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NYC Mayor Mamdani Urges King Charles to Return Koh-i-Noor Diamond Hours Before 9/11 Ceremony Meeting

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New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, seen here on the day of the Democratic primary June 24, 2025, has little experience but has energized followers with a leftist campaign

NEW YORK — New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, citing his Indian heritage, called for the return of the legendary Koh-i-Noor diamond to India just hours before meeting King Charles III at a solemn ceremony honoring victims of the September 11 attacks, reigniting a long-standing international dispute over one of the world’s most famous gemstones.

New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, seen here on the day of the Democratic primary June 24, 2025, has little experience but has energized followers with a leftist campaign
Zohran Mamdani
AFP

The 105-carat diamond, now part of the British Crown Jewels, has been a symbol of colonial legacy and contested ownership for decades. India, Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan have all claimed historical rights to the stone, which British forces acquired in the 19th century during colonial rule. Mamdani’s comments, made at a press conference, thrust the sensitive cultural issue into the spotlight amid an otherwise diplomatic occasion.

“If I were to speak to the King separately from the purpose of the event, I would probably encourage him to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond,” Mamdani said, acknowledging the meeting’s focus on honoring 9/11 victims while expressing his personal view. The mayor, who has Indian roots, framed the request as part of broader conversations about historical justice and cultural repatriation.

The Koh-i-Noor, meaning “Mountain of Light” in Persian, has a storied and often violent history spanning centuries. Originally mined in India, it passed through various empires before becoming part of the British Crown Jewels following the annexation of Punjab in 1849. Queen Victoria received it as a gift, and it has since adorned crowns worn by British queens. Its display in the Tower of London draws millions of visitors annually, but it remains a potent symbol of colonial extraction for many in South Asia.

British officials have consistently rejected repatriation calls, arguing the diamond was legally acquired and forms an integral part of the nation’s cultural heritage. The UK government has previously stated that returning it would set a problematic precedent for other artifacts in British collections. King Charles has not publicly commented on Mamdani’s remarks, and Buckingham Palace declined immediate response to the mayor’s statement.

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Mamdani’s intervention highlights growing global momentum for cultural repatriation. Museums and governments worldwide have returned artifacts to countries of origin in recent years, including Benin Bronzes to Nigeria and various items to Greece and Egypt. Advocates argue such returns address historical injustices, while opponents cite legal ownership, preservation concerns and the universal value of shared heritage in major institutions.

The timing of Mamdani’s comments added complexity to his meeting with King Charles. The ceremony focused on transatlantic remembrance of the 9/11 attacks, where British citizens were among the nearly 3,000 killed. Both leaders were expected to emphasize shared values and partnership rather than historical grievances. Mamdani’s office later clarified that the diamond issue was not on the official agenda but reflected the mayor’s personal perspective as a leader with Indian heritage.

Indian officials have welcomed the mayor’s stance while pursuing diplomatic channels. The Indian government has raised the Koh-i-Noor issue in past talks with the UK, though without formal legal claims in recent decades. Cultural Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has previously described the diamond as a symbol of India’s rich history that belongs with its people. Pakistan and other nations have also asserted claims based on historical possession.

Experts on cultural heritage say resolution remains unlikely in the near term. Legal complexities, including treaties and the passage of time, complicate ownership. The diamond’s integration into the Crown Jewels adds symbolic weight. Some propose compromise solutions like joint exhibitions or loans, but political sensitivities make even those difficult. The Koh-i-Noor debate reflects broader postcolonial conversations about power, memory and justice.

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Mamdani, a rising progressive figure in American politics, has used his platform to address issues of equity and historical accountability. His Indian roots and Muslim faith have shaped his perspective on international relations and cultural issues. Critics accused him of injecting controversy into a memorial event, while supporters praised his willingness to speak on difficult topics. The mayor’s office emphasized that his comments were separate from official duties.

The 9/11 ceremony itself proceeded with dignity, focusing on remembrance and unity. King Charles, on a visit emphasizing UK-US ties, joined American leaders in honoring victims and first responders. The event underscored enduring alliances formed in tragedy, providing context that made Mamdani’s earlier remarks particularly notable.

