The United States House of Representatives has passed a short-term spending bill, effectively ending the longest government shutdown in the nation’s history. This bipartisan measure, which secured support from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, was approved just two days after the Senate narrowly passed the same legislation. The shutdown, which began on October 1, had left millions of Americans without essential food aid and disrupted air travel due to unpaid air traffic controllers calling in sick. President Donald Trump is expected to sign the bill late Wednesday night, bringing relief to government systems strained by the prolonged closure. However, the funding only extends until January 30, leaving lawmakers with the challenge of reaching a long-term agreement. The shutdown’s central issue revolved around healthcare subsidies for low-income Americans, with Democrats pushing for their inclusion in the funding bill. Despite their efforts, the final deal did not address this concern, leading to frustration among House Democrats. Meanwhile, the swearing-in of Adelita Grijalva, Arizona’s newest Democratic representative, marked a symbolic moment as she joined her colleagues in advocating for justice in the Jeffrey Epstein case. House Speaker Mike Johnson has pledged to schedule a vote on the Epstein-related petition next week, signaling a potential shift in legislative priorities.
标签： North America
北美洲
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Sri Lanka cricketers leave Pakistan after bomb blast
In a dramatic turn of events, at least eight Sri Lankan cricketers have decided to return home without participating in the ongoing tri-nation white-ball cricket series against Pakistan and Zimbabwe. This decision comes in the wake of a devastating suicide bombing in Islamabad on Tuesday, which claimed 12 lives and left 27 injured outside a court. The players expressed deep concerns over their safety, prompting their abrupt departure. A Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) official confirmed the news on Wednesday, stating that substitute players would be sent to continue the series. The second One Day International (ODI) against Pakistan, scheduled for Thursday, is now in doubt. SLC President Shammi Silva mentioned that a formal statement regarding the team’s continued participation in the tournament is being prepared, though no further details were provided. This incident has reignited memories of the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore, which left six players injured and led to international teams avoiding Pakistan for nearly a decade. Despite the heightened security measures announced by the Pakistan Cricket Board, the players’ fears have overshadowed the series. Pakistan had previously defeated Sri Lanka by six runs in the opening ODI in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, a match that proceeded despite the attack in Islamabad. The remaining matches are set to take place on Thursday and Saturday, also in Rawalpindi.
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What we know about new Epstein emails that mention Trump
In a significant development, US lawmakers have released over 20,000 pages of documents from the estate of Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier and convicted sex offender. These documents, which include email exchanges, shed light on Epstein’s connections with prominent figures, including President Donald Trump and Prince Andrew. The release, initiated by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee, has sparked a political firestorm, with Republicans accusing Democrats of selectively leaking information to create a false narrative. Among the released emails is a 2011 exchange between Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, where Epstein mentions Trump, stating, ‘That dog that hasn’t barked is Trump.’ The victim’s name, later revealed to be Virginia Giuffre, was redacted in the initial release. Giuffre, a prominent Epstein accuser, died by suicide earlier this year. The White House has vehemently denied any wrongdoing by Trump, emphasizing that Giuffre had previously stated Trump was not involved in any misconduct. In another email exchange, author Michael Wolff discusses with Epstein the potential to ‘finish’ Trump through an interview. Wolff suggests that Epstein could use the opportunity to either harm or help Trump’s political career. Additionally, the documents mention Prince Andrew, who has consistently denied any involvement in Epstein’s illicit activities. The White House has dismissed the emails as a ‘bad-faith effort’ to distract from Trump’s accomplishments, asserting that the documents prove ‘absolutely nothing other than the fact that President Trump did nothing wrong.’
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Trump ‘spent hours’ with sex trafficking victim in Epstein’s home, emails reveal
Newly disclosed emails have sparked controversy, suggesting that former President Donald Trump spent significant time at Jeffrey Epstein’s residence with one of the financier’s sex trafficking victims. The emails, released by Democrats on the House Oversight Committee, indicate that Epstein claimed Trump had “spent hours at my house” with the victim, raising questions about Trump’s awareness of Epstein’s criminal activities. Trump has consistently denied any involvement in or knowledge of Epstein’s sex-trafficking operations. Epstein, who was awaiting trial on federal charges, died by suicide in prison in 2019. The revelations have intensified scrutiny over Trump’s past associations and his potential knowledge of Epstein’s illicit activities. Democrats argue that the emails warrant further investigation into Trump’s role and awareness of the crimes committed by his former friend.
