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Retired MMA star Conor McGregor has announced his intention to run for President of Ireland in 2025. Known for his outspoken personality and history in the octagon, McGregor’s declaration has raised eyebrows and stirred debate about the qualifications necessary to lead a nation. The 36-year-old fighter took to social media to express his dissatisfaction with Ireland’s current political landscape, proclaiming himself the “only logical choice” to steer the country. “I would have all the answers the people of Ireland seek from these thieves of the working man,” McGregor boldly stated. His announcement, however, has been met with skepticism, as many question the seriousness and suitability of a former fighter aspiring to the highest office in the land. McGregor’s presidential ambitions are not entirely new, as he has hinted at political aspirations in the past. However, the seriousness of his bid is now being put to the test. While his confidence and charisma have served him well in the world of MMA, leading a nation requires more than bravado and a fighting spirit. The prospect of a fighter-turned-president is a reminder that voters should be cautious of candidates who see politics as a fallback plan when other career paths falter. As McGregor steps into the political ring, Ireland watches with a mix of curiosity and concern. Whether his campaign is a genuine effort to bring change to the country or merely another chapter in the colorful saga of Conor McGregor remains to be seen. Credit: Vice 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

A Pakistani man has been arrested in connection with a chilling ISIS-inspired plot to target a Jewish center in Brooklyn, New York, with the intent to kill “as many Jewish people as possible,” federal prosecutors announced on Friday. The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, allegedly aimed to carry out the attack on the one-year anniversary of Hamas’ October 7th assault on Israel. Khan, who resided in Canada, was apprehended on Wednesday as he attempted to cross the US border to execute his plan. His arrest was confirmed by Attorney General Merrick Garland, who commended the collaboration between US and Canadian law enforcement. "As I said to Canada’s Minister of Public Safety yesterday, we are deeply grateful to our Canadian partners for their critical law enforcement actions in this matter,” Garland stated. He further emphasized that “Jewish communities — like all communities in this country — should not have to fear that they will be targeted by a hate-fueled terrorist attack.” According to the federal complaint, Khan, who also goes by the alias “Shahzeb Jadoon,” had begun sharing ISIS propaganda on social media in 2023, publicly expressing his support for the terror organization. During conversations with undercover FBI agents, Khan revealed that he and another ISIS supporter based in the United States were plotting attacks on Jewish centers across the country. They were actively seeking assault rifles and other materials needed to carry out their planned atrocities. Khan indicated in his messages that the dates of October 7th and October 11th were ideal for targeting Jewish people. He wrote, “Oct 7th and oct 11th are the best days for targeting the jews” because “oct 7 they will surely have some protests and oct 11 is yom.kippur.” He pointed to New York as a prime location for their attack, noting, “New york is perfect to target jews” because it has the “largest Jewish population In america” and asserted that “even if we don’t attack a[n] Event[,] we could rack up easily a lot of jews.” He chillingly claimed, “we are going to nyc to slaughter them,” and even sent a photograph of the intended target, though the specific location was not disclosed by authorities. Khan began his journey toward the US border in three separate vehicles but was intercepted by federal authorities near Ormstown, Quebec, just 12 miles from the US border. If convicted of the charges against him, which include attempting to provide material support and resources to ISIS, Khan could face up to 20 years in prison. The case is currently being overseen by the Manhattan federal prosecutor’s office, though it remains unclear when Khan will be extradited to the United States to face these serious charges. Credit: NYP 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

