In the shattered remains of Gaza City, 62-year-old Hiam Muqdad embodies resilience as she navigates the daily struggles of survival with her grandchildren. The once-vibrant neighborhood of Al Nasr now lies in ruins, a stark reminder of the two-year war between Israel and Hamas that has left 68,519 dead and displaced most of Gaza’s population. Muqdad, who lost her home and relatives, now lives in a makeshift tent amidst the rubble, determined to keep her family alive. Each morning, she ventures out with her grandchildren to search for water and scraps to make fire, a stark contrast to the carefree childhoods they once knew. ‘Children no longer dream of school or play; they dream of finding food and water,’ Muqdad lamented. Despite the devastation, she clings to hope, striving to ‘bring life back even a little.’ The ceasefire brokered by the US in October 2025 has brought a fragile calm, but the humanitarian crisis persists. The World Health Organization reports little improvement in aid delivery, and Gaza remains buried under 61 million tonnes of debris. Muqdad’s story is a testament to the enduring spirit of Gaza’s people, even as they face unimaginable hardship.
标签： Asia
亚洲
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Nation marks 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s restoration amid calls for reunification
China marked the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s restoration to its sovereignty with nationwide commemorations and a renewed emphasis on national reunification. The event, held in Beijing on October 25, 2025, was attended by prominent figures from both the mainland and Taiwan, including Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. Wang underscored the importance of the one-China principle and called for unity against any form of ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist activities. The commemoration followed the official designation of October 25 as the Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration by the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress. This decision reflects the collective will of the Chinese people to uphold national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Guests from Taiwan expressed their support for reunification, with economist Justin Lin Yifu and Taiwan Labor Party chairperson Wu Jung-yuan highlighting the historical significance of Taiwan’s restoration and the shared identity of people across the Strait. Overseas Chinese communities also celebrated the anniversary, with events held in countries such as the United States, Japan, Brazil, and Indonesia. The commemoration serves as a reminder of the historical and legal fact that Taiwan has always been an inseparable part of China, despite attempts by certain forces to distort this truth.
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Israel will decide which foreign troops acceptable to secure Gaza ceasefire: Netanyahu
In a significant development regarding the fragile ceasefire in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that Israel will have the final say on which foreign forces are acceptable to participate in a planned international force. This force is part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan to stabilize the region post-truce. Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s sovereignty in security matters, stating, ‘We are in control of our security, and we will determine which forces are unacceptable to us.’ The Trump administration has ruled out deploying U.S. troops but has engaged with countries like Indonesia, the UAE, Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and Azerbaijan to contribute to the multinational force. However, Israel has explicitly opposed Turkish involvement due to strained relations following Turkey’s criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during his visit to Israel, reiterated that the force must consist of ‘countries that Israel is comfortable with.’ A major hurdle remains Hamas’s refusal to disarm, a key requirement of Trump’s plan. Meanwhile, Israel continues to control access to Gaza, and efforts are underway to locate the remains of 13 deceased hostages still in Hamas’s possession. Netanyahu also dismissed claims that U.S. administration dictates Israel’s security policy, emphasizing the partnership between the two nations.
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Rohit, Kohli’s 2027 World Cup hopes depend on a big decision
The future of Indian cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the 2027 ODI World Cup remains uncertain, with a pivotal decision looming after India’s upcoming series against South Africa. Indian captain Shubman Gill hinted at the necessity of a significant call following the series, which begins on November 30, 2025. Despite their recent stellar performances in the third ODI against Australia, where Rohit scored an unbeaten 121 and Kohli added 74 not out, questions persist about their long-term roles in the team. Both players, aged 38 and 36 respectively, have been central to Indian cricket for over a decade, but their participation in the next World Cup depends on their ability to maintain form and fitness. The Indian cricket board is reportedly insistent on their participation in domestic cricket, specifically the Vijay Hazare Trophy, to keep them match-ready. Gill acknowledged that discussions regarding their future will take place after the South Africa series, emphasizing the importance of keeping senior players engaged in competitive cricket. The duo’s refusal to retire has kept fans hopeful, but their path to the 2027 World Cup is fraught with challenges, including the need to prove their worth in domestic tournaments and adapt to the evolving dynamics of the team.
