September 11, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: International

Nations League Final: Ronaldo and Yamal in the Spotlight, But Team Effort Seals Portugal’s Victory

The UEFA Nations League final in Munich was billed as a symbolic passing of the torch — Cristiano Ronaldo, the seasoned superstar, facing off against Spain’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal. Yet when the crucial moments arrived, neither player dominated the spotlight as Portugal clinched a 5-3 penalty shootout victory after a thrilling 2-2 draw. Ronaldo, forced off late due to a muscle strain, still made an emotional appearance to celebrate Portugal’s third international trophy — joining his Euro 2016 and previous Nations League wins. His volley to level the score at 2-2 marked his 138th international goal, extending his record well beyond the 100-goal barrier. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Yamal, still finding his feet on the senior stage, provided a key assist but watched on from the sidelines during penalties, offering support to teammates. Portugal’s triumph was a collective showcase. Left-back Nuno Mendes was outstanding, repeatedly outmaneuvering Yamal and scoring Portugal’s opening goal before assisting Ronaldo. In the shootout, Mendes coolly converted a decisive penalty. Midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha also impressed, carrying form from their club successes into the national setup. Spain displayed their own depth with standout performances from Martín Zubimendi—poised to join Arsenal—who opened the scoring, and Pedri, who orchestrated play with finesse. Mikel Oyarzabal, a stalwart at Real Sociedad, scored a crucial goal and has now found the net in three major finals, cementing his importance to La Roja. Defensive solidity was evident on both sides: Rúben Dias returned to his best for Portugal, while Spain’s Dean Huijsen and Robin Le Normand proved reliable. Goalkeepers Diogo Costa and Unai Simón made key saves, underlining their quality ahead of next year’s World Cup. Looking ahead, both teams have the talent and depth to challenge for ultimate glory, but may still require moments of individual brilliance akin to Lionel Messi’s heroics for Argentina in Qatar 2022. Ronaldo, nearing 41 at the next World Cup, has shown he can still perform at the highest level, while Yamal’s burgeoning potential promises an exciting future. Sunday’s final reminded fans that while superstars capture the headlines, it’s the collective effort of the entire squad that ultimately wins trophies. Portugal’s victory was a testament to this truth, setting the stage for a thrilling World Cup campaign next year.

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Editor04 mins

iOS 26 Preview: 10 Features to Expect at WWDC 2025

Apple’s WWDC 2025 kicks off tomorrow, and while developers may flock for coding tools and AI updates, most iPhone users will be watching closely for what iOS 26 has to offer. The next version of Apple’s mobile operating system appears to focus on meaningful refinements and intelligent enhancements—prioritising utility over flashy gimmicks. Here’s a preview of the 10 biggest features expected to be unveiled: 1. Apple Vision Pro-Inspired Visual Overhaul iOS 26 may introduce the most significant design refresh since iOS 7. Drawing inspiration from the Vision Pro headset, the UI could feature translucent elements, rounded app icons, and a more immersive aesthetic. Apps like Phone, Safari, and Camera are expected to receive interface tweaks, offering more streamlined and visually elegant experiences. 2. Emoji Fusion Get ready for emoji mashups. iOS 26 could let users combine two emojis to create custom ones—perfect for adding creativity and humour to your chats. Think: alien + pizza = alien craving pizza. It’s a lighthearted, expressive feature reminiscent of sticker culture. 3. AI-Powered Battery Health Optimization Apple is infusing AI into practical features. A new smart battery mode may learn your daily phone usage and intelligently manage background processes, extending battery life without compromising performance—no need to toggle low-power mode manually. 4. Real-Time Message Translation The Messages app could get smarter with AI-driven real-time translation, allowing instant translation of incoming texts in different languages. Whether you’re travelling or chatting with international friends, language barriers could become a thing of the past. 5. New Messages Features: Polls & Chat Personalisation Group chats may become more interactive with built-in polls and AI-suggested options for easy decision-making. Plus, you might soon be able to customise chat backgrounds, giving each conversation its own vibe—similar to WhatsApp or Instagram DMs. 6. Live Voice Translation—Everywhere Beyond text, Apple may roll out live voice translation, possibly integrated into phone calls and AirPods. Imagine having a conversation with someone who speaks another language—with real-time translation happening in your ears. Global travel just got easier. 7. Accessibility Upgrades iOS 26 is set to expand Reader Mode system-wide, making text easier to digest across all apps. Apple also plans to improve App Store labels, offering more clear and consistent information for users with visual or cognitive needs. 8. Seamless Captive Wi-Fi Login Logging in to public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, or cafes could become less frustrating. iOS 26 might allow smoother connection to captive networks, reducing repeated pop-ups and login screens—a small tweak with big convenience. 9. AI Health Coach Apple is turning the Health app into a smart lifestyle companion. A virtual health coach could use your health data to suggest personalised wellness goals, including exercise, sleep, and even diet recommendations. Expect tools to track food intake, like caffeine and carbs, aiding users with fitness or medical needs. 10. More Subtle, Integrated AI Across iOS Instead of launching its own chatbot, Apple appears to be threading “Apple Intelligence” quietly through the system—enhancing apps like Messages, Health, and Battery without disrupting the user experience. It’s AI, the Apple way—useful, invisible, and private. As iOS 26 gears up to be revealed, Apple seems focused on delivering smarter, cleaner, and more personalised experiences. It’s not a revolution—it’s refinement. And for many users, that’s exactly what the iPhone needs next.