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Seven Mayfair unveils Dh1 billion Development ‘Mayfair Nexus’ in Wadi Al Safa 7 with a drone show
Seven Mayfair Real Estate Development has officially entered Dubai’s competitive real estate market with the unveiling of its inaugural project, Mayfair Nexus, a Dh1 billion development located in Wadi Al Safa 7. The grand reveal took place at Mayfair Gardens, the project site, during an exclusive event themed ‘Imagination Comes to Life.’ The evening attracted a distinguished audience of real estate professionals, partners, and industry stakeholders, marking the debut of a brand built on experience, design, and integrity. The event featured an immersive experience, starting with a walkthrough of the architectural model and culminating in a breathtaking drone show that illuminated the night sky, symbolizing the transformation of vision into reality. Fauzaan Malkani, Managing Director and Co-founder of Seven Mayfair, emphasized that the launch was not just about a project but the beginning of a story rooted in transparency, trust, and timeless design. Designed by renowned architect Tony Ashai, Mayfair Nexus comprises nine residential towers, 434 apartments, and over 88,000 square feet of retail and F&B space, creating a connected community that integrates lifestyle, wellness, and design. The RERA-approved project, supported by an Escrow account, is slated for completion in Q4 2028. The development’s modern architectural style focuses on simplicity, proportion, and tranquility, utilizing natural materials, balanced lighting, and open spaces to evoke understated luxury. The event concluded with a drone show that visually encapsulated Mayfair’s brand philosophy, blending imagination, architecture, and emotion to herald a new chapter in Dubai’s residential landscape.
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Leonardo DiCaprio honours Jane Goodall at funeral in DC
In a heartfelt tribute during a memorial service held in Washington, D.C., acclaimed actor Leonardo DiCaprio celebrated the life and legacy of renowned primatologist Jane Goodall. DiCaprio, known for his environmental activism, described Goodall as a figure who embodied gentleness, curiosity, humor, and an indomitable spirit. He emphasized her groundbreaking contributions to primatology and her unwavering dedication to wildlife conservation. The event brought together admirers from various fields, highlighting Goodall’s profound impact on both science and environmental advocacy. DiCaprio’s words underscored the deep respect and admiration he holds for Goodall, whose work continues to inspire generations.
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UAE: Why mixed-use communities are more profitable than standalone buildings
The UAE real estate market is witnessing a significant shift as mixed-use communities emerge as the most profitable investment option, outperforming traditional standalone residential buildings. According to recent data, mixed-use developments have achieved the highest rental yields year-to-date at approximately 8%, compared to 7% for master-planned communities and 5% for standalone residential projects. This trend underscores the growing preference for integrated living spaces that combine residential, retail, and lifestyle amenities. Cherif Sleiman, Chief Revenue Officer at Property Finder, highlighted that such developments attract tenants seeking convenience, community facilities, and proximity to workplaces. The demand for smaller, affordable units like one-bedroom apartments and studios has surged, with apartments constituting 57% of buyer demand and 78% of rental searches. Mixed-use communities also command rental premiums averaging 20–25%, with steady demand throughout 2025. While standalone buildings have seen a 16% price appreciation, slightly higher than mixed-use developments at 15%, the latter offers a balanced combination of rental returns and capital growth. Experts like Ben Crompton of Crompton Partners Estate Agents emphasize that mixed-use projects provide long-term stability, higher ROI, and resilience against market downturns due to their diversified tenant mix. Jamal Lootah, President of MEFMA, noted that integrated communities benefit from shared infrastructure, reducing operational costs and ensuring stable occupancy. This shift aligns with urban strategies like Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which promotes walkable, mixed-use neighborhoods. While standalone developments will persist, the future of UAE real estate is increasingly defined by self-sustained, amenity-rich communities.
