Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Arundhati Roy pulls out of Berlinale over ‘jaw-dropping’ stance on Gaza

    Arundhati Roy pulls out of Berlinale over ‘jaw-dropping’ stance on Gaza

    Nobel laureate author Arundhati Roy has dramatically withdrawn from the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), condemning the event’s official stance on Gaza as “jaw-dropping” in its avoidance of political engagement.

    The controversy erupted during a press conference featuring festival jury president Wim Wenders, the renowned German filmmaker who emerged from the explicitly political New German Cinema movement. Wenders asserted that filmmakers must “stay out of politics” and position themselves as “the counterweight of politics.” His comments represented a stark departure from his 2024 characterization of Berlinale as “traditionally always the most political of the major festivals.”

    Further intensifying the dispute, jury member Ewa Puszczynska dismissed questions about Germany’s support for Israel’s actions in Gaza as “unfair,” suggesting genocide occurs in “many other wars” that receive less attention.

    Roy’s withdrawal statement, initially published by Indian media, expressed profound disappointment: “To hear them say that art should not be political is jaw-dropping. It is a way of shutting down a conversation about a crime against humanity even as it unfolds before us in real time.”

    This incident continues a pattern of controversy for the festival regarding Gaza. The 2024 Berlinale previously faced criticism when award-winning Israeli filmmaker Yuval Abraham used his acceptance speech for the documentary ‘No Other Land’ to highlight the unequal rights between Israelis and Palestinians under occupation. The subsequent backlash included German officials labeling the festival “one-sided” and “antisemitic,” while Culture Minister Claudia Roth faced scrutiny for allegedly only applauding Abraham’s speech but not that of his Palestinian co-director.

    The festival, which receives German government funding, continues amid these tensions, featuring over 200 films with 22 competing for the top Golden Bear award.

  • Dubai authority contains major fire in an hour; arrives at scene in minutes

    Dubai authority contains major fire in an hour; arrives at scene in minutes

    Dubai Civil Defence demonstrated exceptional emergency response capabilities on Friday, February 13, 2026, when they successfully contained a significant warehouse fire in Ras Al Khor within approximately one hour of notification. The incident, which began at approximately 1:23 PM, was met with a rapid deployment of both human firefighters and advanced robotic firefighting systems from Nad Al Sheba Fire Station.

    Emergency crews achieved a remarkable response time of just four minutes, arriving on the scene at 1:26 PM to confront what was initially classified as a moderate-intensity blaze. The integrated firefighting team, combining traditional methods with robotic assistance, worked efficiently to bring the situation under control by 2:28 PM.

    According to official statements provided to Khaleej Times, the operation proceeded without any reported injuries. Cooling procedures were immediately initiated following containment, with authorities prepared to transfer control of the site to relevant investigative bodies once these safety measures are completed in accordance with established protocols.

    Eyewitness accounts described dramatic scenes of dark smoke plumes visible from Al Manama Street, with one motorist en route to Mirdif City Center reporting both visible smoke and audible emergency vehicle responses around 2:00 PM. The successful containment highlights Dubai’s continued investment in advanced emergency response technologies and protocols, particularly the integration of robotic systems that complement human firefighting efforts.

    The incident marks another demonstration of Dubai’s commitment to public safety infrastructure, showcasing how technological innovation combined with well-trained personnel can effectively manage urban emergency situations with minimal disruption and risk to human life.

  • The two Chinese-American Olympians competing for rival superpowers

    The two Chinese-American Olympians competing for rival superpowers

    The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan have become the stage for an unexpected digital conflict centered around two American-born athletes of Chinese descent—freestyle skier Eileen Gu and figure skater Alysa Liu. Despite their parallel backgrounds as first-generation immigrants and champions in their respective sports, they have been cast as opposing symbols in a geopolitical narrative extending far beyond athletic competition.

    This ideological divide emerged when Gu, competing for China, expressed sympathy for US skier Hunter Hess after he faced criticism from former President Trump. Her comments ignited a firestorm among conservative commentators who labeled her a ‘traitor’ for representing China while enjoying US citizenship benefits. Simultaneously, Liu—competing for the US as the daughter of a political activist who fled China—has been celebrated as a patriot by these same voices.

    The controversy reveals deeper sociological dimensions beyond nationalism. Professor Yinan He of Lehigh University notes that ‘personal identity is increasingly centered on national loyalty in the public eye, diminishing tolerance for dual identity.’ Gu’s background—educated at elite institutions including Stanford—has led some to frame her choice as a ‘mercenary business decision’ rather than genuine cultural connection. Conversely, Liu’s family narrative of political dissent has positioned her as a symbol of democratic values.