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Editor05 mins

Saudi Arabia Suspends Block Work Visas for 14 Countries Ahead of Hajj 2025, Citing Security and Administrative Concerns

In a significant policy shift ahead of the Hajj 2025 pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, and Turkey. The decision, effective from May 2025, is reportedly driven by security and administrative concerns, particularly regarding the misuse of visas for unauthorized Hajj participation. Affected Countries: What Are Block Work Visas? Block work visas are typically bulk pre-approved visas issued by Saudi authorities to Gulf-based companies, allowing them to hire foreign workers—commonly for domestic work, hospitality, and construction sectors. These visas form the backbone of workforce planning for many companies, especially during seasonal spikes in labour demand. The suspension has alarmed employers who rely on this hiring model, particularly those engaged in preparation for the high-demand Hajj season. Industries that depend on short-term labour influxes may now face significant disruptions. Unauthorised Hajj Entry: A Core Issue The main concern, according to sources, is the rising trend of individuals entering the Kingdom on work, visit, or Umrah visas and then participating in the Hajj without the required Hajj permit. This practice created serious crowding and overwhelmed health and safety infrastructure during the 2024 pilgrimage. To prevent similar challenges this year, Saudi authorities have opted to enforce stricter visa and entry controls, aiming to ensure that only those with valid, official Hajj visas are allowed to undertake the pilgrimage. Although no formal statement has been released by Saudi officials, the suspension aligns with the Kingdom’s broader objective of maintaining order, safety, and proper logistical management during one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings. Labour Market Implications The temporary ban has no defined timeline for resumption, creating uncertainty for companies that rely on semi-skilled and seasonal workers from the affected countries. Employers may now be compelled to: The move could also impact remittance flows and migrant workers’ job prospects in affected countries, especially during the peak Hajj and summer employment season. Looking Ahead While the policy aims to tighten control over pilgrimage management, it has sparked concerns over transparency and timing, especially in labour-supplying nations. It remains to be seen whether the Kingdom will provide further clarity or introduce alternative pathways for worker mobility in the coming months. As the Hajj approaches, this decision underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring a safe and streamlined pilgrimage, even if it comes at a temporary cost to labour market flexibility.

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Editor04 mins

Canadian PM Mark Carney Defends Modi’s G7 Invite Amid Ongoing Murder Probe, Sparks Backlash from Sikh Community

