The Israeli military is poised to appoint a new advocate general following the resignation of its top lawyer, Yifat Tomer-Yerushalmi, who admitted to leaking surveillance footage allegedly showing soldiers raping a Palestinian detainee. The video, released in August 2023, depicted a group of soldiers at the Sde Teiman detention camp forming a human barrier around the victim during Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza. Tomer-Yerushalmi stepped down on Friday, claiming the leak was intended to counter pressure from far-right groups criticizing the military advocate general’s office. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with at least nine soldiers questioned and five indicted for ‘severe abuse,’ though none for rape. The trial remains ongoing, with the accused soldiers demanding its dismissal. The victim reportedly suffered severe injuries, including a ruptured bowel, broken ribs, and anal and lung damage. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the leak, calling it a ‘severe propaganda attack’ on Israel’s image. Defense Minister Israel Katz is expected to meet with army chief Eyal Zamir to discuss appointing a new advocate general. This scandal adds to growing accusations of systemic abuse of Palestinian detainees, including rape, torture, and denial of medical treatment, with over 70 detainees dying under such conditions since the war began in October 2023. A UN commission has documented evidence of sexual violence by Israeli officers, further fueling international criticism. Despite these allegations, criminal investigations against Israeli soldiers rarely lead to prosecutions, with 88% of cases since October 2023 either closed or inconclusive, according to war monitor AOAV.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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UAE Rulers offer condolences to Saudi King over passing of Khalid bin Mohammed
In a gesture of solidarity and sympathy, the rulers of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have conveyed heartfelt condolences to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia following the passing of Prince Khalid bin Mohammed bin Turki bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Saud. The messages were sent individually by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi of Sharjah, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi of Ajman, Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi of Fujairah, Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla of Umm Al Qaiwain, and Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi of Ras Al Khaimah. Additionally, Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers of the UAE extended similar messages of sympathy to the Saudi monarch. The passing of Prince Khalid, a member of the Saudi royal family, has prompted an outpouring of support from regional leaders, reflecting the deep ties between the UAE and Saudi Arabia. This diplomatic exchange underscores the importance of maintaining strong relationships during times of loss and mourning.
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Symposium stresses recognizing China’s WWII efforts
A significant international symposium held at Peking University has brought renewed attention to China’s pivotal role in World War II and the historical restoration of Taiwan. Titled ‘The Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in a Global Perspective,’ the two-day event gathered nearly 100 scholars from mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, Japan, the United States, and Europe. The forum, which commenced on Sunday, aimed to foster a more balanced understanding of China’s wartime efforts and its contributions to the global fight against fascism. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45), the World Anti-Fascist War, the restoration of Taiwan, and the founding of the United Nations. Scholars emphasized that China’s sacrifices and strategic importance in WWII have been historically underrepresented in global narratives. Hans van de Ven, a professor at the University of Cambridge, highlighted the need for greater international recognition of China’s wartime suffering and leadership in Asia’s national movements. Lu Fang-sang, a researcher at Academia Sinica in Taiwan, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of studying China’s resistance within a global context and enhancing cross-strait collaboration in historical research. Liu Wei-kai, a history professor at Chengchi University in Taipei, underscored Taiwan’s continuous resistance against Japanese occupation and criticized the Democratic Progressive Party’s de-Sinicization policies in education, which risk alienating younger generations from their cultural heritage.
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‘Pushpa’ star Allu Arjun bags new honour in Indian cinema
In a remarkable achievement for Indian cinema, Allu Arjun, the celebrated star of the blockbuster ‘Pushpa’ series, has been crowned the ‘Most Versatile Actor of the Year’ at the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2025. The announcement was made via the festival’s official social media channels, where the organizers lauded Arjun for his exceptional range and significant contributions to the film industry. The grand ceremony took place on October 30, 2025, at the NSCI Dome in Mumbai, drawing luminaries from across the cinematic world. Expressing his gratitude, Arjun shared an Instagram story, thanking the festival, his fans, and fellow winners. This accolade adds to a stellar year for the actor, who previously won the Best Actor award at the 2025 South Indian International Movie Awards (SIIMA) and the Gaddar Telangana Film Awards for his role in ‘Pushpa 2: The Rule.’ Released in 2024, the sequel to ‘Pushpa: The Rise’ was a massive box office success, further cementing Arjun’s status as one of India’s most bankable stars. Looking ahead, Arjun is set to star in an untitled sci-fi action film directed by Atlee, co-starring Deepika Padukone, with more details eagerly anticipated.