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Women’s 100m final on day one at LA 2028 Olympics
The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics is set to make history with a groundbreaking schedule and unprecedented gender equality initiatives. World Athletics president Lord Coe announced that the Games will commence ‘with a bang,’ featuring the women’s 100m final on the opening day and the men’s 100m final on the second day. The opening ceremony will take place on July 14, with the closing ceremony scheduled for July 30. In a historic swap, athletics will dominate the first week, while swimming will take center stage in the second week. The event will span 18 zones across the Los Angeles region and Oklahoma City, encompassing 36 sports and 51 disciplines across 49 venues. A highlight of the Games will be ‘Super Saturday’ on July 29, featuring 26 finals across 23 sports. British sprinter Dina Asher-Smith expressed her excitement, stating, ‘It’s such an exciting opportunity—celebrating the enduring legacy, strength, and global power of women’s sprinting, exactly 100 years on from the first time women competed in Olympic track and field.’ The LA28 Olympic Games will also mark a milestone in gender equality, with 50.5% of the total athlete quota allocated to women, ensuring every team sport features an equal or greater number of women’s teams compared to men’s teams. The athletics events will be held at the LA Memorial Coliseum, while the first medal event will be the women’s triathlon, and the last will be in swimming. Swimming has been moved to the second week to coincide with the opening ceremony venue, SoFi Stadium. The first official day of the Olympics will also feature the most women’s finals in a single day. Details for the Olympic football tournament and the Los Angeles Paralympics, scheduled for August 15-27, are yet to be announced.
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Dubai welcomes Adhara Star: Acube’s first project officially handed over
Acube Developments has reached a significant milestone with the official handover of Adhara Star, its inaugural project in Arjan, Dubai. This achievement underscores the company’s rapid ascent in Dubai’s competitive real estate market, showcasing its ability to deliver high-quality, innovative, and lifestyle-focused developments. Completed in under two years since the company’s inception, Adhara Star has already sold out within three months of its launch, reflecting strong investor confidence and setting the stage for Acube’s ambitious future projects. The freehold mixed-use development features 113 residential units spread across 13 floors, complemented by ground-level retail spaces and podium parking. Designed for modern urban living, the project offers a range of apartment configurations, including one, 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5-bedroom units, all equipped with premium European appliances and luxury finishes. Adhara Star combines affordable luxury with a community-centric lifestyle, catering to Dubai’s growing population of families and young professionals. Residents will enjoy access to a variety of premium amenities, including a rooftop pool, Japanese Zen Garden, health clubs, an indoor gym, sports courts, and an open-air fitness zone. Notably, the development is certified as a Green Building, highlighting Acube’s commitment to sustainable construction and resource-efficient design. Ramjee Iyer, Chairman and CEO of Acube Group, emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating that Adhara Star reflects Dubai’s dynamic property market and the company’s ability to maintain world-class standards. With its brand promise, ‘Live on a Star,’ Acube aims to continue delivering projects that blend aspirational living with lasting value, shaping communities and setting new benchmarks in the real estate sector.
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£220 ‘for a cut-up sock’ – Apple’s new iPhone Pocket ridiculed online
Apple has ignited a storm of online criticism following the unveiling of its latest accessory, the iPhone Pocket. Priced at £219.95, the product, described as a novel carrying case for iPhones, has been widely mocked for its resemblance to a piece of knitted footwear and its seemingly exorbitant cost. Social media users were quick to deride the accessory, with one X user quipping, ‘$230 for a cut-up sock.’ Renowned tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee labeled it a ‘litmus test’ for Apple enthusiasts who ‘buy or defend anything Apple releases.’ Apple defended the product, stating it was part of a limited-edition collaboration with Japanese fashion label Issey Miyake, inspired by ‘a piece of cloth’ and the concept of ‘creating an additional pocket.’ The accessory, available in multiple colors, features a short or long strap design. However, critics on social media questioned its practicality, highlighting the lack of security features like a zipper, especially given the prevalence of iPhone thefts. Some users humorously compared the product to the bright green mankini worn by Sasha Baron Cohen’s character Borat. Despite the backlash, supporters argued the price reflects the collaboration’s exclusivity and Apple’s historical ties to fashion. Social media analyst Matt Navara noted the pricing aligns with luxury fashion norms but suggested Apple might be ‘testing the limits of brand loyalty.’