Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • Epstein trained as an Israeli spy, FBI document says

    Epstein trained as an Israeli spy, FBI document says

    A recently surfaced FBI document from the Epstein files contains explosive allegations that convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein received intelligence training under former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak and operated as a co-opted Mossad agent. The confidential human source report, dated October 16, 2020, initially focused on electoral interference concerns but expanded to reveal startling intelligence claims regarding Epstein’s connections to Israeli intelligence services.

    The document details how the confidential source monitored phone conversations between Epstein and Harvard law professor Alan Dershowitz, with transcribed notes allegedly being relayed to Israel’s Mossad foreign intelligence agency. According to the source’s account, Barak considered current Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a ‘criminal’ and eventually became convinced that Epstein was operating as a Mossad asset.

    Further allegations suggest Dershowitz reportedly told another American attorney that Epstein maintained affiliations with both US and allied intelligence services. The source additionally claimed Dershowitz himself had been co-opted by Mossad, though these assertions remain uncorroborated. Dershowitz, a controversial legal figure who has represented high-profile clients including Netanyahu, Epstein, Harvey Weinstein, and Donald Trump, now faces these serious implications.

    The document also ventures into broader claims, suggesting venture capital firm Day One Ventures operated in Silicon Valley for technology acquisition purposes. The firm was founded by Masha Bucher, previously Epstein’s publicist, whom the source identified as ‘Vladimir Putin’s main contact in the Russian Youth movement.’

    Additionally, the report references longstanding connections between Jared Kushner’s family and Israel, specifically mentioning Charles Kushner and ‘deep ties’ to Israel alongside history of ‘corrupt business practices,’ though without providing specific details.

    Separate documentation confirms Epstein maintained an extensive relationship with Barak, who served as Israel’s defense minister from 2007-2013. Evidence shows Epstein advised Barak on technology firm Palantir, requested employment opportunities for former British minister Lord Peter Mandelson at an energy company, and discussed substantial consultancy fees for former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair.

    In response to these allegations, Prime Minister Netanyahu stated on social media that Epstein’s close association with Barak demonstrates the opposite of intelligence work, characterizing Barak as obsessively attempting to undermine Israeli democracy through collaborations with anti-Zionist elements seeking to overthrow the elected government.

  • Trump invites Philippine President Marcos to join Gaza Board of Peace, says Filipino envoy

    Trump invites Philippine President Marcos to join Gaza Board of Peace, says Filipino envoy

    In a significant diplomatic development, former US President Donald Trump has extended a formal invitation to Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to participate in the international ‘Board of Peace’ initiative for Gaza reconstruction. The invitation was delivered via personal correspondence earlier this year, as confirmed by Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez.

    The Marcos administration is currently evaluating the specific commitments required for participation, with Ambassador Romualdez emphasizing Manila’s historical support for peace-building initiatives worldwide. “We’ve always been for finding a way to contribute to any kind of peace effort,” Romualdez stated during the launch ceremony for the 80th US-Philippines anniversary commemorative logo in Pasay City.

    This invitation forms part of Trump’s broader international outreach, with over 60 nations reportedly receiving similar requests to join the entity first proposed in September 2025 as part of his 20-point roadmap to resolve the Gaza conflict. The Board of Peace is designed to provide strategic supervision and coordinate international resources for Gaza’s rehabilitation.

    While no definitive response timeline has been established, Philippine officials indicate a decision is expected within the coming weeks. Ambassador Romualdez clarified that financial contributions—reportedly set at $1 billion for permanent members—would not be required from Manila, suggesting instead potential contributions through human resources or technical expertise.

    Notably within Southeast Asia, only Indonesia and Vietnam have currently committed to participation in the international initiative. The Philippine government’s anticipated acceptance would mark another significant step in the country’s evolving foreign policy approach under the Marcos administration.

  • Young diners flock to Ningxia Hui market

    Young diners flock to Ningxia Hui market

    In a striking cultural shift, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region’s historic Jingui Market is witnessing an unprecedented influx of young patrons, transforming the traditional marketplace into a vibrant intersection of heritage and contemporary lifestyle. As Lunar New Year festivities approach, this culinary and cultural destination has become a magnet for millennials and Gen Z seekers authentic experiences beyond commercial shopping malls.

