Smuggled North Korean phone exposes disturbing details of how Kim Jong Un’s regime spies on citizens December 20, 2025 at 11:58PM

A smartphone smuggled out of North Korea reveals how the state enforces ideology through everyday technology. The device blocks internet access, rewrites language, and secretly captures screenshots every five minutes for surveillance. Analysed by the BBC, it shows how censorship extends into private life, while defectors describe realising only after escape how abnormal such control was.

Eight dead, dozens wounded as Russia strikes Ukraine's Odesa port December 20, 2025 at 01:51AM

'Who will bring the mad murderers to justice?' Taslima Nasreen says mob 'pounced on Hindu man 'like hyenas'; blames Bangladesh police December 19, 2025 at 11:30PM

A Hindu garment worker named Dipu Chandra Das was brutally killed by a mob in Bangladesh. He was accused of blasphemy. The incident occurred in Bhaluka, Mymensingh. Authorities have arrested seven individuals in connection with the lynching. This event has raised serious concerns about the safety of religious minorities in the country.

UAE: Dubai–Sharjah ferry services temporarily suspended amid adverse weather December 19, 2025 at 12:38AM

Ferry services between Dubai and Sharjah have been temporarily suspended due to adverse weather, the Roads and Transport Authority announced via an X post. Passengers are urged to monitor official updates and arrange alternative travel. The suspension is a precautionary measure prioritizing safety, with no confirmed timeline for resumption, and the RTA thanked commuters for their understanding and cooperation

Decoding Noam Chomsky's friendship with Jeffrey Epstein December 19, 2025 at 12:45AM

This is not a story about crimes. There is no evidence linking Noam Chomsky to Jeffrey Epstein’s sexual offences. That boundary should not be blurred. But this is very much a story about power, judgement, and proximity. About how elite worlds function. About how influence circulates. And about how even those who devote their lives to critiquing systems of domination can misread them when they arrive dressed as conversation.

River in northern Alaska turns orange due to rising heavy metal pollution December 18, 2025 at 11:30PM

Arctic rivers in northern Alaska are dramatically changing colour due to melting permafrost releasing hidden metals like iron. This thawing process exposes mineral-rich soils, leading to increased metal levels and acidity in waterways. Scientists are concerned about the impact on aquatic life and Indigenous communities relying on these rivers, highlighting a significant climate-driven transformation of polar landscapes.

Between groyperism and Mamdani socialism: How Indian-origin Vivek Ramaswamy decides who is 'American' December 18, 2025 at 02:13AM

Ramaswamy’s core claim is classically conservative and quietly radical in today’s climate: Americanness is binary. You are either American or you are not. There are no gradations based on skin colour, ancestry, or how early your family arrived.

UAE Government shifts to remote work on friday amid heavy rain December 18, 2025 at 02:02AM

Unstable weather in the UAE prompts remote work for Dubai government employees on December 19th. Authorities urge caution, advising residents to stay indoors and avoid coastal areas due to heavy rain, strong winds, and rough seas. Private sector companies are encouraged to adopt flexible work arrangements, prioritizing employee safety amidst hazardous conditions.

UAE Golden Visa or Saudi Premium Residency: Which Gulf nation offers the best long-term future? December 17, 2025 at 12:23AM

The UAE Golden Visa and Saudi Arabia’s Premium Residency reflect a shared shift across the Gulf: long-term residency as economic strategy. Both aim to attract global talent and capital beyond oil, but differ in execution. The UAE prioritises flexibility and multiple entry routes, while Saudi Arabia emphasises permanence, deeper rights, and onshore commitment.

UAE introduces amendments to corporate tax, VAT, and company laws December 16, 2025 at 11:31PM

The UAE has introduced amendments to its corporate tax, VAT, and Commercial Companies Law to improve regulatory clarity and business efficiency. The changes outline how corporate tax credits and incentives are applied, simplify VAT procedures, and introduce greater flexibility in company structures, including new non-profit entities and enhanced capital arrangements.

