France conducts various elections, reflecting its democratic process. Key elections include: Presidential Elections: The President is elected every five years through a two-round system. Parliamentary Elections: National Assembly members are elected, determining the legislative branch's composition.اقرأ المزيد
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India is indeed "targeting" Turkey, or at least responding strongly to Turkey's perceived pro-Pakistan stance, particularly after incidents like the Pahalgam attack and India's "Operation Sindoor" in May 2025. This "targeting" is not a military one, but rather a diplomatic and economic pushback aimeاقرأ المزيد
India is indeed “targeting” Turkey, or at least responding strongly to Turkey’s perceived pro-Pakistan stance, particularly after incidents like the Pahalgam attack and India’s “Operation Sindoor” in May 2025. This “targeting” is not a military one, but rather a diplomatic and economic pushback aimed at signaling India’s displeasure and seeking to influence Turkey’s foreign policy.
Here’s how India is doing it:
1. Diplomatic Condemnation and Strong Messaging:
- Direct Public Statements: The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued strong, public statements urging Turkey to press Pakistan to end its support for cross-border terrorism. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, for instance, explicitly stated that “relations are built on the basis of sensitivities,” signaling that Turkey’s stance on Pakistan’s role in terrorism is a critical factor in their diplomatic ties.
- Emphasizing “Mutual Sensitivity”: India has consistently highlighted that bilateral relations must be grounded in mutual sensitivity to each other’s core concerns. This is a clear diplomatic signal that Turkey’s vocal support for Pakistan on issues like Kashmir and its condemnation of Indian actions are seen as insensitive to India’s national security interests.
- Deferring Diplomatic Engagements: India has shown its displeasure by taking actions like indefinitely deferring the ceremony for the Turkish Ambassador-designate to present his Letter of Credence to India’s President. This is a significant diplomatic snub.
2. Economic Pressure and “Boycott Turkey” Campaigns:
- Revocation of Security Clearances: India has revoked the security clearance for Turkish ground-handling company Celebi Airport Services India, citing “national security concerns.” Celebi was a major player operating at several Indian airports, and this move sent a strong economic signal. While Celebi has challenged this in court, the intent from India’s side is clear.
- Calls for Trade Boycott: Following Turkey’s stance, there have been widespread public and trade-body-led “Boycott Turkey” campaigns in India.
- Consumer Boycotts: Indians have been urged to boycott Turkish-origin goods, including popular items like apples, marble, chocolates, and skincare products.
- Tourism Boycotts: Turkey is a popular holiday destination for Indians. Travel portals like EaseMyTrip and Ixigo have issued advisories against non-essential travel to Turkey, and some have even suspended flight and hotel bookings or promotions for Turkish destinations. This aims to hit Turkey’s tourism sector, a significant part of its economy.
- Trader Action: Organizations like the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) have called for a complete halt to imports and exports with Turkey and a freeze on business deals. This has reportedly led to a decline in Turkish exports to India.
- Review of Turkish Investments and Projects: The Indian government is reportedly reviewing both active and completed Turkish-linked projects in India, particularly in infrastructure and strategic sectors, considering a “gradual and economic disengagement.”
3. Counter-balancing Alliances and Strategic Realignment:
- Deepening Ties with Turkey’s Regional Rivals: To counter Turkey’s growing influence and its alliance with Pakistan and Azerbaijan (the “Three Brothers” nexus), India has been actively strengthening its defense and strategic ties with countries that have strained relations with Turkey. These include:
- Armenia: India has emerged as a significant defense supplier to Armenia, especially after the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict where Turkey and Azerbaijan supported Azerbaijan. India has supplied indigenous air defense systems (Akash) and other military equipment.
- Greece and Cyprus: India is also enhancing cooperation with Greece and Cyprus, both of whom have long-standing disputes with Turkey.
- UAE and Israel: India’s close and growing partnerships with the UAE and Israel are also seen in part as a counter to Turkey’s pan-Islamist and pro-Pakistan narrative.
- Leveraging Multilateral Forums: While India strives for strategic autonomy, it also uses its presence in global forums like the G20 to engage with countries and subtly counter narratives that are detrimental to its interests. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is also seen as a project that bypasses Turkey, undercutting its traditional role as a land bridge between Europe and Asia.
India’s actions reflect a clear message that Turkey’s overt support for Pakistan on issues sensitive to India, particularly cross-border terrorism and Kashmir, will have consequences for bilateral relations, both diplomatically and economically. India is leveraging its growing economic clout and strategic partnerships to exert pressure and safeguard its national interests.
