Entertainment

US Secy Blinken highlights civilian suffering, security concerns amid Israel-Hamas war

Published

2 years ago

October 13, 2023

Staff Reporter

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Tel Aviv [Israel], October 13 (ANI): US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Israel amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has brought to light the harrowing realities faced by civilians in the region, as well as the security concerns that continue to escalate.

“I’ve seen a baby, an infant riddled with bullets. Soldiers beheaded. Young people burned alive in their cars or in their highway rooms. It almost defies comprehension,” Secretary Blinken expressed anguish at the barbarity of the Hamas attack on October 7 in southern Israel.

“So, we did see, photographs and videos that, the Israeli government shared with us… It’s hard to find the right words. It’s beyond what anyone would ever wanna imagine much less actually see and god forbid experience,” said Blinken on horrific photographs of the Hamas attack.

He also shed light on the challenges posed by Hamas’ use of civilians as human shields, which has been a recurring and deeply troubling tactic. Blinken emphasised that civilians are not the target of Israel’s operations in Gaza.

“On the Mediterranean situation in Gaza, I think it’s first important to remember a fundamental issue that makes this complicated. Hamas continues to use civilians as human shields. Something that’s not new, something that they’ve always done intentionally putting, civilians in harm’s way to protect them to try to protect themselves or protect their structure or protect their weapons… Civilians should not be used in any way as the targets of military operations. They are not the target of Israel’s operations,” added the US Secretary.

Furthermore, Secretary Blinken discussed efforts to address the humanitarian needs of the people living in Gaza while safeguarding them from harm during Israel’s legitimate security operations aimed at defending itself from terrorism. He also explored the possibilities of providing safe passage for civilians who wish to leave Gaza, acknowledging the importance of protecting innocent lives.

“We did discuss ways to address the humanitarian needs of people living in, Gaza to protect them from harm while Israel conducts its legitimate security operations to defend itself from terrorism and to try to ensure that this never happens again. We also talked about, possibilities for safe passage for civilians who want to leave or get out of the way, in Gaza, and that’s, a conversation to the discussion that we will pursue, in the coming days, including some of the countries that we’ll be visiting…,” he said.

In his discussions with Israeli leadership, Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering support for Israel’s right to defend its people and its determination to prevent a recurrence of the tragic events that unfolded recently.

Secretary Blinken, on behalf of President Biden, also emphasized the importance of preventing any further fronts in the ongoing conflict and warned against any attempts by state or non-state actors to exploit the situation.

“It’s our determination and, that of Israel as well, that not be a second front or a third front. And we are working, as hard as we can, working with other partners in the region, to try, to ensure that the case. President Biden has also been very clear that no one, state or non-state actor should try to take advantage of this moment…,” Blinken said.

The US is actively assisting Israel at its request and is committed to providing the necessary support for the nation’s security efforts.

“President’s been very clear we stand with Israel. We stand with Israel in its determination to defend its people, defend its country. We stand with Israel in its determination to do everything possible to ensure that what happened on Saturday never happens again,” he added.

Earlier in the day, Israeli President Isaac Herzog thanked Blinken and the US for their continuous support and added that the security and defence of the Israeli people is the highest priority at the moment.

“One thing is clear. Because of that day – it’s the highest number of Jews ever killed since the Holocaust – I think we must be clear that this is not only unacceptable, which the president said, but the sense of security and defence that the people of Israel deserve is something which is of highest priority so that these pictures will never occur,” Herzog said.

Blinken also met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and affirmed US’ commitment to support Israel.

“The message that I bring to Israel is this — you may be strong enough on your own to defend yourself, but as long as America exists, you will never, ever have to. We will always be there by your side,” The Times of Israel quoted Blinken as saying.

He added, “That’s the message that President Joe Biden delivered to the prime minister from the moment that this crisis began”.

Notably, the death toll in Israel since the Hamas attack on October 7 has jumped to 1,300 and some 3300 have been injured, including 28 in critical condition and 350 in serious condition, The Times of Israel reported citing Hebrew media reports.

The fate of an estimated 150 people abducted and taken to the Gaza Strip during the attack by Hamas is still unclear, the report said. (ANI)

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Staff Reporter

Announcements

Tickets now live for Dubai’s first homegrown musical spectacle

Published

1 week ago

June 14, 2025

Staff Reporter

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A cultural revolution is about to begin. Tickets are now available for Once Upon A Time in Dubai, the most ambitious, emotional, and spectacular musical ever produced in the region. Opening this December at The Agenda in Dubai Media City, the show is already being called a once-in-a-generation phenomenon — and for good reason.

More than just a stage production, Once Upon A Time in Dubai is the first original large-scale musical entirely created in the UAE, blending Broadway-worthy storytelling with the energy and dreams of one of the world’s most iconic cities. Behind this bold vision is Stéphane Boukris, entrepreneur and cultural trailblazer, who has brought together an international creative dream team — including Universal Music Group MENA as co-producer — to craft a deeply emotional journey of love, ambition, and transformation, set in today’s Dubai.

“This show is a tribute to everything Dubai represents: ambition, diversity, and the power to build your own destiny,” says Boukris. “We are creating something people will never forget.”

A World-Class Team Behind the Curtain

The production brings together talents who have previously worked on global shows such as Céline Dion, Disney shows, and Arabs Got Talent (MBC). From lighting to choreography and technical design, every detail is crafted by artists and technicians at the highest international standards.

A Story That Speaks to a Generation

At the heart of the show is Will, a young English dancer who arrives in Dubai to search for Sophia, the woman he loves. Along the way, he meets artists, entrepreneurs, and dreamers from all walks of life, culminating in a celebration of courage, community, and reinvention.