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has defended his controversial decision to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming G7 summit in Alberta, despite ongoing investigations linking the Indian government to the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. Carney, speaking to reporters on Friday, avoided directly addressing questions about whether he believed Modi had any involvement in Nijjar’s killing. “There is a legal process that is literally under way and quite advanced in Canada, and it’s never appropriate to make comments with respect to those legal processes,” he said. The murder of Nijjar, a prominent Sikh separatist leader, in Surrey, British Columbia, sent shockwaves through the Indo-Canadian community and strained diplomatic ties between the two nations. Four Indian nationals living in Canada have been charged in connection with the June 2023 killing, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have concluded that the operation was directed by “the highest levels” of the Indian government. Despite these developments, Carney emphasized India’s global significance as a rationale for the invitation. “India is the fifth-largest economy in the world, the most populous country, and central to supply chains. It is essential to engage with its leadership on critical issues such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals,” he explained. He confirmed that Modi had accepted the invitation and would attend the G7 summit, scheduled for June 15–17 in Kananaskis, Alberta. In response, Prime Minister Modi issued a diplomatic statement, expressing optimism about future ties. “As vibrant democracies bound by deep people-to-people ties, India and Canada will work together with renewed vigour, guided by mutual respect and shared interests. Look forward to our meeting at the summit,” he said. However, Carney’s move has triggered intense backlash from the World Sikh Organization (WSO) and other advocacy groups. WSO President Danish Singh called the invitation “a betrayal of core Canadian values.” He criticized the government for offering Modi a red-carpet welcome while India continues to deny involvement in Nijjar’s murder and refuses to fully cooperate with Canadian investigators. “For Sikhs in Canada, this is a betrayal, not just of our community, but of Canadian justice. We would never extend such hospitality to leaders from Russia, China, or Iran under similar allegations,” Singh said. Last year, both countries expelled senior diplomats over the murder case, with Canadian law enforcement also linking India to gang violence and foreign interference activities within Canada. Carney’s invitation to Modi comes as his newly elected government seeks to repair strained relations with other international partners. On Thursday, he held a call with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, where both sides agreed to “regularize channels of communication” after ongoing trade disputes caused significant losses, particularly in seafood, EVs, and agricultural goods. Carney is also working to mend ties with the United States. Ongoing negotiations with President Donald Trump’s administration aim to end a trade war that has seen steep tariffs imposed on Canadian steel and aluminum. Ontario Premier Doug Ford confirmed that Carney is in “deep, deep discussions” with Trump’s team — a development echoed by Canada’s industry minister. While the government continues to prioritize diplomacy and economic cooperation, critics argue that principles of justice and sovereignty are being compromised. As the G7 summit approaches, pressure is mounting on Carney to clarify Canada’s position on human rights and foreign interference — and whether such considerations truly guide its foreign policy decisions.

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Editor06 mins

Bill Atkinson, Visionary Apple Software Designer Who Brought Graphics to Personal Computing, Dies at 74

Bill Atkinson, a pioneering software designer at Apple Computer and one of the key figures behind the rise of graphical user interfaces, died on Thursday night, June 5, 2025, at his home in Portola Valley, California. He was 74. His family confirmed the cause of death as pancreatic cancer in a Facebook post. Atkinson’s groundbreaking contributions helped shape the way millions interact with computers today. He was the creator of QuickDraw, a foundational software component used in Apple’s Lisa and Macintosh computers. This sophisticated graphics library enabled the display of images, shapes, and text on a screen, paving the way for a user-friendly graphical interface that visually simulated a desktop environment. QuickDraw was first developed for the Lisa computer, launched in 1983. Though the Lisa was a commercial failure due to its steep $10,000 price tag (equivalent to about $33,000 today), it introduced many of the user-friendly features that would become iconic in Apple’s later machines. A year later, in 1984, QuickDraw was integral to the Macintosh’s revolutionary graphical user interface, which introduced the concept of folders, icons, and application windows to everyday users. Atkinson is also widely credited with inventing the pull-down menu and the double-click gesture—two essential features that transformed user interaction by making navigation intuitive. Before these innovations, personal computers were almost entirely text-based, requiring users to memorize and type complex commands. His work helped make computing accessible to a much broader audience. Apple’s graphical interface drew inspiration from earlier work at Xerox’s Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), where computer scientist Alan Kay envisioned a portable educational computer he called the “Dynabook.” In 1979, Apple co-founder Steve Jobs and a select group of engineers, including Atkinson, were given a private demonstration of the Dynabook project. However, they were not permitted to study the underlying software, forcing the Apple team to develop their own systems—leading to major technical breakthroughs. Atkinson’s innovations not only shaped Apple’s future but also influenced the entire computing industry. His contributions helped transform the computer from a tool for specialists into a device for the masses, forever changing how we interact with technology.

