Mumbai (TIP)- Ahmedabad will likely host the Commonwealth Games (CWG) in 2030, as the competition’s executive board on Wednesday recommended the Gujarat city for the centenary edition of the event. Now, only a final greenlight during the organisation’s general assembly next month, a process expected to be a formality, remains before the CWG’s return to India is ratified.
Nigeria’s capital Abuja was the only other contender in fray.
The proposal will be before the general assembly of the Commonwealth Sport, the event’s governing body, in Glasgow on November 26.
This will not only bring CWG back to India after two decades – New Delhi hosted the 2010 edition – but may also be a significant boost in the country’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics, for which Ahmedabad has been put through a significant sporting infrastructure transformation.
Union home minister Amit Shah said it was a “day of immense joy and pride for India”.
“… It is a grand endorsement of PM Shri @narendramodi Ji’s relentless efforts to place India on the world sports map,” he said on X.
Sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya termed it “a huge moment for Indian sports”. “Grateful to Commonwealth Sport’s Executive Board for recommending Ahmedabad as the proposed host city for the Centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030, a proud milestone for our nation,” he added on X. Backed by the Union cabinet, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) had launched the bid to bring CWG to the country earlier this year. Officials of the Commonwealth Sport also visited Ahmedabad a few times to inspect the infrastructure. Once India entered the race, it was always going to be the frontrunner to host an event that has, in the recent past, found few takers.
In a statement, Commonwealth Sport said Ahmedabad had been recommended after “a detailed process overseen by the Commonwealth Sport Evaluation Committee, which assessed candidate cities against a wide range of criteria including technical delivery, athlete experience, infrastructure, governance, and alignment with Commonwealth Sport values”.
Even before India’s ambitions of hosting the 2030 CWG and 2036 Olympics were made public, Ahmedabad was being ramped up with multi-sport infrastructure. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave, which includes the gigantic Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium that hosted the ODI World Cup final in 2023, is being looked at as the central venue for the CWG, apart from the newly completed Veer Savarkar Sports Complex in Naranpura.
“Ahmedabad will be ready to host the Commonwealth Games,” ID Nanavati, secretary of the Gujarat State Olympic Association, said. “Almost all the stadiums that are being newly built are either ready or will be soon. The state government is fully behind this project
Almonds, you can often spot these crunchy nuts in grocery stores or sprinkled on top of your desserts, but these are far more than just a garnish. Almonds are packed with prebiotics. They support gut health, aid digestion, boost overall well-being, and even support heart health, making it an underrated superfood.
WHY ALMONDS ARE GUT-FRIENDLY
Your gut health plays a crucial role in everything from digestion to immunity and even mental well-being. Necessarily, Almonds may not change the types of bacteria in your gut, but they may help your gut bacteria work better.
Feeding beneficial bacteria: Compounds in almonds help “good” bacteria like Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and Roseburia flourish. These probiotics support both digestion and immune function.
Boosting SCFA production: Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyrate, are produced when gut bacteria feed on almond fibre and polyphenols. SCFAs strengthen the gut lining, reduce inflammation, and support metabolic health.
A HEART HEALTHY HERO
Almonds are not only gut-friendly but heart-friendly too, and they protect the heart in several ways.
Consumption of these nuts can help lower LDL cholesterol while maintaining healthy HDL levels. People with high cholesterol who included almonds in their diet also experienced reductions in belly and leg fat.
And totally living up to its status as the OG superfood, almonds can help to reduce blood pressure, ease stress on the heart and vascular system. It also helps to relax the blood vessels and reduce arterial stiffness. These effects contribute to better metabolism, lower inflammation and reduce chronic diseases.
PACKED WITH NUTRIENTS
Every ounce of almonds is filled with nutrients that help to improve gut health.
Protein: It provides around 6g of plant-based protein
Healthy Fats: Contains 13g of unsaturated fats
Micronutrients: It also includes micronutrients like magnesium (18% DV), potassium (4% DV), and vitamin E (50% DV)
These nutrients make almonds an all-in-one snack for energy, wellness and immunity.
Ingredients
200 gm all purpose flour, 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, 1 teaspoon powdered green cardamom, 1 cup ghee, 250 ml water, 50 gm khoya, 100 gm semolina, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 500 ml milk, 250 gm sugar, 1 pinch saffron.
Method
For making the sugar syrup, place water in a pan over medium flame. Add sugar in it and stir until fully dissolved. Then add 2-3 tsp milk and stir again, after a few minutes remove the scum that rises to the top. Once the sugar syrup is thick, remove the pan from the flame and keep aside. Mix maida, rava, khoya, baking powder, fennel seeds, cardamom powder and milk. Ensure the mixture is of pouring consistency and not too thick. Once the batter is ready, keep it aside for few minutes so that the flavour of spices and herbs gets absorbed. Now heat ghee in a pan over low flame. Pour a ladleful of the mixture and spread evenly. Keep the flame low and cook till it is light brown on both sides. Remove the cooked malpua and drain the excess ghee. Drop the malpua in sugar syrup and allow it to soak for 10 minutes. Repeat the same with the remaining batter. Drain the malpuas from the syrup, garnish with pistachios.
It’s Diwali – that magical time of the year when India lights up in joy, laughter, and shimmer. From dazzling diyas to glimmering outfits, everything seems to sparkle – and so do we. Amidst fireworks, family dinners, and festive parties, Indian women truly embody the radiance of the festival, dressing up in their finest silks and brightest smiles.
But to look and feel your best through the season, your skin and makeup need a little extra care. Here’s how to prep, pamper, and perfect your festive glow this Diwali – without going overboard.
Start with Skin Care
The festive season may tempt you to try new products, but Diwali isn’t the time for experiments. Stick to your trusted skincare routine – cleanse, tone, and moisturize twice a day to keep your skin fresh and hydrated.
Pro tip: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to flush out toxins and get that natural, healthy glow. Remember, good skin is your best foundation!
A Flawless Base: Foundation and Concealer
Go easy on the base. A heavy, cakey foundation can dull your natural charm under bright festive lights. Use your regular foundation and concealer, blending them well with your fingertips or a sponge for a smooth, even finish.
Set your base with a powder suited to your skin type –
– Loose powder for oily skin
– Compact powder for normal to dry skin
This will keep your makeup intact through long evenings of laughter and lights.
All Eyes on You
Indian women are blessed with expressive, captivating eyes – and Diwali is the perfect time to enhance them.
– For a classic festive look, go for golden eyelids with a soft smokey outer corner.
– If you love drama, play with ivory and gold shades, or add a hint of color with a blue or green eyeliner.
– A touch of shimmer on the edges adds instant glamour.
Finish with long-lasting, waterproof mascara to open up your eyes and make them pop.
Brows That Define
Bold, well-shaped brows can transform your face. Fill them in lightly with brown or black eye shadow using an angled brush – avoid harsh pencils that make them look artificial.
The winged eyeliner is here to stay – timeless, elegant, and perfectly suited for festive looks. Choose the style that best suits your eye shape, whether a subtle flick or a bold cat-eye.
A Rosy Glow
Nothing says “festive” like a healthy blush. Choose shades that complement your skin tone and give your cheeks a soft, radiant lift – peach, coral, or rose tones work beautifully.