The cast features rising stars Amanda Maalouf (X Factor) and Joe Woolford (The Voice UK) — with many of the lead vocalists and performers previously featured on international talent platforms, bringing an exceptional level of stage presence and vocal power. The musical includes over 20 original songs composed by Nazim Khaled, including already-viral hits like “Habibi”, “Stranger in the World”, and “Think Big”.

A City-Wide Movement

With over 150,000 spectators expected across 55 performances, the show is much more than an event — it’s becoming a movement. Once Upon A Time in Dubai is already making waves across the city with:

● Strategic brand partnerships: McDonald’s, Carrefour MAF, Careem, Accor, Mall of the

Emirates, Tilal Al Ghaf, GEMS Education, and more

● Immersive activations: Soundtracks in Hala taxis, QR codes in malls, music in retail

stores, and dedicated social media campaigns

● Youth engagement: Auditions and showcases for students across GEMS schools,

opening the stage to the next generation of performers

The show will be performed in English, and supported by a multicultural creative team led by stage director Johan Nus.

Exclusive Ticket Sale

Tickets are available exclusively via Fever, the global ticketing platform. Pre-sale access has already launched with selected partners such as GEMS, Muse by Chalhoub, and Accor’s ALL loyalty members — with thousands of tickets snapped up in just days.

🎤 Behind the scenes videos, interviews with the cast, and a full media kit are available upon request. 📸 Press passes for opening week are now being issued — be among the first to witness the birth of a new cultural landmark.

Announcements

Dubai Musical Debuts with Amanda Maalouf’s Anthem

Published

2 months ago

April 23, 2025

Staff Reporter

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In a performance that blended emotion, elegance, and East-West harmony, Lebanese-French singer Amanda Maalouf on Wednesday gave a select UAE audience a stirring preview of the upcoming musical Once Upon A Time in Dubai, set to premiere in December 2025.

The exclusive showcase featured Maalouf performing “Habibi,” one of the show’s signature numbers, at an invite-only preview attended by media, partners, and cultural stakeholders. The song—a poignant blend of Arabic influences and Western theatrical arrangement—earned enthusiastic applause, offering a glimpse of what producers are calling “a new kind of musical for a new Dubai.”

“Dubai is more than a setting—it’s a character in this story,” said Stéphane Boukris, co-producer of the musical. “This project is about cultural unity, artistic innovation, and shining a spotlight on a new generation redefining identity in the Middle East. We’re proud to bring this bridge between France and the UAE to life.”

For Maalouf, whose performance marked the first public taste of the show, the moment was deeply personal. “Habibi is a song that speaks from the heart—it’s a journey through love, self-expression, and identity,” she told reporters after the performance. “Performing it here in Dubai, where East and West meet so beautifully, is a dream. This is just the beginning [of great things together].”

The team behind Once Upon A Time in Dubai says the musical is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural project designed to showcase Dubai as a city of stories, voices, and future-forward artistry.

The production is backed by Universal Music and features a cast and crew with international credentials, with more previews and announcements expected soon.

A collaboration between a visionary French team and Universal Music, the musical tells the story of a young generation rising in the heart of Dubai, navigating identity, ambition, and tradition in a rapidly changing world. With original compositions by renowned composer Nazim Khaled and set against the backdrop of the UAE’s global crossroads, the show promises to be a landmark moment for original musical theatre in the region. The story, told through original music and dance, will premiere later this year, with full production details expected to be announced over the coming months.

Entertainment

Philippine film legend Nora Aunor passes away at 71

Published

2 months ago

April 17, 2025

Michael Gomes

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Veteran actress, politician and beloved superstar Nora Aunor has passed away at the age of 71.

Her son, Ian De Leon, confirmed the sad news in a Facebook post on Tuesday, 16 April 2025. Sharing a photo of his late mother, he wrote:

“With deep sorrow and heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved mother, Nora C. Villamayor ‘Nora Aunor’ who left us today at the age of 71. She was the heart of our family, a source of unconditional love, strength, and warmth. Her kindness, wisdom, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her. She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever.”

The late star’s wake will be held at The Chapels, Heritage Park in Taguig, according to her daughter and fellow actress Lotlot de Leon.

A National Treasure

In 2022, Nora Aunor was officially recognised as a National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts by the Philippine government, the highest honour given to individuals who have made a lasting impact on the country’s arts and culture. She was honoured alongside screenwriter Ricky Lee and the late director Marilou Diaz-Abaya.

Cause of Death

Neither the 71-year-old’s family nor authorities have confirmed a cause of death yet. However, according to the media outlet Inquirer.com, she was at a Pasig hospital for an undisclosed procedure.

Career Highlights

Nora Aunor rose to fame as a singer and actress, later becoming one of the most respected names in Philippine cinema. She is best known for her award-winning performance in the critically acclaimed film Himala.

Her most recent film appearance was in Mananambal, alongside actress Bianca Umali. On television, her final role was in the GMA Afternoon Prime series Lilet Matias: Attorney-at-Law.

A true icon, Nora Aunor leaves behind a rich legacy and a nation in mourning.

Tributes Pour In

“Every tear she shed onscreen felt like a collective heartbreak. Every line she delivered became etched in the memory of Philippine cinema… Nora, salamat sa sining. Salamat sa puso,” wrote Charo Santos-Concio said in her post.

“Despite her legendary status, she carried herself with such modesty — confident in her craft, yet never boastful,” Actress Lovi Poe said in her post.

“The FDCP mourns the passing of National Artist Nora Aunor — an icon, a legend, and a voice that captured the soul of a nation. Her performances were never just roles; they were reflections of truth, hope, and resilience,’ wrote The national film council of the Philippines.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, fans, and every Filipino soul mourning the loss of our beloved Superstar and National Artist,” said noted social activist Persida Rueda-Acosta.