Qatar announces 2025 National Day parade timings December 16, 2025 at 01:58AM

Qatar has announced the timings for the 2025 National Day Parade at Doha Corniche. Scheduled for Thursday, December 18, public entrances will open at 5 a.m. and close at 7:30 a.m., with the parade beginning at 9 a.m. Residents and citizens are invited to witness vibrant processions, cultural performances, and patriotic displays celebrating Qatar’s heritage, achievements, and community spirit.

Bondi Beach Attack: Fresh details reveal Sajid Akram’s roots in Hyderabad; migrated to Australia 27 years ago December 16, 2025 at 01:34AM

Telangana Police confirmed Sajid Akram, an accused in the Bondi Beach terror attack, is from Hyderabad, migrating to Australia 27 years ago. His radicalization had no connection to India. The attack killed 16, including a child and rabbi, with authorities investigating the duo's recent Philippines trip.

Dubai visa rejected? Here’s what you’re doing wrong December 15, 2025 at 11:26PM

Dubai visa rejections often stem from avoidable mistakes such as incorrect application details, choosing the wrong visa category, missing or inaccurate documents, weak financial proof, unclear travel plans, or undisclosed past visa issues. Understanding these common pitfalls helps applicants submit stronger, error-free applications and significantly improves their chances of securing a UAE visa successfully.

How Dubai Courts are recognising Crypto as legal Property under UAE Digital Asset rules? December 15, 2025 at 01:07AM

Dubai's DIFC Courts have officially classified cryptocurrencies as intangible personal property, a landmark decision that significantly alters the legal landscape for digital assets. This recognition empowers courts to issue Worldwide Freezing Orders, offering crucial protection for investor capital during disputes. Specialized tools and judicial training further bolster the Emirate's readiness to handle complex crypto litigation.

Burned cities, stolen childhoods: How fallout between two generals destroyed a nation — Sudan crisis explained December 15, 2025 at 12:55AM

Sudan’s war erupted in April 2023 after a power struggle between rival generals Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo collapsed into nationwide fighting. What began as elite infighting has become the world’s largest displacement crisis, devastating cities, services and livelihoods. Ethnic violence has returned to Darfur, while millions face famine, disease and forgotten suffering amid weak international response.

Bahrain unveils 2025 National Day fireworks schedule December 14, 2025 at 11:32PM

Bahrain International Circuit has announced its fireworks schedule for National Day 2025, marking the Kingdom’s National Day and the anniversary of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s accession to the throne. The display will take place on Tuesday at 7pm, with free public access, parking at the circuit, and food trucks on site for families and residents to enjoy a festive evening.

‘Difficult times’: Hamas confirms top commander Raed Saad killed in Israeli strike; fragile truce tested December 13, 2025 at 11:40PM

Hamas confirmed the killing of senior leader Raed Saad and aides by Israeli forces, a day after Israel announced the operation. Saad, described as an architect of the October 7 attack and second-in-command of Hamas's armed wing, was reportedly killed in Gaza's tunnel network. This development risks further destabilizing the fragile truce.

Watch: Belgian skydiver Magali Folkner Braff’s daring swing above Dubai’s skyline December 13, 2025 at 12:14AM

Belgian skydiver Magali Folkner Braff captured global attention after performing a breathtaking swing stunt 1,000 feet above Dubai to mark Skydive Dubai’s 15th anniversary. Performed from a powered airship at sunrise, the world-first feat reflected her long connection with the city, her passion for skydiving, and her mission to inspire more women to take to the skies.

Did you know the real reason why the sky is blue and space is dark December 12, 2025 at 09:48PM

Earth's atmosphere scatters sunlight, making the sky appear blue due to shorter blue light waves. Longer waves, like red and yellow, dominate sunsets as light travels through more atmosphere. This phenomenon differs on other planets with varied atmospheres. Space, lacking an atmosphere, remains black as there's nothing to scatter sunlight.