Shine with a Highlighter
A little highlighter goes a long way. Dust it gently over your cheekbones, temples, and the bridge of your nose to add that dewy, candlelit glow.
Lips That Speak Festivity
Your lip color sets the mood.
– For a natural nude look, opt for gloss and a hint of sparkle.
– For a bold statement, go with reds, pinks, or corals – all perfect for festive evenings.
Keep your lip balm and lipstick handy for quick touch-ups through the night.
Final Touch: Confidence and a Smile
No beauty tip can outshine confidence. Whether you’re lighting diyas, hosting friends, or dancing the night away, wear your smile like your brightest accessory.
This Diwali, let your inner radiance match the sparkle of the season – glowing skin, confident eyes, and a heart full of celebration.
Each year, pollution levels spike alarmingly after the celebrations. The air turns hazy, the streets littered, and the noise from firecrackers unsettles infants, the elderly, and animals alike. This Diwali, let’s make a conscious shift – to celebrate joyfully, yet responsibly. Let’s dedicate this festival of lights to nature by embracing an eco-friendly Diwali.
Burst the Myth, Not Crackers
The crackle of fireworks may seem synonymous with Diwali, but their aftereffects tell a different story – toxic smoke, respiratory issues, and noise pollution. The charm of Diwali lies in its light, not its loudness.
Say no to crackers or choose eco-friendly options that produce less smoke and sound. Encourage children to create paper lanterns or decorate diyas instead – their joy will be just as bright, and the skies clearer for everyone.
Light the Traditional Way
When it comes to illumination, nothing beats the charm of earthen diyas. Their gentle flame carries a timeless beauty – warm, natural, and symbolic of purity.
Switch off those extra electric lights and decorate your home with rows of diyas. You can even get creative – make diyas out of wheat dough, orange peels, or coconut shells. These biodegradable alternatives save power and make your Diwali décor stand out with rustic elegance.
Gift with Thought and Heart
Move beyond plastic-wrapped hampers and mass-produced knick-knacks. A truly thoughtful gift is one that grows, lasts, or uplifts.
Gift your loved ones potted plants, organic teas, jute products, or handwoven khadi garments. Wrap your presents in recycled paper or cloth instead of shiny plastic sheets. These little choices reflect both love for people and care for the planet.
Decorate with a Conscience
Who says sustainability can’t be stylish? Recycled décor is in – and it’s redefining festive aesthetics.
Reuse old glass bottles as lanterns, hang paper buntings made from magazine pages, or turn discarded bangles into tea-light holders. You’ll not only reduce waste but also add a creative, handcrafted charm to your home that no store-bought item can match.
Go Natural with Rangoli
Traditionally, rangolis were made from grains, pulses, and flowers – a gesture to feed birds and small creatures. Bring back this beautiful idea by using natural colours, flower petals, rice flour, turmeric, or kumkum instead of chemical-based powders.
Your doorstep will look stunning – and safe for nature too.
Sedentary lifestyles, excessive screen time, and poor posture are contributing to a surge in spine health issues among people between 25 and 45, doctors say. Spinal concerns are also pronounced in new mothers, who experience back pain, posture issues and spinal discomfort, they said.
“Sedentary lifestyles, excessive screen time, and poor posture habits are causing a surge in spine issues among adults. Apart from this, many new mothers experience back pain, posture issues, and spinal discomfort due to the changes their bodies undergo during and after pregnancy,” said Dr Vishwanathan Iyer, neurosurgeon with Zynova Shalby Hospital, Mumbai.
He said that during pregnancy, weight gain, hormonal shifts, and an altered posture put extra stress on the spine.
“After delivery, daily responsibilities such as lifting the baby, prolonged breastfeeding, and lack of adequate rest can worsen this discomfort and sometimes lead to conditions like lumbar strain, disc problems, or chronic lower back pain. Shockingly, there is a 60 per cent spike in spine problems when it comes to new mothers,” Dr Iyer said.
“Every month, we see six out of 10 women, aged 25-35, suffering from back pain after pregnancy, which interferes with their daily routine,” he said.
He said that preventive measures, such as maintaining a healthy weight, taking short breaks during childcare tasks, and ensuring adequate rest, can protect the spine.
“Timely consultation with a doctor is key because back pain should never be dismissed as ‘normal’ after pregnancy. Addressing it early helps mothers regain mobility, confidence, and a pain-free quality of life,” Dr Iyer added.
Dr Siddharth Katkade, spine surgeon from Apollo Spectra Hospital, Mumbai, said, “Spine problems are not limited to older people anymore. There is a spike in cases of postural deformities and early-onset back pain among adults aged 25-45. Factors such as sitting for long hours, poor ergonomics, and lack of regular physical activity weaken the core and back muscles.”
The human body is a marvel of interconnectivity, and nowhere is this more evident than in the relationship between the heart and the brain. Traditionally, heart health and brain health have been treated as separate realms – cardiologists for the heart, neurologists for the brain. But modern science increasingly reveals that these two vital organs are deeply intertwined, influencing each other in ways that affect overall well-being, cognition, and longevity.
The Brain Depends on the Heart
The brain, though weighing just about 2% of body mass, consumes nearly 20% of the body’s oxygen and nutrients. It relies on the heart to pump oxygen-rich blood efficiently. Even short-term drops in blood flow can affect cognition, memory, and alertness.
When cardiovascular health is compromised – such as in high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, or heart failure – blood flow to the brain can be reduced. Over time, this can lead to cognitive decline, vascular dementia, or an increased risk of stroke.
Studies suggest that people with heart disease are more likely to experience memory issues, difficulty concentrating, and slower cognitive processing. This is because plaque buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis) not only affects the heart but also limits blood supply to the brain.
The Brain Influences the Heart
The brain doesn’t just rely on the heart – it also regulates it. The autonomic nervous system, composed of the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches, controls heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac rhythm. Stress, anxiety, or depression – brain-based conditions – can directly impact cardiovascular function.
Chronic stress, for instance, triggers elevated cortisol levels, leading to high blood pressure, inflammation, and increased risk of heart attack. Similarly, conditions like stroke or neurodegenerative diseases can affect heart function by disrupting the nerve signals that regulate cardiac output.
Shared Risk Factors
Several factors simultaneously affect both heart and brain health:
– Hypertension: High blood pressure increases the risk of stroke and cognitive decline.
– Diabetes: Poor glucose control damages blood vessels, impacting the heart and the brain.
– Obesity: Increases inflammation and contributes to cardiovascular disease and neurodegeneration.
– Smoking and alcohol: Both accelerate vascular damage, reducing blood flow to key organs.
– Sedentary lifestyle: Physical inactivity contributes to poor circulation and cognitive decline.
Addressing these shared risk factors benefits both organs, enhancing longevity and quality of life.
NEW DELHI / OTTAWA (TIP): The first official visit by any Canadian Minister under Mark Carney’s government to India appears to have accelerated the dialogue for renewing bilateral relations between two time – tested trade partners.
A joint communique issued by Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and India’s Minister of External Affairs, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, has painted a rosy pictures of the future of bilateral relations that remains mired in controversies for the past couple of years.
