Global Pulse

标签： North America

北美洲

  • US Senator proposes ending dual citizenship, says Americans ‘have to choose’

    US Senator proposes ending dual citizenship, says Americans ‘have to choose’

    In a significant legislative move, US Republican Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio has announced plans to introduce the “Exclusive Citizenship Act of 2025,” which would fundamentally alter America’s approach to dual nationality. The proposed legislation would compel all US citizens currently holding foreign citizenship to make a definitive choice between retaining their American status or maintaining their alternative nationality.

    The bill, scheduled for introduction on Monday, represents one of the most comprehensive challenges to dual citizenship in recent American history. Under its provisions, current dual citizens would have exactly one year from enactment to formally renounce either their US citizenship or their foreign nationality. Those failing to comply within the designated timeframe would automatically be considered to have relinquished their American citizenship status.

    Senator Moreno, who himself renounced his Colombian citizenship upon naturalizing as an American at age 18, articulated his rationale in a statement to Fox News: “One of the greatest honors of my life was when I became an American citizen. It was an honor to pledge an Oath of Allegiance to the United States of America and only to the United States of America. Being an American citizen is an honor and a privilege—and if you want to be an American—it’s all or nothing.”

    The proposed legislation would mandate the State Department and Department of Homeland Security to establish comprehensive databases and enforcement mechanisms to implement these changes. Individuals who voluntarily or involuntarily relinquish their US citizenship would be systematically recorded in federal systems and thereafter treated as aliens under immigration laws.

    This initiative aligns with broader immigration policy shifts observed during the Trump administration, though the administration has not previously taken an official stance on dual citizenship specifically. The proposal faces significant legal hurdles, as Supreme Court precedents from the 1950s have consistently upheld the legality of dual citizenship. Previous attempts to eliminate dual citizenship, including recent moves in the House to restrict dual citizens from serving in Congress, have encountered substantial opposition and legal challenges.

  • Cheapest gold price in UAE: Who will gain most from 14K rate in Dubai?

    Cheapest gold price in UAE: Who will gain most from 14K rate in Dubai?

    Dubai, renowned globally as the ‘City of Gold,’ has officially introduced 14K gold pricing for the first time in its history, a strategic move aimed at revitalizing consumer interest in the jewelry market. The initiative, announced by the Dubai Jewellery Group (DJG) — the largest trade body representing approximately 600 members in the industry — comes as gold prices soared to unprecedented levels in October 2025, both in the UAE and worldwide.

    As of Thursday morning, 14K gold was trading at Dh300.25 per gram, positioning it as the most affordable variant available in the UAE. This price point is over Dh200 cheaper than 24K gold and nearly Dh85 less than 18K gold, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.

    Industry experts highlight that the introduction of 14K gold primarily targets two key segments: customers purchasing diamond-studded jewelry and those seeking more affordable, everyday ornaments. Anil Dhanak, Managing Director of Kanz Jewels, explained that 14K gold offers enhanced durability for mountings and lower entry prices without compromising aesthetic appeal, particularly for pieces where gold serves as a supporting metal rather than the core value.

    The timing of this initiative is critical. Data from the World Gold Council reveals that gold jewelry demand in the UAE plummeted to a five-year low of 6.3 tonnes in the third quarter of 2025, marking a 10% year-on-year decline and an 18% quarter-on-quarter drop. Rising prices have rendered traditional gold ornaments unaffordable for many, prompting a shift in consumer behavior.

    Chirag Vora, Managing Director of Bafleh Jewellers, noted that lower-priced options like 14K gold could attract younger buyers, first-time purchasers, and expatriates familiar with this karatage. Retailers can now offer tiered options: 22K for traditional value, 18K for luxury fashion, and 14K for accessible everyday pieces.

    Concurrently, consumer preferences are evolving. Shamlal Ahamed, Managing Director for International Operations at Malabar Gold and Diamonds, observed a growing trend toward lightweight, lifestyle jewelry driven by design sensibilities rather than mere price considerations. Millennials and Gen Z customers are leading this shift, seeking versatile, contemporary pieces that align with their daily lives.