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The concept of a "winner" in a brief, intense conflict like the 12-day war between Israel, the US, and Iran is complex, as all parties tend to claim victory for different reasons, and the long-term consequences are still unfolding. However, we can analyze the stated gains and losses for each: Israelاقرأ المزيد
The concept of a “winner” in a brief, intense conflict like the 12-day war between Israel, the US, and Iran is complex, as all parties tend to claim victory for different reasons, and the long-term consequences are still unfolding. However, we can analyze the stated gains and losses for each:
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Israel’s Perspective:
* Key Gain: The primary stated objective for Israel was to set back Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Reports suggest significant damage to Iranian nuclear facilities and ballistic missile capabilities, with Israel claiming to have destroyed a large percentage of Iran’s long-range missile stock and achieved air superiority. The US directly joining the war and attacking Iran was also a long-standing goal for Israel.
* Shift in Focus: The conflict may have temporarily shifted international attention away from Israel’s ongoing actions in the Gaza Strip.
* Military Performance: Israel showcased its advanced air defense systems (Iron Dome, Arrow 2/3, David’s Sling), which reportedly intercepted a high percentage of incoming missiles, and demonstrated its air force’s ability to conduct extensive strikes deep into enemy territory without losing aircraft or pilots.
* Losses/Challenges: While damage to Israeli infrastructure was limited due to its defense systems, some missiles did strike targets like an oil refinery and electrical facilities. The long-term impact on regional stability and the potential for future retaliation remains a concern.
US’s Perspective:
* Intervention and De-escalation: The US intervened by striking Iranian nuclear sites, aiming to curb Iran’s nuclear ambitions. President Trump then played a role in brokering the ceasefire, positioning the US as a “peacemaker.”
* Show of Force: The US demonstrated its willingness to directly engage in the conflict to support its allies and address perceived threats from Iran.
* Potential Gains for Iran: Ironically, the US attack on Al Udeid air base (following an early warning from Tehran that prevented US casualties) allowed Iran to showcase its military strength without suffering significant losses to its personnel.
* Future Challenges: The conflict highlighted the fragility of regional peace and the potential for wider escalation. The US now faces the challenge of potentially bringing the US-Iran nuclear deal back to the table.
Iran’s Perspective:
* Retaliation and Show of Strength: Despite suffering damage to its nuclear sites and the assassination of nuclear scientists, Iran claims victory in punishing the “Zionist regime” by launching missile attacks against Israeli territory. It demonstrated its capability to strike back against powerful military forces.
* Survival: Iran can claim it survived direct attacks from two major military powers and managed to retaliate, indicating its resilience.
* Losses: The war inflicted significant damage on Iran’s nuclear program and military infrastructure, including ballistic missile factories and storage facilities. The assassination of a top military commander also represents a significant loss.
* Long-term Implications: Iran’s nuclear program has been set back, and it may face increased international pressure regarding its nuclear activities and regional proxies.
Overall Assessment:
While all sides have claimed victory, the reality is more nuanced.
* Israel arguably achieved significant military objectives in degrading Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities and securing direct US involvement.
* The US demonstrated its resolve and then successfully brokered a ceasefire, but the underlying tensions in the region remain.
* Iran sustained damage but also showed its capacity for retaliation and its determination to resist.
The ceasefire is widely considered fragile. The conflict has heightened instability in the Middle East, disrupted trade routes (like the Strait of Hormuz), and impacted global oil prices, highlighting the interconnectedness of regional conflicts and global stability. The long-term winner will depend on how the geopolitical landscape evolves, particularly regarding nuclear negotiations and regional power dynamics.
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New Zealand's history is a rich and diverse tapestry, woven from the arrival of Polynesian voyagers over a thousand years ago to the present day. It is a story of exploration, settlement, cultural exchange, and resilience. Early Polynesian Settlement The first inhabitants of New Zealand, known as Māاقرأ المزيد
New Zealand’s history is a rich and diverse tapestry, woven from the arrival of Polynesian voyagers over a thousand years ago to the present day. It is a story of exploration, settlement, cultural exchange, and resilience.
Early Polynesian Settlement
The first inhabitants of New Zealand, known as Māori, arrived from East Polynesia between 1250 and 1350 CE. They navigated vast distances across the Pacific Ocean in double-hulled canoes, guided by ancestral knowledge of stars and ocean currents. Upon reaching New Zealand, they established a distinct culture, characterized by a deep connection to the land, a rich oral tradition, and a sophisticated social organization.
European Exploration and Contact
The first European to sight New Zealand was Dutch explorer Abel Tasman in 1642, but it wasn’t until 1769 that British captain James Cook charted the coastline and claimed the land for the British Crown. Subsequent interactions between Māori and Europeans were marked by both cooperation and conflict, as the two cultures struggled to coexist and understand each other’s values and traditions.
