CharlieH

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is under increasing pressure after clashes involving 700 people erupted outside a migrant hotel in Falkirk, Scotland. The hotel, accommodating over 50 asylum seekers, became the focus of protests following the conviction of Afghan asylum seeker Sadeq Nikzad for the rape of a local teenager. Police were forced to call in reinforcements as tensions boiled over between local residents and anti-racism groups, resulting in bottles and objects being hurled during the chaos. The conviction of Nikzad, who was sentenced in June for his crime, heightened community fears and sparked heated demonstrations. Labour MP Euan Stainbank, representing Falkirk, called for the removal of migrants from the Cladhan Hotel, arguing that such accommodations are ineffective for both host communities and the residents. Senior Tory MSP Sharon Dowey echoed these concerns, demanding the government find alternative housing solutions for migrants, citing legitimate safety concerns for locals. The Falkirk protest marks one of Scotland's most significant demonstrations against asylum hotels, similar to recent events in England, where tensions led local councils to seek legal measures to block further use of such accommodations for asylum seekers. Scottish Conservative Community Safety spokeswoman Sharon Dowey pressed Labour to take immediate action, emphasising the necessity for robust responses to community concerns. Recent polling by Norstat indicates that 77% of Scottish voters wish to see immigration levels decrease or remain the same, reflecting a widespread national sentiment. The protests, led by groups like Save Our Future and Our Kids’ Future, featured local residents voicing fears over safety. Darren, a local father, expressed concerns for children’s safety, claiming incidents of children being followed. Connor Graham, using a megaphone, pledged continued activism for safety and accountability, refusing to accept labels of extremism. On the opposing side, Claire Love, participating in the counter-protestors with Stand Up to Racism, voiced fears over rising racism and xenophobia. MP Stainbank criticised past Conservative government policies, blaming them for breaking the asylum system and emphasising Labour's efforts to amend it. Labour's decision to abandon the Tory-led plan to send failed asylum seekers to Rwanda is part of a broader strategy to streamline the asylum process, which has reportedly significantly reduced the backlog. Stainbank reaffirmed the commitment to ending the use of asylum hotels, originally implemented by the previous government. A Home Office spokesperson detailed ongoing efforts to close asylum hotels across the country, with a target to cease their use by the end of the parliamentary term. The spokesperson reiterated that since taking office, substantial progress has been made in reducing the number of open asylum hotels and deporting those with no legal right to remain. The Falkirk events highlight the complex challenges of balancing immigration and asylum policies with community safety and integration. The ongoing debates and protests underline the urgency and sensitivity of finding sustainable solutions in the UK’s immigration crisis. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily Mail 2025-08-18