Public reaction has been polarized. Social media platforms buzzed with debate, with some users supporting repatriation as moral imperative and others defending British stewardship. Historians note the diamond’s journey involved conquest and gifting across empires long before British involvement, complicating simple narratives of theft. The gem’s legendary curse — bringing misfortune to male owners — has added mystique to discussions.

For now, the Koh-i-Noor remains in London, viewed by tourists and symbolizing different things to different people. Mamdani’s call, however brief, ensures the issue stays in public discourse. As nations grapple with colonial legacies, artifacts like the diamond serve as focal points for larger conversations about history, identity and reconciliation. Whether his words prompt any movement remains uncertain, but they highlight shifting global attitudes toward cultural heritage.

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Fermi Says It Terminated Former CEO and Co-Founder

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Toby Neugebauer earlier this month.

Fermi said Thursday it terminated co-founder and former CEO Toby Neugebauer for cause, an escalation of leadership turmoil at the company that plans to build a giant power and data-center campus in Texas.

In a regulatory filing on Thursday, Fermi said because Neugebauer was being removed for cause, he “was automatically removed from the Company’s board of directors.” Neugebauer couldn’t be reached immediately for comment.

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GoDaddy Inc. 2026 Q1 – Results – Earnings Call Presentation (NYSE:GDDY) 2026-05-01

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OneWater Marine Inc. (ONEW) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

Q1: 2026-04-30 Earnings Summary

EPS of $2.05 beats by $0.05

 | Revenue of $1.27B (6.08% Y/Y) beats by $4.12M

This article was written by

Seeking Alpha’s transcripts team is responsible for the development of all of our transcript-related projects. We currently publish thousands of quarterly earnings calls per quarter on our site and are continuing to grow and expand our coverage. The purpose of this profile is to allow us to share with our readers new transcript-related developments. Thanks, SA Transcripts Team

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Air Canada (AC:CA) Shareholder/Analyst Call Transcript

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OneWater Marine Inc. (ONEW) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

Vagn Sørensen

[Interpreted] Good morning, shareholders and guests. My name is Vagn Sorensen. I am the Chair of Board of Directors of Air Canada. Welcome to our Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

[indiscernible] Canada’s commitment to indigenous inclusion and reconciliation. Our network crosses many treaty lands as well as unceded and traditional territories of indigenous nations and governments on Turtle Island, that is North America. In that spirit, we recognize the ancestral and traditional lands of the indigenous people we fly over.

[Interpreted] In 2025, Air Canada was honored to support the return of 62 sacred and cultural indigenous artifacts from the Vatican. We carried them back on one of our aircraft. We’re meeting today only a few weeks after the tragic accident at LaGuardia Airport involving Air Canada Express Flight AC8646. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the 2 Jazz pilots who tragically lost their lives.

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I also want to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of 2 Jazz pilots who tragically lost their lives. I also want to express our sincerest sympathies to the passengers, crew members and others who were injured or otherwise affected as well as our appreciation to everyone in our company, industry or otherwise, who helped at the time and in the days that followed.

[Interpreted] That tragedy has been felt by all of our Air Canada family. I invite you if you are able to stand and observe a moment

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Mitsui: New Three-Year Plan Should Deliver 10% Annual Growth (Rating Upgrade)

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Mitsui: New Three-Year Plan Should Deliver 10% Annual Growth (Rating Upgrade)

Mitsui: New Three-Year Plan Should Deliver 10% Annual Growth (Rating Upgrade)

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Energy & Utilities Roundup: Market Talk

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Energy & Utilities Roundup: Market Talk

The latest Market Talks covering Energy and Utilities. Published exclusively on Dow Jones Newswires at 4:20 ET, 12:20 ET and 16:50 ET.

