China's expanded visa-free policy, now encompassing 74 countries, has spurred a significant surge in foreign arrivals, more than doubling to over 20 million in 2024. This initiative, aimed at boosting tourism and the economy, has led to increased bookings for air travel and hotels, with tour companies experiencing substantial growth.
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Przemyslaw Jeziorski, a UC Berkeley business professor, was fatally shot in Greece near his ex-wife's home. The professor was in Greece because of a custody battle with his ex-wife. The masked gunman fled on foot after shooting Jeziorski multiple times. The family is seeking justice and raising funds for legal fees and repatriation, while the Haas School of Business mourns the loss of a beloved professor.
John Phillip Thomas and Lynette Read Sharp face charges for allegedly aiding Benjamin Hanil Song, who attacked an ICE detention center in Alvarado, Texas. While not directly involved in the shooting, they are accused of helping Song evade capture by coordinating through encrypted chats. Thomas and Sharp are now in custody, with Song apprehended after a manhunt.
Amid trade tensions with the US, the European Union is actively strengthening ties with global partners like Indonesia, signaling a shift towards a new trade landscape. Ursula von der Leyen emphasized collaboration amidst economic uncertainty, inviting nations jolted by US tariffs to rely on Europe.
Yemen’s Houthi rebels struck the cargo ship Magic Seas in the Red Sea, marking their first maritime attack in months. The assault, involving missiles, drones, and explosive boats, forced the crew to abandon ship. The UAE swiftly rescued all 22 crew members, highlighting rising regional tensions amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict and renewed threats to vital shipping routes.
Columbia University is nearing a settlement with the Trump administration, potentially paying over $200 million to address alleged civil rights violations related to the harassment of Jewish students. The agreement aims to restore $400 million in federal research funding previously revoked. In return, Columbia would resolve claims and increase transparency in admissions and foreign donations, avoiding long-term federal supervision.
House Republicans are urging seven US universities to sever ties with the China Scholarship Council, citing concerns that the program facilitates technology theft for the Chinese government. Lawmakers view the CSC as a national security threat, alleging it supports China's military and scientific advancement through academic partnerships. Some universities have already begun to disengage from the program amid growing scrutiny.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has imposed sanctions on UN official Francesca Albanese for her criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza. Albanese, a UN Human Rights Council Special Rapporteur, is accused of advocating for ICC investigations into alleged Israeli war crimes and leading a campaign against the US and Israeli economies.
Bahrain's yacht rental market is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by rising affluence and strategic investments in maritime infrastructure. From short marina cruises to island excursions and superyacht charters, diverse options cater to tourists, expats, and locals. This surge reflects Bahrain's ambition to become a prominent Gulf yachting hub, blending leisure, heritage, and economic diversification.
Recent strikes in Gaza have resulted in numerous casualties, including children. An Israeli missile strike, intended for a militant, malfunctioned, hitting a water distribution point and killing six children. A separate strike on a Gaza City market killed 12, including a hospital consultant.
Hamtramck, Michigan, once a symbol of multicultural success, faces accusations of betrayal after its Muslim-majority council banned the Pride flag. This decision has sparked outrage, particularly from former councilwoman Catrina Stackpoole, who feels abandoned after years of supporting the Muslim community. The situation highlights a fracturing of progressive alliances and raises questions about identity politics in diverse communities.