Global Pulse

标签： Asia

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  • B’Tselem says at least 84 Palestinians killed in Israeli torture camps

    B’Tselem says at least 84 Palestinians killed in Israeli torture camps

    A damning investigation by Israeli human rights organization B’Tselem has exposed the nation’s prison system as a coordinated network of facilities engaging in systematic torture against Palestinian detainees. The report, released Tuesday, documents widespread abuse, deaths in custody, and what the group identifies as a deliberate state-sanctioned policy of violence.

    According to the findings, at least 84 Palestinians have died in Israeli detention facilities since October 2023, with the actual number believed to be significantly higher due to unverified and concealed cases. The victims include 50 from Gaza, 31 from the occupied West Bank, and three Palestinian citizens of Israel, alongside one child. Israeli authorities are additionally withholding the bodies of 80 Palestinians, refusing to return them to families as of January 2026.

    Disturbing testimonies from released detainees describe systematic physical and psychological violence, inhuman conditions, deliberate starvation, and denial of medical treatment. Several former prisoners reported experiencing or witnessing sexual violence while in custody.

    B’Tselem’s Executive Director Yuli Novak characterized the findings as evidence of a coordinated campaign against Palestinians as a collective people. “The Israeli regime has turned its prisons into a network of torture camps for Palestinians,” Novak stated, connecting the prison conditions to broader policies of “genocide in Gaza and ethnic cleansing in the West Bank.”

    The report concludes that the abuse represents declared, deliberate policy originating from the highest levels of government, with political backing and institutional protection. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who oversees the prison service, has publicly boasted about the treatment of Palestinian detainees.

    Parallel findings from Palestinian rights organizations reinforce these conclusions, documenting at least 100 Palestinian deaths in custody since October 2023. As of September 2025, approximately 10,900 Palestinians were held in Israeli prisons under conditions described as appalling, with the number dropping to around 9,200 by January 2026 following prisoner exchanges.

    The organizations emphasize that Israel’s mass incarceration of Palestinians—over 800,000 detained over decades, many without charge or trial—represents a central pillar of its system of control, designed to fragment Palestinian society through fear, violence, and collective punishment.

  • Zigong lantern festival combines cultural heritage with advanced technology

    Zigong lantern festival combines cultural heritage with advanced technology

    The 32nd Zigong International Dinosaur Lantern Festival commenced on Friday at Sichuan province’s Chinese Lantern World, showcasing an extraordinary synthesis of traditional artistry and cutting-edge technology. This annual spectacle, renowned for its cultural significance, has elevated its presentation through innovative technological integration while preserving centuries-old craftsmanship traditions.

    Spanning multiple themed zones, the festival features 11 monumental lantern installations complemented by over 200 smaller displays. The exhibition demonstrates remarkable artistic ingenuity through its use of sustainable materials, including a 4-meter-tall golden Hou beast constructed from 100 kilograms of straw, a phoenix adorned with 15,000 red chilies, and a mythical Qilin assembled from 46,000 repurposed medicine bottles.

    Among the standout attractions is the 210-meter-long ‘Magical China’ installation, drawing inspiration from the ancient Zhuangzi classic to depict the legendary Kunpeng—a mythical bird-fish hybrid symbolizing national strength. Equally impressive is the 180-meter ‘Legend of Mulan’ display, created in anticipation of the upcoming Year of the Horse, which intertwines the heroine’s story with dynamic equine imagery to convey profound patriotic themes.

    The festival incorporates advanced interactive technologies including artificial intelligence interfaces, smart touch controls, and light-sensing systems. These innovations enable visitors to engage with virtual performers and lifelike robotic dinosaurs, creating immersive experiences that bridge historical storytelling with futuristic entertainment.

    According to Chen Jinhong, Director of Zigong’s Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism Bureau, the event masterfully combines intangible cultural heritage techniques—such as traditional lantern-making, tie-dye, and paper-cutting—with mythological narratives and historical accounts. This approach not only preserves cultural legacy but also recontextualizes it for contemporary audiences through technological enhancement.

  • Dubai: International DJs, UAE-based content creators come together for football showdown

    Dubai: International DJs, UAE-based content creators come together for football showdown

    DUBAI – In an innovative fusion of music and sports, Red Bull UAE orchestrated a unique football showdown last Friday, pitting international DJs against prominent UAE-based content creators. The friendly match took place at Precision Football in Ibn Battuta, serving as both an energetic warm-up and a competitive battle for bragging rights.

    Leading the DJ squad was Francis Mercier, the Haitian electronic music producer who was in Dubai for his scheduled performance at Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour. Partnering with Red Bull for the initiative, Mercier expressed enthusiasm for the unconventional pre-show activity. ‘Football is a genuine passion of mine,’ Mercier stated before the match. ‘When Red Bull proposed this collaboration with talented UAE creators, we immediately recognized it as a perfect opportunity for fun and connection.’

