From the Editors: Vaccines as essential tools in the COVID-19 combat

VACCINES AS ESSENTIAL TOOLS IN THE COVID-19 COMBAT: Abu Dhabi’s new rule stipulating that only those who are fully vaccinated will be allowed entry in public places from August 20 is a step in the right direction as it will help further curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country. Residents can no longer afford to consider vaccines as an option. They are essential tool in the combat against the coronavirus, alongside other precautions like wearing masks and maintaining adequate social distance. The sooner we understand this, the better it is for our own good. [COMMENT BY: Sharmila Dhal, UAE Editor]

WORLD MUST NOT FORGET INNOCENT WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN AFGHANISTAN: As the Taliban continues its march towards Kabul, having seized most of the provincial capitals in Afghanistan, the world must turn its attention to the people of the country. Thousands of civilians now live in parks and open spaces in Kabul itself. Many fear the consequences of the Taliban coming to power. Some ATMs have stopped distributing cash and hundreds have gathered in front of private banks, trying to withdraw their life savings. While the US and other countries are speeding up the evacuation of their staff, an uncertain future awaits the people of Afghanistan. Spare a thought for the innocent women and children caught in the crossfire. They deserve a future without fearing for their lives. [COMMENT BY: Alex Abraham, Senior Associate Editor]

MUHAMMAD ALI’S GRANDSON NICO WINS DEBUT FIGHT: Muhammad Ali was the greatest of all time. He won the world heavyweight title 3 times but would have been prouder than ever right now as his grandson Nico Ali Walsh won his debut professional middleweight fight in Catoosa, Oklahoma yesterday. Nico paid tribute to his grandfather by wearing a pair of shorts he had given him as he knocked down Jordan Weeks after just 70 seconds. The bout was stopped before the end of the first round. The contest was promoted by 89-year-old Bob Arum, who famously organised 27 of Muhammad Ali’s fights between 1966 and 1978. Nico, the son of Ali's daughter Rasheda Ali, has a huge name to live up to but he’s made a good start and it will be interesting to see how his boxing career progresses. [COMMENT BY: Imran Malik, Assistant Editor]

WEARING ASIAN PRIDE ON YOUR FASHIONABLE SLEEVES: Trust global star like Priyanka Chopra Jonas to bring attention to a hot topic such as Asian Pride with her signature touch of glamour and zest. Recently, she took to her Instagram to share a selfie from her girl’s night out in London which boasted the beaming faces of ‘Killing Eve’ star Sandra Oh and incredible Asian talents Awkwafina and Michelle Yeoh. Chopra Jonas captioned the significant image: “When u get a seat at the cool kids’ table. #Queens #Asian Pride.” This picture of strong South Asian women making inroads into Hollywood is a telling one. Here’s hoping that this glamorous girl gang propels and encourages Hollywood to induct more people of colour, varying heritages, and culture into their territory. [COMMENT BY: Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Assistant Editor Features ]