Treaty of Waitangi and Colonialism
In 1840, representatives of the British Crown and various Māori chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi, an agreement that aimed to establish British sovereignty over New Zealand while also recognizing Māori rights and interests. However, the interpretation and implementation of the treaty have been the subject of ongoing debate and controversy, leading to grievances and claims for historical injustices.
Colonization and Social Transformation
New Zealand became a British colony in 1841, and the 19th century saw a rapid influx of European settlers. This period was marked by both economic growth and social upheaval. The development of agriculture, particularly sheep farming, fueled the colony’s economy, but it also led to the displacement and marginalization of Māori communities.
Self-Governance and Nationhood
In the late 19th century, New Zealand began to move towards self-governance. In 1856, the colony gained responsible government, and by 1907, New Zealand had become a dominion within the British Empire, enjoying a high degree of autonomy. In 1947, New Zealand adopted the Statute of Westminster, formally ending its status as a dominion and establishing itself as an independent sovereign state within the Commonwealth of Nations.
Modern New Zealand
The 20th and 21st centuries have seen New Zealand transform into a modern, multicultural society. Immigration from various parts of the world has enriched the country’s cultural landscape, and New Zealand has become known for its progressive social policies and commitment to environmental sustainability.
A Bicultural Nation
New Zealand is a bicultural nation, with Māori and Pākehā (New Zealanders of European descent) recognized as the two founding groups. The Treaty of Waitangi remains a cornerstone of New Zealand’s identity and continues to shape the ongoing dialogue and efforts towards reconciliation between Māori and Pākehā.
Challenges and Future Directions
New Zealand faces a range of challenges in the 21st century, including addressing historical injustices, ensuring social equity and inclusion, adapting to a changing global economy, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. ومع ذلك ، the country’s rich history, diverse culture, and strong sense of national identity provide a firm foundation for addressing these challenges and building a prosperous and equitable future for all New Zealanders.
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George Washington was the first president of the United States. He served two terms, from 1789 to 1797. Washington was a key figure in the American Revolution and helped to lead the country to victory over Great Britain. He was also a major figure in the creation of the United States Constitution anاقرأ المزيد
George Washington was the first president of the United States. He served two terms, from 1789 to 1797. Washington was a key figure in the American Revolution and helped to lead the country to victory over Great Britain. He was also a major figure in the creation of the United States Constitution and was unanimously chosen as the first president by the Electoral College.
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Consumers in Muslim countries, including Pakistan, have called for a boycott of the fashion brand Zara primarily due to two main reasons, both tied to the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict: Controversial Advertising Campaign (December 2023): The "The Jacket" Campaign: In December 2023, Zara launchedاقرأ المزيد
Consumers in Muslim countries, including Pakistan, have called for a boycott of the fashion brand Zara primarily due to two main reasons, both tied to the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict:
- Controversial Advertising Campaign (December 2023):
- The “The Jacket” Campaign: In December 2023, Zara launched an advertising campaign titled “The Jacket” which featured mannequins with missing limbs and statues wrapped in white shrouds amidst what appeared to be rubble and destroyed environments.
- Public Outcry: Many social media users and activists quickly drew parallels between these images and the devastating scenes emerging from Gaza, where thousands of Palestinians, including women and children, have been killed, and bodies are often wrapped in white cloths for burial according to Islamic tradition.
- Accusations of Insensitivity: The campaign was widely criticized as “tone-deaf,” insensitive, and even mocking the suffering and death in Gaza. Hashtags like #BoycottZara trended globally, including in Muslim-majority countries.
- Zara’s Response: Zara’s parent company, Inditex, removed the controversial images from its website and social media. They stated that the campaign was conceived in July and photographed in September (before the escalation of the conflict in October 2023) and was intended to showcase craft-made garments in an artistic context resembling a sculptor’s studio. They expressed regret for the “misunderstanding” and the offense caused. However, for many, the damage was already done.
- Previous Anti-Palestinian Comments by a Zara Executive (2021):
- Vanessa Perilman’s Remarks: In 2021, screenshots circulated online showing an exchange between Zara’s head designer for the women’s department, Vanessa Perilman, and Palestinian model Qaher Harhash. In these messages, Perilman made inflammatory and anti-Palestinian comments, suggesting, among other things, that Palestinians were uneducated and that Israelis did not teach children to hate.
- Renewed Outrage: While Zara’s parent company, Inditex, at the time distanced itself from Perilman’s remarks, stating they do not tolerate disrespect for any culture or religion, these comments resurfaced during the December 2023 controversy, further fueling calls for a boycott. Many consumers felt that the brand had a history of insensitivity towards Palestinians.
