In other news

The Damascus International Book Fair is seen as a reflection of the new Syria, showcasing a mix of Western and Islamist literature. The presence of books by authors like Charles Darwin and Stephen Hawking alongside those by Islamist ideologues like Sayyid Qutb raises questions about the country's new authorities' tolerance. While some see it as a sign of openness, others worry that this newfound freedom may not last.

The article discusses the effectiveness of America's war on poverty, declared by President Lyndon Johnson in the 1960s. While deprivation has fallen dramatically, it is unclear whether this is due to the welfare state. The article examines the growth of welfare payments and the current state of poverty in America, questioning whether the welfare state has been successful in achieving its goals.

The article discusses the optimism among investors heading into 2026, despite the uncertainty surrounding the market's future. Professionals are paid to predict the market's direction, but individual investors can adopt a buy-and-hold strategy. The article highlights the challenges of predicting the market and notes that even with advanced tools like AI, the outcome remains uncertain. It also touches on related economic topics, such as the impact of AI on productivity, new tariff threats from Donald Trump, and the EU's economic policies.

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The article discusses the implications of Saif al-Islam Qaddafi's death on Libya's future leadership. Saif, a son of former dictator Muammar Qaddafi, was killed on February 3rd, and his funeral drew large crowds from across the country. Many mourners wore green, the color of the former regime, and vowed revenge, highlighting the ongoing divisions and tensions in Libya. The article notes that Libya has no good options for leaders, and the country's bleak future is further complicated by the nostalgia for the Qaddafi regime among some segments of the population.

The article discusses the issue of insider betting in prediction markets, citing a recent case where an individual known as 'ricosuave666' won over $150,000 on Polymarket by betting on the precise timing of Israel's attacks on Iran. The Israeli government has since arrested two men for using classified information to place bets. The article argues that while insider betting is a problem, it does not necessarily mean that regulators should stamp it out.

The article discusses the global rise of Nigerian fashion, particularly among young people on social media platforms like TikTok. It highlights how Nigerian styles, such as the traditional headtie or 'gele', are becoming increasingly popular worldwide, with non-Nigerians also embracing the culture. The article cites a viral song by British-Nigerian rapper Keys the Prince, which features a line about wearing gele to a wedding, and notes how the soundbite has been used on TikTok to accompany videos of people getting dressed in flamboyant outfits.

The article discusses the escalating feud between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), two of the most powerful countries in the Gulf region. The tension between the two nations has been rising, with Saudi Arabia recently bombing an Emirati weapons shipment in Yemen and accusing the UAE of threatening its national security. Despite the use of polite language in diplomatic communications, the underlying tension is evident. The feud is expected to have far-reaching consequences for the region.

China's Commercial Aircraft Corporation (Comac) is boosting the international profile of its C909 jet by injecting 634 million yuan into Chengdu Airlines, its subsidiary carrier. The funding will help widen the jet's international coverage and attract more overseas buyers. Chengdu Airlines has received a capital injection, nearly tripling its registered capital, and is recruiting partners for new international routes using the C909. The move is seen as a step to compete with Western giants Boeing and Airbus.

Chinese scientists have used the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing tool to create a tomato with a popcorn aroma by silencing two genes that suppress aromatic compounds. The resulting tomato emits a scent similar to buttered popcorn, inspired by the aroma of fragrant rice. This innovation aims to address the issue of fading flavor in tomatoes, a problem that has been sensed by consumers. China is one of the world's largest tomato producers, with over 70 million tonnes produced in 2023. The research was published in the Journal of Integrative Agriculture and was conducted by a team of Chinese and Australian researchers.

A recent study by the Airports Council International (ACI) Asia-Pacific and Middle East found that Chinese travellers are the biggest spenders at Asia's airports, outspending their regional peers on luxury goods, food, and gifts. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, Chinese passengers have spent twice the regional average on luxury goods, driving the recovery in Asia's airport retail. The trend reflects the strength of China's outbound travel market, which was worth an estimated US$140 billion in 2024 and is forecast to reach US$386 billion by 2033. Chinese travellers display a diversified retail basket, with 27% preferring confectionary goods as gifts, 17% opting for local products, and 12% choosing luxury goods. While they still spend heavily overseas, a growing majority of their airport retail spend is taking place within China.

