الوسم: May

  • Donald Trump May Pardon Diddy Amid Guilty Verdict Sparks Outrage

    Donald Trump May Pardon Diddy Amid Guilty Verdict Sparks Outrage

    Digital Phablet – Donald Trump is reportedly contemplating an extraordinary pardon for Sean “Diddy” Combs following his recent conviction.

    According to reports cited by Deadline, the former president is seriously considering granting Combs a full presidential pardon, which could potentially alter the outcome of his case before sentencing. Sources confirm that Trump and his legal team are evaluating the possibility of issuing a pardon to the owner of Bad Boy Records, potentially allowing him to avoid serving time. The final decision is expected by October 3. Recently, Combs was convicted on charges related to prostitution but was acquitted of more severe allegations such as sex trafficking and racketeering after an intense eight-week trial.

    Trump publicly mentioned the idea of a pardon during an Oval Office meeting approximately two months ago. Since then, plans have been put in motion to review Combs’ legal proceedings. Inside sources close to the Trump campaign indicate that this aligns with the president’s approach to reviewing cases of excessive criminalization or perceived legal overreach.

    Yesterday, attorney John Kouvos met with officials handling presidential pardons and privately stated, “Diddy’s case exemplifies Trump’s pattern of granting clemency to individuals he believes have been unjustly prosecuted or subjected to overly harsh criminal procedures.”

    It’s noteworthy that Combs has been incarcerated since September 2024 on highly controversial charges, including conspiracy and sex trafficking, with all bail requests denied due to concerns he might flee or interfere with witnesses.

    Official comments from Combs’ legal team, led by lawyers Mark Agnifilo and Teni Gerago, have not yet been made. Nonetheless, insiders suggest that the consideration of a pardon is part of a broader policy by Trump to re-examine cases associated with “overcriminalization,” especially those viewed as significant overreach by authorities.

    Images captured during meetings show Trump engaging with Filipino President Marcos, illustrating the ongoing high-profile political interactions.

  • Iran Might Permit US Inspectors from Nuclear Watchdog if Agreement Reached

    Iran Might Permit US Inspectors from Nuclear Watchdog if Agreement Reached

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    Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization head, Mohammad Eslami, during a meeting with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi (not shown) in Tehran, Iran, on November 23, 2021 — Reuters

    • Tehran and Washington have conducted five rounds of nuclear discussions.
    • Eslami states that US inspectors might be permitted if Iran’s conditions are acknowledged.
    • The Iranian president expressed gratitude to Oman for its mediation efforts.

    On Wednesday, Iran indicated that it might allow American inspectors from the UN nuclear watchdog to examine its facilities if a deal can be struck with the United States.

    Iran has faced long-standing accusations from Western nations of pursuing nuclear weapons, allegations that Tehran vehemently denies, asserting that its nuclear program is intended solely for peaceful purposes.

    In recent weeks, Tehran and Washington have engaged in five rounds of discussions regarding this matter, marking their highest-level communications since the US exited the 2015 nuclear accord during Donald Trump’s first term in 2018.

    “We have always been cautious about accepting inspectors from countries that have acted hostility toward us over time,” stated Iran’s nuclear chief, Mohammad Eslami, referring to personnel from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

    “Tehran will reconsider permitting American inspectors through the agency if a deal is finalized and Iran’s demands are addressed,” he noted.

    Since assuming office in January, President Trump has reinstated a “maximum pressure” strategy against Iran, which includes imposing additional sanctions on the nation.

    On Wednesday, Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei announced that “consultations are ongoing regarding the timing and venue for the next round of negotiations and will be shared by Oman once finalized.”

    President Masoud Pezeshkian, who is currently visiting Oman, thanked the Gulf nation for facilitating discussions between the two countries, which have not had formal diplomatic relations since 1979.

    Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is accompanying Pezeshkian in Oman, said that “details regarding the new round of negotiations are expected to be clarified in the coming days.”