The joint communique said:
“At the invitation of the Minister for External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, Ms. Anita Anand, undertook, an official visit to India from October 12 to 14, 2025.
“The meeting in New Delhi is a follow up to the guidance provided by the Prime Ministers of the 2 countries during their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, to take calibrated measures to restore stability in the relationship and to pursue a constructive and balanced partnership grounded in respect for each other’s concerns and sensitivities, strong people-to-people ties, and growing economic complementarities.
“Pursuant to this guidance, both sides initiated several steps, including the joint announcement of reinstatement of High Commissioners on August 28, 2025, meeting between the National Security Advisers of the 2 countries on advancing India-Canada security cooperation in New Delhi on September 18, 2025, and the agreement to continue senior official-level discussions on security and law enforcement cooperation, pre-Foreign Office Consultations between Secretary (East) and Canada’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs in New Delhi on September 19,2025, and a meeting between the 2 Foreign Ministers on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly high-level week in New York on September 29, 2025.
“In keeping with the priorities that the Prime Ministers of India and Canada had set out for bringing momentum to the relationship, both sides, based on mutual respect for shared democratic values, the rule of law, and a commitment to upholding the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, reached consensus on a New Roadmap for India-Canada relations.
“The Ministers recognized that in the context of ongoing global economic uncertainty and rising geopolitical tensions, a strong and resilient India-Canada bilateral relationship is essential. Reviving this partnership will not only create opportunities for enhanced economic cooperation but also help mitigate vulnerabilities arising from shifting global alliances, ensure more reliable supply chains, and reinforce strategic stability in an increasingly complex international environment.
“The Ministers noted with satisfaction the substantial increase in bilateral trade, which reached $23.66 billion in 2024; and the expanding presence of Indian and Canadian enterprises in each other’s markets, generating jobs with significant potential for future growth. They also acknowledged the important role played by Canadian provinces, six of which maintain representation in India, and by Indian states in advancing mutually beneficial economic cooperation. The Ministers agreed to work closely together and instructed their respective teams to initiate necessary steps to implement the agreed roadmap.
“Affirming trade as a cornerstone of bilateral economic growth and resilience, and acknowledging the growing opportunities in goods, services, and investment, both sides agreed that early initiatives in trade cooperation will include:
Commencing, at an early date, ministerial-level discussions on bilateral trade and investment informed by today’s economic realities and each country’s strategic priorities.
Resuming the Canada–India CEO Forum, which will bring together leading business executives from both countries to identify concrete, actionable recommendations for both governments to facilitate increased bilateral trade and investment, with a focus on priority sectors such as clean technology, infrastructure, agri-food, and digital innovation. The Forum will convene on the margins of a senior-level trade mission in early 2026.
“Recognizing their shared vision of a sustainable future and underscoring the importance of collective action in addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, both sides agreed to:
Increase bilateral cooperation on climate action, environmental protection and conservation.
Collaborate, exchange information and expertise and support respective climate ambitions in a wide range of areas, including renewable energy capacity, decarbonizing heavy industries, reducing plastic pollution, supporting the sound management of chemicals, and ensuring sustainable consumption.
Support joint climate and environmental goals by finding effective, long-term solutions that will also provide opportunities to advance economic growth and job creation.
“Acknowledging the pivotal role of energy transformation in meeting climate goals, enhancing energy security, and supporting sustainable economic development, the 2 sides reaffirmed their intention to support sector activities and deepen cooperation in advancing clean, secure, and equitable energy collaboration through the following activities:
Re-establish the Canada-India Ministerial Energy Dialogue, including the related Action Plan at the earliest.
Promote two-way trade for LNG & LPG and investment in oil and gas Exploration & Production sector, including clean technologies.
Collaborate on sustainable low-carbon fuels and technologies, such as green hydrogen, biofuels, Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage and electric mobility—as well as strengthen supply chains, policy frameworks, and market access.
Exchange best practices on electricity system management to enhance grid safety, stability, and renewable integration.
Work together on emission reduction, environmental management, power sector digitalization, and disaster resilience.
Advance global energy efficiency process, including through multilateral fora such as the G20.
Promote dialogue among government, industry, and thinktanks to identify how Canada’s mining expertise can provide India with critical minerals needed for energy security.
Welcome and appreciate ongoing discussions in civil nuclear cooperation in support of clean energy transitions.
Welcome discussions between India’s Department of Atomic Energy and Canadian uranium suppliers, from the standpoint of existing and proposed new mines.
Hold the first Critical Minerals Annual Dialogue on the margins of the Prospectors and Developers Association Conference in Toronto in March 2026.
“Appreciating the role of innovation and technology in driving inclusive growth and global competitiveness, both sides agreed to deepen collaboration to unlock new frontiers in S&T including AI and digital infrastructure. Early initiatives will include:
Relaunch the Joint Science and Technology Cooperation Committee.
Foster mutually beneficial partnerships to expand access to AI for everyone.
Encourage Canadian AI companies and researchers to participate in India’s forthcoming AI Impact Summit from February 19 to 20, 2026.
Explore opportunities for cooperation in digital public infrastructure.
“Recognizing the importance of deepening collaboration in the agricultural sector to promote food security, enhance trade and productivity, increase farmers’ incomes, and support the long-term sustainability of the sector, both sides agreed to focus on:
Developing stable and sustainable supply chains, improving agri-value chains through the exchange of best practices and technological cooperation, enhancing nutritional security, promoting recycling of agri-waste into energy and organic fertilizers, and advancing innovation in climate-resilient agriculture and food systems
“Noting with satisfaction that people-to-people linkages are central to fostering mutual understanding and building long-term collaboration, both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in education, tourism, cultural exchange, and professional mobility. Early initiatives in this regard will include:
Refreshed collaboration in higher education and research to reflect the increasingly deep talent pools and cutting-edge research in each country.
Emphasis on research partnerships in emerging technologies (such as AI, cybersecurity, and fintech), and to expand Canadian academic presence in India through overseas campuses.
Revitalized Joint Working Group on Higher Education as a means to further expand Canada–India academic networks and institutional ties.
“To this end, the Ministers agreed that their High Commissions and Consulates will strengthen institutional capacity by progressively deploying expertise in the economic, political, defense, and technology domains to deliver on the shared ambitious agenda. These efforts will contribute to rebuilding trust and deepening cooperation between the 2 countries.
“As the bilateral relationship intensifies and deepens, both Ministers pledged to expand collaboration on global issues, including working to ensure more effective, and inclusive ways.
(Toronto based Prabhjot Singh is an award-winning journalist recognized for investigative journalism, environment and business reporting, sports and feature writing. A Media Consultant, he has remained associated with various news agencies, including Reuters, and media houses like PTC News (India/Canada), Parvasi Media (Canada) the Liberal World (India), and The Indian Panorama, New York. He is interested in Indian Diaspora and the Sikh Diaspora in particular. His work has appeared in various international and national newspapers, magazines and journals.)
Celebrate the love. Celebrate the legacy. Celebrate 50 years of AIR SUPPLY!
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of timeless hits and heartfelt memories welcoming AIR SUPPLY for a special 50th anniversary concert at The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) on Sunday, October 26 at 7:00 p.m.