Palestinians children gather as a charity distributes food in Gaza City on Saturday. The military claims it is displacing population ‘to ensure their safety’ even as health officials report deadly attacks on previously designated safe zones The Israeli military announced its intention to forcibly displace Palestinians from Gaza City, following a series of lethal airstrikes that killed at least 40 people, including a baby. These attacks targeted individuals in both declared safe zones and those seeking aid, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the region. The announcement comes amid plans for a major offensive to seize control of Gaza City, a move that has raised significant international concern. As military actions continue, the resultant chaos has led to widespread displacement, tens of thousands of civilian casualties, and a deepening famine crisis in the enclave. To address the safety concerns of Gaza residents, Israel has stated it will provide tents and other forms of shelter, relocating people to the southern regions of Gaza. However, trust in these safety measures is eroded, as areas previously labelled as safe by Israel have been bombed. On Saturday, a family, including a baby, was killed in al-Muwasi, a designated humanitarian zone, when an airstrike hit their tent. Al-Muwasi has become a densely populated area as residents have been pushed into this barren space. With Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlining plans to extend military operations to include Gaza City and central camps, such as the Nuseirat and Bureij refugee camps, the fear and uncertainty among residents continue to mount. Reports have also emerged of individuals being shot while attempting to collect food aid. At least 13 people were killed under such circumstances, according to a report by the civil defence agency. Meanwhile, malnutrition-related deaths are on the rise, with the tally reaching 251 due to the existing blockade on aid. This includes the tragic toll on vulnerable children, underscoring the severe humanitarian impact. In parts of Gaza City, particularly the Zeitun neighbourhood, residents report relentless airstrikes targeting residential areas. Conditions are rapidly deteriorating, with severe shortages of water and food. "We don’t know the taste of sleep," says Ghassan Kashko, who, along with his family, is sheltering in a school. Explosions from airstrikes and tank shelling are constant, he describes. Local leaders have accused Israel of pursuing an agenda of ethnic cleansing in areas such as Zeitun. The Israeli military insists it operates in compliance with international laws, yet rights groups, including some within Israel, have condemned these actions as genocidal. The Israeli military has detailed that shelter equipment will be routed through the Kerem Shalom crossing, facilitated by the United Nations and other international relief organisations. However, stringent Israeli inspections have previously impeded much-needed aid from entering Gaza, exacerbating the desperate situation. The United Nations has expressed deep concerns over Israel’s plans to relocate Gaza residents southward, warning that this could intensify their ongoing suffering. However, the entry of shelter equipment has been acknowledged as a critical necessity, offering a glimmer of relief amid dire conditions. In their statement, the UN highlighted the precarious state of thousands of families already enduring appalling conditions, who may suffer further if displacement plans proceed. No area within Gaza is truly safe from conflict, as repeated displacement orders by Israel have proven perilous. With the focus shifting towards southern Gaza, questions remain as to whether areas like Rafah, bordering Egypt, will accommodate the anticipated influx of displaced individuals. The defence minister, Israel Katz, confirmed that comprehensive military plans are still in development. Meanwhile, the Palestinian militant faction Islamic Jihad has dismissed Israel’s military announcements as blatant breaches of international law. The ongoing conflict stirs internal unrest within Israel, where protests are planned, advocating for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and an immediate end to the war. A "nationwide day of stoppage" is expected with widespread participation from businesses, municipalities, and universities, sparked by growing frustration over the conflict's toll. The families of hostages express fears that further military offensives could jeopardise the remaining 50 hostages in Gaza. As tensions escalate, regional and international attention is drawn to the urgency of resolving the conflict. While diplomatic channels remain active, the path to lasting peace and stability in Gaza remains fraught with complex challenges and mounting humanitarian concerns. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Gaurdian 2025-08-18

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer will join a video call with European allies on Sunday, preparing for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's upcoming visit to the White House. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will join Sir Keir, hosting the "coalition of the willing" after Trump and Putin's Alaska summit yielded no ceasefire. On Saturday, Sir Keir praised Trump's efforts, stating the path to peace can't exclude Zelensky. This follows Trump's desire to skip a ceasefire and aim for a permanent peace deal. Zelensky will head to Washington DC next week, where Trump plans to push for an agreement. Sir Keir spent Saturday discussing strategies with Western allies. He expressed support for the US and Europe providing security guarantees to Ukraine, citing Trump's role in edging closer to peace. Despite his praise, Sir Keir emphasised that until Putin ceases his "barbaric assault", allies will intensify sanctions against Russia. A Downing Street source noted that US involvement is crucial for any peace deal to include security arrangements. After speaking with Trump, Zelensky called for true peace, not just a temporary halt. He stressed the importance of Kyiv’s involvement in all future talks, warning of increased Russian aggression as talks approach. Zelensky anticipates heightened pressure and strikes from Russia, aiming to manipulate negotiations with global powers. The coalition’s efforts underscore the critical stage of diplomatic maneuvers in the ongoing conflict. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-08-18