    Non-Negotiable Issues

    While Iranian officials have welcomed the talks, they have consistently stated that uranium enrichment is “non-negotiable.” U.S. officials, including Washington’s representative in the discussions, Steve Witkoff, have also openly identified this as a significant boundary.

    Eslami added that the topic of enrichment “has not been raised at all” and that “the enrichment percentage should not be politicized.”

    “The enrichment level depends on how the uranium is used. The production of highly enriched uranium does not automatically imply military usage,” he explained to reporters.

    Baqaei emphasized that “the continuation of enrichment in Iran is an inseparable part of the country’s nuclear industry and a fundamental principle for the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

    “Any proposals or initiatives that contradict this principle or threaten this right are unacceptable,” he affirmed.

    Currently, Iran enriches uranium to up to 60% purity, the highest level achieved by any non-nuclear weapons state. Although this is still below the 90% required for a nuclear weapon, it significantly exceeds the 3.67% ceiling set by the 2015 agreement.

    The European parties to the 2015 nuclear deal—France, Germany, and the United Kingdom—are considering triggering the agreement’s “snapback” mechanism, which would reinstate UN sanctions against Iran for failure to comply.

    Tehran has repeatedly warned against implementing this measure.

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    This version maintains the original meaning and context while presenting the information in a unique way to ensure originality.

  • Saudi Arabia Announces May 27 for Zil Hajj Moon Sighting

    Saudi Arabia Announces May 27 for Zil Hajj Moon Sighting

    Sure! Here’s a rewritten version of the content in American English:

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    A crescent moon accompanied by Venus shines through an oak tree in Ellaville, Georgia, USA, January 3, 2025. — Reuters

    RIYADH: The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has called upon Muslims throughout the kingdom to observe the crescent moon on the evening of Tuesday, May 27, to mark the beginning of Zil Hajj 2025, the Islamic month dedicated to Eid ul Adha and the Hajj pilgrimage.

    In a statement released on Sunday, the court urged anyone who can sight the crescent—whether with the naked eye or using binoculars—to report to the nearest court and document their observation.

    The court also invited participation in the official moon-sighting committees established in various regions to support this important religious activity.

    The Hajj pilgrimage is set to start on the 8th of Zil Hajj and continue until the 13th of the month. This year, Hajj is anticipated to occur between June 4 and June 9.

    However, if the crescent moon is not seen on May 27, then Zil Qadah will complete its 30 days, and Zil Hajj will commence on Thursday, May 29.

    As a result, Eid ul Adha would be celebrated on Saturday, June 7, adjusting the dates for both the Hajj pilgrimage and related festivities by one day across the kingdom.

    The final confirmation of Eid ul Adha and Hajj dates will depend on the official moon-sighting announcement made as Zil Qadah comes to a close.

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  • UAE Sets Record with Scorching 50.4°C in May

    UAE Sets Record with Scorching 50.4°C in May

    A thermometer showing 50°C. — AFP

    On Friday, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) experienced a blistering high of 50.4 degrees Celsius, marking the hottest May temperature ever recorded. This extreme heat follows an ongoing wave of soaring temperatures in a nation particularly at risk from climate change.

    Participants of Friday prayers reported feelings of lightheadedness, and some appeared unstable on their feet, even in a country known for its extreme heat.

    The peak temperature was registered in an area of Abu Dhabi, the capital of this oil-rich Gulf nation, situated in one of the hottest regions on Earth.

    “The heat today was absolutely unbearable,” remarked a 26-year-old resident of Abu Dhabi, who arrived late at the mosque and had to pray outside. “I was soaked in sweat by the time the prayers ended, feeling as if I might faint,” he added, opting to remain anonymous.

    The measured high of 50.4°C (122.7°F) is unprecedented for May since record-keeping began in 2003, exceeding the previous record of 50.2°C set in 2009, according to the National Center of Meteorology as reported by AFP.

    The UAE, one of the largest oil exporters globally and the host of the COP28 climate talks this year, just wrapped up a record-setting April with an average daily high of 42.6 degrees Celsius.