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China to firmly promote high-level opening-up, continuously optimize business environment, says Premier Li
During his official visit to Singapore on October 26, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized China’s commitment to advancing high-level opening-up, easing market access, and continuously optimizing the business environment. Speaking at a China-Singapore business roundtable, Li highlighted the importance of addressing enterprises’ concerns to foster mutual growth and prosperity. The event, attended by Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, underscored the deepening economic ties between the two nations. Li reflected on the 35 years of fruitful cooperation between China and Singapore, noting that their development presents significant opportunities for each other. He stressed that mutual respect, trust, and open cooperation are key to shared prosperity. Li also pointed to recent milestones, such as the mutual visa exemption agreement and the upgraded free trade agreement, as catalysts for future collaboration. Looking ahead, Li outlined three strategic areas for enhanced cooperation: transitioning from complementary elements to collaborative innovation, expanding bilateral efforts to tripartite cooperation with regions like ASEAN and Africa, and jointly leading the formulation of global rules in emerging sectors like digital and green industries. Li also highlighted China’s robust economic foundation and its commitment to treating domestic and foreign enterprises equally. Gan Kim Yong echoed these sentiments, reaffirming Singapore’s dedication to advancing a high-quality partnership with China. Business representatives from both countries expressed optimism about China’s development prospects and pledged to deepen cooperation in finance, digital economy, green development, and more.
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Yemen’s Houthis release model after five years in prison
Yemeni model and actress Entisar al-Hammadi has been released after nearly five years in detention on charges of indecent behavior, her lawyer confirmed on Sunday. Hammadi, 25, was arrested in February 2021 in Sanaa while en route to a photo shoot. She was subsequently sentenced to five years in prison on allegations of prostitution, drug use, and fornication—claims her legal team and human rights organizations have vehemently dismissed as fabricated and politically motivated to suppress women’s freedoms. Her lawyer, Khaled al-Kamal, revealed that Hammadi was released on Saturday from the central prison in Sanaa. He also noted that her health had significantly deteriorated during her incarceration, as she suffered from various illnesses. Rights groups have reported that the high-profile model attempted to take her own life in 2021, highlighting the severe psychological toll of her imprisonment. Born to an Ethiopian mother and a Yemeni father, Hammadi had gained prominence as a model, sharing numerous photos online in both traditional Yemeni attire and modern outfits, with and without a headscarf. She had worked as a model for four years and appeared in two Yemeni television series in 2020, amassing thousands of followers on Instagram and Facebook. Human Rights Watch (HRW) described her case as ‘marred with irregularities and abuse,’ condemning the court proceedings as arbitrary and lacking due process. Amnesty International further detailed that Hammadi was subjected to blindfolded interrogations, physical and verbal abuse, racist insults, and forced confessions to crimes she did not commit. HRW’s March 2024 report highlighted that warring factions in Yemen, including the Houthis, the internationally recognized government, and the Southern Transitional Council, have systematically curtailed women’s rights in their respective territories. These oppressive policies have severely restricted women’s mobility, access to work, education, healthcare, and their ability to visit family members, underscoring the broader struggle for gender equality in the region.
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Philippine army slams Paolo Duterte over ‘false’ claim of US ties
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has vehemently refuted allegations made by Davao Representative Paolo ‘Pulong’ Duterte regarding supposed ties with the United States and the deployment of the US Typhon missile system. In a statement issued on Sunday, the AFP labeled Duterte’s claims as ‘false’ and ‘misleading,’ emphasizing that such assertions undermine the military’s integrity and commitment to national sovereignty. Duterte had accused AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. of endangering Filipino lives by allegedly boasting about the missile system’s capabilities, which he claimed could reach China. The AFP clarified that General Brawner’s remarks were purely technical, highlighting the system’s range and its role in training and capability-building as part of the AFP’s modernization efforts. The military stressed that the Typhon missile system is not intended to target or threaten any specific nation, including China. The AFP urged public officials and opinion leaders to exercise caution in their statements to prevent the spread of misinformation and distrust. ‘The AFP remains steadfast in its duty to protect the Filipino people and defend the nation’s sovereignty—serving no one but the Filipino, and protecting nothing but the Philippines,’ the statement concluded.