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of complicating peace efforts by refusing a ceasefire. "Russia rebuffs calls for peace, still no end to the killing," Zelensky wrote on X. He plans to visit Washington DC, where US President Donald Trump will urge him towards a peace agreement. Trump intends to bypass a ceasefire, aiming for a direct and lasting peace following discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin. On Truth Social, Trump advocated moving straight to a permanent deal, arguing that ceasefires often collapse. Zelensky responded, pressing for genuine peace and an end to violence, listing key conditions: a credible security guarantee and the return of children allegedly taken from occupied territories. Trump's change in stance marks a departure from his earlier push for a swift ceasefire. Meanwhile, Putin has suggested a peace offer requiring Ukraine's withdrawal from the Donetsk region in exchange for Russia freezing front lines in Zaporizhzhia and Kherson. This proposal heightens tensions over territorial control, a critical issue for Ukraine, considering Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea. Ukraine firmly rejects ceding control of Donbas, fearing it could be a base for future threats. CBS reports indicate European diplomats are concerned Trump might pressure Zelensky into a quick agreement. According to these reports, Trump mentioned Putin's potential "concessions", though details remain vague. In a Fox News segment, Trump advised Zelensky to "make a deal," noting Russia’s significant power. Previously, Trump had warned of "severe consequences" for Russia if they didn't agree to a ceasefire by a specific deadline. Despite little formal progress announced post-summit, both leaders claimed advancements had been made. Putin described the Alaska summit as "very useful", focusing on addressing the root causes of the crisis. Russia’s Deputy Representative to the UN called the meeting a significant step towards peace, emphasizing continued dialogue as essential. A coalition supporting Ukraine, including the UK, France, and Germany, plans talks prior to Zelensky’s visit to the US. European leaders are open to a trilateral summit, underscoring Ukraine’s sovereignty in territorial decisions. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer applauded Trump’s peace efforts, calling for Zelensky's participation in future discussions. In Kyiv, there was discontent over the diplomatic proceedings in Alaska. Ukrainian veteran Serhii Orlyk criticised the red carpet treatment for Putin, deeming it disconnected from the ongoing conflict’s grim reality. Meanwhile, European leaders like French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have said they stand ready to support further negotiations. They emphasise that decisions about Ukraine's territory should remain with Ukraine, warning against changing international borders by force. As the geopolitical chess game continues, the world watches to see if these diplomatic maneuvers will bring an end to the conflict or simply serve as a prelude to further tension. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-08-17

Wife uses one regularly.

Well, it doesnt need and wont get a seperate forum. You can utilise the existing "wellness forum" for supplements etc or alternative meds etc, if its what may be described as "quckery", then go to the "off the beaten track" thats exactly what its for, non mainstream ideas, topics, etc.

Running in World news, continue there please.

The Albanian small boat migrant who flooded the streets with crack cocaine after boasting about how easy it was to sneak into Britain An Albanian migrant who entered the UK illegally has turned to crack cocaine dealing, igniting fierce debate about border control.Elvis Zoto, 22, who fled a luxury asylum hotel, boasted on social media about his easy entry into Britain. He even shared his Home Office registration form, highlighting his arrival in Dover in 2022. Zoto’s case has drawn significant attention after a High Court decision finally approved his deportation, almost three years post-arrival. Campaigners argue this case underscores the urgent need for immigration reform. Zoto's journey began with a flight from Albania to Belgium, then a train to France, where he paid a smuggler for passage on a small boat to Britain. On June 29, 2022, Border Force detained him in Dover. Despite immediately claiming asylum, he absconded from the Crowne Plaza hotel in Basingstoke after just two days. An unsent Home Office letter declared his asylum claim “implicitly withdrawn” due to his disappearance. Officials had his phone number but made no other contact attempts. Meanwhile, Zoto quickly engaged with a drug gang, leading to his arrest by Essex Police on November 1, 2023. He was convicted of dealing crack cocaine and sentenced to two years and nine months in prison by April. Despite his sentence, Zoto challenged deportation, arguing his asylum claim was still pending. However, his appeal was dismissed in the High Court, which agreed that he forfeited his asylum rights by fleeing custody. Videos posted by Zoto on TikTok showed him flaunting large sums of cash on London streets and advising others on abusing the system. He claimed it was easy to evade detention and urged fellow migrants to follow suit. Zoto’s actions have sparked intense scrutiny of the UK’s handling of illegal immigration. In 2022, over 12,600 Albanians crossed illegally, prompting warnings from the National Crime Agency about drug gangs exploiting these routes. Under current circumstances, more than 27,000 migrants have arrived in the UK by small boats in 2025, setting new records. This increase raises concerns over the government's capacity to disrupt illegal trafficking and enforce border security. Efforts to combat these challenges face critiques, especially as migrants continually succeed in these dangerous crossings. The Labour party’s pledge to dismantle smuggling operations faces immense pressure as incidents like Zoto’s reveal systemic weaknesses. Urgent reforms in immigration protocols are crucial. Zoto’s case exemplifies not just the individual defiance of UK laws but also highlights broader issues within the immigration system. The need for change is evident, with Zoto’s story serving as a catalyst for discussions on strengthening the UK's borders and refining asylum procedures. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily Mail 2025-08-16