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Editor04 mins

Trump Deploys National Guard to Los Angeles Amid Violent Immigration Protests; Newsom Objects

U.S. President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of 2,000 California National Guard troops to Los Angeles following two consecutive days of violent clashes between protesters and federal immigration agents. The move, made over the strong objections of California Governor Gavin Newsom, marks a significant escalation in tensions between state and federal authorities. Violence erupted again on Saturday in Paramount, a predominantly Latino suburb south of Los Angeles. Protesters clashed with federal agents using tear gas, flash-bangs, and pepper balls, while demonstrators retaliated with rocks and broken cinder blocks. Smoke filled the air from burning debris, and confrontations also spread to neighboring Compton, where a car was set on fire. The protests were triggered by a wave of immigration enforcement sweeps earlier in the week in L.A.’s fashion district and other neighborhoods, leading to over 100 arrests. The situation intensified after the arrest of a well-known union leader, who was accused of obstructing law enforcement during a protest. In a statement, the White House said Trump’s decision to send in the Guard was to “address the lawlessness that has been allowed to fester.” Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that if the violence continues, active-duty Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton would also be deployed. Governor Newsom criticized the move, calling it “purposefully inflammatory” and likely to “escalate tensions.” He emphasized that local law enforcement has the resources it needs and urged the public not to fuel the federal government’s desire for a “spectacle.” Newsom also pointed out that Trump federalized the troops under Title 10, placing them under federal command and removing the governor’s oversight. Protests continued through the night in Paramount, with hundreds of demonstrators gathering near local businesses. Homeland Security facilities were reportedly staging points for agents, although local officials, including Paramount Mayor Peggy Lemons, denied that raids occurred within the city itself. Still, the presence of federal officers sparked anger, with protesters chanting slogans like “ICE out of Paramount” and holding signs declaring, “No Human Being is Illegal.” Multiple arrests have been made, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office releasing the names and mugshots of individuals accused of obstructing immigration agents. Demonstrations also erupted outside federal buildings in downtown L.A., where local police declared unlawful assemblies and detained several people. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the immigration crackdown, accusing Democratic leaders in California of abandoning their duty to protect citizens. She claimed the actions of immigration officers were essential to stopping “the invasion of illegal criminals.” President Trump’s deployment order came just before he attended a UFC match in New Jersey, where he sat ringside with boxing legend Mike Tyson. In a social media post prior to signing the order, Trump threatened that if Newsom and L.A. Mayor Karen Bass failed to act, “the Federal Government will step in and solve the problem, RIOTS & LOOTERS, the way it should be solved!!!” Meanwhile, the California Highway Patrol confirmed that Newsom had ordered additional state officers to assist in maintaining public safety, signaling the state’s intent to handle the crisis independently despite federal intervention.

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Editor05 mins

Russia Launches Massive Retaliatory Strikes After Ukraine Hits Nuclear-Capable Bombers

Just days after Ukraine successfully targeted more than a third of Russia’s nuclear-capable bombers, Moscow has launched one of its most extensive assaults since the war began. According to Ukrainian officials, Russia fired over 400 drones and 40 missiles in a sweeping overnight attack that impacted at least nine regions, including Kyiv, Lviv, Lutsk, Sumy, and Chernihiv. The Russian Ministry of Defence claimed the strikes were in response to what it called Kyiv’s “terrorist acts,” referring to Ukraine’s earlier strikes on key military assets inside Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the scale of the retaliation, calling it “one of the largest attacks since the beginning of the war.” He reported that 80 people were injured and that the attacks were widespread across the country, from western regions like Lviv to northeastern territories such as Sumy. Tragically, the Ukrainian State Emergency Service reported multiple casualties from the barrage, including three firefighters killed in Kyiv, two civilians in Lutsk, and one person in Chernihiv. The intense escalation follows Ukraine’s successful strike against Russian airfields, which reportedly damaged or destroyed a significant number of nuclear-capable strategic bombers—a critical part of Moscow’s long-range strike capability. Many in Ukraine saw the strike as a symbolic victory, though they were braced for inevitable retaliation. Following Friday’s assault, Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, warned that Russia would be “forced to respond” to Kyiv’s aggressive operations. While it is unclear if this latest assault constitutes the full scope of Russia’s retaliation, concerns are growing that Putin could escalate the conflict even further. Despite the scale and devastation of the attacks, Ukrainian morale remains high. In the capital Kyiv, residents expressed continued faith in their military. “It didn’t break us at all. The morale is as high as it was. We strongly believe in our armed forces,” said Olha, a 39-year-old resident of Kyiv. The strikes mark a new phase in the war, with both sides increasingly targeting strategic and symbolic assets in an intensifying cycle of escalation. The international community is now watching closely to see whether diplomatic channels will reopen—or whether the conflict is on the verge of further intensification.