The rise of far-right politics in eastern Germany shows no signs of slowing down. Ingolf, a former conservative voter in the tiny village of Jämlitz near the Polish border, expresses a sentiment shared by many: “If the old parties had done their jobs properly, then the AfD would not exist.” This reflects a sense of disillusionment among eastern Germans, or “Ossis,” who feel looked down upon by the rest of the country. The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) recently won the most votes in regional elections in Thuringia and is predicted to do the same in Brandenburg’s upcoming election. In Jämlitz and neighboring Klein Düben, support for the AfD has surged, reflecting broader political unrest. Ingolf, who recalls better educational standards during the days of the German Democratic Republic, is frustrated with Germany’s stagnant economy and rising immigration, comparing recent far-right riots in England to “civil war-like conditions”—a narrative fueling fears of potential clashes in Germany’s multicultural communities. “That’s not what we want here in Germany,” he adds, reflecting the general unease in his quiet village. Support for the AfD extends beyond domestic issues. The party’s stance on Ukraine, particularly its call to stop sending weapons to Kyiv, has resonated with many in the east. Yvonne, another local resident, criticizes the financial aid being sent abroad, saying, “This is our tax money that is sent abroad. We have enough things to fix in our own country.” She is also considering supporting the new Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW), another anti-establishment party that opposes arms supplies to Ukraine. While Wagenknecht’s “left-wing conservatism” has propelled her party into the spotlight, critics argue that it represents yet another populist, pro-Putin movement undermining key aspects of German foreign policy. Yvonne’s hesitation to take a firm stance on the Ukraine war illustrates a broader regional ambivalence, particularly among older generations who grew up learning Russian during the GDR years. For them, pacifism remains a deeply ingrained value, especially given Germany’s history with two World Wars. Yvonne expresses concerns about potential escalation: “Poland is not big, and we are then the first ones to go when the tanks come across.” In local elections, 57.5% of voters in Jämlitz backed the AfD, while across the wider district, support was also unusually high at 43.7%. The appeal of the AfD in eastern Germany persists despite the party being officially classified as right-wing extremist in three states. In Thuringia, the AfD recently secured 36% of the vote among those under 30, underscoring its growing influence among younger voters. Despite being viewed as a far-right extremist group, its supporters vehemently reject this label. When visiting a local lake that has been transformed from an open-cast coal mine, most people were reluctant to discuss politics, highlighting the sensitive nature of these conversations in the area. Katrin, a local resident who disapproves of the AfD, sums up the confusion surrounding the party’s popularity: “Half the people here didn’t vote for the AfD,” she reminds us. She finds it difficult to comprehend why so many of her neighbors are drawn to far-right ideology, despite relatively stable living conditions. “Life is actually good for people in the community,” she says, attributing the AfD’s rise to a misguided “grass-is-greener” mentality. Mainstream parties, including those in Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition, are struggling to understand or effectively respond to the success of the AfD and BSW, which are polling at 18% and 8% nationally, respectively. As these fringe movements gain traction, the traditional, consensus-driven nature of German politics is increasingly under threat. Credit: BBC 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

A recent report has accused the BBC of violating its editorial guidelines more than 1,500 times during its coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict, revealing a pattern of alleged bias against Israel. The investigation, led by British lawyer Trevor Asserson, analyzed four months of BBC content across various platforms, including television, radio, online news, podcasts, and social media. The report highlighted that Israel was associated with terms like genocide significantly more than Hamas, raising questions about the BBC's impartiality. Former BBC executive Danny Cohen has called the findings an "institutional crisis" and advocated for an independent inquiry into the broadcaster's coverage of the war. This call was echoed by Jewish groups such as the Campaign Against Antisemitism and the National Jewish Assembly, who criticized the BBC for its perceived lack of neutrality. The Asserson report, which analyzed approximately nine million words of BBC content, identified 1,553 instances where the corporation allegedly breached its guidelines on impartiality, accuracy, editorial values, and public interest. The findings noted that the BBC often portrayed Israel as a militaristic and aggressive state while downplaying acts of terrorism by Hamas. Specific accusations were made against prominent BBC journalists, including Jeremy Bowen and Lyse Doucet, who were alleged to have shown sympathy towards Hamas and minimized the severity of the group’s attacks. The report was particularly critical of the BBC's Arabic channel, which it claimed to be among the most biased in its coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict. It identified instances where BBC reporters had made public statements supporting Hamas, which were not disclosed to viewers. The analysis also found that Israel was associated with war crimes far more frequently than Hamas, despite the latter openly publicizing acts that could constitute such crimes. Public criticism of the BBC intensified following