trainer Musabbeh Al Mheiri, who himself enjoyed a highly successful afternoon.

    Al Mheiri’s double victory propelled him to the top of the UAE trainer standings, making him the first to surpass the Dh 1 million prize-money threshold this season. His successes included Duke Of Immatin’s maiden victory in The 54th Stakes for two-year-olds and The Ice Phoenix’s stylish win in The Ghaf Tree Stakes. The champion trainer expressed optimism about both horses’ development, stating: ‘They both showed the attitude and progression we hoped for. It’s a long season ahead, and we’re excited about their potential.’

    The event collectively highlighted the dynamic nature of UAE racing, featuring breakthrough performances from emerging talents alongside continued dominance from established champions, all contributing to the sport’s growing prestige in the region.

  • Report says world’s biggest arms producers increased revenue by 5.9% last year to record level

    Report says world’s biggest arms producers increased revenue by 5.9% last year to record level

    The global arms industry has reached unprecedented financial heights, with the world’s top 100 weapons manufacturers achieving a record $679 billion in revenue during 2024. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), this represents a significant 5.9% year-over-year increase, driven primarily by escalating military expenditures and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.

    European and American defense contractors dominated this growth trajectory. Thirty of the thirty-nine U.S. companies listed in SIPRI’s top 100, including industry giants Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics, reported substantial revenue increases. Combined, American firms generated $334 billion—a 3.8% rise from the previous year. However, SIPRI highlighted persistent challenges within major U.S. defense programs, including the F-35 fighter jet, which continues to experience significant delays and budget overruns.

    European arms producers demonstrated even more dramatic growth, with twenty-three of the region’s twenty-six leading firms posting higher revenues. Aggregate income for European companies surged by 13% to $151 billion, fueled by increased defense spending in response to the Ukraine conflict and perceived threats from Russia. Notably, Czechoslovakia’s Czechoslovak Group saw revenue skyrocket by 193%, largely due to government-led artillery shell procurement initiatives for Ukraine. Similarly, Ukraine’s JSC Ukrainian Defense Industry recorded a 41% revenue increase.

    Despite Western sanctions, Russia’s two major arms manufacturers—Rostec and United Shipbuilding Corporation—achieved a combined 23% revenue growth to $31.2 billion. Domestic demand effectively compensated for declining exports, though both companies face challenges related to component shortages and skilled labor deficits.

    The Middle Eastern arms sector also expanded, with three Israeli companies collectively increasing revenue by 16% to $16.2 billion. SIPRI researchers noted that international criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza had minimal impact on global demand for Israeli weapon systems, with many countries continuing to place new orders.

    Asia and Oceania represented the only declining market, with overall revenue dropping 1.2% to $130 billion. This decrease was largely attributable to a 10% revenue decline among Chinese arms manufacturers, resulting from corruption allegations that disrupted procurement processes and led to canceled or delayed major contracts.

    SIPRI researchers caution that while European firms are investing in expanded production capacity, future growth may be constrained by supply chain complexities, particularly regarding critical minerals affected by Chinese export restrictions.

  • OPEC+ likely to maintain production at current levels

    OPEC+ likely to maintain production at current levels

    OPEC+ ministers are anticipated to maintain existing oil production levels during their virtual meeting on Sunday, according to analyst consensus. This decision comes amidst significant market volatility and geopolitical tensions that continue to influence global oil prices.

    The biannual ministerial conference occurs during a period of exceptional uncertainty regarding future oil price trajectories. Market participants are closely monitoring developments in Ukraine conflict negotiations, which could potentially facilitate Russia’s full return to international crude markets. Since April, eight core OPEC+ nations—spearheaded by Saudi Arabia and Russia—have incrementally increased production to reclaim market share amid intensifying competition from non-OPEC producers including the United States, Canada, and Guyana.

    However, in early November, the V8 consortium announced a strategic pause on output increases scheduled for the first quarter of 2026, citing anticipated seasonal demand reduction. This follows a minor production elevation implemented in December.

    Commerzbank analyst Barbara Lambrecht noted the meeting is ‘unlikely to deliver any major new drivers for the market,’ emphasizing that potential ceasefire agreements could reduce the current risk premium baked into oil prices. Conversely, Arne Lohmann Rasmussen of Global Risk Management suggested that negotiation deadlocks might compel the Trump administration to reinforce sanctions against Russia’s energy sector, potentially driving prices upward.