Outrage erupts as Birmingham Council removes British flags but leaves Palestine flags flying. In a fiery debacle, Birmingham’s Labour-run council is under scrutiny. They’ve ordered the removal of Union Jack and St George’s flags from lampposts, blaming “safety concerns.” Meanwhile, Palestine flags remain untouched, sparking claims of double standards. The controversy erupted as locals festooned the city with British flags to celebrate national pride. This move, organised by a group called the Weoley Warriors, was meant to unify the community. “Show Birmingham and the rest of the country how proud we are of our history,” they said. But the council’s swift action to remove them has left many feeling betrayed. Residents are livid, pointing out that Palestine flags have been allowed to fly for 18 months. A leaked email reveals the council admitted needing police backup to remove these flags, fearing backlash. Council member Majid Mahmood highlighted previous “issues” during past removal attempts. The saga comes at a tumultuous time for Birmingham Council. Declaring effective bankruptcy in 2023, they’re also grappling with a seven-month bin strike. Streets are littered with waste, adding to public frustration. Critics argue the council appears more concerned about flags than basic services. The timing couldn’t be more provocative. Birmingham recently celebrated Pakistan and India’s independence by lighting up city landmarks in their colours. This move has irked many, not least former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who calls the council’s actions “shameful.” Community voices like Northfield’s Helen Ingram argue the flag displays were about fostering unity. “Everyone I’ve spoken to loves them,” she said, noting the buzz of excitement in the air. Yet the council warns that the weight of the flags could endanger public safety, even though they are 25ft above ground. The Weoley Warriors remain undeterred. They've raised over 140,000 Baht to support their cause, advocating for a proud English identity. Their online presence resonates with many who feel sidelined by the council’s apparent bias. Tory MPs are vocally criticising the situation. Robert Jenrick calls it a “blatant two-tier bias against the British people.” Sir John Hayes adds that historical figures like Joseph Chamberlain would be “ashamed.” The uproar has amplified national discussions about representation and fairness. As tensions mount, Birmingham Council insists it’s a matter of safety. They claim lamppost upgrades necessitate the removal of all attachments. Yet sceptics remain, questioning why some flags seem exempt from scrutiny. The controversy continues to unfold, with calls for a consistent policy growing louder. The council faces mounting pressure to clarify its stance and address accusations of bias. As the community rallies for answers, one thing is clear—this flag controversy is far from over. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily Mail 2025-08-16