the October 7 massacre in southern Israel, when Hamas killed around 1,200 people and took over 250 hostages. Despite Hamas being officially recognized as a terrorist organization, the report found that the BBC labeled the group as such only 3.2% of the time during the period analyzed. This perceived reluctance to clearly identify Hamas as terrorists drew widespread condemnation, including from MPs and Jewish community leaders. Calls for an independent review of the BBC's coverage have grown louder, with several prominent figures questioning the broadcaster's adherence to its own editorial standards. Sir Oliver Dowden, the shadow deputy prime minister, expressed concern that the BBC’s alleged failure to maintain impartiality could damage its global reputation. Julia Lopez, the shadow culture secretary, warned that any perceived bias undermines public trust in the BBC, particularly in a media landscape increasingly fraught with misinformation. Further criticism came from Lord Austin, who described the BBC’s stance as failing to meet the standards of impartiality that justify its public funding. The Campaign Against Antisemitism has called for fundamental reform of the broadcaster, arguing that a transparent public inquiry is necessary to address the issues raised by the report. Trevor Asserson, a long-standing critic of BBC bias, has launched a new organization, Campaign for Media Standards, aimed at scrutinizing UK media for similar biases. He emphasized that the BBC's deviation from its responsibility as a public service broadcaster to deliver unbiased news, especially in its Arabic content, raises questions about its suitability for continued public funding. Credit: Sunday Telegraph 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Former President Donald Trump has intensified his immigration rhetoric, warning that the removal of migrants from the United States would be a "bloody story" if he is reelected in the upcoming election. Speaking at a campaign rally in Mosinee, Wisconsin, Trump’s remarks aligned closely with the Republican National Committee’s newly unveiled 2024 platform, which advocates for aggressive immigration enforcement and mass deportations. During the rally, Trump declared, “And ya know getting them out will be a bloody story,” referring to his plans for large-scale removal of undocumented immigrants. He emphasized that these individuals “should have never been allowed to come into our country. Nobody checked them.” His comments, which underscore the hardline stance he intends to take on immigration if reelected, were captured in a video posted on X (formerly Twitter) by the account @KamalaHQ. The video quickly gained traction, amassing over 260,000 views. The Republican National Committee (RNC) formalized its new immigration policy priorities on July 15 during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. The platform positions the GOP firmly against the “open-border policies” they claim have led to a surge in illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and migrant crime. Among the key points are plans to seal the border, carry out the largest deportation operation in American history, and crack down on foreign drug cartels and gang violence. The platform also promises to reinstate policies from Trump’s previous administration, such as the "Remain in Mexico" policy, and to complete the border wall. Ohio Senator JD Vance, Trump’s vice-presidential pick, echoed Trump’s sentiments at the convention, emphasizing the necessity of deporting individuals who have violated U.S. laws. Vance’s campaign has been particularly explicit, asserting that “We need to deport every single person who invaded our country illegally.” Trump has claimed that between 15 and 20 million people could be deported under his plan, though official estimates place the number of undocumented migrants in the U.S. at around 11 million. Vance’s aggressive stance on immigration, however, contrasts with his personal life. His wife, Usha, is the daughter of Indian immigrants, whom he has praised for enriching the country. This has sparked some criticism from extremist figures within Trump’s Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, questioning the authenticity of Vance’s views. Additionally, some Republican lawmakers have raised concerns about the feasibility of mass deportations. Representative Tony Gonzales, a Texas Republican representing the largest stretch of the U.S.-Mexico border, has expressed doubts, stating, “You’re not going to round up 10 million people and deport them. It’s simple—you do not have the infrastructure to do that.” The immigration debate has become increasingly heated as both major political parties present starkly different visions ahead of the 2024 election. While Trump and the RNC advocate for a stringent, enforcement-focused approach, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, has committed to reviving President Joe Biden’s failed bipartisan border security bill. Recent data from the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse indicates that over 620,000 immigration court deportation cases were filed in fiscal year 2023, resulting in approximately 236,000 removals—a figure surpassing the peak of 187,000 removals during Trump’s administration in 2019. Gonzales has also warned that a complete border shutdown would severely impact industries across the country, emphasizing that “There’s not one industry that is not tied to the U.S.-Mexico border.” Credit: Newsweek 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

