Global Pulse

标签： North America

北美洲

  • Gotham Awards: Jafar Panahi pays tribute to filmmakers ‘deprived of right to see and be seen’

    Gotham Awards: Jafar Panahi pays tribute to filmmakers ‘deprived of right to see and be seen’

    Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi delivered a powerful tribute to oppressed creators worldwide during his acceptance speech at the Gotham Awards in New York, even as he faced fresh legal persecution from Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Court. The acclaimed director, who received three major awards for his Palme d’Or-winning drama “It Was Just An Accident,” dedicated his honors to independent filmmakers systematically “deprived of the right to see and be seen.”

    Panahi’s recognition came on the same day his lawyer, Mustafa Nili, revealed through social media that the Tehran court had sentenced the director in absentia to one-year imprisonment, a two-year travel prohibition, and banned him from political and social group membership. The charges cited “propaganda activities against the system” as justification for these punitive measures.

    Despite these developments, Panahi chose to focus his acceptance remarks on the broader struggle faced by artists operating under repression. “This dedication stands as a small tribute to all filmmakers who have been deprived of the right to see and to be seen but continue to create and to exist,” he stated, acknowledging those who work “in silence, without support, and at times, by risking everything they have.”

    The award-winning film itself represents Panahi’s resilience against artistic suppression. Having previously endured two prison terms and a twenty-year filmmaking ban that forced him to work clandestinely, “It Was Just An Accident” explores themes of justice and moral confrontation through the story of an ordinary mechanic who recognizes his potential torturer from prison days.

    Currently, Panahi is engaged in a United States city tour promoting the film, which has been selected as France’s official submission for the 2026 Academy Awards. Distribution company Neon, which released the film theatrically in October, is producing a documentary short about Panahi’s travels scheduled for early 2026 release.

    At a recent New York Film Festival appearance alongside Martin Scorsese, Panahi reflected on the devastating impact of Iran’s artistic exodus, noting: “All the backbones of Iranian filmmaking are out. I really miss all those films that they could have made in Iran and they never did.” Despite the personal risks, the director affirmed his commitment to remaining in his homeland, stating: “I don’t have the courage and I don’t have the ability to leave Iran and stay out of Iran. I have stayed there, and I’m going to work there.”

  • Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs slams 50 Cent documentary as ‘shameful hit piece’

    Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs slams 50 Cent documentary as ‘shameful hit piece’

    Music mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has launched a vehement critique against Netflix’s impending documentary series ‘Sean Combs: The Reckoning,’ branding the production a “shameful hit piece” constructed from “stolen footage that was never authorised for release.” The strongly-worded condemnation emerged through Combs’ official spokesperson just one day prior to the series’ global debut on the streaming platform.

    The controversy centers on teaser footage showing Combs engaged in a telephone conversation recorded six days preceding his 2024 arrest. This recording subsequently became evidentiary material in legal proceedings that resulted in his conviction for transportation to engage in prostitution, though he was acquitted on more severe charges of sex trafficking and racketeering.

    In response to allegations of unauthorized content usage, Netflix representatives directed inquiries to documentary director Alexandria Stapleton, who asserted the production team “obtained the footage legally and have the necessary rights.” Stapleton emphasized extensive efforts to protect source confidentiality while noting multiple unsuccessful attempts to secure Combs’ participation through his legal representatives.

    Combs’ camp maintains the documentary manipulates context, explaining the artist has systematically archived personal footage since adolescence to ultimately craft his own narrative. The statement notably references Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, expressing Combs’ disappointment in what he perceives as biased treatment from previously respected industry figures.

    The production’s association with rapper 50 Cent—identified as Combs’ “longtime adversary with a personal vendetta”—further fuels the dispute. Combs’ representatives question Netflix’s decision to grant creative influence to someone they characterize as committed to defaming the music executive.

    Scheduled for December 2 release, the docuseries promises an exhaustive examination of Combs’ trajectory from music industry pioneer to convicted offender, featuring previously unreleased materials and interviews with former associates detailing alleged darker aspects beneath his professional success.

  • Hand in hand towards tomorrow with the spirit of the community

    Hand in hand towards tomorrow with the spirit of the community

    Dubai-based financial services provider LuLu Exchange has emerged as a testament to the United Arab Emirates’ inclusive national ethos, transforming from a single branch operation into one of the nation’s most trusted financial networks. The company’s growth trajectory mirrors the UAE’s development as a global hub that offers dignity, security, and belonging to millions of expatriates from Asia, Africa, the Middle East and beyond.

