Global Pulse

标签： Asia

亚洲

  • ‘A race against time’: Jerusalem’s Silwan faces escalating Israeli expulsions

    ‘A race against time’: Jerusalem’s Silwan faces escalating Israeli expulsions

    In the occupied East Jerusalem neighborhood of Silwan, a profound humanitarian crisis unfolds as Israeli authorities accelerate property demolitions and settler takeovers. Fakhri Abu Diab, a prominent community activist, embodies this struggle having witnessed his family home destroyed twice in 2024 alone—each demolition compounding what he describes as overwhelming psychological trauma and financial devastation.

    The architectural dismantling of Palestinian residences occurs under the justification of building permit violations, a requirement local residents argue is systematically designed for their failure. Beyond bureaucratic mechanisms, settler organizations employ both legal maneuvers and intimidation tactics to displace longstanding communities. Current estimates indicate approximately 2,200 Palestinians face imminent expulsion from Silwan, with 24 families comprising 130 people at immediate risk.

    Israeli human rights organization B’Tselem characterizes these coordinated actions as government-sanctioned ethnic cleansing. The campaign extends beyond residential properties to include educational institutions and community infrastructure, fundamentally altering the neighborhood’s social fabric.

    Financial burdens compound the trauma, with displaced families forced to pay demolition costs—often exceeding $100,000 for permit applications that remain virtually unattainable. The judicial system offers limited protection, with courts frequently favoring state interests according to political analyst Firas Yaghi.

    Urban planning restrictions further exacerbate the crisis, with only 13% of East Jerusalem zoned for Palestinian construction. The separation wall compounds these restrictions, simultaneously isolating communities and providing pretexts for residency revocation.

    This systematic displacement forms part of what researchers identify as the ‘Judaisation of Jerusalem’—a strategic effort to replace the city’s Palestinian character with Jewish settlement. Plans reportedly exist to demolish up to 45,000 Palestinian homes across the city.

    Despite international condemnation, residents report accelerated actions on the ground. Abu Diab warns that without robust international intervention and legal protection, Israel will continue implementing these policies with impunity, permanently erasing Palestinian heritage from the city.

  • Greenland’s harsh environment and lack of infrastructure have prevented rare earth mining

    Greenland’s harsh environment and lack of infrastructure have prevented rare earth mining

    The Trump administration’s controversial proposition to acquire Greenland faces monumental geological and infrastructural obstacles that transcend political ambition. Despite the president’s assertion that “We are going to do something on Greenland whether they like it or not,” experts confirm that the island’s rare earth mineral deposits remain largely inaccessible due to extreme environmental conditions and technological limitations.

    Greenland’s formidable challenges include its remote Arctic location, complete absence of transportation infrastructure, complex mineralogy, and fragile ecosystem. The rare earth elements—crucial for manufacturing high-tech products ranging from electric vehicles to military equipment—are encased within a particularly stubborn rock formation called eudialyte, from which no commercially viable extraction method has been developed.

    Industry analysts suggest geopolitical positioning rather than practical resource acquisition drives the administration’s interest. “The fixation on Greenland has always been more about geopolitical posturing—a military-strategic interest and stock-promotion narrative—than a realistic supply solution for the tech sector,” stated Tracy Hughes of the Critical Minerals Institute.

    The timeline for potential production stretches years into the future, with current exploration activities remaining in preliminary stages. Even the most advanced projects would require hundreds of millions in additional funding and technological breakthroughs to become operational.

    Environmental concerns present additional complications, as the toxic chemicals necessary for mineral separation could damage Greenland’s burgeoning tourism industry and fragile Arctic ecosystems. The frequent presence of radioactive uranium alongside rare earth deposits further complicates extraction prospects.

    Alternative solutions are emerging elsewhere, with established mining operations in the United States, Australia, and other accessible locations offering more immediate potential to reduce dependence on Chinese rare earth exports, which currently dominate over 90% of global supply.

  • Hamda scores big win for Emirati women at Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Festival

    Hamda scores big win for Emirati women at Sheikh Mohammed Endurance Festival

    In a groundbreaking display of equestrian excellence, Emirati riders Hamda Jasim Ahmed Mohamed Al Ali and Maitha Mohamed Al Qubaisi achieved a historic one-two finish at the prestigious Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Endurance Festival in Dubai. The landmark victory, witnessed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum himself, represents a significant milestone for women’s sports in the United Arab Emirates.

    The two athletes conquered the grueling 160-kilometer course at Dubai International Endurance City through strategic brilliance and exceptional horsemanship. Riding SW Hinkul, a 12-year-old gelding, Hamda executed a perfectly timed final surge to claim victory in 6 hours, 14 minutes, and 19 seconds, maintaining an impressive average speed of 25.65 km/h throughout the demanding desert terrain.