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Chinese president’s special envoy attends opening ceremony of Grand Egyptian Museum
In a significant diplomatic gesture, Sun Yeli, the Special Envoy of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Minister of Culture and Tourism, attended the grand opening ceremony of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Cairo on Saturday. The event, hosted by the Egyptian government, marked a milestone in the cultural and diplomatic relations between the two nations. Prior to the ceremony, Sun met with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, during which he conveyed President Xi’s warm greetings and presented a congratulatory letter. Sun emphasized China’s commitment to deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership with Egypt, highlighting the importance of implementing bilateral agreements, enhancing practical cooperation, and fostering cultural exchanges. President al-Sisi reciprocated by expressing his gratitude for Xi’s gesture and reaffirmed Egypt’s eagerness to expand collaboration with China across various sectors. The attendance of China’s special envoy underscores the growing ties between the two countries, with the GEM serving as a symbol of shared cultural heritage and mutual respect.
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Hamas rejects US claim of aid looting in Gaza as ‘fabricated’
Hamas has vehemently rejected allegations by the United States that its members were involved in the looting of an aid truck in Gaza, labeling the incident as ‘staged’ to legitimize Israeli-imposed restrictions on humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave. In a statement issued on Sunday, the Palestinian movement dismissed the accusations as ‘baseless and unfounded,’ asserting that no such event had occurred. Hamas criticized Washington for perpetuating what it described as the ‘Israeli occupation’s narrative,’ accusing the US of deepening its ‘unethical bias’ and complicity in the suffering of Gaza’s civilians. The US Central Command (Centcom) released edited drone footage on Friday, purportedly showing individuals looting a truck in northern Khan Younis. Centcom claimed that ‘suspected Hamas operatives’ attacked the driver and stole the truck but provided no concrete evidence linking the individuals to Hamas. Middle East Eye could not independently verify the video’s authenticity or context. Hamas emphasized that neither international nor local organizations had reported any such incident, and it accused the US of fabricating the scene to justify the blockade on Gaza. The Gaza-based Government Media Office highlighted ‘fundamental contradictions’ in the US claims, noting the absence of specific details such as the date, time, or exact location of the alleged incident. It also accused Washington of ignoring Israel’s ceasefire violations, including the killing of over 230 Palestinians. Ramy Abdu, founder of the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor, questioned the credibility of the US claims, citing the heavily edited nature of the video and the lack of supporting evidence. He also disputed Centcom’s claim that 600 aid trucks enter Gaza daily, stating that documented reports indicate the actual number is closer to 145. A week into the ceasefire, UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stephane Dujarric reported a significant drop in aid looting incidents, attributing it to Hamas’s reimposed security control in Gaza. Middle East Eye continues to provide independent coverage of the Middle East and North Africa.
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Political violence kills almost 300 since Hasina’s fall: Rights group
In the year following the ousting of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, nearly 300 people have lost their lives due to political violence, according to a report by the Dhaka-based human rights organization Odhikar. The report, released on Sunday, highlights the ongoing turmoil in the country since Hasina’s 15-year autocratic rule ended in August 2024, when she fled to India. The violence, which has primarily involved political parties, has resulted in at least 281 deaths from August 2024 to September 2025. Additionally, the report documented 40 extrajudicial killings and 153 cases of lynching during the same period. Odhikar’s director, ASM Nasiruddin Elan, noted that while human rights abuses have decreased since Hasina’s departure, issues such as deaths in custody, bribery, and harassment persist. Elan emphasized that many innocent individuals continue to suffer due to their alleged affiliations with Hasina’s now-banned political party, the Awami League. The report also revealed that extortion by political parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami, has affected people across all social strata. Furthermore, inefficient policing has led to frequent mob attacks, with law enforcement agencies being accused of serving party interests and operating with impunity. As of now, neither Bangladesh’s interim government nor any political parties have responded to Odhikar’s findings.