China's commercial property market is experiencing a downturn due to subdued consumer spending, resulting in falling rents and empty shops. Average rents across 100 major commercial streets in 15 key mainland cities have dropped to 24 yuan (US$3.50) per square metre per day, the lowest level since 2018. Analysts expect the pressure to persist for another one to two years unless the economic outlook improves. Cautious consumer spending and a prolonged property downturn have eroded household wealth tied up in real estate, contributing to the decline.

Hong Kong's Court of Appeal has dismissed appeals by 12 opposition activists convicted in the city's largest national security trial, upholding their convictions and sentences. The court also upheld the acquittal of barrister Lawrence Lau in the subversion case. The trial involved 47 defendants accused of conspiracy to subvert state power. A heavy police presence was seen outside the court, with around 100 officers stationed at the entrance. The case has drawn international attention, with representatives from Western consulates general present to observe the verdict.

Hong Kong authorities will continue to provide an annual rental subsidy of HK$150,000 to victims displaced by the deadly Tai Po blaze until they are rehoused under the 'flat-for-flat' resettlement scheme. The subsidy will continue even if they are unable to move into their new homes for 2½ years. Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong Wai-lun announced that residents currently living in transitional housing will be allowed to stay during this period. The government plans to spend HK$6.8 billion to buy back fire-damaged homes from flat owners. Wang Fuk Court homeowners can choose between a cash buyout and a 'flat-for-flat' exchange for new subsidised flats.

China is building the hi-tech backbone of Africa's space ambitions by gifting space infrastructure as a form of soft power on the continent. China has been constructing a network of space facilities across Africa, including a new satellite data ground station in Namibia, which was handed over earlier this month. The station enables Namibia to process remote-sensing data from satellites, including the China-Brazil Earth Resources Satellite (CBERS-4). China's ambassador to Namibia described the station as Beijing's first 'high-technology development assistance project' in the country, demonstrating China's commitment to supporting African countries in advancing science and technology development.

Chinese universities are shifting their focus from traditional language degrees to country-specific and regional studies. This move is seen as part of a broader strategy to develop a uniquely Chinese framework for understanding the world, independent of Western paradigms. Since 2011, at least 450 regional studies centres have been established across more than 180 institutions nationwide, with around 20,000 faculty members deployed in the field. The shift is in line with China's latest five-year plan, which calls for strengthening regional and country studies to enhance international communication. Meanwhile, language majors are facing significant cuts and restructuring.

The remains of St Francis of Assisi, Italy's patron saint, have been put on public display in the town of Assisi to mark 800 years since his death. The skeleton, which is being displayed in a nitrogen-filled plexiglass case, has only been seen in public once before in 1978. St Francis is a highly venerated figure in Christianity, known for renouncing his wealth and founding the Franciscan order. He is also the patron saint of animals and the environment. The display, which will run until March 22, has attracted significant interest with around 400,000 people from around the world reserving a place to view the remains.

The family of Cheryl Grimmer, a British girl who disappeared from a beach in Australia in 1970, has welcomed a decision by New South Wales prosecutors to consider reopening her case. Cheryl was three years old when she vanished, and despite extensive searches, no leads were found. A suspect was charged in 2017 but the case was dropped after his confession was deemed inadmissible. The family has been pushing for a fresh investigation, and the NSW Director of Public Prosecutions has agreed to review the decision to drop the case. The review will consider evidence handed over by police in 2019 and potentially new information that detectives say they have found.

Over 1,500 Venezuelan political prisoners have applied for amnesty under a new law introduced by the government. The law has been criticized by opposition and human rights groups for excluding certain prisoners, including those who called for foreign armed intervention. National Assembly President Jorge Rodríguez announced that 1,557 release requests are being addressed 'immediately' and that the legislation could ultimately extend to 11,000 prisoners. The US has urged Venezuela to speed up the release of political prisoners since the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro in January.

North Korea's ruling Workers' Party has re-appointed Kim Jong Un as its general secretary at a party congress in Pyongyang. The announcement comes as little surprise given the Kim family's long-standing dictatorship. Kim vowed to boost the country's economy and people's standard of living in his opening speech. The congress provides insight into the country's priorities, including its nuclear ambitions and foreign policy. There is speculation about Kim's daughter, Ju Ae, potentially being chosen as his heir.