    What made their achievement particularly remarkable was their tactical approach. Rather than leading from the start, Hamda began in 24th position and remained outside the top ten for much of the race. Her victory was secured through intelligent pacing, meticulous veterinary management, and a decisive final push during the last 20 kilometers that overwhelmed the competition.

    Maitha Al Qubaisi followed just 36 seconds behind her compatriot, completing an all-Emirati female podium dominance that showcased the depth of talent developing within the UAE’s endurance riding program. Mansour Saeed Al Farsi secured third place, rounding out the podium.

    The event, now in its 19th edition and organized by the Dubai Equestrian Club, stands as one of the most prestigious fixtures on the global endurance calendar. Sheikh Mohammed, a former World Endurance Champion himself, personally followed the final stretch of the race, adding symbolic significance to the women’s achievement.

    This triumph demonstrates how endurance riding rewards strategic decision-making and partnership with the horse as much as physical stamina. Both riders emphasized the values of patience, humility, and trust that the sport instills—qualities that proved decisive in their historic performance that will be remembered as a defining moment in the festival’s history.

  • Oman sentences 59 expat workers to jail for Christmas Day riot, vandalism

    Oman sentences 59 expat workers to jail for Christmas Day riot, vandalism

    A court in Oman has delivered a decisive verdict against 59 expatriate workers, sentencing them to imprisonment and subsequent deportation from the Sultanate for their involvement in a violent protest on Christmas Day 2025. The ruling, announced by Oman’s Public Prosecution Authority on January 10th, 2026, concludes a case that has drawn significant attention to labor relations and public order in the Gulf nation.

    The incident unfolded on the evening of December 25th in the Sa’al area of Wilayat Bidbid, where Royal Oman Police responded to reports of mass gatherings and property destruction near a company-owned residential complex. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered a substantial group of workers engaged in acts of vandalism against company facilities and vehicles, including the damaging of transportation buses, which severely disrupted operations.

    Despite direct orders from police to disperse and cease destructive activities, the workers refused to comply, leading to their immediate arrest and subsequent interrogation. Following comprehensive investigations, prosecutors charged the individuals with multiple criminal offenses under Omani law.

    The Court of First Instance handed down convictions on four distinct charges: incitement to gather (carrying a 3-month sentence), participation in a public gathering of ten or more persons that could disrupt security (6-month sentence), damaging movable and immovable property (1-year sentence), and using information technology to produce and disseminate material harmful to public order (1-year sentence).

    In addition to cumulative prison terms, the court mandated the permanent deportation of all convicted individuals from Oman and ordered the confiscation of mobile phones used in committing cyber offenses. Notably, twenty-three other defendants involved in the same incident were acquitted of all charges, suggesting careful judicial consideration of individual participation levels.

    This case highlights Oman’s stringent approach to maintaining public order while simultaneously raising questions about labor conditions for foreign workers in the region. The timing of the incident on Christmas Day suggests possible cultural or religious dimensions to the protest, though official statements focused exclusively on the legal violations rather than underlying causes.

  • Myanmar holds second round of voting in first general election since military takeover

    Myanmar holds second round of voting in first general election since military takeover

    Myanmar conducted the second phase of its controversial general election on Sunday, marking the first electoral process since the military seized power in February 2021. The voting expanded to include 100 additional townships, many situated in conflict-ridden regions where armed resistance against military rule continues to escalate.

    International observers and human rights experts have condemned the electoral process as fundamentally flawed. Tom Andrews, UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, characterized the election as a ‘sham’ due to systematic political repression. ‘Fundamental freedoms are crushed when thousands of political prisoners remain behind bars, credible opposition parties face dissolution, and journalists are systematically muzzled,’ Andrews stated.

    The electoral landscape reflects the military’s tight control over the political process. According to data from the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, over 22,000 individuals face detention for political offenses since the coup, while security forces have caused more than 7,600 civilian casualties. A newly enacted Election Protection Law imposes severe penalties for any public criticism of the electoral process, with authorities already charging more than 330 people for leafleting or online activism.

    Despite these measures, armed resistance groups attempted to disrupt Sunday’s voting through attacks on polling stations and government buildings in at least four townships, resulting in two administrative officials killed according to independent media reports.

    The military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) emerged dominant from the first voting phase in December, securing nearly 90% of contested lower house seats. The absence of Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy, which was dissolved in 2023 after refusing to comply with new military regulations, has left the political landscape heavily skewed toward military-aligned parties.

    Voter turnout appeared significantly lower than in the 2020 elections, with AP journalists observing sparse attendance at polling stations across Yangon and Mandalay. The military government nevertheless claimed success, reporting approximately 52% participation among eligible voters in the first phase.