    ‘Swaying Right and Left’

    The NMC urged residents to take precautions, recommending they stay out of direct sunlight, stay hydrated, wear suitable clothing, and apply sunscreen.

    This extreme heat was compounded by humidity levels reaching up to 80% in some parts of Abu Dhabi.

    “I actually saw someone swaying back and forth before he had to stop at the side of the road,” said Muhammad Juma, a 31-year-old marketing professional based in Dubai. “Honestly, it’s a scary situation for people,” he emphasized.

    Youssef, 45, who operates hot air balloons for tourists in Dubai, stated that the “stifling” conditions left him feeling “completely incapacitated”.

    “The main issue is the humidity. The air feels devoid of oxygen,” he added, opting not to share his last name.

    Scientists have established that frequent heatwaves serve as a clear indicator of global warming, which is predicted to become more frequent, prolonged, and severe. In the last 30 years, the count of extremely hot days has nearly doubled worldwide.

    Outdoor workers in Arab nations endure some of the highest levels of heat stress globally, with a staggering 83.6% facing excessive heat exposure on the job, according to a 2024 report from the International Labour Organization, part of the United Nations.

    The dangers of a warming planet were evident last June when more than 1,300 individuals died during the Hajj pilgrimage in neighboring Saudi Arabia, as per official figures, most of whom were unauthorized pilgrims subjected to prolonged outdoor exposure.

    According to a 2022 Greenpeace study, the Middle East is at heightened risk for water and food shortages, as well as severe heatwaves, due to climate change. The report highlighted six countries, including the UAE, and indicated that the region is warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, rendering its food and water resources “extremely vulnerable” to climate change.

  • Completing the May Reward Road: Your Ultimate Guide to Pokémon Go

    Completing the May Reward Road: Your Ultimate Guide to Pokémon Go

    Pokemon Go has rolled out a new monthly feature called Reward Road, which launched in April 2025. This feature offers players a fresh way to earn various items and rewards. Excitingly, they are extending Reward Road for another month, making it available to all players throughout May 2025.

    This month’s version of Reward Road will maintain the same structure as last month’s, but it will feature a brand-new set of rewards and items. Below, we’ve outlined what you can expect from the Reward Road this May.

    Understanding the May Reward Road


    Throughout May, all players will have free access to this month’s Reward Road. Similar to last month, Reward Road will be divided into ten levels, each offering a unique set of in-game rewards.

    To advance through the various levels of Reward Road, you’ll need to accumulate Reward Points. Each level requires a certain number of points, which you can earn by buying items from the in-game shop. Different purchases will yield different point amounts.

    You will earn double the Reward Points when buying items from the Pokemon Go Web Store.

    You have until Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 11:59 PM UTC to earn Reward Points and redeem rewards from Reward Road.

    Rewards for May’s Reward Road


    The May Reward Road for Pokemon Go players.

    There are numerous rewards available this month from the May Reward Road, including items such as Stickers, Battle Passes, Lure Modules, and much more. Below is a complete table that details each Reward Road level, the points needed to advance, and the rewards you can earn.

    Once you reach a new level in this month’s Reward Road, you’ll need to visit the Pokemon Go Web Store to claim your rewards.

    May Reward Road

    Level

    Reward Points Required

    Rewards

    1

    5

    Three Stickers

    2

    50

    One Premium Battle Pass

    3

    100

    One Incense
    Two Stickers

    4

    225

    One Lucky Egg
    One Star Piece

    5

    475

    Two Lure Modules
    Eight Stickers

    6

    750

    Two Incubators
    Two Incense
    Two Stickers

    7

    1,100

    Four Premium Battle Passes
    Three Max Revives
    Three Max Potions

    8

    1,500

    Four Incubators
    Three Silver Pinap Berries
    Three Golden Razz Berries

    9

    2,000

    Four Premium Battle Passes
    Four Incubators

    10

    3,000

    Six Premium Battle Passes
    Six Incubators
    Six Stickers

  • PlayStation Plus Adds One Of 2024’s Best Games In May

    PlayStation Plus Adds One Of 2024’s Best Games In May

    Sony has unveiled the lineup for PlayStation Plus in May 2025, and it’s packed with exciting titles. Get ready for a thrilling adventure featuring space marines with giant bolt guns, armored dinosaurs, and a card game that offers a fresh twist on Poker. These games will be available starting May 6, so make sure to redeem your April titles before then!

