A critical investigation into the 2024 collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge has identified a loose wire on the Dali container ship as the likely cause of the disaster. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) revealed during a recent hearing that the ship experienced a power outage moments before crashing into the bridge, leading to the tragic deaths of six construction workers. The incident, which occurred on March 26, 2024, also caused several vehicles to plunge into the icy waters of the River Patapsco. NTSB engineer Scott Parent stated that had the workers been notified of the ship’s deviation from its course, they might have had approximately 89 seconds to evacuate, potentially saving their lives. The collision not only disrupted operations at the Port of Baltimore but also severed a major interstate roadway. Initial repair estimates of $1.9 billion have now ballooned to $5 billion, with completion expected by 2030. Maryland Governor Wes Moore emphasized the challenges posed by rising costs but reaffirmed the state’s commitment to rebuilding the bridge.
标签： North America
北美洲
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Diddy denies sexual battery allegation after Los Angeles authorities open probe
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, the imprisoned rap mogul, has vehemently denied a new sexual battery allegation currently under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The accusation, reportedly dating back to 2020, involves a male music producer who claims Combs assaulted him during a photoshoot at a Los Angeles warehouse. Combs, already serving a four-year prison sentence in New Jersey for prostitution-related charges, has consistently denied all allegations of sexual misconduct. His attorney, Jonathan Davis, stated to the BBC, ‘Mr. Combs categorically denies as false and defamatory all claims that he sexually abused anyone. He looks forward to vindicating himself in court, where such matters are decided—and not in the media—based on admissible, material evidence, not rank speculation and unsubstantiated allegations.’ The sheriff’s department confirmed that its special victim’s bureau is in the preliminary stages of investigating the case, but declined to release further details due to its sensitivity. According to US media, the producer alleges that Combs exposed himself and masturbated during the photoshoot, and when the producer refused to participate, Combs threw a dirty shirt at him. This latest allegation adds to a series of civil lawsuits filed against Combs by dozens of individuals, including underage accusers, who claim they were drugged and sexually assaulted. Some accusers allege that Combs used promises of career advancement or threats to silence them. Earlier this year, Combs was convicted in a New York trial on two counts of transportation for prostitution and sentenced to 50 months in prison. The high-profile case accused him of running a sex-trafficking operation, with testimonies from notable figures like rapper Kid Cudi and Combs’ ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. Although he was acquitted of the most severe charges, which could have resulted in a life sentence, Combs expressed remorse in a letter to the judge before his sentencing, stating, ‘I lost my way. My downfall was rooted in my selfishness. I have been humbled and broken to my core.’ Combs is currently serving his sentence in New Jersey.
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‘Quiet, piggy’: Trump responds to reporter after Epstein question
In a tense exchange aboard Air Force One, President Donald Trump responded sharply to a female reporter who raised questions about his alleged connections to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The incident occurred on Friday during a press briefing, where Trump, visibly irked, retorted with the phrase ‘Quiet, piggy.’ This remark has sparked widespread criticism and reignited debates about the president’s demeanor towards the media, particularly female journalists. The context of the Epstein question adds another layer of complexity, given the ongoing scrutiny of Trump’s past associations with Epstein, who was accused of running a sex trafficking ring involving underage girls. The president’s response has drawn attention not only for its content but also for its timing, as it comes amidst heightened public interest in the Epstein case and its potential implications for various high-profile figures.
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US court blocks Texas from using newly redrawn voting maps
A US federal court has intervened to prevent Texas from implementing its recently redrawn voting maps for the 2026 midterm elections. The court’s decision, which is expected to be appealed to the Supreme Court, cited substantial evidence that the new districts were ‘racially gerrymandered.’ This ruling mandates that Texas revert to the maps established in 2021 by the state legislature.