Since 1975, Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock have captured hearts around the world with their soaring harmonies and romantic anthems, such as ‘Lost in Love,’ ‘All Out of Love,’ ‘Every Woman in the World,’ and ‘The One That You Love.’
A pedestrian on 57th Street sees a musician getting out of a cab and asks, “How do you get to Carnegie Hall?” Without pause, the artist replies, “Practice!” In fact, Air Supply celebrated their 50th Anniversary with a performance at Carnegie Hall on May, 13, 2025.
If it’s true that practice makes perfect, then Graham Russell and Russell Hitchcock – beloved by their millions of fans across the planet as Air Supply – have had nearly half a century to hone their skills, harness their passion and unleash the beautifully intimate yet rockin’ romantic energy of those instantly identifiable 80s hits that made them global superstars.
As they close in on 50 years (exact date, May 12, 1975) since they met in the chorus of the Australian touring company of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar,’ the duo is ever-present on the road in North America and overseas to the tune of 130 dates a year. This run includes being the first Western group to tour China and several other countries who prior to their breakthrough would not allow pop music across their borders, as well as performing for a record 175,000 people in Cuba in 2005.
Five decades later, Air Supply is still going strong — and they’re bringing their legendary sound to NJPAC for one incredible night.
For tickets to experience Air Supply’s all-time hits, visit NJPAC.org or the NJPAC Box Office at 1 Center Street, Newark, New Jersey or call 888. GO.NJPAC (888.466.5722).
The newest fusion production by Steve Hackman combines pop’s Queen with classical music’s King!
Experience the thrill of Steve Hackman’s fusion of Beethoven X Beyoncé at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark, its northeast premiere on October 24, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.
The newest fusion production by Steve Hackman celebrates and elevates all things woman by combining pop’s Queen with classical music’s King: Beethoven and Beyoncé.
Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony, the symphonic repertoire’s most joyful and exuberant celebration of dance, is the canvas onto which fifteen of Beyoncé’s most popular songs across her entire catalog are interwoven, including “Girls,” ‘Crazy in Love,’ ‘Sorry,’ ‘Cuff It,’ ‘Single Ladies,’ and ‘Texas Hold ‘Em.’ The production’s emotional peak is when two of the most recognizable melodies from each composer are intertwined: ‘Halo’ and the hauntingly beautiful second movement of Beethoven.
Three powerhouse female soloists, as well as a guest drummer, guitarist/keyboardist, and bassist, join the orchestra for a night of musical magic.
Please note: This performance contains adult language and themes. Discretion is advised. Beyoncé does not appear.
New Jersey Symphony
New Jersey Symphony is a GRAMMY and Emmy Award-winning orchestra. Under the direction of Music Director Xian Zhang, the Symphony performs more than 55 mainstage concerts across the state at venues in Newark, Princeton, New Brunswick, Red Bank, and Morristown, as well as at schools and public spaces statewide.
Programming at the Symphony reflects an unwavering commitment to diverse communities throughout the state, while providing students unparalleled opportunities to achieve musical excellence through its Youth Orchestra and other education programs.
In 2024, the Symphony announced it would continue to deliver its statewide activities from a new, permanent office, rehearsal, and concert space in Jersey City, set to open in 2026. For more information about the New Jersey Symphony, visit njsymphony.org.
Taliban authorities publicly executed a man in western Afghanistan on Thursday, Oct 16, who had been convicted of two murders, the country’s Supreme Court said.
The man was executed in front of crowds at a sports stadium in Qala-i-Naw, the capital of Badghis province, the Supreme Court said in a statement.
It was the 11 public execution since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, according to an AFP tally.
The man was shot three times by a relative of the victims in front of thousands of onlookers, witnesses told an AFP journalist in the city.
The man had been “sentenced to retaliatory punishment” for shooting a couple. “The murderer killed two people, a man and his wife, who was around eight months pregnant,” Matiullah Muttaqi, the information chief for Badghis province, told AFP.
The execution followed a review by three courts and final approval from Taliban supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, he said.
Dhaka (TIP)- A prosecutor in a special domestic tribunal in Bangladesh sought the death penalty Thursday, Oct 16, for ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a case involving charges of crimes against humanity in a mass uprising last year that forced her to leave the country.
During the protests in July and August 2024, hundreds of people, including students, security officials and political activists, were killed in the week-long violence.
Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam, in his closing arguments to the International Crimes Tribunal in the capital, Dhaka, also called for former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan to be sentenced to death because of the gravity of his crimes.
In his closing, the prosecutor left a decision on the sentence for former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun up to the tribunal. Al-Mamun, who is in custody, became a state witness against Hasina and had earlier pleaded guilty.
Hasina has been in exile in India after fleeing the country on Aug. 5 last year. Khan is also believed to be in India.
More proceedings are needed to complete the trial before a verdict is rendered.
Hasina did not appoint any lawyers to represent her, and she had earlier rejected the trial process as a “kangaroo court.”
The next proceedings will be held on Monday. A state-appointed counsel for Hasina has sought a week to present his arguments.
Bangladeshi Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus took over as the head of an interim government three days after Hasina’s fall. Yunus vowed to punish Hasina and banned the activities of her Awami League party.
Islam, in his argument, calls Hasina the “mastermind and principal architect” behind the crimes against humanity committed during the uprising.
The United Nations, in a February report, said up to 1,400 people may have been killed in the violence, while the country’s health adviser under the interim government said more than 800 people were killed and about 14,000 were injured.
Hasina and her party have raised questions about the figures and demanded independent investigations.
Referring to the UN figures, Islam said Thursday that if each of the 1,400 deaths were to be punished separately, Hasina should get 1,400 death sentences.
He told the tribunal that Hasina “personally ordered the killings.”
No immediate reaction from Hasina’s party was available.
Thursday’s development came as tensions mounted in Bangladeshi politics over the indictments of 25 former and serving military officials, including some former heads of a powerful military intelligence unit.
“What the New Jersey Symphony has established, bringing music to the Garden State in schools and in six different cities, is a sincere accomplishment. And it’s never been better.” –nj.com
This October, experience a wide variety of events with the New Jersey Symphony. A program for everyone!
Experience Disney’s groundbreaking marriage of symphonic music and animation. Enjoy iconic moments and childhood favorites like never before!
The whole family will love Disney’s ‘Fantasia in Concert’ (October 23–26), with repertoire from the original 1940 version and ‘Fantasia 2000’ being performed by the New Jersey Symphony while Disney’s stunning footage is shown on the big screen at Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown, Count Basie Performing Arts Center in Red Bank, and State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick.
PROGRAM
New Jersey Symphony at the Movies
Disney’s ‘Fantasia’ in Concert
Morristown –Thursday, October 23, 7 pm, Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown
Red Bank – Saturday, October 25, 2 pm, Count Basie Center for the Arts
New Brunswick – Sunday, October 26, 2 pm, State Theatre New Jersey
Constantine Kitsopoulos conductor
New Jersey Symphony
Estimated concert duration: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Constantine Kitsopoulos has established himself as a dynamic conductor known for his ability to work in many different genres and settings. Equally at home with opera, symphonic repertoire, film with live orchestra, music theater, and composition, his engagements have led him to conduct worldwide, appearing with major orchestras in North America as well as the Hong Kong and Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestras. Learn more at maestrock.com.