A network of nearly two dozen websites with ties to Tehran is the latest pro-Iranian effort aimed at influencing specific groups of U.S. voters, including minorities and veterans. These fake news websites, identified by a neoconservative think tank, have been spreading disinformation related to the upcoming U.S. elections, raising concerns about Iran's growing interference in the U.S. electoral process. Researchers from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) discovered a network of at least 19 websites posing as news or analysis platforms. Among them is “Afro Majority,” a site promoting Vice President Kamala Harris and Black Lives Matter, and “Not Our War,” which criticizes both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, targeting U.S. veterans. These findings, shared exclusively with POLITICO, suggest a coordinated and expansive influence operation. Five of the websites had been previously identified by other researchers, but the FDD findings indicate they are part of a broader, organized effort. All the sites were found to disseminate at least some pro-Iranian fake news or opinion pieces, such as content praising the Iranian government’s response to recent protests on U.S. college campuses against the war in Gaza. While FDD did not directly link these sites to the Iranian government, five had been previously connected to Tehran by other organizations. Microsoft had earlier exposed two of these websites, “Savannah Time” and “Nio Thinker,” as having ties to the Iranian government. Savannah Time masqueraded as a news outlet for Savannah, Georgia, a critical swing state, while Nio Thinker posed as a left-leaning site aimed at reducing support for Trump. OpenAI also flagged these sites, along with others, as part of an “Iranian influence operation.” Another site, “Westland Sun,” was found to target voters in Michigan, another key swing state in the upcoming election. Many of these websites utilized artificial intelligence, including OpenAI’s ChatGPT, to generate their content. Despite being hosted on servers outside the U.S., these websites continue to operate, even those initially identified by Microsoft and OpenAI. FDD has called on the U.S. government to collaborate with international partners to take down these sites. FDD experts informed the Biden administration of their findings before publication but did not specify which agencies were involved. Both the White House and the FBI declined to comment when contacted by POLITICO. Max Lesser, a senior analyst on emerging threats at FDD and one of the report’s authors, stated that the investigation began after Microsoft and OpenAI’s findings were released. “When we first looked at this web hosting server, we saw a lot of domains,” Lesser explained. “We don’t believe that every domain on that server is related, but when we came through and actually looked at each domain on the primary server that was shared between the three domains that Microsoft exposed… we found that these appear to be Iranian influence operations.” Though many of the websites appeared sophisticated at first glance, most lacked author bylines, and those that did often featured nonexistent individuals. Social media accounts linked to the sites were also found to be inoperative. These findings were disclosed weeks after the Trump campaign suffered a hack and leak operation, which U.S. agencies attributed to the Iranian government. The Biden and Harris campaigns were similarly targeted. Additionally, Google Cloud’s Mandiant recently published evidence of an Iranian counterintelligence operation using fake pro-Israeli websites to identify potential dissidents in Iran and abroad who might support Israel. Credit: Politico 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has sharply criticized the Conservative Party, accusing them of leaving the National Health Service (NHS) in an "unforgivable" condition. Starmer stated that the Tories began siphoning funds from the NHS when they came to power in 2010 and implemented a series of "hopelessly misconceived" reforms that have left the health service in a dire state. Starmer’s comments come ahead of a much-anticipated report by former health minister and surgeon Ara Darzi, set to be released this Thursday. The report, expected to be candid and thorough, is likely to reveal the severe challenges currently facing the NHS, particularly in the realm of children's care. Starmer remarked, "Everybody watching this who has used the NHS, or whose relatives have, know that it’s broken, they know that it’s broken, that is unforgivable, the state of our NHS." He further elaborated that the financial cuts imposed on the NHS during the early years of the coalition government from 2010, along with the ill-conceived Lansley reforms, significantly