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UK train stabbing wounds 10; two suspects arrested
A violent stabbing incident on a Doncaster to London King’s Cross train has left 10 people hospitalized, with nine reportedly sustaining life-threatening injuries. The attack occurred late Saturday, prompting a swift response from armed police, emergency services, and counter-terrorism units. The train was halted at Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire, where the suspects were apprehended. Witnesses described chaotic scenes, with one individual reportedly wielding a large knife and passengers attempting to flee amidst the chaos. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack as “appalling” and expressed his gratitude to the emergency services for their rapid response. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and the identities of the two suspects have yet to be disclosed. This incident adds to the growing concern over knife crime in England and Wales, which has been labeled a “national crisis” by the government. Recent efforts to curb knife-related violence include the seizure or surrender of nearly 60,000 blades and a reported 18% drop in knife murders over the past year. However, this attack follows other high-profile stabbing incidents, including a synagogue attack in Manchester earlier this month. The railway lines in the area remain closed as investigations continue, with authorities urging the public to avoid travel in the region.
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UAE Flag Day: 10 dos and don’ts when hoisting nation’s symbol on November 3
Every year on November 3, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) celebrates Flag Day, a significant occasion where public and private institutions, along with residents, hoist the national flag to honor its symbolism of unity and pride. This tradition traces back to 1971 when Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father, first raised the flag during Eid Al Etihad celebrations. Designed by Abdullah Al Maeena as part of a competition by Al-Ittihad newspaper, the flag’s red, green, white, and black colors embody the nation’s history and shared values. For those participating in this cherished event, adhering to proper flag etiquette is crucial. Here are the key dos and don’ts:
**Dos:**
– Ensure the flag is made from high-quality, sustainable polyester blend with a neutral finish.
– Keep the flag at least 20-25 centimeters above the ground and ensure it remains clean and ironed.
– Inspect the flag for damage or fading before hoisting and fold it properly after use.**Don’ts:**
– Avoid any act of disrespect, such as dropping, tearing, or improperly lowering the flag, as such actions are punishable by law.
– Do not add emblems, logos, or decorative elements to the flag.
– Refrain from using the flag on edibles or altering its proportions for decorative purposes.Flag Day serves as a reminder of the UAE’s unity and the deep respect its citizens and residents hold for their national symbol. By following these guidelines, individuals can contribute to preserving the dignity and significance of the UAE flag.
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Death becomes a growing business in ageing, lonely South Korea
South Korea is witnessing a profound societal shift as its population ages rapidly, with nearly half of its citizens aged 50 or older and birth rates plummeting to among the lowest globally. This demographic transformation has spurred a burgeoning industry centered around death and its associated services. In Busan, a port city, rows of coffins fill university classrooms, where students at the Busan Institute of Science and Technology train to become funeral directors. These students meticulously prepare mannequins for burial, simulating the care required for real-life funerals. Jang Jin-yeong, a 27-year-old student, chose this career path anticipating the growing demand for funeral services in an ageing society. Similarly, Im Sae-jin, 23, was inspired to enter the field after witnessing the dignified preparation of his grandmother’s funeral. The rise of single-person households, now accounting for 42% of all homes in South Korea, has also given birth to a new profession: posthumous home cleaners. These specialists are called to tidy up residences after the solitary deaths of occupants. Cho Eun-seok, a former classical musician, has become one such cleaner, often encountering heartbreaking remnants of lives lived alone. He described homes filled with unopened gifts and neatly stored soju bottles, painting a poignant picture of isolation. South Korea’s high suicide rate, the highest among developed nations, further compounds the issue of lonely deaths. Cho has even begun cleaning vehicles where individuals have taken their own lives and is developing a device to detect unattended deaths, which can lead to environmental hazards. The emotional toll of this work is evident in stories like that of a high school girl who, after escaping domestic violence, lived alone in a tiny room and took her own life. Cho discovered her cherished hamster and guitar, remnants of her unfulfilled dream of becoming a musician. Kim Doo-nyeon, a veteran funeral director, notes an increasing number of young recruits entering the industry, reflecting the growing need for such services. Despite the challenges, these professionals play a vital role in addressing the societal consequences of South Korea’s demographic crisis.