Islamabad (TIP)- A ceasefire along the frontier between Afghanistan and Pakistan was holding on Thursday, Oct 16, officials on both sides said, after dozens of troops and civilians were killed in cross-border clashes.
In Spin Boldak, a focal point of recent clashes on the Afghan side, an AFP journalist saw shops reopening and residents returning to homes they had fled during the fighting.
The 48-hour ceasefire was aimed at allowing time to “find a positive solution… through constructive dialogue”, according to Islamabad.
Pakistan is facing a resurgence of attacks against its security forces on its western border with Afghanistan, led by the Pakistani Taliban and its affiliates.
Around 20 civilians were killed and nearly 170 wounded on Wednesday, according to Spin Boldak’s information department spokesman Mohammad Haqmal.
The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) reported at least 18 civilians killed and more than 350 wounded in the violence.
“Our houses were bombed, a child was wounded. I heard the plane myself,” Abdul Zahir, a 46-year-old resident, told AFP. “It’s terrifying.”
Hundreds of residents and Taliban officials attended the funeral of seven members of the same family in Spin Boldak, an AFP journalist saw.
Islamabad accuses Kabul of offering safe haven to militants who plan their frequent assaults from Afghan soil — a charge the Taliban government denies.
Pakistani officials on the northern and southern border with Afghanistan told AFP on Thursday that “no violence was reported overnight, and the ceasefire remains in effect.”
A senior security official in Peshawar told AFP: “Additional paramilitary troops have been deployed to counter potential… militant activity that could jeopardise the ceasefire.”
Shortly before the truce was announced, blasts were reported in the capital Kabul and the southern province of Kandahar province, where the Afghan Taliban’s shadowy supreme leader lives.
UN rights chief Volker Turk welcomed the ceasefire and appealed to “both parties to prevent any further harm to civilians & commit to a lasting ceasefire.”
Precision strikes
The first explosions that struck Afghanistan last week, which the Taliban blamed on Islamabad, hit while Afghanistan’s top diplomat was on an unprecedented visit to India — Pakistan’s eastern neighbor and rival.
Taliban authorities then launched an offensive at the border, prompting Islamabad to vow a strong response of its own.
Exchanges of fire from Saturday killed dozens of people, with renewed violence from Wednesday also causing civilian casualties, according to Kabul.
The Taliban government officially blamed Wednesday’s blasts in the Afghan capital on an explosion of an oil tanker and a generator.
However, Pakistani security sources said the military targeted an armed group with “precision strikes” in Kabul, as well as hitting Afghan Taliban bases in Kandahar.
There were blackouts overnight and into Thursday, Oct 6, morning in some areas of Kabul, caused by electricity cables damaged in the explosions, AFP journalists in the city said.
AFP journalists saw municipal workers carrying out repairs in a Kabul neighbourhood on Thursday morning, where the road was charred and apartment windows had been blown out.
At least five people were killed and 35 wounded in Wednesday’s explosions in Kabul, an Italian NGO that runs a hospital in the city said.
“We started receiving ambulances filled with wounded people, and we learned that there had been explosions a few kilometres away from our hospital,” Dejan Panic, Emergency’s country director in Afghanistan, said in a statement. The casualties suffered shrapnel wounds, blunt force trauma and burns, with 10 in critical condition, the NGO said.
‘THE THORN,’ a powerful and popular live theatrical event that will bring the passion of Jesus to life this Fall at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) for two performances, Wednesday, October 29 and Thursday, October 30, each at 8:00 p.m.
‘The Thorn.’ an epic story of God’s love for the world, has been seen live by over one million people, with over 30 performances spanning the country from New York to Alabama and now NJPAC. Following a highly successful Spring 2025 tour with 20 sold-out shows and 100,000 attendees. Over the past 12 months, ‘The Thorn’ has completed 30 sold-out shows captivating over 160,000 fans.
‘The Thorn’ offers audiences a unique theatrical experience in a show that has been hailed as “Cirque meets ‘The Passion’” thanks to its compelling mix of drama, music, dance, martial arts, aerial acrobatics, emotionally evocative performances, and timeless spiritual perspectives. The story spans from creation to the formation of the early church.
Author John Bolin created the show over 25 years ago to convey the meaning of Christ’s sacrificial death to a group of young people who knew little about the story of Jesus’ suffering but were familiar with pain through their own practice of cutting and self-harm.
The show has evolved ever since, with the current live version returning to the original format featuring St. John, “the beloved disciple,” recalling his many amazing encounters with Jesus.
“It’s a story full of love, sacrifice, spiritual warfare, and redemption,” said Bolin.
‘The Thorn’ creator John Bolin, says God called him: “to tell stories on the page, stage, and screen,” an assignment he has now completed with the film version of ‘The Thorn.’ His books include novels (‘The Eden Project’) and Christian growth guides (‘So Loved,’ ‘The Two Doors of Heaven,’ and ‘Life Unlimited’).
John’s wife, Sarah Bolin helped create the show and is the Executive Producer, managing the show’s national touring troupes. When asked about why she tours and has participated in ‘The Thorn’ for so long, Sarah said, “God asked us to trust him and open our hands, and he promised to make something beautiful happen.” Over the years, Sarah has been witness to seeing God move in tangible ways across audience and cast members alike.
Jesus Trending
Although polls show that U.S. church attendance is declining, interest in Jesus is growing. ‘The Chosen,’ the popular streaming series about Jesus, has racked up over 400 million episode views.
“As I first saw with my students 25 years ago, people who may have jaundiced views of Christians or churches are more open to learning about who the real Jesus was, how he lived, and what he taught,” said Bolin.
While previous incarnations of ‘The Thorn’ live show have been performed mostly at churches, the new touring model makes the show available to everyone at mainstream performing arts venues and arenas.
“Jesus believes in accessibility,” said Bolin. “He wants everyone to have access to the ultimate story of love and hope. That’s why he came to earth in the first place.”
Outback Presents
Outback Presents is the leading independent, full-service promoter of live entertainment in North America. Specializing in producing comedy, festivals, and music, with an emphasis on providing award-winning, best-in-class service to their diverse roster of clients.
Since 1996, Outback Presents has promoted and produced thousands of concerts, events, and festivals, ranging from clubs and theaters to arenas and stadiums. Founded in Nashville by Mike and Kathy Smardak, the company is driven by a shared love of comedy, music, and the transformative power of live entertainment.
Their mission is a dedication to excellence in service. Efficiency, adaptability, and collaboration are the keys to their success, and they work closely with artists, venues, sponsors, and partners to foster meaningful relationships to bring creative visions to life.
Brussels (TIP)- European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has welcomed the agreement on European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP), which will see EUR1.5 billion towards strengthening European defence industry and supporting Ukraine.
The presidency of the Council and negotiators from the European Parliament (EP) reached a provisional agreement on the EDIP- which is a dedicated financing programme for defence worth EUR1.5 billion for the period 2025-2027, the official website of the Council of the EU and the European Council noted.