    The introduction of 14K gold is poised to stimulate unit sales, support retailers and manufacturers, and cater to a broader demographic, ensuring Dubai’s continued prominence in the global gold market.

  • Dubai gold prices drop ahead of Fed’s rate cut decision

    Dubai gold prices drop ahead of Fed’s rate cut decision

    Gold markets in Dubai opened with notable declines on Thursday morning as investor caution intensified ahead of the US Federal Reserve’s critical policy meeting. According to the Dubai Jewellery Group’s market data, 24-karat gold dropped by Dh1.25 per gram to reach Dh505.75. Corresponding decreases affected other variants: 22K fell to Dh468.25, 21K to Dh449.0, 18K to Dh384.75, and 14K to Dh300.25 per gram. The international spot gold market mirrored this trend, trading at $4,193.1 per ounce with a 0.2 percent decline.

    Market analysts attribute this cautious trading pattern to heightened anticipation surrounding the Federal Reserve’s impending interest rate decision. Linh Tran, market analyst at xs.com, emphasized that the US interest rate cycle remains the dominant factor influencing gold’s medium-term trajectory. ‘Recent indicators showing cooling US growth and consumption patterns have strengthened market expectations that the Federal Reserve will initiate rate reductions in the foreseeable future,’ Tran noted.

    The analyst further explained that declining bond yields, which retreated to approximately 4.02 percent in late November before modestly recovering to 4.088 percent, have created favorable conditions for gold appreciation. This dynamic reduces the opportunity cost associated with holding non-yielding assets like gold. Historical patterns suggest that periods of declining real interest rates typically generate supportive environments for precious metals, with current market conditions following this established pattern.

    Looking toward 2026, Tran projected significant upside potential for gold if the Fed enters a sustained rate-cutting cycle. ‘Gold maintains substantial room to establish new record highs, potentially reaching $4,500 per ounce within a monetary easing environment that appears increasingly probable for the coming year,’ Tran added.

    Alex Kuptsikevich, Chief Market Analyst at FxPro, highlighted growing market focus on global monetary policy divergence. While the Federal Reserve is expected to reduce rates to three percent throughout 2026, the Bank of Japan simultaneously forecasts rate increases to 1.25 percent. This policy contrast creates complex dynamics for currency markets and precious metal valuations.

    Kuptsikevich referenced additional uncertainty stemming from political developments, noting that President Donald Trump’s announcement regarding the new Fed chair appointment timeline—now expected in early 2026 rather than by Christmas—has introduced further dollar volatility. Market expectations surrounding Kevin Hassett’s potential leadership appointment at the Federal Reserve have amplified concerns about expanded monetary easing measures, creating additional downward pressure on the US dollar that could ultimately benefit gold prices.

  • US Institute of Peace renamed after Trump

    US Institute of Peace renamed after Trump

    The U.S. Institute of Peace building in Washington has been formally rebranded as the “Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace” following a directive from the Department of State. The renaming occurred on Wednesday, just ahead of a scheduled peace agreement signing ceremony between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo at the venue.

    Founded as an independent, Congressionally-funded nonprofit think tank, USIP has recently become embroiled in legal battles with the Trump administration over attempts to cut staff and budgets. The State Department announced the change on social media, stating the move was made “to reflect the greatest dealmaker in our nation’s history” and adding that “the best is yet to come.”

    White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly shared the announcement with the comment “Congratulations, world,” while Secretary of State Marco Rubio endorsed the decision by calling Trump the “President of Peace” and noting it was time for the department to “display that.”

    The rebranding represents a significant shift in the administration’s approach to the institute, which earlier this year was at the center of controversy when the Trump administration removed staff and replaced leadership until judicial intervention halted the changes. The future of the organization remains uncertain as legal proceedings continue.

    This renaming is part of a broader pattern of high-profile rebrandings since Trump began his second term in January. Previous changes include redesignating the Department of Defense as the Department of War, renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, and reverting Denali to Mount McKinley. Additionally, Republican lawmakers have proposed various tributes including a $500 bill featuring Trump’s portrait and renaming Dulles International Airport in his honor.