    The UAE’s unique environment has enabled diverse communities to thrive simultaneously, creating a rich social fabric that LuLu Exchange serves through its financial operations. The exchange recognizes that each transaction represents human stories—parents supporting families abroad, workers building homes in their villages, or young professionals investing in their futures.

    Aligning with the UAE’s designation of the ‘Year of Community’ under the theme ‘Hand in Hand,’ LuLu Exchange has reinforced its commitment to community empowerment. The company has implemented outreach programs, financial education initiatives, and inclusive activities across its branches, positioning itself as a genuine partner in people’s lives rather than merely a service provider.

    During the Eid Al Etihad celebrations marking the UAE’s unity, LuLu Exchange joins both Emirati citizens and expatriate residents in honoring the nation’s progress and shared purpose. The company’s leadership emphasizes that their mission extends beyond business to encompass a responsibility built on trust, care, and mutual aspirations for continued prosperity.

  • Venezuelan president rejects ‘slave’s peace’ under US threat

    Venezuelan president rejects ‘slave’s peace’ under US threat

    Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has forcefully rejected what he characterizes as American attempts to impose a ‘slave’s peace’ upon his nation, delivering a defiant address to supporters amid escalating military tensions with the United States.

    Speaking on Monday, Maduro articulated Venezuela’s position regarding the ongoing geopolitical standoff, stating: ‘We seek peace, but peace with sovereignty, peace with equality, peace with freedom. We will never accept the peace of slaves or the peace of colonies.’ The Venezuelan leader condemned the 22-week US military presence near Venezuelan territory as a form of ‘psychological terrorism’ designed to destabilize his government.

    Maduro emphasized that Venezuela’s national resilience stems from robust citizen participation, institutional strength, and the determined will of its people to defend their homeland against external pressure. He framed this social cohesion as an ‘invincible, eternal and perpetual’ foundation of national power that would ensure political autonomy.

    The speech comes amid significant US naval mobilization in the Caribbean region. Since September, American forces have conducted at least 21 strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking operations, resulting in numerous casualties. These operations intensified following President Donald Trump’s alleged ultimatum to Maduro during a November 21st phone conversation, where Trump reportedly demanded the Venezuelan leader relinquish power.

    In response to US pressure, Venezuela revoked operating rights for six international airlines that had suspended services following advisories from the US Federal Aviation Administration. Maduro’s administration maintains that Washington’s actions represent a transparent attempt to orchestrate regime change aimed at controlling Venezuela’s substantial natural resources, including its extensive oil reserves.

  • UAE: Dead fish found in Abu Dhabi canal; environment authority assures public

    UAE: Dead fish found in Abu Dhabi canal; environment authority assures public

    Environmental authorities in Abu Dhabi are conducting a comprehensive investigation after discovering significant quantities of deceased fish in Al Muzoon Canal. The Environment Agency–Abu Dhabi (EAD) confirmed the incident on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, attributing the preliminary findings to an algal bloom that depleted oxygen levels in the waterway.

    The agency responded immediately to the situation by implementing safety protocols, including the collection, transportation, and safe disposal of affected marine life. Technical teams gathered both water and fish specimens for detailed laboratory analysis to determine the exact causative factors behind the ecological event.

    According to EAD representatives, the oxygen reduction resulted from inadequate water circulation combined with algal proliferation. The agency continues to monitor the canal’s conditions while conducting a thorough technical assessment. Officials have committed to providing public updates as additional analytical data and test results become available.

    This incident echoes a similar occurrence in Dubai during 2024, when environmental authorities observed fish fatalities following unprecedented rainfall and flooding. That event was characterized as a natural phenomenon subsequent to extreme weather conditions that affected the region in April, when the UAE experienced its highest recorded rainfall, with Dubai receiving over 220mm within 24 hours—exceeding typical annual precipitation levels.

  • Lighting the path for the nation’s next generation of innovators

    Lighting the path for the nation’s next generation of innovators

    As the United Arab Emirates celebrates its National Day, the nation’s extraordinary transformation from desert federation to global innovation hub stands as a testament to visionary leadership and entrepreneurial resilience. This remarkable journey, accomplished within mere decades, has established the UAE as a center for technological advancement, international commerce, and cultural convergence.

    The foundation of the UAE’s success extends beyond its iconic skylines and state-of-the-art infrastructure to embrace the determined spirit of its people. This collective drive has created an environment where opportunity knows no bounds and diversity serves as a catalyst for progress. The nation’s business ecosystem thrives on these principles, fostering innovation across sectors from fintech to sustainable development.