    First on the list is Balatro, available for PS4 and PS5 users. This indie game has garnered significant attention, winning more awards than many blockbuster titles. At the Game Awards, it clinched honors for Best Debut Indie Game, Best Independent Game, and Best Mobile Game, and it’s easy to see why. Balatro adds a unique spin to deckbuilding: you’ll utilize a standard deck of playing cards, but with abilities and multipliers that boost your quest to achieve the highest score.

    Next up is Ark: Survival Ascended, available exclusively for PS5. This remastered edition of Ark: Survival Evolved utilizes Unreal Engine 5 and includes numerous quality-of-life improvements. Players can explore all of Ark’s worlds, enjoy split-screen multiplayer for two, private online gameplay for up to eight, and engage in public multiplayer sessions for up to 70 players.

    The final title in the collection is Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun, a fast-paced shooter that immerses players in the world of Warhammer 40,000 with a retro 90s aesthetic. This game delivers classic shooter elements filled with explosive action and gore, reminiscent of early titles like Doom. However, it’s worth noting that Boltgun is designed solely for single-player gameplay, despite having potential for a casual multiplayer mode.

    All three titles will be accessible for download from May 6 through June 2, so don’t miss this opportunity!

  • Don’t Miss These 3 Great Movies Leaving Netflix By May 1

    Don’t Miss These 3 Great Movies Leaving Netflix By May 1


    Before diving into the titles departing Netflix, let’s highlight some new arrivals. Currently, Havoc, a fresh action flick featuring Tom Hardy, is available to stream. Additionally, next month will see the release of Vince Vaughn’s comedy Nonnas on May 9, along with a new chapter in the Fear Street series titled Fear Street: Prom Queen on May 24.

    While these three films are set to stay for a while, a few titles will bid farewell to Netflix on May 1. Among them is Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, a fantastic animated feature chronicling the adventures of Miles Morales. Read more about Across the Spider-Verse and two additional films below.

    Definitely, Maybe (2008)

    Definitely, Maybe ranks highly among Ryan Reynolds’ lesser-known gems. This romantic comedy showcases a more tender side of the actor, often known for his comedic flair. As Manhattanite Will Hayes (Reynolds) navigates a divorce, his 10-year-old daughter Maya (Abigail Breslin) becomes curious about how he met her mother.

    Will transforms this story into a guessing game, naming three women from his past while altering their identities for Maya to deduce who her mother is. Through this charming narrative, Will reflects on his past and the one who slipped through his fingers.

    Stream Definitely, Maybe on Netflix.

    Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)

    If Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is akin to Batman Begins, then Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse stands as its The Dark Knight. This sequel not only pushes the boundaries of animated film but is also destined to be recognized among the greatest sequels ever created. In Brooklyn, Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) grapples with balancing his everyday life and his responsibilities as Spider-Man.

    When the villain Spot (Jason Schwartzman) proves to be overwhelming, Miles and Gwen (Hailee Steinfeld) embark on a multiverse journey, discovering a society teeming with Spider-People. However, Miles soon finds himself at odds with Miguel (Oscar Isaac), their leader, as tension rises among the heroes. With limited support, Miles must rely on his instincts and emotions to safeguard the multiverse.

    Stream Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse on Netflix.

    King Kong (2005)

    After exploring the realm of Middle-earth in the acclaimed Lord of the Rings series, Peter Jackson shifted his focus to the famed gorilla in King Kong. This modern retelling of the 1933 classic is set during the Great Depression, as director Carl Denham (Jack Black) embarks on an expedition to Skull Island. Joining him are actress Ann Darrow (Naomi Watts), Jack Driscoll (Adrien Brody), and a small crew.