“Some ignorant black…”: Nick Fuentes warns he will expose Candace Owens if TPUSA livestream on Charlie Kirk fails December 10, 2025 at 12:29PM

Nick Fuentes has issued a stern warning to Turning Point USA, threatening to expose Candace Owens if their December 15 livestream fails to adequately address her unproven claims about Charlie Kirk's death. Fuentes stated he will livestream his own exposé, naming names and providing evidence, if TPUSA does not handle the situation properly.

UAE Golden Visa vs Trump Gold Card: Which path to residency is right for you? December 11, 2025 at 11:36PM

The newly launched Gold Card offers a million-dollar route to US permanent residency, appealing to ultra-wealthy individuals and companies seeking to secure international talent. The UAE Golden Visa, already well established, provides flexible long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and exceptional achievers. Both programs showcase how nations are competing to attract high value residents through investment driven pathways.

New regional axis? Bangladesh FM says can join bloc excluding India; backs Pakistan’s proposal December 11, 2025 at 01:54AM

Bangladesh's foreign affairs adviser stated it's strategically possible for Dhaka to join a regional grouping with Pakistan, excluding India, following Islamabad's signals for a trilateral initiative with China. He also noted progress on lifting US sanctions on RAB and dismissed the likelihood of further sanctions on Bangladeshi leaders.

US–Pak arms deal: Trump admin clears sale of advanced tech for F-16 jets to Sharif govt December 10, 2025 at 09:01PM

The US has greenlit a significant $686 million arms deal for Pakistan, including advanced technology and support for F-16 fighter. This move aims to enhance Pakistan's counterterrorism capabilities and interoperability with US forces. The approval follows a recent $93 million US arms sale to India, featuring Javelin missiles and Excalibur rounds, bolstering its defense against regional threats.

Pakistan ex-ISI chief jailed: Faiz Hameed convicted after court martial; handed 14 years in prison December 10, 2025 at 11:31PM

Former ISI director general Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed has been sentenced to 14 years in prison by a Pakistani military court. The court-martial found him guilty of political interference, misuse of authority, and violating the official secrets act. This rare conviction of a high-ranking former military official signals the military leadership's stance against political involvement by officers.

UAE traffic alert: Key Emirates Road link to shut from Dec 11 December 10, 2025 at 12:34AM

Authorities have temporarily closed a slip-road on Emirates Road (E611) at Bridge No. 7 for northbound traffic heading towards Jebel Ali–Lehbab Road/Al Qudra Road. This closure, effective December 11, 2025, is part of a Dh750 million expansion project to enhance capacity and safety on the E611. Motorists are advised to use alternative routes like Bridge No.

Kuwait’s biggest festival rocked by scandal: 15 arrested for allegedly rigging Ya Hala draws December 09, 2025 at 02:05AM

Kuwait authorities have arrested 15 individuals in connection with the Ya Hala raffle scandal, part of the country’s most famous shopping festival. Investigations revealed bribery, forgery, and misuse of official positions to direct prizes to select beneficiaries. The case, covering multiple draws and substantial prizes, highlights vulnerabilities in commercial promotions and ongoing efforts to restore public trust.

NASA reveals how astronauts manage periods in space and why it matters for Moon and Mars missions December 08, 2025 at 11:30PM

Space agencies are now focusing on menstrual care for astronauts. Longer missions to the Moon and Mars require sustainable and waste-efficient solutions. Research is exploring options like menstrual cups to provide astronauts with more autonomy and dignity. This shift ensures all crew members can work effectively and safely in space.

Passenger who declined to give up window seat files lawsuit after viral video triggered wave of abuse December 08, 2025 at 02:00PM

A resurfaced video of a woman refusing to give up her window seat to a crying child has reignited debate across X and TikTok. The passenger, Jennifer Castro, says the viral backlash upended her life, prompting her to sue GOL Airlines and the person who filmed her without consent. She argues the incident became public spectacle without context, causing lasting personal and professional fallout.