contributed to the current state of the health service. "The money that was taken out of the NHS, particularly in the early years of the coalition from 2010 onwards, the Lansley reforms, which were hopelessly misconceived, and then of course Covid on top of all that, which has put us in this awful position for the NHS," Starmer said. The Lansley reforms brought about a sweeping transformation of the NHS's management and bureaucratic framework, emphasizing competition and market-based approaches to care provision. However, these changes coincided with increasing pressure on hospitals and GPs due to a growing and aging population, along with a significant slowdown in government funding. Health experts have criticized the reforms, describing them as "damaging and distracting" and pointing to their role in exacerbating the crises within the NHS. Lord Darzi’s forthcoming report is expected to expose the full extent of the crisis, particularly in children's healthcare. It is anticipated to highlight the troubling statistics, including 100,000 infants left waiting for more than six hours in A&E departments last year and a 60 percent increase in waiting times for infants since 2010. Additionally, it will reveal that around 800,000 children and young people are currently on NHS waiting lists, with 175,000 waiting between six and 12 months and 35,000 waiting more than a year. The report is also likely to draw attention to falling vaccination rates among children, a rise in ADHD prescriptions, and a surge in hospital admissions for children and young people with eating disorders. In his interview, Starmer emphasized that the report will underscore the impact of these policies on children's health, particularly those from the most deprived backgrounds. He said, "It’s the last government that broke the NHS. Our job now through Lord Darzi is to properly understand how that came about and bring about the reforms, starting with the first steps, the 40,000 extra appointments. But we’ve got to do the hard yards of reform as well. And as I say, I think it’s only a Labour government that can do the reform that our NHS needs, and we’ll start on that journey." Tory shadow health secretary Victoria Atkins responded to Starmer's comments by accusing Labour of politicizing children's health rather than offering solutions for NHS reform. She remarked, "Labour’s instinct is to politicize children’s health, rather than provide solutions and reform of our NHS... Labour should stop politicizing our children’s health and the NHS if they are serious about reform." Atkins defended the Conservative government's record, highlighting their efforts to bring more doctors, nurses, and investment into the NHS, including mental health services, and criticized Labour for failing to offer substantial plans for NHS reform since the election. Credit: The Independent 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

The recent revelations by the U.S. government have exposed the alarming scale of Russia's covert efforts to influence the upcoming American presidential election. As Moscow wages a brutal war in Ukraine, it simultaneously deploys subtler, yet equally dangerous, tactics against the West, aiming to tip the scales in favor of Donald Trump and undermine Washington’s support for Kyiv. It is time for Washington and its allies to take a stand and fight back. According to the U.S. Justice Department, Russian state media outlet RT (formerly Russia Today) funneled $10 million to a U.S.-based company as part of a scheme to create and distribute content laced with hidden Russian government messaging. The company, founded by former RT employees, produced content that infiltrated American social media platforms, often employing contracted American pundits. One such commentator falsely accused Ukraine of orchestrating a terror attack in Moscow, which was, in reality, committed by ISIS. The Justice Department also implicated RaHDit, a hacker group with ties to Russian intelligence, in spreading RT’s disinformation and propaganda. Additionally, the Kremlin directed three Russian companies to covertly spread Russian government propaganda aimed at weakening support for Ukraine and influencing elections in the U.S. and other Western countries. Using fake social media profiles, fabricated influencers, and impersonations of legitimate news websites, these companies spread content designed to sow discord among American voters. Internal documents from one of these companies revealed a targeted effort to sway voters in key swing states by exploiting divisive themes such as job loss for white Americans and crimes allegedly committed by people of color and immigrants, including new arrivals from Ukraine. This type of interference is not new. During the Cold War, Soviet operatives regularly conducted covert “active measures” to weaken or influence the United States and other nations. Today, Moscow employs a similar playbook, updated for the digital age, where social media accelerates the spread of disinformation with greater precision. U.S. intelligence now views Russia as the “predominant threat to U.S. elections.” Despite increased scrutiny, Moscow continues