EDIP is set to boost the EU’s defence readiness by enhancing the competitiveness and also aims to support defence industrial cooperation with Ukraine and Ukrainian companies via dedicated Ukraine Support Instrument, with a view to its future integration into the EDTIB.
In a post on X, Ursula von der Leyen said, “I welcome the agreement on the European Defence Industry Programme. EUR1.5 billion to strengthen Europe’s defence industry. Support Ukraine. And ensure we are defence-ready by 2030, in line with our ‘Preserving Peace’ roadmap. Because when we invest in readiness, we invest in peace. Congratulations to @eu2025dk for seeing this crucial programme through.”
Notably, of the total budget, the provisional agreement earmarks EUR300 million for the Ukraine Support Instrument.
The Council and the European Parliament agreed that the cost of components originating outside the EU and associated countries (EEA states) should not exceed 35 per cent of the estimated cost of the components of the end product, thereby striking a balance between the European preference principle and cooperation with partner countries to the benefit of European industry.
Signficantly, the provisional agreement becomes the first ever EU security of supply regime in the area of defence, designed to ensure timely and reliable access to defence products and components during crises, the website noted.
Through the EDIP, the EU is establishing a European military sales mechanism that will offer, among several other features– a centralised catalogue of defence products and will facilitate the delivery of defence products, amplifying demand at EU level and increasing the competitiveness of the European defence industry on the international market. It also provides the possibility to establish ‘pools’ of defence products to allow for a swift delivery of equipment.
The development comes on the heels of the proposal tabled in March 2024 for a regulation establishing the EDIP.
Lima (TIP)- At least one man was killed in violence at a rally in Peru’s capital on Wednesday, said President Jose Jeri, whose accession days ago has failed to stamp out angry protests against the country’s political class.
The Ombudsman’s Office said 102 people were injured, including 24 civilians and 78 police, updating earlier tolls.
Youth-led demonstrations brought thousands of Peruvians, frustrated by the authorities’ failure to resolve a worsening crime crisis, onto the streets in Lima and several other cities.
Some protesters tried to breach the security barrier around Congress as night fell, an AFP correspondent said. Others in the crowd also hurled stones and lit fireworks.
Police in riot gear responded with tear gas.
“I regret the death of 32-year-old citizen Eduardo Ruiz Sanz,” Jeri said on social media platform X, without elaborating on the circumstances.
The National Human Rights Coordinator, an NGO, said the man may have been shot by a plainclothes police officer.
AFP images showed the blood-covered face of a police officer who had been hit by a stone.
Jeri also said the “peaceful demonstration” had been infiltrated by criminals seeking to “cause chaos.”
The South American country has been rocked by protests for weeks, and lawmakers voted on Friday to impeach then-president Dina Boluarte, who critics blamed for a surge in crime and accused of corruption.
“I think there is general discontent because nothing has been done,” 49-year-old freelancer Amanda Meza told AFP while marching toward Congress.
“There’s no security from the state,” she said, adding that cases of extortion and contract killings “have grown massively in Peru.”
Jeri, a right-wing politician who had served as leader of Congress, became interim president until elections in April.
Oct 15 protests were called by a youth-led collective, artists’ groups and labor unions.
Feminist groups also joined the calls to rally against the new president over sexual assault accusations.
A complaint was lodged against Jeri last year, but prosecutors closed the case in August due to a lack of evidence.
Boluarte’s impeachment last week followed protests by bus companies, merchants and students over shakedowns by criminal gangs and attacks on those who refuse to pay protection money.
Extortion and contract killings have been a feature of daily life across Peru.
Gangs such as Los Pulpos and Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua, which operates across Latin America, hold people from all walks of life for ransom.
Jeri has vowed to “declare war” on organized crime in an attempt to take the heat out of the protests.
KARTHIK SWAMINATHAN’s World Premiere Short Film ‘HOLY COW’
And many more
Artis—Naples, Florida has the film lineup for the 17th annual Naples International Film Festival (NIFF), October 23-26, 2025. Screenings and other film festival events will take place across the Artis—Naples Kimberly K. Querrey and Louis A. Simpson Cultural Campus — Hayes Hall, Daniels Pavilion and Norris Garden—and at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema at Mercato.
This year’s festival includes 60 films, selected from among nearly 1,000 submitted films: 10 narrative features, 12 documentary features and 38 short films, representing 17 countries and including 47 premieres (five world, one U.S., five east coast and 36 Florida premieres). Select filmmakers will participate in post-screening Q&A conversations as well as panel discussions during the festival.
“Each year, the Naples International Film Festival affirms the role of film as a vital art form within our multidisciplinary mission,” said Artis—Naples CEO and President Kathleen van Bergen. “This year’s lineup offers stories and perspectives that cross cultures and experiences, reminding us of the many ways the arts can deepen our understanding of ourselves and each other. NIFF continues to be a place for filmmakers and film lovers to come together in meaningful dialogue, sparking conversations that continue long after the festival ends.”
“Our team has spent the past several months shaping a lineup that reflects the rich and varied spirit of independent cinema,” said David Filner, executive vice president, artistic operations. “From powerful documentaries to inventive narrative features and short films, these selections invite audiences into an experience that is as engaging as it is diverse. NIFF remains a space where filmmakers and film lovers share in the discovery and excitement that only cinema can inspire.”
“NIFF is more than a festival,” added Festival Producer Shannon Franklin. “It has earned a reputation as a welcoming destination for both emerging and established filmmakers who know their work will be embraced and celebrated here. The warmth of the Southwest Florida community makes the experience truly special for everyone, and we look forward to the energy and sense of celebration this year’s festival will bring.”
Themes for the Naples International Film Festival’s curated short film programs include A Family Affair, Twists and Turns, The International Art of Animation, Florida Stories and the recurring Student Filmmaker Showcase.
For a complete lineup of films and events at the Festival, visit artisnaples.org/niff.
Artis—Naples, home of The Baker Museum and Naples Philharmonic, creates and presents world-class visual and performing arts. Through our multidisciplinary offerings, it inspires, educates and entertains to engage and enrich the growing and diversifying community.
KIMBERLY K. QUERREY and LOUIS A. SIMPSON CULTURAL CAMPUS
Led by CEO and President Kathleen van Bergen and Artistic and Music Director Alexander Shelley, Artis—Naples offers more than 800 performing and visual arts experiences annually across its 8.5-acre Kimberly K. Querrey and Louis A. Simpson Cultural Campus and throughout the community.
Artis—Naples welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year for a broad array of artistic and educational opportunities perfect for audiences of all backgrounds and interests. The cultural campus is home to five buildings, including two performance halls (Frances Pew Hayes Hall and Myra J. Daniels Pavilion), The Baker Museum, the Toni Stabile Education Building and the Kohan Administration Building.