    The modern-day USIP website currently describes the institute as “the nation’s independent, nonpartisan institute that supports the Executive Branch in resolving violent conflict abroad,” though its future direction under the new name remains unclear.

  • Trump orders increased vetting of resumes, LinkedIn profiles of H-1B visa applicants

    Trump orders increased vetting of resumes, LinkedIn profiles of H-1B visa applicants

    In a significant policy shift impacting international tech recruitment, the Trump administration has instituted rigorous new screening protocols for H-1B visa applicants. A recently disclosed State Department directive mandates comprehensive review of professional backgrounds, including detailed examination of resumes and LinkedIn profiles, to identify individuals involved in content moderation activities.

    The diplomatic cable, circulated to all U.S. missions on December 2, 2025, instructs consular officers to scrutinize applicants’ employment histories for evidence of involvement in misinformation management, disinformation mitigation, fact-checking operations, or online safety enforcement. The policy specifically targets those who have participated in what the administration characterizes as ‘censorship of protected expression’ within the United States.

    Under the new guidelines, consular officials are directed to pursue visa ineligibility findings under the Immigration and Nationality Act for applicants deemed complicit in speech suppression practices. The enhanced vetting applies to both initial applicants and renewal cases, with particular emphasis on technology sector professionals employed by social media and financial services companies.

    A State Department spokesperson confirmed the administration’s position, stating: ‘We do not support aliens coming to the United States to work as censors muzzling Americans.’ The spokesperson referenced President Trump’s personal experiences with social media platform restrictions as motivation for the policy, adding that ‘allowing foreigners to lead this type of censorship would both insult and injure the American people.’

    This development represents the latest escalation in the administration’s broader campaign against perceived suppression of conservative voices online. The policy aligns with previous actions including heightened student visa screenings and new fee structures for H-1B visas, continuing Trump’s extensive immigration reform agenda. The administration has previously engaged with European governments regarding right-wing speech limitations, with officials like Marco Rubio having threatened visa bans for foreign nationals involved in regulating American tech companies.

  • They contracted hepatitis before the vaccine was given at birth – now the shot may be delayed again

    They contracted hepatitis before the vaccine was given at birth – now the shot may be delayed again

    A potential overhaul of America’s newborn vaccination protocol has ignited fierce debate among medical experts and patients who have experienced hepatitis B’s devastating consequences firsthand. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is poised to vote on delaying hepatitis B vaccinations from birth to an unspecified later date—a move that contradicts three decades of established medical practice.

    The controversy stems from recent appointments by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who replaced the entire ACIP committee with vaccine-skeptical members. During September meetings, new appointees questioned the necessity of vaccinating infants against what they characterized as an ‘adult problem,’ despite overwhelming evidence that early immunization prevents mother-to-child transmission and provides crucial early protection.

    Medical professionals warn that even a two-month delay could have catastrophic consequences. Northwestern University’s Dr. Claudia Hawkins projects that such a change could result in ‘hundreds of additional deaths from liver disease and liver cancer’ over time. Since universal birth-dose vaccination began in 1991, childhood hepatitis B infections have plummeted by 95%, preventing approximately 90,000 deaths according to CDC data.

    The human impact of hepatitis B is illustrated through patients like John Ellis, who contracted the virus before receiving his delayed vaccination at age 12. Despite his mother’s 30 years of nursing experience, the diagnosis shocked their family. ‘That was kind of a dark time for me,’ Ellis recalled. ‘Having to navigate conversations about this chronic illness that people aren’t familiar with.’

    Phil Shin’s story reveals the silent danger of the virus. Diagnosed before middle school, he remained asymptomatic until age 48, when doctors discovered a racketball-sized tumor in his liver. After emergency surgery and a life-saving transplant, Shin now serves on the American Liver Foundation board, advocating for awareness.

    The virus’s indiscriminate nature is underscored by Helen Ouyang’s childhood tragedy. Her father died from hepatitis B-related liver cancer when she was three, experiencing only vague symptoms before his rapid decline. As an emergency physician at Columbia University, Dr. Ouyang understands both the personal and medical implications of the disease.