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Editor04 mins

Trump–Musk Feud Erupts, Tesla Shares Plunge in Wake of Political Fallout

The once-surprising alliance between U.S. President Donald Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk has disintegrated in spectacular fashion, triggering political ripples and financial turmoil. The split became public after Musk launched a fierce critique of Trump’s new tax-and-spending bill on social media, labelling it a “disgusting abomination.” The bill proposes ending the popular $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles (EVs) by late 2025—an incentive that has significantly benefited Tesla. Trump swiftly retaliated, threatening to sever government contracts with both Tesla and SpaceX. The President went further during an Oval Office address posted on Truth Social, stating: “The easiest way to save money in our Budget—Billions and Billions of Dollars—is to terminate Elon’s Governmental Subsidies and Contracts. I was always surprised that Biden didn’t do it!” The political drama couldn’t have come at a worse time for Tesla. Already battling slowing global EV demand, regulatory scrutiny, and Musk’s controversial associations with far-right circles, the company has now seen its market value nosedive by over $380 billion since January 2025. Tesla shares dropped 14% on Thursday alone—their largest single-day loss ever—wiping out over $150 billion. The ripple effect also hit Destiny Tech100 Inc., which holds a major stake in SpaceX, sending its stock down 13%. According to Ortex, short sellers netted close to $4 billion in profits from Thursday’s collapse—one of the largest single-day gains ever. Although Tesla shares rebounded slightly on Friday—rising 5.2% to $299.46 at market open before closing up 3.7% at $295.14—the damage to investor confidence was evident. The stock ended the week down 15%, its worst performance since October 2023. Year-to-date, Tesla shares are down 22%, making it the worst performer among the elite “Magnificent Seven” tech stocks. Once ranked eighth globally by market capitalisation, Tesla has now slipped to the tenth spot, with its valuation sitting precariously at around $917 billion. Musk’s exit from the Trump administration last week, reportedly due to mounting shareholder pressure, initially seemed amicable. But it quickly descended into acrimony. The Tesla CEO, once part of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), accused Trump’s new bill of undermining fiscal discipline. Trump, in turn, dismissed Musk’s criticisms as self-serving, hinting that Musk had turned on him because their alliance no longer benefited him. Amid mounting backlash and investor concern, the White House has reportedly tried to mediate, with insiders suggesting a call between Musk and senior officials to de-escalate tensions. However, when asked by a reporter about this potential dialogue, Trump snapped: “You mean the man who has lost his mind? I’m not particularly interested in talking to him right now.” Meanwhile, Apple has also been caught in the tech-sector downturn. The iPhone maker has slipped to the third most valuable global company, with a $2.99 trillion market cap reflecting a 20% decline this year. The fall is attributed to weakening demand in China, AI implementation struggles, and renewed trade tensions under Trump’s leadership. While Musk has shown signs of willingness to make peace—echoing investor Bill Ackman’s call for a truce—the future of Tesla’s government partnerships and long-term valuation remain clouded by political uncertainty. The feud has not only strained two of the most powerful men in America but has also shaken investor faith in Tesla’s resilience amid rising political risks.

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Editor05 mins

China Rejects Rare Earth Magnet Export to Sona Comstar, Sparking Supply Fears for Indian Auto Sector