    The market’s sensory landscape—aromas of freshly ground chili powder, sizzling golden fried bread, and the visual appeal of hand-painted couplets—creates an immersive environment that resonates deeply with younger visitors. Beyond mere consumption, these diners pursue meaningful connections to regional traditions and communal warmth, finding rare joy in the market’s bustling corridors where modern life momentarily recedes.

    Vendors report notable demographic changes, with youth attendance increasing significantly throughout 2026. This trend reflects broader societal movements among Chinese youth who increasingly value handmade craftsmanship, affordable authenticity, and shared culinary experiences over standardized retail environments.

    At the epicenter of this renaissance stands 24-year-old entrepreneur Feng Yuyao, whose venture ‘Jingui Youmi’ (colloquially known as ‘I’m Rich’) exemplifies the market’s new direction. After completing university studies in Yunnan Province, Feng deliberately returned to his hometown, establishing a premium local rice brand that simultaneously promotes regional agricultural specialties while honoring the market’s traditional character.

    ‘Jingui Market has evolved into an internet sensation,’ Feng observed. ‘During peak market days, we regularly document foot traffic exceeding 30,000 visitors. The compelling dynamic isn’t merely commercial—it’s about collective energy, cultural novelty, and shoulder-to-shoulder human connection that digital spaces cannot replicate.’

    This phenomenon represents a significant socioeconomic development where traditional markets regain relevance through youth engagement, suggesting evolving definitions of community and cultural preservation in modern China.

  • Malayalam actor Maniyanpilla Raju released on bail after arrest in Kerala hit-and-run case

    Malayalam actor Maniyanpilla Raju released on bail after arrest in Kerala hit-and-run case

    Thiruvananthapuram witnessed dramatic developments as celebrated Malayalam cinema figure Maniyanpilla Raju secured release on bail after his arrest concerning a severe traffic collision that left two young motorcyclists injured. The incident occurred approximately at 9:30 PM on Thursday near Trivandrum Club in Vazhuthacaud, where Raju’s vehicle allegedly struck a motorcycle carrying Sooraj and Nidev.

    Law enforcement authorities confirmed both victims sustained significant injuries from the impact. Sooraj received damage to his left leg and shoulder while Nidev suffered neck and leg injuries, requiring immediate medical transportation for treatment. Police reports indicate the actor failed to stop immediately following the collision, raising serious questions about procedural compliance.

    Following standard legal protocols, Raju underwent medical examination at Thiruvananthapuram General Hospital after his apprehension. The Museum Police Station has formally registered charges under multiple legal provisions including Sections 281 and 125(A) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita alongside Sections 134(A) and 134(B) of the Motor Vehicle Act.

    Raju maintains an extensive career in the Malayalam film industry as both actor and producer, with notable appearances in acclaimed productions including ‘Boeing Boeing’, ‘Chithram’, ‘Bangalore Days’ and ‘No.20 Madras Mail’. The entertainment industry watches closely as legal proceedings unfold against the established performer.

  • Flying robot takes on ice-covered power lines in Hunan

    Flying robot takes on ice-covered power lines in Hunan

    A groundbreaking Chinese-developed aerial robot has successfully completed its inaugural operational mission in Cili County, Zhangjiajie, demonstrating remarkable capabilities in maintaining power infrastructure during severe winter conditions. The innovative KICE-500 de-icing robot, engineered by Hunan Disaster Prevention Technology Co Ltd based in Changsha, represents a significant technological advancement in safeguarding electrical grids against ice accumulation.

    The autonomous flying apparatus executed its pioneering real-world operation this week, effectively clearing a 500-meter section of ground wire in merely 20 minutes. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it addresses the longstanding challenge of maintaining power transmission systems in remote, difficult-to-access mountainous regions where traditional maintenance methods prove impractical or hazardous.

    This technological innovation emerges as a critical solution during extreme winter weather patterns that frequently threaten power stability across China’s varied terrain. The robot’s dual capability of both flight and precision de-icing operations eliminates the need for human workers to undertake dangerous high-altitude interventions in freezing conditions, thereby enhancing both operational efficiency and worker safety.