    Medical experts emphasize that hepatitis B spreads through bodily fluids, including shared household items like toothbrushes, contradicting claims that it’s not ‘casually contagious.’ They also note that relying solely on maternal testing creates vulnerability, as some patients receive false negatives or lack reliable healthcare access.

    The policy change could also affect insurance coverage and create loopholes for parents to opt out of vaccination entirely. For those living with hepatitis B, the potential regression of vaccination guidelines represents both a public health threat and a dismissal of their suffering. ‘I’m a living, breathing testament to what could happen,’ Ellis stated. ‘I didn’t get the vaccine at birth. I got it later, and I still contracted hepatitis B.’

  • UAE: Cooler, humid winter days in December; average temperatures 17.7°C to 21.8°C

    UAE: Cooler, humid winter days in December; average temperatures 17.7°C to 21.8°C

    The United Arab Emirates is experiencing a significant meteorological shift as December marks the official transition into the winter season, according to the latest climate summary from the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM). Temperature patterns show a notable decline, with mean maximum and minimum readings dropping by 3 to 6 degrees Celsius compared to November levels.

    Meteorological data reveals average temperatures now range between 17.7°C and 21.8°C across the Emirates. Daytime highs typically settle between 21.7°C and 27.4°C, while nighttime temperatures frequently drop to between 12.9°C and 17.4°C. Historical extremes include a record high of 37°C documented in Sweihan during 2016 and a remarkable low of -0.7°C recorded at Jabal Jais in 2004.

    The changing weather patterns result from a strengthening high-pressure system extending from northern regions, accompanied by northwesterly winds that drive nighttime temperatures lower, particularly across inland and mountainous areas. Simultaneously, upper-level westerly troughs contribute to the formation of low and medium cloud cover, creating conditions conducive to rainfall that occasionally intensifies into thunderstorms.

    Humidity patterns undergo significant transformation during December, with mean humidity levels reaching approximately 63%. Maximum humidity frequently climbs to between 79% and 90%, while minimum levels range from 32% to 49%. These conditions emerge as moist air masses move from the Arabian Gulf toward the UAE, creating ideal circumstances for fog and mist formation during early morning hours.

    Wind patterns remain generally light to moderate with an average speed of 11 km/h, though historical data shows occasional strong gusts, including a record 87 km/h documented at Makassib in 2019. Fog occurrence becomes notably more frequent, with 2014 standing as particularly remarkable with 20 fog days and 5 mist days recorded throughout the month.

    Precipitation, while occasional, can reach intense levels as demonstrated by the 208.4 mm rainfall recorded in Dhudna during 2006—the highest December measurement on record. The winter solstice, occurring around December 23, reinforces the cooling trend as the UAE solidifies its entry into the meteorological winter season.

  • F-16C fighter jet crashes in California during training mission

    F-16C fighter jet crashes in California during training mission

    A United States Air Force F-16C Fighting Falcon combat aircraft assigned to the elite Thunderbirds demonstration squadron crashed during a routine training exercise over Southern California on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred in controlled airspace near the community of China Lake, approximately 270 kilometers north of downtown Los Angeles.

    According to official statements from the Air Force, the pilot successfully executed emergency ejection procedures and landed safely without sustaining serious injuries. The mishap took place at approximately 10:45 AM local time during what was described as a standard training mission for the prestigious aerial acrobatics team.

    Sergeant Jovante Johnson, a US Air Force spokesperson, confirmed to the Los Angeles Times that the crashed aircraft belonged to the Thunderbirds unit, which is permanently based at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. The Thunderbirds represent the Air Force’s premier demonstration squadron, renowned for their precision flying performances at air shows across the nation.

    The San Bernardino County Fire Department responded to the crash site in the remote desert region, though no ground injuries or property damage were immediately reported. Military investigators have launched a comprehensive inquiry to determine the exact circumstances that led to the aircraft’s failure. Standard procedure following such incidents involves examining maintenance records, pilot actions, environmental factors, and potential mechanical malfunctions.