    After a harrowing encounter with the island’s natives, the crew learns that the true menace is Kong, the colossal ape residing there. When Kong abducts Ann, a surprising bond develops between them. The film climaxes in a breathtaking showdown in New York City, featuring visual effects that remain impressive two decades later.

    Stream King Kong on Netflix.

  • Completing May The Best Thief Win: Oblivion Remastered Guide

    Completing May The Best Thief Win: Oblivion Remastered Guide

    As you dive into the expansive realm of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, you’ll discover a variety of factions that present you with new tasks and exclusive perks that will shape your journey. However, not every faction is kind-hearted, though they all adhere to a code of conduct that binds them like a family.

    The Thieves Guild operating in Cyrodiil is a secretive group of opportunists, to put it lightly. Nonetheless, they unite under the leadership of the Gray Fox, following his ideals to maintain their organization as a cohesive unit. Here’s how to get involved and launch your career as a cunning thief.

    How to Locate the Thieves Guild

    Discovering the Thieves Guild within Cyrodiil can be quite challenging. You’ll spot posters featuring the Gray Fox around the Imperial City, and guards will caution you about this enigmatic group. While some citizens may even doubt the guild’s existence, it’s the beggars who hold the real information.

    To become a member of the Thieves Guild, you must make friends with a beggar in the Imperial City. Engage in the persuasion minigame to increase their disposition to over 70 before inquiring about the Gray Fox.

    If you’re having trouble, you might have to bribe the beggars with a few coins.

    After forming a bond with a beggar, they’ll ask why you’re seeking the Gray Fox. Inform them that you wish to join the guild and work under the Gray Fox. This will lead you to a meeting at the Garden of Dareloth at midnight.

    How to Become a Member of the Thieves Guild

    Travel to the Waterfront District, then move towards the edge where the rundown shacks are located. This is the setting of a garden where several thieves gather at midnight.

    Once there, talk to Armand Christophe, who will inform you that the other individuals in the garden are your rivals. The task at hand is to steal Amantius Allectus’ diary. The first one to return it to Armand the following night will gain entry into the guild.

    Remember, do not kill Amantius Allectus! You’re a thief, not a killer.

    This quest is time-sensitive, and your rival, Methredhel, will dash off quickly. She knows exactly where to go, so you can follow her or ask the beggars in the area for directions.

    It’s advisable to trail Methredhel, as she’ll likely reach the diary before you. However, you can still grab it before she does if you hurry. Ensure you have plenty of lockpicks with you before setting off.

    You can purchase more lockpicks from Armand, priced at five gold each.

    Where to Locate Amantius Allectus’ Diary

    You’ll find Amantius Allectus’ diary in his residence, located in the Temple District. Upon arrival, make a right, and follow the path along the wall to approach his house near the next gate. Pick the lock on the door to gain entry.

    The lock is simple, with just two tumblers. Once you get in, sneak over to the desk on the first floor and retrieve the diary, then make your escape and return to Armand.

    If you’re quick, you can finish this quest on the very night you start it.

    If you fail to secure the diary, your journal will update to indicate that Methredhel has obtained it. You’ll need to steal it back from her, as she’s hidden it in her house.

    Locate her home in the Waterfront District, close to the garden where you met Armand. Pick the lock on her door and on the chest nearby. Be swift, snatch the diary, and return it to Armand at the garden at midnight to solidify your place in the Thieves Guild.

    Where to Find Rohssan’s Antique Cutlass

    If Methredhel manages to bring the diary back to Armand, you still have a chance to join the Thieves Guild. Armand will provide you with a second opportunity, sending you off to steal Rohssan’s Antique Cutlass from the owner of A Fighting Chance in the Market District.

    At night, pick the average lock on the door, go up the stairs, and unlock the easy lock. Be careful, as there’s a guard dog inside that will attack if it sees you. If you’re quick, you can avoid harming the dog.

    Stay alert—the guard dog will wake the owners if you linger too long, so keep moving!