NAPLES PHILHARMONIC
The Naples Philharmonic has long been recognized as one of the cornerstones of Southwest Florida’s arts community. As part of Artis—Naples, the Naples Philharmonic performs more than 140 orchestral and chamber music concerts, as well as opera and ballet, education, community and special event concerts annually between September and June in the 1,477-seat Hayes Hall, the 283-seat Daniels Pavilion and around Southwest Florida. The Naples Philharmonic has enjoyed a history of working with world-class music directors. Following a successful inaugural season in 2024-25, Alexander Shelley commences his second season as artistic and music director in 2025-26. Renowned violinist James Ehnes continues as artistic partner through the 2025-26 season, working with Naples Philharmonic musicians in a variety of settings with a focus on inspiring and embodying a high level of artistry. Podium leadership also includes Principal Pops Conductor Jack Everly, celebrating 16 years in this role in the 2025-26 season and bringing pops performances that celebrate music across genres.
THE BAKER MUSEUM
The Baker Museum is the foremost fine art museum in Southwest Florida, presenting an ambitious slate of exhibitions annually to complement installations of works from its permanent collection. Comprising more than 3,000 objects, the museum’s broad holdings of 20th- and 21st-century art reflect particular strengths in modern art of the United States and Mexico. The Baker Museum’s collection demonstrates the generosity and commitment of area collectors, including significant gifts from the collection of the late Olga Hirshhorn.
In 2025, The Baker Museum was accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the highest national recognition for museums in the United States, affirming the museum’s commitment to excellence, accountability and public service.
With more than two decades of collecting and exhibiting, the museum is committed to the stewardship and scholarship of its collections and to fostering inspiring and transformative experiences with the visual arts. At the same time, The Baker Museum partners with the world’s leading arts institutions to make extraordinary exhibitions accessible to the Southwest Florida community—including recently the National Portrait Gallery, London and the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation. In 2020, Artis—Naples celebrated the renovation and expansion of The Baker Museum and adjoining Norris Garden, designed by Weiss/Manfredi Architecture/Landscape/Urbanism, which created new spaces for multidisciplinary exploration and social interaction.
EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY
In addition to creating and presenting visual and performing arts, Artis—Naples provides robust education and community activities for students of all ages in Collier and Lee counties. Each season, thousands of Collier County Public School students interact with Artis—Naples education programming, both on our cultural campus and in their classrooms. Beyond our commitment to youth education, the Lifelong Learning program provides informative lectures and study opportunities for adults seeking to engage more deeply with the arts.
The Friends of Artis—Naples, comprised of more than 3,500 donor households, offers activities, travel experiences and events designed to foster a deeper relationship between patrons and the arts.
In 2017, Artis—Naples acquired the Naples International Film Festival (NIFF), expanding its film offerings and providing a platform for the festival’s continued excellence and growth. In 2023, the festival’s 15th anniversary year, NIFF was named one of MovieMaker Magazine’s “20 Great Film Festivals in Vacation Destinations.”
Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Spirituality, Social Issues, Health and Wellness, Education, Business, and Cuisine.
Paris (TIP)- French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu survived two no-confidence votes in parliament on Thursday, Oct 16, winning crucial backing from the Socialist Party thanks to his pledge to suspend President Emmanuel Macron’s contested pension reform.
The two motions presented by the hard-left France Unbowed and the far-right National Rally (RN) secured just 271 and 144 votes respectively – well short of the 289 votes needed to bring down Lecornu’s days-old government.
Lecornu’s offer to mothball the pension reform until after the 2027 presidential election helped sway the Socialists, giving the government a lifeline in the deeply fragmented National Assembly.
Despite the reprieve, the motions underscored the fragility of Macron’s administration midway through his final term.
“A majority cobbled together through horse-trading managed today to save their positions, at the expense of the national interest,” RN party president Jordan Bardella wrote on X.
The French bond market remained steady after the back-to-back votes, with the government victory widely expected by investors.
By putting the pension reform on the chopping block, Lecornu threatens to kill off one of Macron’s main economic legacies at a time when France’s public finances are in a perilous state, leaving the president with little in the way of domestic achievements after eight years in office.
There are 265 lawmakers in parliament from parties that said they would vote to topple Lecornu, and only a handful of rebels from other groups joined their cause.
If Lecornu had lost either vote, he and his ministers would have had to immediately resign, and Macron would have come under huge pressure to call a snap parliamentary election, plunging France deeper into crisis.
But despite the outcome of Thursday’s votes, Lecornu still faces weeks of arduous negotiations in parliament over passing a slimmed-down 2026 budget during which he could be toppled at any point.
“The French need to know that we are doing all this work… to give them a budget, because it is fundamental for the future of our country,” said Yael Braun-Pivet, the president of the National Assembly and an ally of Macron.
“I am pleased to see that today there is a majority in the National Assembly that is operating in this spirit: work, the search for compromise, the best possible effort,” she added.
After winning the pension concession, the Socialists on Wednesday set their sights on including a tax on billionaires in the 2026 budget, underlining just how weak Lecornu’s hand is in the negotiations.
The United Nations chief on Thursday, Oct 16, condemned the military takeover in Madagascar as an army colonel who led the coup was set to be quickly sworn in as president just three days after announcing soldiers had taken charge.
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres “condemns the unconstitutional change of government in Madagascar and calls for the return to constitutional order and the rule of law,” his spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, said. Col. Michael Randrianirina is due to be sworn in as Madagascar’s leader at a ceremony at the High Constitutional Court on Friday, according to a statement by the colonel, which he signed as the president of the “refounded” republic of Madagascar.
Ousted President Andry Rajoelina fled the Indian Ocean nation off the east coast of Africa following the military rebellion, claiming his life was in danger. His whereabouts are unknown.
Madagascar has been suspended from the African Union, which said it “totally rejects” the takeover.
Randrianirina announced Tuesday that the armed forces were taking control after three weeks of deadly anti-government protests led mainly by disaffected young people, who have railed against government service failures, poverty and a lack of opportunities while accusing the elite of corruption and nepotism.
Planning has begun for an international force to go into Gaza to stabilize security in the Palestinian enclave, two senior U.S. advisers have said. One of the top requirements of President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza plan was formation of a U.S.-backed stabilization force. The United States has agreed to provide up to 200 troops to support the force without being deployed in Gaza itself.
The two senior advisers, in a briefing for reporters, said tensions remain high between Israeli forces and Hamas militants in the enclave.
“Right now what we’re looking to accomplish is just a basic stabilization of the situation. The international stabilization force is starting to be constructed,” one adviser said.
Among the countries the U.S. is speaking to about contributing to the force are Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Qatar and Azerbaijan, said the adviser, speaking on condition of anonymity.
The advisers said there were up to two dozen U.S. troops in the region to help set up the operation, serving in a “coordination, oversight” role.
“The goal is to use all the different local partners who want to help and be involved,” the adviser said.
After Hamas killed seven men in Gaza City it accused of collaborating with Israel, the advisers said there were discussions to establish safe zones for civilians to prevent such incidents.
The second adviser said that no Gazans would be forced to leave the battered Palestinian enclave. Officials are looking at rebuilding in areas that are free of Hamas militants.
CAIRO/TEL AVIV (TIP)- Israel said on Thursday, October 16, it was preparing for the reopening of Gaza’s Rafah crossing with Egypt to let Palestinians in and out, but set no date as it traded blame with Hamas over violations of a U.S.-mediated ceasefire.
A dispute over the return of hostages’ bodies held by Hamas threatens to derail the truce and other unresolved elements of the plan, including disarmament of militants and Gaza’s future governance.