    The successful deployment in Hunan province marks a milestone in China’s ongoing efforts to modernize infrastructure maintenance through technological innovation. This development signals a new era in disaster prevention technology, potentially setting a global standard for addressing similar challenges in cold climate regions worldwide.

  • Turkey signs $350m arms deal with Egypt

    Turkey signs $350m arms deal with Egypt

    In a significant development for Middle Eastern geopolitics, Turkey’s state-owned defense conglomerate Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation (MKE) has finalized a comprehensive $350 million arms agreement with Egypt’s Ministry of Defence. The landmark deal, confirmed by multiple sources to Middle East Eye, encompasses both ammunition sales and the establishment of sophisticated production facilities on Egyptian soil.

    The agreement was formally sealed during Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s diplomatic visit to Cairo on Wednesday, where he conducted high-level talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. This defense collaboration represents the most concrete manifestation of the ongoing normalization process between the two regional powers, who had experienced severely strained relations following Egypt’s 2013 military transition.

    Central to the arrangement is MKE’s export of its advanced Tolga Short-Range Air Defence System to Egypt, valued at approximately $130 million. This cutting-edge system, specifically engineered to counter unmanned aerial threats through integrated electronic and physical neutralization capabilities, recently saw its first international deployment to Qatar last month.

    Beyond hardware transfers, the agreement establishes substantial industrial cooperation. MKE will construct a dedicated factory for 155mm long-range artillery ammunition within Egypt, complemented by production lines for 7.62mm and 12.7mm caliber ammunition. These industrial investments, accounting for the remaining $220 million of the total package, will be managed through a newly formed joint venture company designed to enhance regional export potential.

    The Turkish Defense Ministry emphasized that this partnership extends beyond bilateral trade, creating a framework for defense industrial cooperation that addresses shared regional security concerns. The rapprochement between Ankara and Cairo has accelerated notably following Israel’s military operations in Gaza, with both nations finding common ground on issues ranging from Somali stability to broader regional security architecture.

    MKE, historically the primary supplier to Turkish armed forces since its 1950 establishment, has undergone significant modernization since its 2021 corporate restructuring. This Egyptian contract represents a major milestone in Turkey’s ambition to become a competitive defense exporter to NATO allies and international partners.

  • Lhasa museum launches silk culture exhibit

    Lhasa museum launches silk culture exhibit

    The Xizang Museum in Lhasa inaugurated a groundbreaking exhibition dedicated to silk culture on Friday, marking a significant cultural milestone for the Tibetan Autonomous Region. The special showcase features over 80 meticulously preserved silk artifacts, with numerous pieces being revealed to the public for the first time.

    Curator Sonam Drolma emphasized the museum’s substantial collection of more than 1,000 silk relics, highlighting their enduring cultural significance. “These artifacts continue to symbolize and enrich our aspirations for a beautiful life,” Drolma stated during the opening ceremony, underscoring the deep cultural connections embodied in the textile treasures.

    The exhibition provides unprecedented public access to silk pieces that demonstrate the region’s historical trade connections and cultural exchanges along ancient routes. The carefully curated selection represents various historical periods and techniques, offering visitors a comprehensive journey through silk’s evolution in Tibetan culture.

    Museum officials indicate the exhibition will remain open for several months, allowing both local residents and international visitors to appreciate these rare cultural artifacts. The launch coincides with increased cultural tourism in the region, positioning the museum as a key destination for those interested in Tibetan heritage and textile history.

  • 31 killed, about 170 injured in blast in Pakistani capital

    31 killed, about 170 injured in blast in Pakistani capital

    A devastating suicide attack struck a Shi’ite Muslim mosque in Pakistan’s capital during Friday prayers, resulting in one of the deadliest sectarian attacks in recent years. According to official statements from Islamabad police and government authorities, the explosion killed at least 31 worshippers and left approximately 170 injured, with many victims in critical condition.

    The attack occurred in the Shehzad Town area of Islamabad when a suspected suicide bomber detonated explosives after being intercepted at the mosque entrance. Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes as the blast tore through the prayer gathering, causing significant structural damage to both the mosque and adjacent buildings.

    Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon confirmed the casualties and announced an immediate state of emergency across all major hospitals in the capital region. Medical facilities in Islamabad and neighboring Rawalpindi are currently overwhelmed with casualties, and officials warn the death toll may rise as many victims remain in critical condition.