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‘Parasocial’ crowned Cambridge Dictionary word of 2025
The Cambridge Dictionary has declared ‘parasocial’ as its Word of the Year for 2025, reflecting the growing phenomenon of one-sided emotional connections individuals form with celebrities, influencers, and even AI chatbots. The term, which dates back to 1956, was originally coined by sociologists to describe the bond television viewers felt with on-screen personalities. Today, it has evolved to encompass the intense, often unreciprocated relationships people develop with public figures and digital entities. Lexicographers selected ‘parasocial’ amid a year marked by heightened interest in these dynamics, particularly as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into daily life. The dictionary also introduced new entries such as ‘skibidi’, ‘delulu’, and ‘tradwife’, reflecting the rapid evolution of language driven by internet culture. ‘Skibidi’, a slang term with varied meanings, can denote something cool or bad, or be used humorously. ‘Delulu’, a playful take on ‘delusional’, and ‘tradwife’, shorthand for a traditional wife who focuses on homemaking, were among the 6,212 new words and phrases added. Colin McIntosh, a lexicographer, emphasized that only words with ‘staying power’ are included, highlighting the fascinating impact of internet culture on language. Professor Simone Schnall of the University of Cambridge praised the choice, noting the rise of unhealthy parasocial relationships with influencers and AI tools like ChatGPT, which some treat as friends or therapeutic substitutes.
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Why now is the moment for Gulf NRIs to bet big on India’s equity markets
Dubai is rapidly establishing itself as a global wealth hub, and for the millions of non-resident Indians (NRIs) across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the opportunity to invest in India’s equity markets has never been more compelling. India’s stock market has emerged as one of the most resilient and fastest-growing globally, driven by structural reforms, a thriving digital economy, and robust domestic consumption. For NRIs in the GCC, who collectively manage significant investable wealth, allocating a meaningful portion of their portfolios to India is becoming increasingly urgent.
Industry experts argue that India is no longer just a growth story; it is a ‘compounding story.’ This sentiment will take center stage at the Cafemutual Investment Summit 2025, scheduled for November 20 at Dubai’s Dusit Thani Hotel. The invite-only event aims to decode opportunities and risks for NRIs seeking exposure to India’s dynamic investment landscape.
Prem Khatri, Founder and CEO of Cafemutual, emphasizes the shift: ‘NRIs and global Indians are increasingly recognizing that their portfolios need a meaningful India allocation to capture the structural shift underway. Our summit is designed to bridge the knowledge gap and provide practical insights that can immediately translate into sharper client outcomes.’
The 2025 edition will feature distinguished investment leaders and industry experts, including Jignesh Desai, Co-Founder of NJ Group, Madhu Lunawat, Founder, MD & CEO of The Wealth Company Mutual Fund, and Neil Parikh, CEO of PPFAS, among others. Dubai-based wealth leaders will also headline special sessions on the future of wealth, the NRI ecosystem, and cross-border opportunities.
Key sessions include ‘Mutual Funds for NRIs: The Core of a Long-Term India Portfolio,’ ‘Smart Simplicity: Winning in India Without Overcomplication,’ and ‘Future-Proof Portfolios: Blending Global & Indian Assets.’ For NRIs in the GCC, mutual funds offer a simple yet effective route to participate in India’s growth without the complexity of direct stock picking. With India’s GDP projected to maintain strong momentum and sectors like technology, manufacturing, and financial services driving market performance, experts believe disciplined exposure through professionally managed funds can deliver superior risk-adjusted returns.
Dubai’s emergence as a hub for international wealth adds another layer of opportunity. As Khatri notes, ‘Bringing India’s most respected investment minds to Dubai creates a unique, high-impact platform for dialogue, learning, and collaboration.’ For NRIs balancing global aspirations with Indian roots, the message is clear: the time to act is now. India’s markets are not just growing — they are compounding, and those who position early stand to benefit from a structural story that could define wealth creation for decades.
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UAE unveils plans for Antarctica research base, mulls acquiring ice-breaker
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has unveiled groundbreaking plans to establish a permanent research base in Antarctica, marking a significant expansion of its scientific endeavors. This announcement was made during the Dubai Future Forum, where Dr. Abdulla Al Mandous, Director General of the National Centre of Meteorology, emphasized the UAE’s commitment to advancing global climate science and fostering international cooperation. The initiative, part of the UAE Polar Programme, aims to inspire a new generation of Emirati researchers and contribute to understanding the polar regions’ impact on global weather patterns. A key component of this project is the construction of a state-of-the-art research facility capable of accommodating over 50 researchers. Additionally, the UAE is considering acquiring an ice-breaker vessel to facilitate the transportation of personnel and equipment to Antarctica. This move follows the UAE’s accession as the 58th member of the Antarctic Treaty in 2024, which allows the nation to conduct research on the continent dedicated to peace and science. The UAE is already collaborating with several countries, including Bulgaria, New Zealand, India, Argentina, and Turkey, to enhance polar research efforts. Furthermore, the programme is focused on building local expertise by partnering with institutions like the National Centre of Meteorology, Khalifa University, and Abu Dhabi Polytechnic to train and send students and researchers to the poles.