    Mercier’s football affinity traces back to his childhood in Haiti, where he developed admiration for Brazilian football legends including Ronaldo R9, Cafu, and Rivaldo. On the field, Mercier prefers commanding the midfield position, utilizing his stamina to control game tempo – skills that complement his rigorous fitness regimen.

    Opposing the DJ team was Ramy Hamdan, a Dubai-based travel content creator with formal football experience from his teenage years playing club football in Lebanon. ‘Our team shares existing chemistry as friends and former teammates,’ Hamdan explained, confirming his tactical shift from his traditional right-back position to an offensive role as left wing and striker for this match.

    The event highlighted Dubai’s distinctive cultural ecosystem where international artists and local digital creators converge through shared interests beyond their professional domains. As Mercier observed, the city’s dynamic environment fosters these cross-industry collaborations where football served as the universal language.

    Despite Mercier’s confident prediction of a DJ victory, the content creators’ team ultimately triumphed with an 8-5 scoreline. Both Mercier and Hamdan managed to score during the high-energy match, which successfully set an vibrant tone for the weekend’s entertainment activities.

  • China meets initial soybean purchase goal, but Trump’s shifting trade policy could disrupt deal

    China meets initial soybean purchase goal, but Trump’s shifting trade policy could disrupt deal

    Despite China fulfilling its initial commitment to purchase 12 million metric tons of American soybeans, the sustainability of the October trade agreement remains uncertain due to the Trump administration’s volatile trade policies. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed China’s compliance during the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he met with Chinese Vice President He Lifeng, who reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to future purchases.

    The agreement, forged after Trump and Xi Jinping’s meeting in South Korea ended last summer’s purchasing halt, requires China to buy 25 million metric tons annually over the next three years. However, recent policy shifts—including threatened tariffs on countries trading with Iran and proposed levies on European allies—create instability that agricultural economists warn could jeopardize the deal.

    American farmers continue struggling with soaring production costs for fertilizer, seeds, and labor, despite approximately $12 billion in federal aid. Soybean prices briefly surged to $11.50 per bushel post-agreement but have since fallen to $10.56—insufficient to cover most operational expenses. China’s strategic diversification toward Brazilian and Argentine suppliers, which now account for over 70% of its imports compared to America’s 21% share, further complicates long-term trade prospects.

    Agricultural experts like Iowa State’s Chad Hart and University of Nebraska’s Cory Walters emphasize that market unpredictability and evolving tariff landscapes are crippling farmers’ decision-making capabilities and financial stability.

  • Christopher Reeve’s son Will marries event planner Amanda Dubin in Miami

    Christopher Reeve’s son Will marries event planner Amanda Dubin in Miami

    In a heartfelt Miami ceremony on January 17, Will Reeve—son of the late Superman icon Christopher Reeve and Dana Reeve—exchanged vows with event planner Amanda Dubin. The private nuptials brought together close family circles, personal friends, and several colleagues from Reeve’s position at ABC News.

    Good Morning America co-anchor Robin Roberts shared glimpses of the celebration via social media, posting a photo with her wife Amber Laign captioned: ‘Ready to celebrate Amanda & Will.’ GMA contributor Lara Spencer also documented highlights from the event, describing it as ‘a joyous day celebrating’ the couple’s ‘beautiful love story.’ The bride herself responded enthusiastically to Spencer’s post, commenting: ‘We love you!!’

    The couple’s romance became public in April 2023 when they shared a photograph from Paris. Their engagement followed in November 2023 after Reeve orchestrated an elaborate proposal disguised as a professional charity event in Manhattan—a fitting surprise for Dubin, who works as an event planner.

    Will Reeve, now 33, carries forward the legacy of his parents: his father Christopher, who achieved global fame as Superman before his passing in 2004 following a horse-riding accident that left him paralyzed, and his mother Dana, who died of lung cancer in 2006. Despite these profound losses at a young age, Reeve has frequently expressed how discussing his parents helps maintain their presence in his life. In a recent USA Today interview, he reflected: ‘Talking about my parents keeps them with me. I’m so proud to be their son, to be part of this family.’

  • Exclusive: UAE flights linked to Sudan war tracked from Israel to Ethiopia

    Exclusive: UAE flights linked to Sudan war tracked from Israel to Ethiopia

    Recent flight-tracking data reveals a pattern of strategic cargo movements by a UAE-linked aircraft across multiple conflict zones, highlighting the intensifying regional power struggle between the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. An Antonov An-124 transport plane (tail number UR-ZYD), operated by Abu Dhabi-based Maximus Air, has conducted repeated flights between military bases in Abu Dhabi, Ethiopia, Bahrain, and Israel throughout January.