Pakistan launched multiple air strikes on Afghanistan, targeting alleged militant camps and hideouts near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. The Taliban reported at least 18 people were killed, including women and children, and condemned the attacks as a 'blatant violation of Afghanistan's territorial integrity'. Pakistan claimed the strikes were a response to recent suicide bombings in Pakistan, for which it blamed militants sheltered in Afghanistan. The strikes come after a fragile ceasefire was agreed upon in October following deadly cross-border clashes.

Willie Colón, a renowned trombonist and salsa music pioneer, has died at the age of 75. Born in the Bronx to Puerto Rican parents, Colón began his music career as a child and went on to become a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, orchestra leader, and producer. He was known for his iconic trombone playing and his contributions to the development of salsa music, exploring themes of Puerto Rican identity and culture. Colón's music career spanned nearly 60 years, during which he released over 40 albums, sold 30 million records, and won numerous awards, including 10 Grammy nominations. He was also a prominent social activist, supporting various organizations and causes.

Big Tech companies such as Amazon, Meta, and Alphabet are significantly increasing their spending on AI infrastructure, funding it increasingly through debt rather than cash flow. This shift is challenging their 'fortress balance sheet' status and concerns investors about the speculative nature of AI spending and the risk of tech obsolescence. Investors fear that the huge data centers being built could become obsolete due to rapid technical improvements, posing a risk to debtholders. The increased borrowing is also adding supply to bond markets already struggling with large public deficits.

Bitcoin fell over 3% after President Donald Trump announced plans to raise global tariffs to 15%, causing uncertainty in the market. The cryptocurrency had previously crossed $125,000 in October but has since seen a sharp sell-off, down 26% so far this year and 47% from its October high. Investors are concerned about the impact of tariffs and the possibility of an armed conflict with Iran on global trade flows. Some experts attribute the drop to weak liquidity and low conviction in the market, while others point to investors rotating into gold and artificial intelligence stocks.

Jim Cramer examines whether private equity is the next market crisis, analyzing the current skepticism towards private equity companies and their potential risks. Historically strong performers like KKR, Blackstone, and Apollo Global Management have seen their stocks plummet this year. Cramer discusses the concerns surrounding private credit loans made by business development companies and the potential risks associated with these investments. Despite strong overall returns, the market is pessimistic about private equity due to concerns over credit risk assessment and the impact of a sluggish IPO market.

The White House has launched the 'Tech Corps' initiative within the Peace Corps to promote American AI abroad and help partner nations adopt cutting-edge systems. The Tech Corps will recruit, train, and deploy volunteers with tech skills to provide 'last-mile' support for the implementation of American AI solutions in key sectors such as agriculture, education, health, and economic development. The initiative is part of the Trump administration's efforts to counter Chinese influence in developing nations and maintain U.S. dominance in advanced technologies globally. India is expected to be among the countries participating in the program, which aligns with the U.S.-led Pax Silica initiative aimed at securing the global supply chain for silicon-based technologies.

Figure skater Alysa Liu was interviewed by CNN's Coy Wire a day after winning Olympic gold. Liu stated that she hadn't checked her phone and was ready for sleep after her winning performance. The article highlights Liu's reaction to her achievement and her focus on rest rather than the aftermath of her victory.

Olympic freestyle skier Eileen Gu won gold in the women's halfpipe final but was left emotional after receiving news of her grandmother's passing shortly after the victory. The article reports on Gu's reaction to the news and provides some context about her achievement.

The 2026 BAFTA Film Awards ceremony in London was interrupted by a man named John Davidson, who has Tourette Syndrome, when he yelled a racist slur as two Black actors, Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo, presented an award on stage. Davidson, the subject of a British indie film 'I Swear', had expressed his concerns about his involuntary tics before the ceremony. The audience had been warned about potential tics or involuntary swearing, and the host, Alan Cumming, asked for understanding after the incident. The ceremony continued, with the presenters moving on with the award. The BBC, which aired the ceremony with a delay, reiterated the message of understanding but didn't respond to why the moment wasn't cut from the broadcast. The ceremony saw several notable wins, including Robert Aramayo winning best actor for his portrayal of Davidson in 'I Swear'.