China has rejected one of the rare earth magnet (REM) export applications filed by Indian auto component giant Sona Comstar, raising alarm bells across India’s automotive industry. This marks the first known rejection for an Indian company under China’s new export control regime, introduced in April, which mandates stricter licensing and documentation for exports of sensitive materials. Sona Comstar, a critical supplier to global automotive names such as Ford, Toyota, Hyundai, and Volkswagen, and to Indian OEMs like Maruti Suzuki, Bajaj Auto, and TVS Motor, had submitted two applications to import rare earth magnets. Of these, one has been denied, while the other remains under review. The rejection comes at a time when REMs are already in tight global supply, and Indian manufacturers are increasingly concerned about disruptions. Sources indicated that while the denial is not necessarily final—Sona can reapply—it reflects the tightening regulatory environment and the urgency with which Indian firms now need to seek alternatives or engage diplomatically. Production Concerns Mount Among Indian Auto Majors While Maruti Suzuki reported no immediate impact on its domestic operations, its parent company, Suzuki Motor Corporation, has suspended production of the Swift model in Japan, citing REM-related shortages. The more pressing warnings have come from Bajaj Auto and TVS Motor, two of Sona Comstar’s key domestic clients. TVS Motor managing director Sudarshan Venu noted that disruptions could begin as early as June or July. “There will be a cost increase to the customer. We are trying to de-risk, but the price impact is real,” he said. Bajaj Auto also expects inventory depletion to lead to serious production bottlenecks if supplies don’t resume in time. Export Controls Tighten Under China’s revised export rules, importers must now submit detailed end-use certificates, explaining how and where REMs will be used. These certificates undergo stringent vetting by Chinese authorities. Globally, many companies have seen their requests turned down and are now seeking diplomatic solutions or resubmitting paperwork with updated justifications. Sona Comstar’s proactive submission may have made it among the first to be processed—and thus, one of the first to face rejection. However, the company has not issued a public statement on the matter. Industry Eyes Diplomatic Outreach In response to the growing uncertainty, Indian auto component manufacturers are reportedly planning to send a delegation to China. The goal would be to assure Chinese regulators of the purely civilian and commercial use of REMs and seek expedited processing of pending applications. However, efforts to engage directly with Chinese authorities have yet to yield results. With demand for electric vehicles rising and rare earth components becoming increasingly strategic, this episode could signal deeper geopolitical tensions spilling over into industrial supply chains. For Indian automakers and suppliers, the race is now on to diversify sources, manage inventories, and avoid production slowdowns in the critical months ahead.

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Editor05 mins

Heartwarming Amid Hardship: Gaza Father Pays ₹2,300 for Parle-G to Make Daughter Smile

In a deeply moving moment amid the harsh realities of war-torn Gaza, a Palestinian father’s simple act of love is resonating across social media. Mohammed Jawad, a resident of Gaza, went to extraordinary lengths to bring joy to his daughter Rafif—by buying her a packet of Parle-G biscuits, a nostalgic and beloved Indian snack. While Parle-G typically retails for just ₹5 in India and roughly ₹100 in international markets, Jawad paid a staggering €24 (approximately ₹2,342) for a single packet in Gaza. He shared the emotional story and visuals of Rafif gleefully holding and enjoying the biscuits on his social media platform X (formerly Twitter). “After a long wait, I finally got Rafif her favourite biscuits today. Even though the price jumped from 1.5 euros to over 24 euros, I just couldn’t deny Rafif her favourite treat,” he wrote. A Price Paid in Crisis The price surge reflects the extreme scarcity and inflation in Gaza, where the Israel-Hamas conflict has led to a near-total blockade, crippling the flow of goods and humanitarian aid. Basic items, including food and medicine, have become increasingly rare—and prohibitively expensive. Everyday goods, like Parle-G, are now viewed as luxury items. In another post, Jawad requested support and donations for his family, describing the desperate economic conditions they are facing. “We really appreciate your continued support and donations. It helps us afford what we need in these tough times with prices going up,” he appealed. Gaza’s Humanitarian Emergency Since Israel launched a military campaign in response to the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack, Gaza has endured relentless airstrikes, widespread displacement, and a devastating humanitarian crisis. UN agencies and humanitarian watchdogs have repeatedly warned that the region is on the brink of famine. Aid that does reach Gaza is often delayed, minimal, or diverted, raising allegations of aid exploitation and black-market inflation. The rate of acute malnutrition among children has reportedly tripled since a brief period of aid flow earlier this year. Rafif’s joy over a single biscuit pack starkly contrasts with the broader struggle for survival facing thousands of families in Gaza today. About Parle-G: A Biscuit That Crossed Borders Launched in 1938 during India’s Swadeshi Movement, Parle-G (short for Parle Glucose) quickly became a symbol of affordable nourishment. With its instantly recognizable yellow packaging and the face of the “Parle Girl”, the biscuit earned the moniker “The Taste of India.” Over the decades, Parle-G became synonymous with Indian tea-time culture and affordable snacking. Today, it is exported to over 20 countries across South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, making it a source of comfort and nostalgia for the Indian diaspora and beyond. That a single pack of Parle-G could carry such weight—both emotionally and economically—shows how even the simplest joys can shine in the darkest of times. Rafif’s smile, bought at such great cost, now stands as a powerful symbol of parental love, resilience, and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.

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