    The military government plans to convene the new parliament in March, with the transition to a new government scheduled for April, solidifying what critics describe as the institutionalization of military rule through manipulated democratic processes.

  • Iran intensifying deadly crackdown under internet blackout cover, say rights groups

    Iran intensifying deadly crackdown under internet blackout cover, say rights groups

    Human rights organizations are sounding alarms over Iran’s intensified suppression of widespread protests, with security forces allegedly escalating lethal tactics under the concealment of a comprehensive nationwide internet blackout now extending beyond 36 hours. The demonstrations, representing the most significant challenge to Iran’s theocratic leadership in over three years, have reportedly resulted in at least 51 fatalities according to Norway-based Iran Human Rights, though actual numbers may be substantially higher.

    Amnesty International confirmed it is investigating disturbing accounts of security personnel intensifying their unlawful deployment of lethal force against demonstrators since Thursday, resulting in additional casualties. Nobel Peace Laureate Shirin Ebadi issued warnings that authorities might be preparing to execute a ‘massacre under the cover of a sweeping communications blackout.’

    Verified footage reveals continued protests across multiple cities including Tehran, Mashhad, Tabriz, and Qom, with participants chanting anti-government slogans and demanding political change. In response, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has accused the United States of instigating the unrest and denounced protesters as ‘vandals,’ while Iranian military forces pledged to ‘vigorously protect national interests’ against perceived external threats.

    The internet shutdown imposed by authorities has severely hampered communication capabilities, with Netblocks confirming the blackout remains actively enforced. This digital censorship coincides with reports of significant property damage, security force deployments, and early business closures throughout Tehran. International observers continue to monitor the situation closely as both protesters and government forces demonstrate increased determination in the ongoing confrontation.

  • Syrian army announces stop to Aleppo offensive, but Kurdish fighters deny halt

    Syrian army announces stop to Aleppo offensive, but Kurdish fighters deny halt

    The Syrian military declared a suspension of its offensive operations in Aleppo’s Sheikh Maqsud district on Saturday, though Kurdish forces immediately contested the claim, reporting continued fierce combat. The violence erupted earlier this week following stalled negotiations to integrate the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the national government framework.

    The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) published an official statement indicating the cessation of all military activities would take effect at 3:00 PM local time. Concurrently, the military announced plans to transfer surrendering Kurdish fighters to the northeastern city of Tabaqa, under the supervision of the interior ministry. State television documented the transportation process, showing at least four buses accompanied by security forces departing the conflict zone.

    However, the SDF vehemently denied both the ceasefire declaration and government assertions that they controlled most of Sheikh Maqsud. Kurdish officials characterized the army’s statements as a “blatant attempt to mislead public opinion” while reporting they were actively repelling attacks. The fighting has exacted a severe humanitarian toll, with at least 21 civilian fatalities confirmed and approximately 155,000 residents displaced from their homes, according to Aleppo’s governor.

    The conflict stems from unresolved disagreements regarding the implementation of a March 2023 integration agreement. Kurdish demands for decentralized governance structures have particularly hampered progress. Elham Ahmad, a senior Kurdish administration official, accused Damascus of “choosing the path of war” and undermining previously established agreements.

    International attention has intensified, with US envoy Tom Barrack confirming discussions with Jordan’s foreign minister regarding ceasefire consolidation, safe SDF withdrawal from Aleppo, and civilian protection. Both parties emphasized the urgent need to implement the integration agreement to achieve lasting stability.

  • 6.3 magnitude earthquake strikes Indonesia, NCM says

    6.3 magnitude earthquake strikes Indonesia, NCM says

    A substantial seismic event measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale occurred off the coast of Indonesia’s Talaud Islands on Saturday evening, according to multiple seismic monitoring agencies. The German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) reported the earthquake struck at approximately 6:00 PM UAE time, with its epicenter located offshore in the seismically active region.

    The temblor originated at a considerable depth of 77 kilometers (approximately 47.85 miles) beneath the earth’s surface, which typically reduces surface impact while still representing significant geological activity. Indonesia’s National Seismic Network, operated by the National Center of Meteorology, independently confirmed the earthquake’s magnitude and timing.

    Indonesia, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiences frequent seismic activity due to the convergence of multiple tectonic plates. The Talaud Islands region, located north of Sulawesi, has historically experienced moderate to strong earthquakes, though this particular event’s deep focus may have mitigated potential damage.

    Seismologists continue to monitor the region for aftershocks, which commonly follow earthquakes of this magnitude. No immediate tsunami warnings were issued following the event, as subduction zone earthquakes at this depth typically don’t generate significant tsunami activity. Local authorities are assessing potential impacts on coastal communities while residents reported feeling moderate tremors across the archipelago.