In an electrifying face-to-face, Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin shared a handshake for the first time since 2018. Meeting in Anchorage, Alaska, the leaders seemed amicable at first but left without a Ukraine deal. A body language expert noted a shift from friendly to frosty. Trump welcomed Putin with open arms and plenty of physical contact. He clapped as Putin arrived, likening his welcome to that of an A-list celebrity entrance. This was the first time Putin set foot on U.S. soil in ten years, making the meeting highly significant. During the lengthy greeting, Putin appeared delighted, with one expert saying he was 'purring' with joy. However, inviting Putin without Ukrainian President Zelensky raised eyebrows among national security experts, seeing it as a win for the Russian leader. The atmosphere changed quickly when Trump and Putin got down to business. The U.S. president's demeanour turned serious, with a steely look replacing his earlier smiles. The body language showed a marked shift as Trump adopted a more authoritative stance. Their final handshake revealed this change in tone. Trump was all business, dropping Putin's hand quickly and avoiding any further pats. It was a stark contrast to the initial display of friendliness. As they touched down in Alaska, the two leaders exchanged pleasantries before their crucial talks on Ukraine. Trump's enthusiastic fist-pumping and clapping presented a peculiar image for a situation seeking resolution to bloody conflict. The choreography continued with a red carpet welcome as the leaders walked side by side to various photo-ops. Amid these, a reporter shouted to Putin about civilian deaths in Ukraine, to which Putin merely shrugged—a gesture indicating disregard or ambiguity. Trump then guided Putin with a hand on his back towards "The Beast", his presidential limousine. Through the car windows, Putin's wide smile suggested he was pleased with the diplomatic exchange, despite the lack of a formal agreement. The grand summit ended without a deal on the Ukraine conflict, but both leaders signalled a willingness for further discussions. The outcome of these talks remains in the balance, leaving global observers on edge. One striking moment saw the sky filled with a display of B-2 jets—a sharp reminder of American might. Both leaders observed this power move, acknowledging Alaska as a neutral ground with underlying tensions. As they departed, the contrast between the initial warm handshakes and their concluding stiffness reflected the evolving dynamics of this high-stakes meeting. While no breakthrough was achieved, the meeting left the door open for future negotiations. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily Mail 2025-08-16

A young man in his 20s has been arrested for allegedly barging into a blind woman's home in east London. He was staying at the Britannia Hotel, which has recently become a hotspot for protests. The suspect was detained in Hackney in the early hours of this morning, on suspicion of common assault. The drama unfolded on Wednesday night. The man reportedly entered the flat after being pursued by a group of men who told him to "go back to the hotel." This comes amidst tensions with anti-migrant protesters gathering outside the hotel. The Met Police have confirmed he is no longer residing at the hotel. A police spokesperson stated that extensive CCTV checks and witness interviews led to the arrest. The individual is now in police custody. In a related incident, Channay Augustus, 22, who lives at the same flat, has been charged with several offences. These include possession of an offensive weapon, assault on an emergency worker, and common assault. The altercation at the hotel involved a security guard, not the man in question. Augustus is expected to appear at Thames Magistrates' Court today. The Britannia Hotel has been the centre of controversy as Tower Hamlets Council handed it to the Home Office to house asylum seekers. Yesterday, a group of 50 migrants arrived at the hotel, hurried inside by guards to avoid the cameras. Tensions flared last week when anti-migrant protesters clashed with counter-demonstrators. Police intervened, resulting in two arrests: an anti-migrant activist for throwing a bottle and a counter-protester for refusing to remove their face mask. Officers were tasked with keeping peace as both groups gathered in the area, chanting and carrying signs. Record numbers of migrants have reached the UK, defying Labour's attempts to address the issue. Over 50,000 have arrived since the party took power, with 474 migrants crossing on Monday alone. A new type of larger inflatable boat has been spotted, raising questions about Labour’s strategy to manage illegal crossings. The previous Rwanda asylum plan from the Conservative government was shelved by Labour. The plan aimed to deter Channel crossings by relocating migrants to Rwanda for processing. This week saw a record 107 migrants crossing on a single larger dinghy, highlighting the ongoing challenge of border control. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily Mail 2025-08-15

On VJ Day's 80th anniversary, King Charles delivered a heartfelt message urging everyone to remember the sacrifices of veterans who gave "more than freedom." The 76-year-old monarch highlighted the profound devastation caused by the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings, expressing hope that such tragedies never occur again. In a poignant audio message to the UK, realms, and Commonwealth, the King painted a stark picture of the hardship endured by allied prisoners of war. He described their years of brutal captivity, plagued by starvation, disease, and cruelty that pushed human endurance to its limits, leaving lasting mental and physical scars. King Charles vowed that the service and sacrifice of VJ Day heroes "shall never be forgotten." Addressing their families and the now "sadly dwindling band of veterans," he assured them that their courage and camaraderie during humanity's darkest hour remain an eternal flame. This flame, he said, serves as a beacon that honors the past and guides the future. Today, the King and Queen, alongside senior politicians, will gather to mark this poignant anniversary. Their presence reinforces the enduring message of remembrance and gratitude for those who fought for freedom, ensuring their legacy continues to blaze brightly for generations to come. Keir Starmer's message The build-up to today’s commemorations has included a week of events honouring VJ Day veterans. On Thursday, the Prime Minister hosted a reception for veterans in Downing Street. A sunset wreath-laying at the Memorial Gates in London honoured Commonwealth personnel, while dawn saw military pipers play the lament ‘Battle’s O’er’ at key memorial sites. Starmer said: "Eighty years since our victory in the Second World War, we pay our respects to the many who fought, were captured, and made the ultimate sacrifice in the Far East. "Our country owes a great debt to those who fought for a better future, so we could have the freedoms and the life we enjoy today. "We must honour that sacrifice with every new generation." Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Express 2025-08-15