    To the right, unlock a very easy chest and grab Rohssan’s Antique Cutlass. Then, hurry back to Armand in the garden. You’ll officially become a member of the Thieves Guild and unlock your first fence. After this, your adventures await. Begin breaking into other houses and fencing the loot to raise your rank in the guild and access more missions.

  • Dune: Awakening Character Creator Launches Before May

    Dune: Awakening Character Creator Launches Before May

    Funcom has announced that its MMO survival game, Dune: Awakening, is set to launch on Steam on May 20. However, players can start customizing their avatars now with the newly available Character Creator and Benchmark Mode. This allows you to spend time refining your character’s appearance—whether you want to resemble Zendaya or Timothée Chalamet—so you can jump straight into gameplay when the game officially releases, rather than getting lost in the character customization options for hours.

    Your custom character can be transferred into the game upon its release. Funcom has stated that you will have the ability to adjust various details about your character, select your home planet, caste, and mentor, among other choices. Your initial selections will impact your character’s starting abilities, but rest assured, you’ll have access to all classes by the end of the game, giving you the flexibility to choose the skills you prefer.

    The Benchmark Mode lets you assess how the game performs on your hardware. This is especially useful for determining if any upgrades are necessary, as Dune: Awakening comes with fairly high system requirements.

    The Dune: Awakening character creator.
    Image used with permission by copyright holder

    Additionally, Funcom has unveiled preorder incentives. By preordering, you’ll receive the Terrarium of Muad’Dib, complete with a cute desert mouse inside. If you plan on exploring Dune: Awakening, this adorable companion might just make the preorder worthwhile—after all, he is described as being “wise in the ways of the desert.”

    Players can also earn bonuses by simply downloading the Character Creator and Benchmark Mode, such as a code for the Frameblade knife skin valid at launch.

    Dune: Awakening is priced at $50 on Steam, with preorders projected to open soon. Even if you’re not a dedicated Dune enthusiast, the game promises to cater to a variety of players. Funcom is known for its successful titles like Conan Exiles and Dreamfall: The Longest Journey, ensuring that there’s something for everyone in this new offering.

  • May’s FinTech Highlights: A Year in Review

    May’s FinTech Highlights: A Year in Review

    Wipro, a top player in technology services and one of the leading consulting firms in the financial services sector, has joined forces with Microsoft to unveil a range of generative AI-driven cognitive assistants: Wipro GenAI Investor Intelligence, Wipro GenAI Investor Onboarding, and Wipro GenAI Loan Origination.

    These innovative virtual assistants (VAs) are designed to aid financial services companies in boosting productivity, streamlining client onboarding, and enhancing client interaction.

    Wipro & Microsoft: Empowering Finance Professionals

    By harnessing the power of Generative AI, Wipro aims to equip finance professionals with profound market insights, providing them with timely information regarding investment products and investor behavior.

    Additionally, Wipro’s new VAs will expedite the processes of investor onboarding and loan origination by drastically shortening the time required for document validation and contextual responses to investor inquiries.

    Utilizing Microsoft Azure OpenAI, Wipro’s cognitive assistants will seamlessly integrate with existing mobile and digital platforms to create a unified source of information, delivering a smooth user experience for finance professionals.

    Suzanne Dann, CEO of Americas 2 Strategic Market Unit at Wipro Limited, stated, “Generative AI ushers in a new era of opportunities for outstanding client experiences and improved productivity within the financial services landscape.”

    “This new suite of solutions, supported by Microsoft, will grant financial advisors and banking professionals enhanced and quicker access to market and product intelligence, allowing them to offer more tailored and timely services to their clients.”

    “These solutions will also streamline the often tedious and repetitive steps involved in onboarding new investors or originating loans, reducing the time dedicated to paperwork. We are excited to further strengthen our collaboration with Microsoft in this arena and continue providing state-of-the-art solutions to our financial services clients.”

    Three Additional Highlights from May

    Introducing Salt Bank, Launched by GFT Engine by Starling

    Sopra Steria: 75% of Banks Not Prepared for Open Banking

    Red Hat: How Banks Should Leverage Generative AI for Transformation


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