    Entrepreneur Jigar Sagar, founder of Triliv Holdings, exemplifies this transformative journey. His early exposure to business operations in Sharjah’s Gold Souk at age ten instilled fundamental values of commitment, customer service, and entrepreneurial thinking. These formative experiences now fuel his mission to build supportive frameworks where startups can flourish and young founders can transform ideas into reality.

    The UAE’s innovation engine continues to gain momentum through strategic investments in talent development, artificial intelligence adoption, and global market connectivity. This forward-looking approach ensures the nation remains at the forefront of entrepreneurship and technological advancement. The unity between visionary leadership and citizen participation creates an environment where challenges become opportunities and ambitious goals become achievable realities.

    As the UAE looks toward the future, its commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and embracing transformative technologies positions the nation as a enduring beacon of progress. The entrepreneurial spirit that defines the UAE’s past now lights the path for generations to come, demonstrating that with vision, resilience, and unity, even the most ambitious dreams can be realized.

  • UAE President shares heartfelt message marking 54th National Day

    UAE President shares heartfelt message marking 54th National Day

    In a powerful display of national unity, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan delivered an emotionally resonant message commemorating the nation’s 54th National Day, known as Eid Al Etihad. The presidential address, shared on December 2nd, 2025, extended heartfelt congratulations to both citizens and residents while acknowledging their collective contributions to the nation’s continuous development.

    President Sheikh Mohamed emphasized that the UAE’s remarkable journey of progress stems from unified family structures and a cohesive society working toward common goals. His message contained a spiritual benediction, invoking divine protection for the nation’s enduring prosperity and the wellbeing of its people, referring to the UAE as ‘the blessed land of Zayed.’

    Concurrently, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai and Vice-President, echoed these sentiments in his own National Day communication. He paid tribute to the nation’s founding fathers, particularly the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, recognizing their visionary leadership in establishing what he described as ‘a unique model of unity’ back in 1971.

    The presidential address notably highlighted the critical importance of preserving national identity, cultural values, and the Arabic language as fundamental priorities. Sheikh Mohamed specifically called upon educational, cultural, and social development institutions to prioritize the moral and ethical development of youth, describing this preservation as a shared responsibility across all societal sectors.

    Reflecting on the historical significance of December 2nd, the President characterized Eid Al Etihad as both a celebration of national foundation and an opportunity for collective reflection and renewed commitment to nation-building. He reaffirmed the leadership’s dedication to maintaining the UAE as a nation exemplifying excellence, progress, and purposeful development, thus honoring the original vision established by the country’s founders.

  • Diddy hits out at ‘shameful’ and ‘illegal’ documentary

    Diddy hits out at ‘shameful’ and ‘illegal’ documentary

    A fierce legal confrontation has erupted between entertainment mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ legal team and streaming giant Netflix over the newly released documentary ‘Sean Combs: The Reckoning.’ The four-part series, executive produced by rapper 50 Cent (Curtis Jackson), has drawn sharp criticism from Combs’ representatives who characterize the production as ‘a shameful hit piece’ utilizing illegally obtained private footage.

    The documentary presents what Netflix describes as ‘explosive’ behind-the-scenes footage captured during the six days preceding Combs’ September 2024 arrest. This includes privileged attorney-client conversations and personal phone calls with family members that Combs’ spokesman claims were ‘never authorized for release.’ Particularly controversial is footage showing Combs discussing media strategy with his attorney Marc Agnifilo, urging a more aggressive approach to proclaim his innocence.

    Combs’ legal representatives assert that Netflix has engaged in ‘fundamentally unfair, and illegal’ practices by appropriating private footage that the music executive had been compiling since age 19 for his own autobiographical project. The statement further criticized Netflix for granting creative control to 50 Cent, characterizing the arrangement as ‘an unnecessary and deeply personal affront’ given the artists’ longstanding rivalry.

    Beyond the contemporary legal drama, the documentary revisits historical allegations including Combs’ purported involvement in the 1996 murder of rapper Tupac Shakur. The series features tapes from police interviews with former gang member Duane ‘Keffe D’ Davis, who claims Combs offered him $1 million to orchestrate Shakur’s murder. Davis, scheduled to stand trial for the murder in 2026, now alleges his previous cooperation with authorities was made under duress.

    The documentary also includes testimony from Kirk Burrowes, co-founder of Bad Boy Entertainment with Combs, who states his belief that Combs ‘had a lot to do with the death of Tupac.’ Additionally, the series examines multiple allegations of violence and threats that have emerged through numerous lawsuits, including settled abuse claims from former girlfriend Cassie.