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Dubai Airshow 2025: Flydubai orders 150 Airbus aircraft worth Dh88 billion
In a landmark move at the Dubai Airshow 2025, Flydubai, Dubai’s smallest carrier, has inked a monumental agreement with Airbus for the purchase of 150 A321neo aircraft, valued at $24 billion (Dh88 billion). This strategic acquisition marks a significant step in diversifying Flydubai’s narrow-body fleet and bolstering its long-term expansion strategy. The aircraft are slated for delivery starting in 2031, aligning with the airline’s vision for sustained growth and operational efficiency.
The deal was formalized during a signing ceremony attended by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Flydubai, and Christian Scherer, CEO of Commercial Aircraft at Airbus. Also present was Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer of Flydubai. Sheikh Ahmed emphasized that this agreement represents a pivotal milestone in the airline’s journey, underscoring its commitment to innovation and excellence in the aviation sector.
Christian Scherer highlighted the A321neo’s advanced features, including its range, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort, which align with Flydubai’s operational goals. The aircraft, part of the A320neo Family, incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as new-generation engines and Sharklets, delivering over 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reductions compared to older models.
This deal is the second major aircraft order announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025, following Emirates’ $37.8 billion (Dh139 billion) order for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft. Flydubai’s expanded fleet will further cement Dubai’s status as a global aviation hub, with the airline currently serving over 135 destinations across 57 countries. The new aircraft will also play a crucial role in supporting the expansion of Dubai World Central, enhancing the city’s connectivity and economic growth.
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UAE: Etihad Airways to buy 32 Airbus aircraft; first deliveries start in 2027
Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier, has announced a significant fleet expansion with the acquisition of 32 Airbus aircraft. The deal, unveiled on November 18, 2025, includes a combination of A350-1000s, A350F freighters, and A330-900s, sourced through direct orders and lease agreements. The first deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2027. This move follows Etihad’s earlier agreement in 2025 to purchase 28 Boeing widebody aircraft, bringing the airline’s total new widebody orders for the year to 60 across both Airbus and Boeing. The Abu Dhabi-based airline emphasized that this expansion is a strategic step to accelerate its growth and solidify its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing full-service carriers. With the new Airbus order, Etihad will operate a comprehensive widebody fleet, including the A380, A350 family (including freighters), and A330neo. Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, highlighted the significance of the deal, stating, ‘These agreements reflect our confidence in Abu Dhabi’s aviation future and our commitment to positioning the emirate as one of the world’s leading hubs.’ He added, ‘With 60 new widebody aircraft ordered this year across Airbus and Boeing, we are building one of the most modern, efficient, and flexible long-haul fleets in the world.’ The announcement underscores Etihad’s ambition to enhance its global connectivity and operational efficiency.
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First two Tests key to England’s Ashes hopes, says Broad
As England prepares to face Australia in the highly anticipated Ashes series, former England fast bowler Stuart Broad has highlighted the pivotal importance of the first two Test matches. Speaking on the ‘Odds Law’ podcast, Broad stressed that England must assert their dominance early in the series to avoid another disappointing outcome Down Under. England’s last Ashes victory in Australia dates back to 2011, with Australia securing clean sweeps in their last three home series. Traditionally, the Ashes opener has been held at The Gabba in Brisbane, a venue where England last triumphed in 1986. However, this year’s series will kick off in Perth, a change Broad views as a slight advantage for England. ‘England have to win the first Test to stand a chance of winning the Ashes,’ Broad asserted. ‘If England don’t get anything out of the first two, then that’s a major problem because in Australia, the energy, the flow of the whole country will build up, and then you’re fighting a bit of a losing battle.’ England’s squad boasts one of their fastest bowling lineups in years, featuring Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and Brydon Carse, with captain Ben Stokes also expected to contribute with the ball. While Wood and Archer are expected to lead the attack, Broad singled out Atkinson as a potential key player. ‘Gus could be the one who becomes a mainstay of the attack,’ Broad said. ‘He could do really nicely in Australia and be that consistent bowler that Stokes can lean on to bowl a lot of overs.’ The first Test begins on Friday, setting the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested series.