    Security forces swiftly established a perimeter around the blast site, launching comprehensive search operations and initiating a full-scale investigation into the attack’s circumstances. While no group has immediately claimed responsibility, authorities are investigating possible links to militant organizations including the Pakistani Taliban and Islamic State, both known for targeting religious minorities and security forces.

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued a strong condemnation of the attack, expressing profound grief over the loss of innocent lives and extending condolences to affected families. The government has heightened security alerts throughout the capital region, implementing enhanced protective measures for religious sites and public spaces.

    The bombing represents a significant security challenge for Pakistani authorities, highlighting persistent threats against religious minorities despite ongoing counterterrorism efforts. The international community is closely monitoring developments as Pakistan confronts this latest tragedy.

  • Dubai’s driverless taxi service to start operating in March: Sheikh Hamdan

    Dubai’s driverless taxi service to start operating in March: Sheikh Hamdan

    Dubai is poised to inaugurate its groundbreaking autonomous taxi service in March 2026, marking a significant milestone in urban transportation innovation. The initiative, personally endorsed by Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, will deploy an initial fleet of 100 fully driverless vehicles operated through strategic partnerships between Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and three technology leaders: pony.ai, Uber, and Baidu’s Apollo Go.

    The Crown Prince demonstrated his confidence in the technology by personally utilizing a Baidu Apollo Go self-driving vehicle for transportation to the World Governments Summit 2026 at Madinet Jumeirah. Documenting the experience on social media with the caption ‘Hands off. Future On. #SelfDrivingCar,’ Sheikh Hamdan emphasized Dubai’s commitment to transforming urban mobility. ‘This is only the beginning of our journey to the future. The best is yet to come for Dubai,’ he stated, adding that the future of mobility in the emirate would be ‘smarter, safer, more efficient, and more inclusive.’

    This deployment represents a particularly notable expansion for Baidu’s Apollo Go, marking its first operational venture outside China. The company has announced ambitious plans to scale its Dubai fleet to over 1,000 vehicles in the coming years, signaling long-term commitment to the Middle Eastern market. The initiative reflects Dubai’s comprehensive strategy to position itself as a global leader in smart transportation solutions, incorporating rigorous safety protocols while pioneering next-generation mobility infrastructure that aims to enhance quality of life through sustainable transport innovation.

  • India gold premiums down by half; China demand up ahead of Lunar New Year

    India gold premiums down by half; China demand up ahead of Lunar New Year

    A significant divergence has emerged in Asian gold markets, with premiums in India collapsing from decade-high levels while Chinese demand strengthened ahead of the Lunar New Year celebrations. Market data reveals Indian bullion dealers this week charged premiums of up to $70 per ounce over official domestic prices, representing a dramatic decline from last week’s $153 premium – the highest recorded since December 2013. This sharp contraction follows substantial price volatility that saw domestic gold prices swing between 133,687 rupees and a record 180,779 rupees per 10 grams, creating uncertainty among buyers. Market analysts attribute last week’s premium spike to anticipations of an import duty hike in India’s Union Budget, which ultimately maintained the existing duty structure when presented on February 1. Conversely, China demonstrated robust demand with premiums increasing to $35 per ounce above global benchmark prices, up from $32 the previous week. Regional variations persisted across Asia, with Hong Kong trading at par to $1.70 premiums, Japan offering discounts of $7 to $1 premiums, and Singapore trading at discounts of $0.50 to premiums of $3. Peter Fung, Head of Dealing at Wing Fung Precious Metals, noted that ‘consumers still have interest in buying jewellery on the downside while physical investment demand is very good.’ The market shift comes as spot gold prices have retreated more than 13.5% since hitting a record high of $5,594.82 on January 29. ANZ analyst Soni Kumari observed that ‘the correction in gold and silver prices came at the right time, just before the Chinese New Year,’ potentially stimulating further demand. This market realignment occurs against the backdrop of China’s evolving gold consumption patterns, where 2025 marked the second consecutive annual decline but saw investment products (bars and coins) surpass jewelry purchases for the first time, reflecting growing safe-haven demand among Chinese investors.