Where Germany stands with Israel after chancellor's visit December 08, 2025 at 12:10AM

6 terrorists, 1 security personnel killed in operation in northwest Pakistan December 07, 2025 at 11:27PM

A fierce operation in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has resulted in the deaths of six terrorists and one security official. Several others sustained injuries during the exchange of fire. Security forces have secured the area and initiated a search. This incident highlights the ongoing terrorism challenges in the region, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa being severely affected.

No US visa for fact checkers, content moderators because 'Trump's social media accounts were once locked' December 07, 2025 at 02:01AM

US visa news: Trump administration has asked consular officials to deny visas to applicants who worked in fact-checking and censured Americans' freedom of expression. A State Department official said President Donald Trump was a victim of social media censure when his accounts were locked in 2021. The new visa rule to deny entry to such moderators to US is a move to ensure that no American gets muzzled.

SNL recap: Holiday season chaos, Melissa McCarthy’s 6th appearance, and a marathon of Weekend Updates December 07, 2025 at 12:51AM

UAE: Dubai unveils 595 new smart bus shelters for 192 million riders December 06, 2025 at 11:59PM

Dubai's RTA has installed 595 new public bus shelters, nearing 89% completion of its 762-unit goal by 2025. This initiative modernizes public transport infrastructure, enhancing comfort and reliability for over 192 million annual riders. The project prioritizes accessibility and integrates advanced features like digital screens and air-conditioned waiting areas.

Germany: New military service law polarizes society December 06, 2025 at 01:12AM

Turkey road accident: 7 killed, multiple injured after intercity bus crashes into lorry; driver detained December 06, 2025 at 12:23AM

An intercity bus collided with a lorry on a southern Turkish motorway early Saturday, resulting in at least seven fatalities and 11 injuries. The bus struck the rear of the stationary lorry, which had stopped due to a burst tyre. All victims were bus passengers and the lorry driver is in custody.

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow strikes Kyiv railway hub in overnight drone and missile attack; trains cancelled, power facilities hit December 05, 2025 at 11:25PM

A major Russian drone and missile strike overnight hit a railway hub near Kyiv, damaging a depot and several rail carriages in Fastiv. The attack also targeted infrastructure in the Chernihiv region, with power and heating facilities struck in multiple other regions, leaving thousands without essential services.

New Jersey-bound JetBlue plane that plunged thousands of feet likely hit by 'cosmic rays from another galaxy' December 05, 2025 at 02:38AM

A JetBlue flight from Cancun to Newark experienced a sudden, severe altitude drop, injuring 15 passengers on October 30. While initially attributed to solar radiation, a space expert now suggests a cosmic ray from a distant supernova may have disrupted the plane's electronics. Solar radiation levels on October 30 were not high enough to cause the disruption, the expert said.

‘Slandered all’: Tim Walz hits back at Trump’s Somalis ‘garbage’ remark, calls it ‘unprecedented’ December 05, 2025 at 01:30AM

Minnesota governor Tim Walz condemned President Trump's remarks calling the state's Somali community "garbage" and Minnesota a "hellhole." Trump's comments followed claims of fraud reaching al-Shabab and preceded the termination of Temporary Protected Status for Somalis. Republican leaders in Minnesota declined to join Walz in condemning the president.

6.2 magnitude earthquake jolts China’s Xinjiang region; no casualties reported December 04, 2025 at 01:13AM

A powerful magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck China's Xinjiang region at a shallow depth of 10 km, increasing the risk of strong aftershocks. This event follows a smaller magnitude 3.9 quake in the same region just days prior. China's location on seismic belts makes it highly prone to earthquakes, which have caused significant casualties and destruction historically.