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Is India-US tariff pact targeting $500b trade closer?
India and the United States are on the brink of finalizing a groundbreaking trade agreement that could elevate bilateral commerce to $500 billion by 2030, more than doubling the current trade value of $191 billion. This long-awaited deal, which has been in negotiation since February 2025, aims to address trade imbalances, reduce punitive tariffs, and expand market access across goods, services, digital trade, and clean-energy technology.
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Founder Connects to host ‘Spotlight’ networking event at Paramount Hotel Midtown
Dubai’s dynamic innovation landscape will take center stage on October 30 as Founder Connects hosts its premier networking event, ‘Spotlight,’ at the Paramount Hotel Midtown. Known for its cinematic elegance and creative atmosphere, the hotel’s Melrose Bar & Lounge will be transformed into a vibrant hub where innovation and conversation converge. The event will bring together founders, investors, and creative minds in a Hollywood-inspired setting, fostering meaningful connections and collaboration. Pascal Eggerstedt, Director of Paramount Hotel Midtown, emphasized the event’s alignment with the hotel’s vision to create immersive spaces where creativity thrives and genuine connections flourish. ‘Spotlight’ aims to redefine professional networking by blending storytelling, innovation, and authentic engagement. Strategically located in Business Bay, near key commercial hubs like the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the hotel provides an ideal backdrop for the region’s boldest entrepreneurial voices. Dubai’s growing reputation as a global events hub further amplifies the significance of the occasion. The city has hosted major international gatherings, including GITEX Global 2025, which attracted over 6,800 exhibitors, 2,000 startups, and 1,200 investors from 180 countries. ‘Spotlight’ will offer a hybrid experience, starting with curated virtual one-on-one sessions in the morning and transitioning to in-person networking at the Melrose Bar & Lounge in the evening. The event’s cinematic ambiance is designed to encourage deeper dialogue and lasting partnerships, moving beyond traditional networking to foster authentic conversations and collaborative energy. As Dubai solidifies its position as a global capital for entrepreneurship and innovation, events like ‘Spotlight’ underscore the city’s commitment to nurturing talent and bridging ideas with capital. With its unique blend of glamour, strategy, and purpose, ‘Spotlight’ is set to become a standout fixture in the region’s business calendar.
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Dubai tenants turn to ownership, boosting demand for affordable luxury homes
Dubai’s real estate market is witnessing a significant transformation as rising rental costs drive long-term tenants toward homeownership, particularly in the mid-market, affordable luxury segment. Developers are capitalizing on this trend by launching projects that combine design, functionality, and value, especially in emerging communities like Liwan, Arjan, and Dubai South. Symbolic Developments, the real estate arm of Speedex Group, recently unveiled its fourth residential project, Symbolic Altus, in Liwan. Valued at Dh150 million, the development features 108 fully furnished apartments, including 1 BHK Elite and 2.5 BHK Panorama units, starting at Dh999,000. Scheduled for handover in Q3 2027, the project emphasizes ‘elevated living’ with all amenities located on the rooftop. This launch follows the success of Symbolic Alpha, the developer’s first project in Liwan, which saw over 30 per cent appreciation and higher-than-average rental yields. Murtaza Moiz, Vice Chairman of Symbolic Developments, highlighted the potential of emerging micro-markets like Liwan, which are attracting both end-users and investors. Dubai’s residential market has experienced a notable shift, with apartment prices rising 20.5 per cent year-on-year and average rents increasing 22.1 per cent as of mid-2025, according to CBRE. This has prompted residents to view affordable luxury developments—those priced under Dh2 million—as smart investments. Symbolic Altus aims to meet this demand with a low-density, design-led approach, strategically located just 500 meters from the upcoming Dubai Metro Blue Line. The developer’s focus on community-building is evident in its integration of amenities like rooftop communal spaces and proximity to Liwan Park, which features facilities for all age groups. With more projects planned for early next year, Symbolic Developments is committed to filling the gap in the mid-market segment, offering luxury at an affordable price.