1508 ET – Oil futures retreat from overnight highs and settle lower with the market watching for the next move in the standoff between the U.S. and Iran while just a trickle of oil gets through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude for June delivery falls 3.4% to go off the board at $114.01 a barrel, bringing it closer to the $110.40 for the July contract. “On top of the expiration liquidation flush today, Brent also came under pressure after European Union economic data came in on the soft side,” Mizuho’s Robert Yawger says in a note, pointing to the below-estimate 0.1% rise in eurozone 1Q GDP. WTI settles down 1.7% at $105.07 a barrel.(anthony.harrup@wsj.com)

1309 ET – The European Central Bank’s decision to hold the interest rate at 2% makes perfect sense given the current uncertainty in markets, Morningstar strategist Michael Field said. Interest rate has been stable until a few months ago, but after the price of a barrel of oil spiked to $125, the situation has become more volatile. “The Governing Council will closely monitor the situation and follow a data-dependent and meeting-by-meeting approach to determining the appropriate monetary policy stance,” writes the European Central Bank in a press release. Investors have priced in 2-3 rate hikes as high as 2.5%-2.75%. Field says markets presumably will read the language in today’s statement positively.(julia.nasser@wsj.com)

0953 ET – ConocoPhillips says it is excluding Qatar from its production guidance for the current quarter, citing uncertainty around the war in the Middle East. The oil producer also cuts its full-year production outlook to account for the exclusion, now calling for production of 2.3 million to 2.33 million barrels of oil-equivalent per day this year. That compares with a prior outlook of 2.33 million to 2.36 million barrels of oil-equivalent per day. ConocoPhillips is off 1.8% in early trading after reporting lower 1Q earnings. (connor.hart@wsj.com)

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Trump says US Navy acting ’like pirates’ to carry out naval blockade of Iranian ports

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Trump says US Navy acting ’like pirates’ to carry out naval blockade of Iranian ports


Trump says US Navy acting ’like pirates’ to carry out naval blockade of Iranian ports

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Form 13G Eloxx Pharmaceuticals For: 1 May

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Form 13G Eloxx Pharmaceuticals For: 1 May

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Timberwolves Star at Least Two Weeks From Knee Injury Comeback

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Anthony Edwards #1 of the Minnesota Timberwolves pauses during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on February 28, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Timberwolves defeated the Cavaliers 127-122.

MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards is expected to miss at least two weeks with a bone bruise and hyperextension in his left knee.

Anthony Edwards #1 of the Minnesota Timberwolves pauses during the second half against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse on February 28, 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Timberwolves defeated the Cavaliers 127-122.
Anthony Edwards

The injury occurred in Game 4 when Edwards landed awkwardly after contesting a shot. He was helped off the court in visible pain, sparking immediate concern among fans and analysts. An MRI confirmed no structural ligament damage, a significant relief, but the bone bruise requires careful rehabilitation to avoid long-term complications. The Timberwolves have listed him as week-to-week while emphasizing a cautious approach.

Shams Charania of ESPN reported the two-week minimum timeline, noting it positions Edwards for a potential return “at some point in the second round” if Minnesota advances. The Wolves currently lead the series, but Edwards’ absence has tested their depth against a resilient Nuggets team. Coach Chris Finch has praised the supporting cast while acknowledging the challenge of replacing Edwards’ scoring and athleticism.

The timeline aligns with typical recovery for bone bruises in athletes. These injuries involve trauma to the bone beneath cartilage and can cause significant pain and swelling. Hyperextension adds soft tissue strain, requiring progressive loading to restore strength and confidence. Edwards also manages patellar tendinitis in his right knee, adding complexity to his rehabilitation protocol.

Medical experts say bone bruises heal at varying rates depending on severity, location and individual factors. A two-week absence represents the optimistic end of the spectrum, with some cases requiring four to six weeks for full return to high-level competition. The Timberwolves’ medical staff, working with specialists at Mayo Clinic, will monitor progress through imaging and functional testing before clearing Edwards.

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Edwards’ potential absence has major implications for Minnesota’s postseason hopes. As the team’s leading scorer and dynamic playmaker, he averages over 27 points per game in the playoffs. His ability to attack the rim and create for teammates has been central to the Wolves’ success. Without him, opponents can focus defensive attention on Karl-Anthony Towns and others, potentially slowing the offense.

Finch has adjusted lineups and strategies to compensate. Increased minutes for bench players and tactical tweaks have kept the team competitive, but the drop-off in explosiveness is noticeable. If the series extends or Minnesota advances, the coaching staff will carefully manage Edwards’ minutes upon return to avoid re-injury.

The injury occurred at a critical juncture in Edwards’ young career. At 24, he has emerged as one of the NBA’s brightest stars, with All-Star selections and playoff heroics. His absence tests the franchise’s depth and resilience as it aims for a deep postseason run. Team officials have expressed confidence in the roster’s ability to compete while prioritizing Edwards’ long-term health.