UAE: Abu Dhabi launches AI scholarship for undergraduate students at MBZUAI December 04, 2025 at 12:07AM

Abu Dhabi has launched the Tahnoon bin Zayed Scholarship in AI Excellence to support outstanding undergraduate students at MBZUAI. Starting in 2025–2026, it will benefit around 350 students over six years, offering financial aid, hands-on learning, industry mentorships, and opportunities to represent the UAE internationally. The programme combines technical AI training with leadership, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary study.

Qatar unveils plans for a spectacular 11 day National Day celebration at Darb Al Saai December 03, 2025 at 12:48AM

Qatar’s National Day celebrations will take place at Darb Al Saai from 10 to 20 December, offering a rich programme of cultural, heritage, and artistic activities. Visitors can explore desert life, maritime heritage, traditional crafts, and interactive events for children and adults, while national parades and patriotic showcases highlight unity, identity, and the values that have shaped Qatar’s past and present.

Tennessee elections: GOP narrowly avoids losing deep-red district; Matt Epps wins house seat December 02, 2025 at 11:19PM

Republican Matt Van Epps secured a victory in Tennessee's 7th congressional district special election, holding a seat long considered safe for the GOP. Despite Donald Trump's strong performance in the district, Democrats significantly narrowed the Republican lead, signaling a potential shift ahead of the 2026 midterms.

UAE: Ajman breaks Guinness World Record with epic National Day Tribute December 02, 2025 at 01:16AM

Ajman has officially entered the Guinness World Records by arranging 603 vehicles to form the phrase “EID AL ETIHAD UAE 54”. This impressive feat, part of the UAE's 54th Union Day celebrations, showcased exceptional coordination and precision. Guinness adjudicators praised the accuracy and organizational caliber of the display, marking a significant achievement for the Emirate.

US approves $1.4 Billion in military sales to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, strengthening Gulf defence ties December 01, 2025 at 11:10PM

The United States has approved $1.4 billion in military sales to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, covering helicopter maintenance, aviation training, and F-16 sustainment. The packages, now under congressional review, aim to strengthen Gulf defence capabilities without altering regional balance. The deals reinforce long-standing US-Gulf partnerships and follow recent high-level discussions between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and President Trump.

Man who beheaded Indin-origin motel owner in Texas won't face death penalty; prosecution goes soft on Cuban murderer December 01, 2025 at 02:19AM

The chilling case of a beheading of an Indian-origin man in Texas, which initially sparked presidential interest, has evolved dramatically. Yordanis Cobos-Martinez, the accused, an undocumented immigrant from Cuba with a checkered past, will bypass death row and instead serve life in prison without the chance of parole.

Cory Booker weds Alexis Lewis: Decoding the homosexuality rumours that have persisted for long December 01, 2025 at 02:08AM

Senator Cory Booker's recent marriage to Alexis Lewis has reignited long-standing, baseless rumors about his sexuality. These whispers, circulating for over two decades, stemmed from his articulate nature and initial privacy regarding his orientation. Despite his marriage, the internet's tendency to cling to speculation highlights societal discomfort with complexity and stereotypes surrounding masculinity and public figures.

Nina Lin accused of stealing on livestream as Target video shocks Twitch viewers December 01, 2025 at 12:15AM

Nina Lin, a popular streamer, is in hot water. A video shows her at a Target self-checkout. She scanned butter but not steak. The clip went viral on X. Online users are calling for a Twitch ban. This follows other controversies involving her past comments and stream behavior. Nina Lin has not yet responded to the shoplifting claims.

Elon Musk's Indian-origin 'beta' Sekhar: A cheatsheet to the desi 'heir' to Tesla CEO's fortune December 01, 2025 at 12:07AM

The confusion begins with the name itself. There is no “Sekhar Musk.” The child everyone is talking about is named Strider Sekhar Sirius, one of the twins Musk had with Shivon Zilis in 2021. His name follows the familiar Musk pattern — a blend of science fiction ambience and cosmic allusion — but “Sekhar” stands out precisely because it feels rooted, recognisable and grounded in a very different tradition of knowledge.