    Chinese social media reflects the inverse perspective, where Gu is celebrated as the ‘Snow Princess’ and national icon while Liu receives minimal attention—with occasional comments questioning why anyone would ‘praise this anti-China person.’

    The athletes’ performance pressures have intensified under these conditions. Gu recently described feeling like she was ‘skiing with the weight of two countries on my shoulder’ after placing second in women’s slopestyle—a statement that further fueled criticism from those who argued she only represented one nation.

    This phenomenon exemplifies what Professor Stanley Thangaraj identifies as ‘the incredibly precarious social and political landscape that Asian Americans must navigate,’ where any political stance risks dislocating them from American identity. When Marvel actor Simu Liu voiced support for Gu, he immediately faced demands to ‘go back to China.’

    As the Games continue, the athletic achievements of both women have become secondary to their unwitting roles in a broader cultural confrontation between the world’s two superpowers.

  • Dubai’s Ramadan 2026 calendar: Fireworks, drone shows to light up skies post iftar

    Dubai’s Ramadan 2026 calendar: Fireworks, drone shows to light up skies post iftar

    Dubai has officially launched its comprehensive Ramadan 2026 calendar, featuring an extensive array of cultural events, technological displays, and community gatherings throughout the holy month. The program, operating under the overarching ‘Season of Wulfa’ initiative, emphasizes the core Ramadan values of reflection, generosity, and communal unity through diverse experiences across multiple venues.

    The city will transform into a vibrant hub of post-iftar activities, including the Ramadan Street Food Festival at Sheikh Hamdan Colony from February 16 to March 15, offering curated culinary selections and family entertainment. Technological marvels will illuminate the skies with daily fireworks at Al Seef and Dubai Creek alongside coordinated drone light shows presenting Ramadan-themed visual spectacles from February 19 to March 19.

    Major destinations will host specialized programming: Festival Bay at Dubai Festival City Mall will feature drone displays, cultural performances, and lantern parades; City Walk will create relaxed evening environments with cultural interactions; and Expo City Dubai will present family-friendly cultural programs blending tradition with contemporary experiences.

    Hospitality venues across Dubai will offer traditional Ramadan experiences, including majlis gatherings at Jumeirah Emirates Towers, beachfront iftar settings at Jumeirah Al Naseem, and large-scale Ramadan tents at Atlantis, The Palm. Retail establishments will participate through the Season of Wulfa promotion, while citywide decorative lighting and installations will create a cohesive visual identity throughout the emirate.

    Government entities including Dubai Municipality, Community Development Authority, and Islamic Affairs Department will support community initiatives such as Souq Ramadan, Eyal Al Freej children’s program, and Steps of Life charitable walking initiative. The comprehensive program reflects Dubai’s commitment to maintaining Ramadan traditions while incorporating innovative technological elements and inclusive community engagement.

  • UAE gets first win in T20 World Cup with 5-wicket victory over Canada

    UAE gets first win in T20 World Cup with 5-wicket victory over Canada

    In a thrilling Group D encounter at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday, the United Arab Emirates cricket team celebrated their maiden Twenty20 World Cup triumph with a hard-fought five-wicket victory over Canada. The match culminated in a dramatic final-over finish that saw UAE overcome early setbacks to chase down Canada’s target of 151 runs with just two deliveries remaining.

    The victory was orchestrated by a spectacular 84-run partnership between wicketkeeper-batsman Aryansh Sharma, who remained unbeaten on 74, and Sohaib Khan, whose explosive 51 came from just 29 deliveries. Their middle-order resilience proved decisive after UAE found themselves struggling at 66-4 in the 13th over, thanks to Canadian left-arm spinner Saad Bin Zafar’s destructive spell that dismantled the top order.

    Earlier in the match, Canada had posted a competitive 150-7 after electing to bat first. Harsh Thaker’s composed half-century (50) and Navneet Dhaliwal’s contribution of 34 formed the backbone of their innings. However, their efforts were overshadowed by UAE seamer Junaid Siddique’s magnificent bowling performance, claiming five wickets for 35 runs in his four-over spell.

    The result has significant implications for Group D standings, propelling UAE past Afghanistan into third position behind tournament favorites New Zealand and South Africa, both maintaining perfect records with four points from two matches each.

  • British couple held by Taliban describe ‘culture shock’ returning to UK

    British couple held by Taliban describe ‘culture shock’ returning to UK

    A British couple detained by Taliban authorities in Afghanistan for over seven months has broken their silence about the harrowing experience and their subsequent reintegration into Western society. Peter Reynolds, 80, and his wife Barbie, 76, were held without formal charges from February to September 2025 before being unexpectedly released through Qatari diplomatic channels.