Aid agencies are urgently sounding the alarm over a looming starvation crisis in Myanmar's conflict-stricken Rakhine State. The World Food Programme (WFP) has made an impassioned plea for increased donations to prevent a "full-blown disaster." Since the 2021 military coup, the civil war in Myanmar has crushed the economy and created vast humanitarian needs. The situation in Rakhine is particularly dire due to a military blockade that has isolated the region from the rest of the country, significantly worsening the crisis. The WFP is striving to aid the growing number of displaced individuals, including 140,000 Rohingya Muslims confined to camps since fleeing communal violence in 2012. The agency's efforts are hampered by a dramatic 60% drop in global funding this year, which has severely impacted its operations. Heartbreaking stories highlight the escalating desperation. In one tragic incident, a 50-year-old father in the Ohn Taw Kyi camp resorted to using insecticide on his family's food due to starvation. He died, but quick intervention by neighbours saved his wife and children. This camp, the largest for displaced Rohingya, lies near Sittwe, the capital of Rakhine. Similarly, in June, an entire family in Sittwe reportedly died the same way. Just last week, an elderly couple displaced by recent conflicts took their own lives, overwhelmed by their inability to secure food and funds. The humanitarian situation in Rakhine has been precarious for years. In addition to the 2012 communal violence, the region witnessed the 2017 mass expulsion of Rohingyas. Now, the 2023 military blockade attempts to cut off supplies to the Arakan Army, an insurgent group that controls much of the state. As Sittwe remains besieged, accessible only by sea and air, blocked trade routes have led farmers to abandon their rice harvests, unable to trade or sustain themselves. Rohingya communities face additional struggles, banned from fishing, which has historically been a critical source of food and income. Despite available funds, international aid organisations face significant barriers in reaching areas under the control of the Arakan Army. A camp resident reported a staggering fivefold increase in prices, with scarce job opportunities forcing many to subsist on boiled taro roots. Michael Dunford, the WFP Representative in Myanmar, described the harsh cycle: "People are trapped in conflict, stripped of livelihoods, and left without a safety net." Reports of children crying from hunger and mothers skipping meals underline the gravity of the situation. Adding to the burden, military conscription demands have compelled thousands of Rohingya men to defend Sittwe. Families unable to provide conscripts are financially obligated to support those enlisted, often using their WFP allowances, leading to increased debts. The WFP warns of "alarming signs" of extreme economic distress, seen in rising debt, begging, domestic violence, school dropouts, and human trafficking. While funding shortfalls are partly attributed to various donor countries, a significant factor is the Trump administration's 87% cut to USAID funding. Last year, the US contributed nearly $4.5 billion to the WFP, representing nearly half of the agency's global government donations. This dramatic reduction severely constrains the WFP's capacity to respond effectively to the emergency. Last November, the UN issued a warning of a "famine in the making" in Rakhine. The persisting shortage of essential funding, along with the WFP's ongoing appeals nine months later, starkly reflects the challenging environment confronting international aid efforts today. Adapted by ASEAN Now from the BBC 2025-08-15

Asked and answered, CLOSED

Sorry that's not possible, the lists are populated by the posts made and reactions participation etc. Those lists are either on on of off. To remove them we'd need a substantial number of requests to do do that.