    The aircraft’s movements coincide with a dramatic shift in regional alliances following Saudi Arabia’s successful military campaign against UAE-backed forces in Aden, Yemen. This development forced Emirati forces to withdraw from their strategic base in Bosaso, Somalia, while simultaneously facing diplomatic challenges from Somalia’s cancellation of all security agreements with the UAE.

    Analysts identify Ethiopia as becoming increasingly crucial to UAE’s regional strategy. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed appears to be aligning Ethiopia firmly with the UAE alliance rather than alternative options, according to sources familiar with Ethiopian foreign policy. This alignment potentially includes Ethiopia’s anticipated recognition of Somaliland in exchange for access to the port of Berbera.

    The ongoing Sudan conflict has become central to this regional power struggle, with Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkey increasing military support to the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to counter the UAE’s longstanding support for the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Evidence suggests the UAE has been supplying weapons to the RSF through multiple channels, including via Ethiopia and eastern Libya under General Khalifa Haftar’s control.

    Flight data shows UR-ZYD made three round trips between Bahrain’s Sheikh Isa Air Base and Israel’s Ovda Air Force base in late December before commencing its Ethiopia shuttle operations in January. The aircraft’s significant cargo capacity—capable of transporting 21 Toyota Land Cruisers or 4 Mi-17 helicopters—raises concerns about potential weapons transfers.

    Yale’s Humanitarian Research Lab executive director Nathaniel Raymond expressed global concern about these developments: ‘Evidence that an An-124 has been making repeated sorties between Abu Dhabi and this airfield near an area seeing increased uptick in RSF presence and operations should be of global concern.’

    The aircraft’s operations have previously attracted UN scrutiny for violating arms embargoes in Libya, with investigations identifying current UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed as the beneficial owner of UR-ZYD. Despite the airline’s description of humanitarian missions, its client list includes multiple UAE government entities including the Armed Forces GHQ and Crown Prince Court.

    As Saudi pressure mounts on Haftar forces to cease supporting UAE’s RSF operations, and with Egypt bombing RSF supply convoys near its border, the temporary closure of al-Kufra airbase in Libya appears designed to provide diplomatic breathing space. Regional analysts conclude that the Horn of Africa has become subject to Gulf power dynamics, with local nations increasingly forced to choose sides in the Riyadh-Abu Dhabi rivalry.

  • How UAE biking group created in frustration grew to nearly 400-member community

    How UAE biking group created in frustration grew to nearly 400-member community

    What originated as a modest WhatsApp group formed out of collective frustration has rapidly transformed into one of the United Arab Emirates’ most inclusive motorcycling communities. World of Bikers (WOB), established in April 2025 by veteran rider Victor King, has expanded from a small gathering of enthusiasts to a nearly 400-member organization spanning the UAE and international borders.

    The community’s foundation emerged when King witnessed unacceptable behavior during a group ride, particularly the inappropriate treatment of a female rider and subsequent dismissal of concerns. With 26 years of UAE residency and approximately 700,000 kilometers of riding experience across multiple countries, King implemented his philosophy: “If there is a problem, you fix it.” Within hours, he established a new community built on the SAIL Together principle—Support, Advise, Inspire, and Learn.

    Unlike traditional motorcycle clubs, WOB functions as a unifying platform that transcends brand affiliations and riding backgrounds. The community comprises solo riders and club members from diverse regions including Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Australia, and the United States.

    Governance and guidelines were developed through collaborative member input, ensuring the culture of respect and inclusivity remains rider-defined. Beyond organized rides, WOB provides real-time road safety updates, weather alerts, mechanical assistance, and travel information. The community demonstrated its profound solidarity when members collectively supported a grieving family after a fatal accident, assisting with hospital coordination, administrative procedures, insurance guidance, and legal processes.

    Technological innovation has further enhanced the community’s capabilities. WOB recently launched a dedicated mobile application that consolidates member communications, ride planning, and safety features. The app incorporates geolocation functionality enabling riders to discover nearby events and connect with others within their radius. Notably, the platform has automated the previously tedious process of endurance certification—a recognition of long-distance riding achievement that required extensive manual documentation. Through AI-powered compilation, certification time has been reduced from months to mere hours while maintaining verification integrity.

    Membership remains free for licensed hobby riders, reinforcing the community’s commitment to accessibility. While future commercial features are contemplated, the organization maintains its primary focus on fostering genuine rider connections and support systems.

  • Woman executed for abusing and killing stepdaughter

    Woman executed for abusing and killing stepdaughter

    A Chinese court has carried out the execution of Xu Jinhua, convicted of the brutal torture and murder of her 12-year-old stepdaughter, following final approval from China’s Supreme People’s Court. The Putian Intermediate People’s Court in Fujian province administered the death penalty on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, concluding a case that had shocked the nation and triggered widespread public outrage.