    The collective uncertainty has solidified analyst expectations that OPEC+ will maintain status quo production levels across the alliance. While discussions regarding maximum sustainable production capacities for member nations were initiated at previous meetings—establishing benchmarks for 2027 quotas—HSBC analyst Kim Fustier indicated these deliberations remain premature for immediate implementation.

  • Hungary’s Dalma Galfi excited ahead of Al Habtoor Challenge in Dubai

    Hungary’s Dalma Galfi excited ahead of Al Habtoor Challenge in Dubai

    Dubai’s prestigious Al Habtoor Tennis Challenge witnessed a wave of anticipation as Hungarian tennis star Dalma Galfi made her triumphant return to the W100 ITF World Tennis Tour event after a five-year absence. The tournament commenced Sunday at the Habtoor Grand Resort in Mina Seyahi.

    Galfi, 27, enters as top seed with a career-high singles ranking of 79 achieved in September 2022. Her history at this Dubai event includes a memorable semifinal run as a wild card entrant in 2019. “I love being in Dubai, and for sure I would love to do well during the week,” Galfi expressed during Sunday’s draw ceremony. “I am excited, not just because I am returning to Dubai after five years, but also because I have some great memories here.”

    The Hungarian player faces a qualifier in her opening match, with a potential second-round encounter against veteran Vera Zvonareva, one of four wild card recipients this year. Galfi remains undaunted: “No match is going to be easy, and I am confident I can do some good hard work out there.”

    Tournament founder Khalaf Al Habtoor emphasized the event’s significance as “the first tennis event for women in this part of the world” since its establishment in 1998. “Each year, our tournament keeps getting better,” Al Habtoor noted. “Tennis is such a sport that actually combines enjoyment with entertainment.”

    The competition features several notable participants, including second seed Anastasia Zakharova and Dubai resident Kristina Mladenovic, former world number one in doubles. Slovakia’s Viktoria Hruncakova, making her ninth appearance, acknowledged the challenging draw: “I expect myself to fight all the time. It is a tough draw, and I will be prepared for some tight matches.”

    Among emerging talents, Czech Republic’s Vendula Valdamannova, who turns 18 on December 10, declared ambitious intentions: “I am here to win this tournament.”

    Sunday’s qualifying rounds saw Japanese players dominate, with top qualifier Mai Hontama leading a trio of compatriots into the next round. Main draw matches commence Monday alongside final qualifying rounds at the Habtoor Grand Resort courts.

  • Bangladesh’s ex-PM Khaleda in critical condition; exiled son uncertain of return

    Bangladesh’s ex-PM Khaleda in critical condition; exiled son uncertain of return

    Bangladesh’s political landscape faces unprecedented uncertainty as former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia battles critical health complications at a Dhaka medical facility. The 80-year-old leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) was hospitalized on November 23rd with a severe cardiopulmonary infection that has placed her in life-threatening condition, according to senior party officials and treating physicians.

    The medical crisis coincides with mounting speculation about the potential return of her son Tarique Rahman, the BNP’s acting chairman who has resided in London since 2008. In a carefully worded social media statement, Rahman indicated that decisions regarding his homecoming were “not entirely” within his control, despite recent legal developments that have cleared his path.

    This political drama unfolds against the backdrop of Bangladesh’s transformed governmental structure. The interim administration led by Nobel Peace laureate Muhammad Yunus has explicitly stated it maintains no objections to Rahman’s return. “There are no obstacles in this matter,” confirmed Yunus’ press secretary Shafiqul Alam through official channels.

    Foreign Ministry representatives further clarified that travel documentation could be arranged within 24 hours should Rahman express definitive return intentions. This marks a dramatic reversal from previous administrations, as all outstanding legal cases against Rahman have been dismissed following the ouster of long-serving Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024.

    The BNP, which had boycotted consecutive elections in 2014 and 2024, has experienced remarkable political resurgence since the student-led uprising that ended Hasina’s tenure. Party insiders now view the organization as a primary contender in Bangladesh’s rapidly evolving power structure, with Khaleda’s health crisis and her son’s potential return representing pivotal moments in the nation’s democratic transition.