Prince William and Kate Middleton attended the BAFTA Film Awards, presenting a united front despite recent controversy surrounding Prince Andrew's arrest. The couple wore complementary outfits, with Kate re-wearing a Gucci gown from 2019. Their appearance comes amid the royal family's ongoing crisis, with King Charles III also making a surprise appearance at London Fashion Week. The article discusses the royal couple's fashion choices and the context of their public appearance.

The article by Miranda Devine discusses the Democratic Party's strategy of presenting moderate candidates like Abigail Spanberger to deceive voters, while actually implementing radical left policies. Spanberger, the governor of Virginia, is set to deliver the Democrats' response to the State of the Union address. Devine argues that Spanberger, with her background as a CIA case officer, is an expert in subterfuge and has already shown her true colors by signing off on unlimited abortion, gerrymandering, and increasing taxes. The article criticizes the Democratic Party for pretending to be moderate while actually being radical, and warns Republicans not to be fooled by their tactics. Devine also argues that Republicans should consider abolishing the filibuster to pass key legislation, such as voter ID laws, as Democrats are 'bad actors' who will not play by the rules.

A grieving North Carolina father, Shaheem Snype, attacked the man accused of killing his 16-year-old son, Marion McKnight, inside a courthouse. The incident was caught on video, showing Snype charging at McKnight and delivering punches and kicks before being stopped by an officer using a Taser. Snype was arrested and charged with misdemeanor assault inflicting serious injury but was released on a $1,000 bond. McKnight is accused of fatally shooting Snype's son, Jamariyae Dixon, last spring and was free on a $100,000 bond at the time of the attack. The family of Dixon expressed understanding for Snype's actions, with Dixon's aunt stating that 'any father would've done the same thing.' The incident has highlighted the emotional toll on the family and the controversy surrounding McKnight's release on bond.

A North Carolina mother of three, Michele Lyn Hundley Smith, who vanished 24 years ago, has been found alive and well. She disappeared in December 2001 after leaving her home to go Christmas shopping. Authorities received a tip and located her at an undisclosed location in North Carolina. Her family has been notified, and they are reeling with questions about her whereabouts and the reasons behind her disappearance. Smith's children are experiencing a mix of emotions, from ecstasy to anger and heartbreak, and are unsure if they will reestablish a relationship with their mother.

The article argues that the US should ban social media for children under 16, citing the negative impact on their mental health and the benefits of empowering parents to limit screen time. The author suggests that this move would be a 'huge gift' to both parents and kids, and that it has bipartisan support in Congress. The article references Australia's successful implementation of a similar ban, which resulted in 4.7 million under-16 users being removed from various social media platforms.

The article discusses the use of virtual reality (VR) therapy for children in Gaza who have been traumatized by the ongoing conflict. The VR sessions, provided by the organization TechMed Gaza, allow children to temporarily escape their harsh reality and engage in therapeutic activities. The article highlights the stories of several children, including Razan, Ahmad, and Amjad, who have benefited from the VR therapy, experiencing improvements in their mental health and, in some cases, even taking their first steps due to reduced fear. Despite the positive impact, the project faces challenges due to the limited availability of VR headsets and the inability to replace or acquire new equipment due to the closure of crossings.

The war in Ukraine has evolved into a conflict characterized by the fusion of traditional trench warfare with modern technology, particularly drones. The 117th Brigade is defending a heavily contested area in the Donbas region, where the use of drones has become a crucial aspect of the conflict. The article highlights the challenges faced by soldiers on the ground, who must contend with the constant threat of drones and the changing nature of warfare. The commander of the 117th Brigade notes that the war has 'changed fundamentally' with the increased use of drones and other technologies. The conflict is not just about territory, but also about the implications for the international order and whether borders can be changed by force.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is investigating whether to ban weight loss jabs, specifically Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, from the next Summer Olympics in 2028. WADA is monitoring the use of these drugs among athletes to determine if they are being abused to cheat, risking their health or violating the spirit of fair sport. Experts say endurance athletes could benefit most from these drugs, which can cause energy deficiency and other health issues. Welfare concerns also arise as athletes face pressure to take the drugs to control their weight. A decision on banning the drugs could be taken by the end of 2026 or in 2027.