    Court documents reveal that in December 2023, Xu subjected the child to 17 days of continuous torture while confining her in a bathroom, ultimately resulting in the girl’s death. The case came to light when local police detained both Xu and the victim’s biological father, Liu Jiang, who was found complicit in the abuse through his failure to intervene.

    Initial sentencing in April 2024 saw Xu receive the death penalty for intentional homicide and abuse charges, while Liu received a five-and-a-half-year prison term for intentional injury and abuse. Both defendants appealed the verdicts, leading to a judicial review by the Fujian High People’s Court.

    The higher court upheld Xu’s death sentence while simultaneously determining that Liu’s punishment was “manifestly too light” given his role as legal guardian. This prompted a supervisory review and retrial that resulted in Liu’s sentence being substantially increased to 13 years and six months imprisonment in December 2025.

    China’s legal system requires that all death sentences issued by lower courts undergo mandatory review and approval by the Supreme People’s Court before execution. The court confirmed that Xu was permitted a final meeting with close relatives prior to the execution, which was conducted under prosecutorial supervision in accordance with Chinese law.

  • Zhangjiakou academy students hit Olympic ski slopes as winter break begins

    Zhangjiakou academy students hit Olympic ski slopes as winter break begins

    In a vibrant fusion of academic programming and Olympic legacy utilization, students from Tianshu Academy embarked on their winter vacation with an immersive skiing experience at former 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic venues this Monday. The institution, operating under Beijing Information Science and Technology University with campuses in Zhangjiakou, Hebei province, has pioneered a specialized skiing curriculum that transforms world-class athletic facilities into educational assets.

    The academy, which welcomed its inaugural cohort of 500 students in September 2025, has integrated winter sports practice into its regular educational framework, allowing students to access professional slopes during weekends and holiday periods. This initiative represents a strategic implementation of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei coordinated development strategy, creating unique educational opportunities while promoting winter sports participation.

    Beyond athletic development, Tianshu Academy has established three specialized industry research institutes focusing on advanced manufacturing, new energy systems, and data economy technologies. This multidisciplinary approach connects physical education with technological innovation, preparing students for diverse career pathways in emerging industries. The skiing program not only develops athletic proficiency but also fosters discipline, teamwork, and health consciousness among participants.

    The utilization of Olympic infrastructure for educational purposes demonstrates China’s commitment to maximizing the long-term value of its substantial investments in winter sports facilities. This model of post-Olympic venue utilization offers a template for how host cities can transform event-specific infrastructure into sustainable educational and community resources.

  • Turkey challenges Netanyahu on Gaza force role

    Turkey challenges Netanyahu on Gaza force role

    A significant diplomatic divergence has emerged between Turkey and Israel regarding post-war governance in Gaza, with Ankara directly contradicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s assertions about Turkish exclusion from security arrangements.

    On Tuesday, a high-ranking Turkish official disclosed that no definitive decision had been reached concerning Turkey’s potential involvement in the Gaza international stabilization force. This statement directly challenges Netanyahu’s parliamentary declaration on Monday that Turkish and Qatari forces would play no role in the Palestinian territory’s administration.

    The Turkish official, speaking to Middle East Eye on condition of anonymity, confirmed that Turkey remains actively engaged in discussions about contributing troops to the proposed international force outlined in October’s US-brokered peace initiative. “We are working on it,” the official stated, adding sarcastically: “Netanyahu also said Turkey wouldn’t be part of the Board of Peace, what happened there?”

    This reference concerns the recent invitation extended by US President Donald Trump to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to join the newly formed Board of Peace. This high-level governance body, which will be chaired by Trump himself, is tasked with overseeing Gaza’s administration and reconstruction following the ceasefire agreement negotiated alongside mediator nations including Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar.

    Despite Israeli objections to Erdogan’s inclusion, diplomatic sources indicate that all parties involved in the Sharm el-Sheikh negotiations will maintain representation on the Board of Peace. Additionally, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has been appointed to the Gaza Executive Board, which will support the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza in addressing daily operational challenges.

    President Erdogan has previously emphasized Turkey’s indispensable role, stating that any governance mechanism excluding Turkey would struggle to gain trust among Palestinians. “The countries party to the Sharm el-Sheikh Declaration, including Turkey, are the most legitimate actors in this process,” Erdogan asserted earlier this month, highlighting Turkey’s unique positioning through its historical ties with Palestinians, maintained security channels with Israel, and regional influence as a NATO member nation.

    The emerging governance structure—comprising the NCAG, Board of Peace, and Gaza Executive Board—appears to ensure Turkish and Qatari involvement in reconstruction efforts despite Netanyahu’s attempts to minimize their roles, revealing ongoing disagreements between Israel and the United States regarding Gaza’s post-conflict management.