These incidents, particularly the perceived insensitivity of the advertising campaign amidst a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, led to widespread anger and calls for boycotts from consumers, activists, and pro-Palestinian groups in Muslim countries like Pakistan and beyond. The boycotts are a form of consumer activism aimed at pressuring brands to be more socially responsible and to align with humanitarian values.
قراءة أقل - Controversial Advertising Campaign (December 2023):
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While Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif recently stated that the 1972 Simla Agreement has lost its "sanctity" and is a "dead document" due to India's "unilateral actions," Pakistan's Foreign Ministry has clarified that no formal decision has been taken to scrap any bilateral agreements with Iاقرأ المزيد
While Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif recently stated that the 1972 Simla Agreement has lost its “sanctity” and is a “dead document” due to India’s “unilateral actions,” Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has clarified that no formal decision has been taken to scrap any bilateral agreements with India, including the Simla Agreement.
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Therefore, as of now, the Simla Agreement is still officially in effect. However, the comments from the Defense Minister highlight the ongoing tensions between the two countries and Pakistan’s perception that the agreement’s relevance has diminished due to recent events.
The Simla Agreement, signed after the 1971 Indo-Pak war, aims to resolve disputes between India and Pakistan bilaterally and peacefully.
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In the Iranian attack on Israel in April 2024, Israel suffered relatively minor damage and casualties, largely due to successful interceptions by its air defense systems, assisted by a coalition including the US, UK, France, and Jordan. Here's a summary of the damage and casualties reported: Damage:اقرأ المزيد
In the Iranian attack on Israel in April 2024, Israel suffered relatively minor damage and casualties, largely due to successful interceptions by its air defense systems, assisted by a coalition including the US, UK, France, and Jordan.
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Here’s a summary of the damage and casualties reported:
Damage:
* Airbases: The Nevatim and Ramon Airbases in southern Israel sustained minor damage. While some Iranian missiles did strike these bases, they remained operational.
* Other Infrastructure: A US official stated that at least nine Iranian missiles struck two Israeli airbases, causing minor damage. There were also reports of some shrapnel falling in Jordan.
* More recent reports (from June 2025, which might refer to ongoing or subsequent attacks) indicate more significant damage, including:
* Iranian missiles hitting a major hospital in southern Israel and striking residential buildings in Tel Aviv.
* Damage to a central rail station and the Microsoft office in the Gav-Yam Negev advanced technologies park.
* An oil refinery in Haifa was hit, causing fires and damage.
Casualties:
* April 2024 Attack:
* One 7-year-old Israeli Bedouin girl was critically injured by shrapnel.
* Thirty-one other people suffered minor injuries while rushing to shelters or were treated for anxiety.
* More Recent Reports (June 2025 – potentially including subsequent attacks):
* Casualties have been significantly higher, with at least 24 people killed in Israel and over 200 wounded.
* Specific incidents mentioned include deaths in an apartment building in the Galilee region, and an 80-year-old woman, a 69-year-old woman, and a 10-year-old boy killed in central Israel.
* Five people were lightly injured in Beersheba after a direct missile hit, and 30 were treated for panic.
It’s important to note that initial assessments from April 2024 emphasized the limited damage due to high interception rates. However, more recent reports from June 2025 suggest an escalation in the conflict with increased Iranian missile attacks that have caused more significant damage and casualties, including in civilian areas.
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humanoid robots participated in a marathon alongside humans in the Chinese capital Beijing. The world's first human and humanoid robot half marathon was a 21-kilometer race in which 21 bipedal robots participated along with 10,000 people. Watch the AFP video
humanoid robots participated in a marathon alongside humans in the Chinese capital Beijing. The world's first human and humanoid robot half marathon was a 21-kilometer race in which 21 bipedal robots participated along with 10,000 people. Watch the AFP video
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The decision to allow foreigners to buy property in Saudi Arabia, which is expected to take effect in January 2026 for designated areas like Riyadh and Jeddah, is a landmark move with significant potential impacts on the Saudi economy. This initiative is a core component of Vision 2030, the Kingdom'اقرأ المزيد
The decision to allow foreigners to buy property in Saudi Arabia, which is expected to take effect in January 2026 for designated areas like Riyadh and Jeddah, is a landmark move with significant potential impacts on the Saudi economy. This initiative is a core component of Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious plan to diversify its economy away from oil and transform into a global investment powerhouse.
Here’s a breakdown of the likely impacts:
Positive Impacts:
Potential Risks and Challenges:
Overall, the decision to allow foreign property ownership is a strategic and bold move by Saudi Arabia to accelerate its economic transformation. While potential risks exist, the anticipated benefits in terms of increased FDI, economic diversification, job creation, and market growth are substantial and align directly with the ambitious goals of Vision 2030. The success of this policy will largely depend on effective implementation, regulatory oversight, and a balanced approach to market development.
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