    The safe ejection of the pilot represents a successful outcome from what could have been a tragic aviation accident, highlighting the effectiveness of military emergency protocols and safety systems.

  • Video: US fighter jet crashes in California, pilot ejects moments before impact

    Video: US fighter jet crashes in California, pilot ejects moments before impact

    A United States Air Force Thunderbirds F-16C Fighting Falcon crashed during a training mission in the Mojave Desert near Trona, California, on Wednesday morning. The pilot successfully ejected moments before the aircraft impacted a dry lake bed, sustaining non-life-threatening injuries and achieving stable condition while receiving medical attention.

    The incident occurred at approximately 10:45 AM local time within controlled military airspace. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by military authorities. The violent impact generated a significant explosion and plume of smoke, with the sonic boom audible across the surrounding region, according to witness accounts and emergency responders.

    Dramatic video footage circulating on social media platforms captured the precise moment of ejection, showing the pilot’s parachute deploying just as the fighter jet erupted into flames. The aircraft crashed approximately two miles south of Trona Airport, though airport manager George Bass confirmed the jet was not utilizing airport facilities. Bass noted that military aircraft maintain a regular presence in the area for training exercises.

    The Thunderbirds, based at Nellis Air Force Base near Las Vegas approximately 200 miles east of the crash site, represent the Air Force’s premier aerial demonstration team. Established in 1953, the unit is renowned for executing precision maneuvers with minimal separation between aircraft, sometimes flying within 18 inches of each other during complex aerial routines.

    This incident marks the latest in a series of military aviation accidents in the region. In 2022, a Navy pilot died when an F/A-18E Super Hornet crashed in a remote area near Trona. The Thunderbirds themselves experienced a fatal training accident in 2018 when Major Stephen Del Bagno was killed during a Nevada training exercise. The F-16C model involved in Wednesday’s crash carries an estimated value of $18.8 million per 2021 Air Force figures.

  • Sino-Canadian trade ties hailed at Toronto forum

    Sino-Canadian trade ties hailed at Toronto forum

    The Canada-China Forum on Trade and Investment Cooperation convened in Toronto this week, marking a significant step in revitalizing economic ties between the two nations. The event featured Ren Hongbin, chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, leading a high-level delegation of Chinese businesses across multiple sectors including finance, engineering, logistics, and medical technology.

    This gathering represents the most substantial commercial engagement since both countries’ leaders met at recent APEC meetings in South Korea. Ren emphasized that the summit produced “important consensus” and “strategic guidance” for enhancing bilateral relations, coinciding with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 20th anniversary of their strategic partnership.

    Economic fundamentals demonstrate robust trade activity, with China maintaining its position as Canada’s second-largest trading partner for 22 consecutive years. Bilateral trade reached $93 billion in the previous year, with Canada’s exports to China growing by 6.1% to $46.6 billion—representing Canada’s first trade surplus with China in many years.

    Ren outlined opportunities for expanded cooperation in emerging sectors including clean energy, climate initiatives, and technological innovation. He highlighted the “highly complementary resource endowments and economic structures” between the two nations, particularly regarding supply-chain collaboration. The Chinese official extended an invitation for Canadian businesses to participate in the upcoming China International Supply Chain Expo, described as “a globally recognized economic and trade event.”

    Bijan Ahmadi, executive director of the Canada China Business Council, noted the changing dynamics in bilateral relations, stating: “We are at a turning point in the bilateral relationship between Canada and China. There are, of course, still challenges and outstanding issues between the two countries that they’re discussing and negotiating. But there are great opportunities, and we’re glad to see these dialogues happening.”

    The Chinese business delegation—the first of its kind in seven years—signals improving economic relations. Ahmadi emphasized the complementary nature of both economies: “There are many things that we produce that China wants to buy, and there are things from China that are very beneficial for the Canadian economy.”

    Ren expressed confidence in China’s economic trajectory, noting that the country “has consistently contributed around 30 percent to global economic growth” and reported 5.2% GDP growth in the first three quarters of the year. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to high-quality development and continued opening of its markets through recent policy directives.