Israeli government spokesperson Shosh Bedrosian told reporters Israel remained committed to the agreement and continued to uphold its obligations, demanding Hamas return the bodies of the 19 deceased hostages it had not handed over.
The Islamist faction has handed over 10 bodies but Israel said one was not that of a hostage.
Hamas said it remained committed to the Gaza agreement and to handing over all the remaining bodies of hostages, but that returning the remains may take time as some were buried in tunnels destroyed by Israel and others were under the ruins of buildings that Israel had bombed.
The armed wing of Hamas said the handover of more bodies in Gaza, reduced to vast tracts of rubble by the war, would require the admission of heavy machinery and excavating equipment into the Israel-blockaded Palestinian enclave.
On Oct 16, a senior Hamas official accused Israel of flouting the ceasefire by killing at least 24 people in shootings since Friday, and said a list of such violations was handed over to mediators.
“The occupying state is working day and night to undermine the agreement through its violations on the ground,” he said.
The Israeli military did not immediately respond to the allegation of violating the ceasefire. It has previously said some Palestinians have ignored warnings not to approach Israeli ceasefire positions and troops “opened fire to remove the threat”.
After local health authorities said an Israeli airstrike in Khan Younis in southern Gaza killed two people, the Israeli military said its forces fired at several individuals who emerged from a tunnel shaft and approached troops, describing them as posing an immediate threat.
Palestinian local health authorities said at least seven people were killed by Israeli fire across the Gaza Strip on Thursday. People in Gaza reported seeing drones and warplanes in the skies over the southern Gaza Strip with sporadic gunfire heard from time to time.
CALL TO DISARM
Israel has said the next phase of the 20-point plan to end the war, a blueprint engineered by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, calls for Hamas to relinquish its weapons and cede power, which it has so far refused to do.
Hamas has instead launched a security crackdown in urban areas vacated by Israeli forces, demonstrating its power through public executions and clashes with local armed clans.
Trump repeated his threats against the militia group, saying in a post, “If Hamas continues to kill people in Gaza, which was not the Deal, we will have no choice but to go in and kill them.”
Asked about his recent threats toward Hamas, Trump told reporters in an Oval Office event, “If they behave, good. If they don’t behave, we’ll take care of it.”
Diane Keaton, the Oscar-winning actor best known for her performances in ‘Annie Hall’ and ‘The Godfather’, died at the age of 79 on October 11, and her family has announced that the cause of death was pneumonia. Keaton’s family shared the news in a statement to People, adding that they are grateful for the widespread messages of support they have received in recent days.
Her family said, “The Keaton family are very grateful for the extraordinary messages of love and support they have received these past few days on behalf of their beloved Diane, who passed away from pneumonia on October 11.”
Keaton was born in Los Angeles in 1946 and became known for her honesty and originality on screen. She was celebrated for her roles in films like ‘The First Wives Club’, ‘Something’s Gotta Give’, and ‘Baby Boom’. Many admired her independence and authenticity, qualities that inspired audiences over the years.
Remembering her compassion, Keaton’s family noted her dedication to animal welfare and to supporting the unhoused community. They said, “She loved her animals and she was steadfast in her support of the unhoused community, so any donations in her memory to a local food bank or an animal shelter would be a wonderful and much appreciated tribute to her.”
Actor Keira Knightley has admitted that she is unaware of the heated discourse surrounding the Harry Potter franchise, despite many Hollywood stars having openly spoken out against it. The actor, who has been busy promoting her Netflix release The Woman in Cabin 10, told Deadline that she was not ‘aware’ that many have called for a boycott of the Harry Potter franchise in recent times over J.K.Rowling’s anti-trans statements.
Upon asking about the boycott, Keira said, “I was not aware of that, no. I’m very sorry. You know, I think we’re all living in a period of time right now where we’re all going to have to figure out how to live together, aren’t we? And we’ve all got very different opinions. I hope that we can all find respect.”
Keira has been cast as Professor Umbridge in the Harry Potter: The Full-Cast Audio Editions. The new audiobook series also features a star-studded cast, including Hugh Laurie as Albus Dumbledore, Matthew Macfadyen as Lord Voldemort, Riz Ahmed as Professor Snape, and Michelle Gomez as Professor McGonagall. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is set to be the first title to be released on November 4 on Audible.
Meanwhile, the main controversy surrounding JK Rowling relates to her views on the transgender community. She has been accused of being transphobic for her views on gender identity from several fans and actors, including Emma Watson and Daniel Radcliffe.
Emma’s recent comments on the podcast with Jay Shetty reignited the debate. She said that she could disagree with Rowling’s views on the trans community while cherishing the memories of working with the Harry Potter writer. JK Rowling went on to criticise Emma as someone who lives a privileged life and is not qualified to speak on sensitive matters like the debate on trans identity.
Diane Keaton, the Oscar-winning actor best known for her performances in ‘Annie Hall’ and ‘The Godfather’, died at the age of 79 on October 11, and her family has announced that the cause of death was pneumonia.
Keaton’s family shared the news in a statement to People, adding that they are grateful for the widespread messages of support they have received in recent days.
Her family said, “The Keaton family are very grateful for the extraordinary messages of love and support they have received these past few days on behalf of their beloved Diane, who passed away from pneumonia on October 11.”
Keaton was born in Los Angeles in 1946 and became known for her honesty and originality on screen. She was celebrated for her roles in films like ‘The First Wives Club’, ‘Something’s Gotta Give’, and ‘Baby Boom’. Many admired her independence and authenticity, qualities that inspired audiences over the years.
Remembering her compassion, Keaton’s family noted her dedication to animal welfare and to supporting the unhoused community. They said, “She loved her animals and she was steadfast in her support of the unhoused community, so any donations in her memory to a local food bank or an animal shelter would be a wonderful and much appreciated tribute to her.”
Actor Jennifer Aniston has opened up about her experience with infertility, her decision not to adopt, and the challenges she has faced in the public eye. In a recent episode of the ‘Armchair Expert’ podcast, Aniston, 56, discussed her thoughts on motherhood and addressed years of speculation regarding her family plans. She spoke candidly about trying various methods to start a family, including in vitro fertilisation (IVF), and responded to public commentary about her choices.
On the podcast, Aniston addressed suggestions about adoption, saying, “When people say, ‘But you can adopt,’ I don’t want to adopt,” ‘The Morning Show’ star told cohosts Dax Shepard and Monica Padman, per People. She explained her desire for a biological connection: “I want my own DNA in a little person. That’s the only way, selfish or not, whatever that is, I’ve wanted it.”
Aniston has been open about her efforts to conceive, recalling the lengths she went to during her fertility journey. She said, “All the years and years and years of speculation It was really hard. I was going through IVF, drinking Chinese teas, you name it. I was throwing everything at it.” She added, “I would’ve given anything if someone had said to me, ‘Freeze your eggs. Do yourself a favour.’ You just don’t think [about] it. So here I am today. The ship has sailed.”
When Monica Padman asked about finding peace, Aniston responded, “It’s so peaceful. But I will say there’s a point where it’s, like, out of my control. There’s literally nothing I can do about it.” She acknowledged the process of accepting her circumstances and the sense of calm she now feels.
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