    The Reynolds, who operated charitable programs in Afghanistan for nearly twenty years, described their captivity across ten different detention facilities, including the notorious Pul-e-Charkhi maximum security prison. Their ordeal included two months in windowless basement cells before being transferred to above-ground accommodations with improved conditions during their final weeks of detention.

    Barbie Reynolds provided disturbing details about the prison conditions, revealing she shared a block with 240 women while numerous other blocks housed additional female prisoners and approximately 40 children. Sanitation was severely inadequate with only seven toilets available for hundreds of inmates, malfunctioning showers, and consistently overflowing drainage systems.

    The couple’s health deteriorated significantly during captivity. Barbie developed severe anemia and malnutrition, particularly during Ramadan when meals were restricted. Peter remarked that his wife appeared to have aged two decades when they were reunited, noting she could barely walk due to her deteriorated condition.

    Despite Taliban officials maintaining that the couple received adequate medical care and that their human rights were respected, the Reynolds characterized their detention reason as ‘a complete mystery.’ They were initially arrested after chartering a flight from Kabul to Bamiyan province alongside friends Faye Hall and their translator, who were subsequently released.

    Now back in the United Kingdom after five months, the couple experiences profound ‘cultural shock’ regarding Western freedoms. Barbie specifically noted the striking contrast between Taliban-enforced dress codes and behavioral restrictions versus the liberty to ‘wear what they want, go where they want’ in Britain.

    In a remarkable display of forgiveness, the Reynolds expressed willingness to embrace their captors and continue supporting Afghan people. They also sent a message of hope to Craig and Lindsay Foreman, another British couple detained by the Taliban in January 2025, urging them to ‘hang in there’ and maintain hope.

  • Dubai’s University of Wollongong halts 100% parking fee hike after student feedback

    Dubai’s University of Wollongong halts 100% parking fee hike after student feedback

    In a significant victory for student advocacy, the University of Wollongong in Dubai has suspended its planned 100% parking fee increase following substantial backlash from its student body. The institution had initially announced that underground parking rates would double from Dh10 to Dh20 per hour, a decision that prompted immediate student mobilization including petitions and social media campaigns.

    University President Professor Mohamed-Vall M. Salem Zein confirmed the reversal, stating that student feedback regarding parking arrangements had been taken seriously. The university is collaborating with its facility partner, Dubai Knowledge Park (DKP), to develop a revised parking model that prioritizes student needs. DKP has assured that students will be categorized separately from general visitors to create more favorable parking arrangements.

    The proposed increase would have dramatically impacted student finances. Engineering student Ahmed illustrated the potential burden, noting his current Dh20 daily parking expense would have quadrupled to Dh80. Parents expressed similar concerns, with one mother calculating that her son’s weekly parking costs would have reached Dh380 for three days of classes.

    While an alternative parking option exists near the tram station at Dh5 per hour, students noted the limited capacity and crowding issues that would have been exacerbated by the price changes. The university’s initial plan included only 160 students receiving two hours of free parking on a first-come, first-served basis, a provision that students found insufficient.

    The decision to maintain current parking arrangements represents a successful case of institutional responsiveness to student concerns, highlighting the power of collective action in addressing campus accessibility issues.

  • UK Home Office graph reveals shocking scale of Palestine Action arrests

    UK Home Office graph reveals shocking scale of Palestine Action arrests

    A dramatic escalation in UK counterterrorism operations has emerged following the government’s controversial proscription of Palestine Action in July 2025, with Home Office statistics revealing an unprecedented 660% year-on-year increase in terrorism-related arrests. The data shows 1,886 individuals were detained for alleged terrorism offenses between January and September 2025, with approximately 1,630 arrests directly linked to activities associated with the banned protest organization.

    The statistical surge gained legal context on Friday when the High Court delivered a landmark ruling declaring the government’s ban on the direct action group ‘discriminatory and unlawful.’ Despite this judicial finding, the prohibition remains temporarily in effect pending the government’s appeal, which Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed would be pursued through the Court of Appeal.

    Analysis of arrest patterns reveals a significant demographic shift in UK terrorism enforcement. Unlike previous years where arrestees were predominantly male, nearly half of those detained in connection with Palestine Action activities were female. Most arrests occurred during demonstrations in London and other urban centers, where participants displayed placards stating ‘I oppose genocide. I support Palestine Action.’

    Legal documents indicate the majority faced charges under Section 13 of the Terrorism Act 2000, which prohibits displaying symbols supporting proscribed organizations. The 237 Section 13 charges brought in the first nine months of 2025 nearly equal the total number of such charges (271) brought since the legislation’s inception following the September 2001 attacks.