to refine its tactics, using front companies, fake social media accounts, and even artificial intelligence to create deep fakes and bolster its online bots. Russia’s meddling extends beyond U.S. borders. Earlier this year, Moscow was accused of attempting to interfere in the UK and EU political arenas, as well as in the upcoming presidential elections in Moldova and Georgia. The Kremlin has become adept at exploiting political, cultural, and socioeconomic divisions in Western countries, seizing on issues such as abortion, gun control, and migration to weaken the West and bolster its preferred candidates. Since Russia’s interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, Washington has taken steps to safeguard its electoral processes and expose Russian influence operations. However, these efforts, while necessary, are insufficient. The U.S. and its allies must go on the offensive, conducting their own information operations to undermine Putin’s regime both within Russia and abroad. These operations should not aim to promote the American Dream but rather focus on messages that will resonate with targeted audiences, such as ethnic minorities in Russia who face systemic repression and have suffered disproportionately in Putin’s war on Ukraine. Additionally, the West should challenge Moscow’s influence in the Global South, where Russian propaganda often enjoys more popularity than Western media. Information operations have become a key tool in Russia’s strategy to weaken America and its allies. The U.S. must modernize its approach to information warfare and confront Moscow with the same intensity it is facing. Only by giving Putin a taste of his own medicine can Washington hope to effectively compete against Moscow in the information space. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-09-09 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

The international world order is facing a level of threat not seen since the Cold War, according to the heads of the UK's MI6 and the US's CIA. In a rare joint article, Sir Richard Moore and William Burns expressed deep concern about the global challenges that have emerged, particularly highlighting the ongoing war in Ukraine as a critical point of focus. Writing in the Financial Times, the two intelligence chiefs stressed the unity between the UK and the US in resisting an increasingly assertive Russia and President Vladimir Putin's aggressive actions in Ukraine. They emphasized that their agencies had anticipated the war, allowing them to warn the international community by declassifying crucial information to aid Kyiv. Beyond Ukraine, the intelligence leaders noted efforts to "disrupt the reckless campaign of sabotage" being carried out across Europe by Russian intelligence. They also referenced their ongoing work to promote de-escalation in the Israel-Gaza conflict and to counter the resurgence of the Islamic State (IS). In their op-ed, Moore and Burns wrote, “There is no question that the international world order – the balanced system that has led to relative peace and stability and delivered rising living standards, opportunities, and prosperity – is under threat in a way we haven’t seen since the Cold War.” They underscored that “successfully combating this risk” is fundamental to the longstanding special relationship between the UK and the US. Among the array of unprecedented threats faced by both nations, the war in Ukraine remains a top priority. Now in its third year following Russia's invasion in February 2022, the conflict has underscored the importance of steadfast support for Ukraine. The intelligence chiefs asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin “will not succeed,” reinforcing the critical nature of sustained international backing for Ukraine. Moore and Burns also pointed to the broader efforts against Russian influence, particularly its attempts to use technology to spread misinformation and create divisions within the international community. The rise of China was identified as the primary intelligence and geopolitical challenge of this century, prompting both agencies to reorganize their operations to address this priority. In addition to addressing the threats posed by Russia and China, the intelligence chiefs highlighted their efforts in the Middle East, particularly in response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. They have worked “ceaselessly” to secure a ceasefire and negotiate hostage deals, pushing for restraint and de-escalation in a region that remains highly volatile. The joint appearance and coordinated message from the heads of MI6 and the CIA underscore the gravity of the current global situation, as well as the importance of continued collaboration between the UK and the US in navigating these complex challenges. Credit: BBC 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Another off topic troll post removed @beautifulthailand99