Fan reaction has been a mix of concern and optimism. Social media is filled with well-wishes and debates about return timelines. The Wolves’ playoff run has captivated Minnesota, with Edwards’ charismatic personality and highlight-reel plays endearing him to supporters. His potential return in the second round could provide a massive boost if the team reaches that stage.

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Broader NBA implications include player load management and injury prevention. Edwards’ high-usage style and athleticism make him susceptible to lower-body injuries despite his youth. League-wide discussions about rest, scheduling and medical protocols continue as stars miss time in critical playoff moments. The Timberwolves’ handling of Edwards’ recovery could serve as a case study.

As rehabilitation progresses, the focus remains on incremental milestones. Initial rest and swelling reduction will give way to strength training, agility work and eventually on-court drills. Edwards’ competitive nature suggests he will push to return as soon as medically safe, but the organization will err on caution to protect his future.

The coming days will bring more clarity as the series unfolds and medical updates emerge. For now, the Timberwolves face a formidable challenge without their star, while Edwards works behind the scenes preparing for a potential heroic return. The two-week minimum provides a target, but playoff basketball’s unpredictable schedule could align favorably or extend his recovery window.

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Stryker First-Quarter Sales, Profit Rise as it Dealt with Cyberattack

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Stryker First-Quarter Sales, Profit Rise as it Dealt with Cyberattack

Stryker posted higher profit and sales in the first quarter, during which it was hit by a cyberattack that reportedly was in retaliation to the war in Iran.

The medical-device company on Thursday posted a profit of $745 million, or $1.93 a share, compared with $654 million, or $1.69 a share, in the same quarter a year ago.

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Thai Airways International to Double Fuel Surcharges Starting May 1

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Thai Airways International to Double Fuel Surcharges Starting May 1

Thai Airways International will nearly double fuel surcharges on most routes from May 1 due to soaring jet fuel prices. This follows recent flight reductions. Tickets issued before May 1 will retain existing rates.


Key Points

  • Fuel Surcharge Increase: Thai Airways is nearly doubling fuel surcharges on many routes for tickets issued from May 1st due to soaring jet fuel prices caused by the US/Iran conflict.
  • Route Impact and Examples: Both regional and long-haul flights will be affected, with significant price hikes on routes like Bangkok-Yangon, Bangkok-Beijing, Bangkok-Seoul, Bangkok-Sydney, and European destinations.
  • Ticketing Deadline: Passengers whose tickets are issued by April 30th will retain the current, lower surcharge rates, regardless of their travel date.

Increased Fuel Surcharges Implemented

Thai Airways International is set to significantly increase fuel surcharges on numerous routes, effective for all tickets issued from May 1. These surcharges, integrated directly into the ticket price, will impact both regional and long-haul flights. This adjustment follows a recent reduction in flight frequencies across domestic, regional, and intercontinental services. The airline attributes this decision to a substantial surge in jet fuel prices, which have reportedly tripled since the commencement of the US/Iran conflict. This measure aims to offset the escalating operational costs associated with fuel.

Specific Route Adjustments and Passenger Protection

The revised fuel surcharges present a marked increase across various routes. For instance, the Bangkok–Yangon route will see surcharges rise from USD 49 to USD 93 in economy class. Similarly, Bangkok–Beijing and Bangkok–Delhi routes will experience an increase from USD 126 to USD 241 for economy class tickets. Longer routes, such as Bangkok–Sydney, will jump from USD 203 to USD 389 in economy. The steepest hikes are observed on European routes like Milan, London, and Paris, where economy class surcharges will climb from USD 275 to USD 524. Crucially, passengers with tickets issued by April 30 will retain the existing surcharge rates, irrespective of their travel date.

Rationale and Market Context

The airline’s decision to almost double fuel surcharges is a direct response to the volatile global fuel market, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions. The tripling of jet fuel prices has created an unsustainable cost burden for the airline. This financial pressure is also reflected in the airline’s prior decision to reduce flight frequencies, indicating a broader strategy to optimize capacity and manage operational expenses. This move aligns with industry-wide trends, as indicated by related news about other carriers reducing flights and airfares surging on Europe-Asia routes due to similar market conditions.

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