    Human rights organizations celebrated the High Court’s decision, which resulted from a judicial review initiated by Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori. In a statement outside the courthouse, Ammori characterized the ruling as ‘a monumental victory both for our fundamental freedoms here in Britain and in the struggle for freedom for the Palestinian people.’

    The advocacy group Defend our Juries estimates that approximately 2,787 arrests may now be considered unlawful following the court’s determination. A spokesperson for the organization stated: ‘Thousands of people of conscience saw that branding protest as terrorism was a move straight out of the dictator’s playbook. Together we took action at great personal risk.’

    Of those arrested in connection with Palestine Action activities, 1,362 individuals were released on bail while remaining under investigation. The cases continue to develop as the government prepares its appeal against the High Court’s ruling.

  • Indian man pleads guilty in assassination plot against prominent Sikh separatist leader in New York

    Indian man pleads guilty in assassination plot against prominent Sikh separatist leader in New York

    In a significant development in international security and diplomatic relations, Nikhil Gupta, a 54-year-old Indian national, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges in a high-profile assassination plot targeting Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent Sikh separatist leader and American citizen residing in New York. The admission came during proceedings at Manhattan federal court on Friday, revealing a complex transnational conspiracy allegedly orchestrated with the involvement of an Indian government operative.

    U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton issued a stern warning following the plea, declaring: “Our message to nefarious foreign actors should be clear: steer clear of the United States and our people.” The case has escalated into a major diplomatic concern, highlighting foreign interference on American soil.

    According to court documents, Gupta, while in India during 2023, transferred $15,000 through digital channels to an individual he believed to be a contract killer. Unbeknownst to him, this supposed assassin was actually an undercover federal agent. FBI New York Field Office Director James C. Barnacle Jr. stated that Gupta “coordinated with an Indian government employee, who directed him to carry out the killing,” describing it as an attempt by a “foreign adversary to silence a vocal critic of the Indian government.”

    The courtroom proceedings drew approximately two dozen Sikh supporters from both the United States and Canada, who share Pannun’s vision of establishing an independent Sikh state called Khalistan in India’s Punjab region. Following the hearing, attendees conducted prayer services outside the courthouse, displaying yellow Khalistan flags alongside American flags.

    Pannun, who India designates as a terrorist but describes himself as a human rights lawyer advocating for religious equality, stated in a post-hearing interview: “I’m not a terrorist. I am ready to take India’s bullet rather than take a step back and live like a slave.” He characterized Gupta as “just a foot soldier” and called for investigation into higher-ranking Indian officials allegedly behind the plot.

    Court records indicate Gupta connected the plot to the June 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia, suggesting both operations were coordinated by the same individuals. Gupta has been detained without bail since his extradition from the Czech Republic in June 2023 and faces a potential sentence of at least twenty years imprisonment under his plea agreement, with sentencing scheduled for May 29.

  • Philippines moves to abolish 50-year-old travel tax and cut cost for Filipino travellers

    Philippines moves to abolish 50-year-old travel tax and cut cost for Filipino travellers

    In a significant policy shift, the Philippine administration under President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. has formally proposed the abolition of the nation’s long-standing travel tax. This landmark initiative, included among 21 priority legislative measures endorsed by the government this week, aims to alleviate financial pressures on citizens traveling abroad for diverse purposes including employment, leisure, and urgent family matters.

    Palace press officer Claire Castro emphasized the administration’s recognition that contemporary travel patterns extend beyond tourism, with many Filipinos requiring international mobility for work and emergency situations. The current tax structure imposes a levy of ₱1,620 (approximately Dh102.50) for economy class passengers and ₱2,700 (Dh170) for business and first-class travelers, creating substantial financial barriers for families. A family of four, for instance, currently faces combined travel tax and terminal fee expenses exceeding ₱10,280 (Dh650) before departure.

    Historically implemented in 1977 during the presidency of Ferdinand Marcos Sr., the tax originally functioned as an economic mechanism to regulate foreign currency outflow and finance tourism infrastructure. Initially conceived as a ‘luxury tax’ during an era when international travel was predominantly accessible to affluent segments of society, the levy currently allocates 50% of revenues to tourism projects through the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), with 40% supporting educational assistance programs and 10% dedicated to cultural preservation.

    The proposed abolition acknowledges fundamental changes in global mobility patterns and economic conditions since the tax’s inception nearly five decades ago. Should the measure pass into law, the government has committed to securing alternative funding through the national budget to maintain support for previously tax-funded initiatives, with detailed revenue impact assessments to be conducted during legislative deliberations.