At least five people, including an American, were killed in a series of avalanches in western Austria. The avalanches occurred in the Tyrol and Vorarlberg regions, with intense snowfall and windy conditions contributing to the incidents. The victims included off-piste skiers and a snowboarder. The region has seen nearly three dozen avalanche incidents reported on Friday, among more than 200 over the last week, resulting in 11 fatalities this month.

The French government has summoned U.S. Ambassador Charles Kushner to protest comments made by the Trump administration regarding the death of a far-right activist, Quentin Deranque. The State Department's Counterterrorism Bureau stated that Deranque's killing by left-wing militants was a demonstration of the threat posed by violent radical leftism. French Foreign Affairs Minister Jean-Noel Barrot rejected the U.S. statement, saying it was an attempt to instrumentalize the tragedy for political ends. Deranque's death has highlighted deep political tensions in France ahead of next year's presidential vote. Seven people have been charged with his murder. Barrot also plans to discuss U.S. sanctions on two French nationals, Thierry Breton and Nicolas Guillou, with Kushner.

A powerful winter storm is moving into the north-east United States, bringing heavy snow and gales that are expected to cause significant travel disruptions. The storm is predicted to dump over 0.6 meters of snow in parts of New England, with New York City expected to receive at least 0.45 meters. The National Weather Service has warned of snowfalls of 5cm or more per hour, and over 35 million people are under blizzard warnings. The storm has already caused the cancellation of nearly 4,000 commercial flights, and mass transit systems in the region have been severely disrupted. Governors of several states have declared states of emergency, and non-essential driving bans are in effect in several areas.

The article explores the complex dynamics between the ethnic Chinese minority and the Malay majority in Kelantan, Malaysia, a state governed by the Islamist party PAS. While the Chinese community has historically been integrated into Kelantanese society, recent policies have led to increased regulatory encroachment and economic challenges. The article highlights the paradox between the state's symbols of interfaith accommodation, such as the 'Beijing Mosque', and the tightening grip on non-Muslim spaces. It also showcases the cultural heritage and identity of the Chinese community in Kelantan, who have maintained their traditions while adapting to the local culture.

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has refused to attend his pre-trial hearing at the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity related to his 'drug war' that resulted in thousands of deaths. Despite his absence, the hearing will proceed to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to confirm the charges. Families of the victims have accused Duterte of cowardice and demanded justice. The ICC's investigation covers alleged crimes committed from 2011 to 2019, with estimated civilian deaths ranging from 12,000 to 30,000. Duterte's daughter, Sara, is set to run for presidency in 2028, sparking concerns among victims' families about potential retaliation.

A Japanese macaque named Punch was abandoned by his mother at birth and subsequently formed a bond with a stuffed orangutan toy provided by zookeepers. The incident has sparked global attention and raised questions about why mother animals abandon their offspring. Experts attribute Punch's abandonment to his mother's inexperience as a first-time mother and the stressful environmental conditions during the heatwave when he was born. The article discusses the implications of Punch's situation on his integration into the troop and highlights broader issues such as habitat loss, climate change, and animal welfare.

Hungary is threatening to block a proposed 90 billion-euro European Union loan to Ukraine unless oil shipments through the Druzhba pipeline are restored. The pipeline is a key route for Russian oil deliveries to Central Europe, including Hungary. Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected Hungary's ultimatum, accusing Hungary and Slovakia of taking provocative and irresponsible actions that threaten the energy security of the region. The EU loan is intended to support Ukraine's budgetary and military needs as the war with Russia continues.

The Tour Montparnasse, a 53-year-old skyscraper in Paris, is undergoing a major renovation to improve its appearance and surroundings. The tower, once considered one of the ugliest buildings in the city, will be reimagined with a lighter and more transparent design, featuring verandas with greenery and a rooftop garden. The surrounding commercial center, currently a deserted shopping mall, will be revamped by renowned architect Renzo Piano to create a more welcoming public space. Despite the project's ambitious goals, it has faced opposition from some locals who argue that it is too commercial and does not adequately address the needs of the community. The renovation is expected to cost over $700 million and is part of a broader effort to revitalize the Montparnasse area.