  • ‘Hermès of durian’: The luxury fruit cashing in on China’s billion-dollar appetite

    ‘Hermès of durian’: The luxury fruit cashing in on China’s billion-dollar appetite

    The humble Malaysian town of Raub, once renowned for its gold mining heritage, has undergone an extraordinary economic transformation driven by China’s insatiable appetite for durians. This small community now proudly identifies as the heartland of Musang King—a premium durian variety celebrated as the “Hermès of durians” among Chinese connoisseurs.

    Driving through Raub’s mountainous terrain, the presence of the spiky fruit is unmistakable. Fragrant trails follow durian-laden trucks along winding roads, while public art and signage proudly proclaim the town’s newfound identity. This visual and olfactory landscape tells the story of an agricultural revolution reshaping Southeast Asia’s farming communities.

    China’s durian imports skyrocketed to a record $7 billion in 2024, representing a threefold increase since 2020. This massive demand now absorbs over 90% of global durian exports, creating unprecedented economic opportunities across the region. “Even if only 2% of Chinese consumers purchase durians, that represents enormous business potential,” notes Chee Seng Wong, factory manager at Fresco Green, a Raub-based exporter.

    The economic shift has been dramatic. Where farmers once replaced durian trees with oil palms during 1990s economic struggles, they now reverse this process, sacrificing cash crops to cultivate the prized fruit. This agricultural recalibration reflects durian’s extraordinary market value—while common varieties sell for under $2 in Southeast Asia, premium Musang King specimens command $14 to $100 per fruit depending on quality and season.

    Despite its divisive aroma—often compared to cabbage, sulfur, or sewers—durian has cultivated a sophisticated Chinese fanbase. It functions as an exotic luxury gift, social media status symbol, and culinary innovation ingredient, appearing in everything from durian chicken hotpot to pizza. This cultural embrace has turned the once-maligned fruit into a diplomatic tool, with Beijing signing numerous trade agreements positioning durian exchange as celebration of bilateral ties.

    Malaysia’s durian industry has created remarkable success stories. Farmers like “Uncle Thing” Lu Yuee Thing have achieved millionaire status through family-operated enterprises where sons handle transportation while daughters manage finances. “Durian has significantly contributed to our local economy,” acknowledges Uncle Thing, though he emphasizes the physical demands of farming despite the financial rewards.

    The durian boom carries complex consequences. Food safety concerns emerged when Chinese authorities detected carcinogenic dyes in Thai imports, while Vietnamese coffee farmers switching to durian cultivation have contributed to rising global coffee prices. In Raub, legal conflicts have erupted over thousands of durian trees allegedly planted illegally on state land.

    Meanwhile, China pursues “durian freedom” through domestic cultivation in Hainan province, where experimental harvests reached 2,000 tonnes in 2025. While currently representing less than 1% of China’s consumption, this domestic production potential introduces uncertainty for Southeast Asian producers who have built their economies around Chinese demand. Yet Raub’s farmers remain confident in their product’s superiority, focusing on quality and yield while monitoring China’s agricultural developments.

  • India: Small aircraft crash lands in Odisha, 6 passengers injured

    India: Small aircraft crash lands in Odisha, 6 passengers injured

    A regional commuter flight operated by IndiaOne Air was forced to make an emergency landing in an open field near Kansor, Odisha, on Saturday afternoon, resulting in minor injuries to all six occupants but no fatalities. The Cessna Grand C208B aircraft, registration VT-KSS, was conducting a scheduled flight from Bhubaneswar to Rourkela when the incident occurred.

    According to official statements from India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the crew declared a ‘MAYDAY’ emergency to Rourkela Air Traffic Control at approximately 13:14 hours IST before executing a controlled forced landing in an open area approximately 15-20 kilometers short of their destination airport. The aircraft carried four passengers and two crew members, all of whom were promptly transported to medical facilities for evaluation and treatment.

    Odisha’s Commerce and Transport Minister BB Jena confirmed the incident, stating, ‘By the grace of God, this is not a major accident. The passengers have sustained minor injuries and are stable.’ The landing site was identified as near Jalda, approximately 10 kilometers from Rourkela.

    Rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the location following the emergency landing. Minister Jena confirmed that state authorities have notified the DGCA about the incident, and the state’s director would soon visit the accident site for preliminary assessment.

    IndiaOne Air, a scheduled commuter operator based in Bhubaneswar, maintains a fleet of three Cessna Grand C208B aircraft and has provided regional connectivity within Odisha and to neighboring Tier-3 cities since 2022 with Viability Gap Funding support from the Government of Odisha. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has assumed responsibility for conducting a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the emergency landing.