    Director Alexandria Stapleton maintains that all footage was obtained legally, telling media outlets ‘we moved heaven and earth to keep the filmmaker’s identity confidential.’ Meanwhile, 50 Cent defended his involvement, stating silence would imply hip-hop’s acceptance of Combs’ alleged behaviors.

    The documentary includes interviews with two jurors from Combs’ trial, where he was convicted on two prostitution-related charges but acquitted of more serious racketeering and sex trafficking charges. Combs is currently serving a 50-month prison sentence and has announced plans to appeal.

  • ‘Double joy’: 2 expat families welcome babies at 12am on UAE’s 54th National Day

    ‘Double joy’: 2 expat families welcome babies at 12am on UAE’s 54th National Day

    In a remarkable coincidence marking the UAE’s 54th National Day celebrations, two expatriate families experienced profound joy with the arrival of their newborns precisely at midnight on December 2nd. The special moments unfolded at Burjeel Hospital, where medical staff commemorated the occasions with traditional sweets and heartfelt congratulations.

    An Algerian family, Lamia Mermat and Zuhair Attar, welcomed their fourth child—a daughter named Makkah, weighing 3.110 kilograms. The parents described their newborn as ‘a divine blessing’ and chose the meaningful name Makkah for its spiritual significance. ‘We feel profoundly blessed to receive her on this auspicious day,’ the emotional parents expressed, acknowledging the exceptional care provided by Dr. Hala and the entire medical team.

    Simultaneously, Pakistani nationals Hamood Ur Rehman and Andleeb Saleem celebrated the birth of their fourth child, a son named Umar weighing 3.560 kilograms. The overwhelmed parents declared this dual celebration would remain eternally cherished. ‘This day now carries double joy for us—being part of the UAE’s historic narrative while welcoming our precious son,’ the couple shared.

    Medical professionals emphasized the symbolic importance of these births. Dr. Hala Elsayed, Specialist Obstetrician and Gynecologist, noted that while delivering babies constitutes routine medical practice, the timing of these particular births created unforgettable moments. Dr. Sailaja Vuppu, Head of Department and Consultant Obstetrician, reflected on the deeper significance: ‘Each newborn represents renewed hope for a brighter, stronger, and more compassionate future.’

    The hospital atmosphere transformed into a miniature celebration of national pride and new beginnings, with staff distributing sweets and exchanging greetings. These synchronous births created enduring memories for both families and healthcare providers alike, beautifully intertwining personal milestones with national commemorations.

  • Celebrating the UAE’s growth through its construction sector

    Celebrating the UAE’s growth through its construction sector

    As the United Arab Emirates commemorates its 54th National Day, the nation’s construction industry stands as a powerful testament to its remarkable transformation. What began as essential infrastructure development has evolved into a globally recognized sector driving smart, sustainable urban development.

    The UAE’s construction journey began in the 1990s with foundational projects focused on basic infrastructure, civic facilities, and connectivity. This period established the crucial groundwork for future growth. The early 2000s witnessed an unprecedented acceleration with landmark projects including Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and extensive highway networks that redefined regional construction standards.

    The 2010s introduced a paradigm shift toward lifestyle-oriented communities, with sustainability becoming central to development conversations. Green building principles, energy-efficient designs, and master-planned communities emerged as industry standards rather than exceptions.

    Current industry metrics demonstrate the sector’s robust health. Construction output reached $107.2 billion in 2024, with projections indicating growth to $130.8 billion by 2029. The broader construction market, valued at $66.9 billion in 2024, is expected to expand to $96 billion by 2030. Real estate remains a primary driver, with one emirate alone recording Dh498.8 billion in property transactions during the first nine months of 2025.

    The 2020s have ushered in a new era of digital integration, with cities being planned around smart systems, clean energy, and integrated mobility. Construction now encompasses not just physical structures but also technology infrastructure and data systems.

    ESPA, a major player in building systems across MENA and APAC regions, has mirrored this evolution. The company has supported thousands of residential and commercial projects with advanced water-management systems, adapting to increasingly complex building requirements while maintaining focus on technical excellence and reliability.

    Future construction trends will be shaped by several key factors: enhanced digital building management, sustainability imperatives driven by net-zero ambitions, modular construction techniques, and ongoing megaprojects including the Dubai Metro Blue Line and Etihad Rail. These developments create substantial opportunities across multiple industries while pushing technological innovation.

    The UAE’s construction narrative represents one of modern history’s most rapid development stories, demonstrating how visionary leadership and consistent investment can transform a nation’s physical landscape and economic prospects within a single generation.