Donald Trump's sentencing in his Manhattan hush money criminal trial has been delayed until after the November 2024 presidential election. On Friday, Judge Juan Merchan announced that the sentencing would now take place on 26 November, citing "the unique time frame this matter currently finds itself in" as one of the reasons for the delay. Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, has managed to postpone his sentencing through various legal maneuvers. The sentencing was originally scheduled for 18 September, following his conviction in May on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. This historic verdict marked the first time a sitting or former president of the United States has been convicted of a crime. In his decision, Judge Merchan emphasized that the case requires "a sentencing hearing that is entirely focused on the verdict of the jury." He stressed the importance of ensuring that the jury's verdict is "respected and addressed in a manner that is not diluted by the enormity of the upcoming presidential election." By setting the sentencing three weeks after the 5 November election, the judge aims to "avoid any appearance—however unwarranted—that the proceeding has been affected by or seeks to affect the approaching presidential election in which the Defendant is a candidate." He reaffirmed that the court remains "a fair, impartial, and apolitical institution." Trump faces the possibility of up to four years in prison, but Judge Merchan has the discretion to impose a lesser punishment, such as a fine, probation, or a shorter jail term. Prosecutors accused Trump of concealing a payment to silence Stormy Daniels, a former adult-film star, during the final days of his 2016 election campaign. Daniels testified that she and Trump had a sexual encounter and that she accepted $130,000 from his former lawyer before the election to keep quiet about it. Prosecutors argued that Trump broke election law by disguising the payment as legal expenses. Trump's sentencing was initially set for July but was delayed after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling granted presidents some immunity from criminal prosecution for "official acts." This ruling led Judge Merchan to grant a further delay to allow both parties to prepare arguments on the implications of the Supreme Court's decision, with a final decision on those implications expected on 12 November. While Judge Merchan has already dismissed some of Trump's lawyers' arguments for delay as "unsubstantiated grievances," he noted that sentencing hearings are routinely delayed in other cases for various reasons, such as personal circumstances or scheduling conflicts. He stated that there is "no reason why this Defendant should be treated differently than any other" given the unique circumstances of the case. The judge also expressed hope that his decision to delay the sentencing would "dispel any suggestion" that the court's actions were influenced by political considerations. Trump has consistently maintained his innocence, telling Fox News that the "case should be dead." On his social media platform, Truth Social, he reiterated his claims of innocence, calling the case a "witch hunt" and a "political attack." He wrote that the case "should be rightfully terminated" as he prepares for "the Most Important Election in the History of our Country." A spokesperson for Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, whose office brought the charges against Trump, stated that his team was "ready for sentencing on the new date set by the court." If Trump were to return to the White House, he would have the power to pardon himself of any federal crimes. However, the New York case, as well as the election interference case in Georgia, involves state charges, and presidents do not have the authority to pardon individuals convicted in state courts. Credit: BBC 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

A Russian Language Video has been removed as has a post containing a quote and link from a Paywall site. "All video content must be from a credible media source, and in English. Foreign languages, even with subtitles, are not permitted."

Reports have emerged that North Korea may have executed multiple officials following the severe flooding in July that caused catastrophic damage, destroying thousands of homes and leaving up to 1,500 people either dead or missing. According to South Korea’s national intelligence service, the regime in Pyongyang has reportedly taken drastic action, allegedly carrying out executions of officials deemed responsible for the destruction caused by the floods. The intelligence service stated that it has "detected signs" that Kim Jong-un, North Korea's leader, ordered the execution of 20 to 30 officials. These officials were accused of corruption and dereliction of duty in their handling of the disaster. The South Korean news agency Yonhap reported that during an emergency meeting of the ruling party's politburo, Kim Jong-un had vowed to "strictly punish" those responsible for the damage. The floods, which were triggered by heavy rains, devastated the northern provinces of Jagang and North Pyongan, destroying thousands of hectares of farmland and displacing countless residents. Despite the severity of the situation, North Korean state media has not mentioned any executions, and the reports have not been independently verified. However, TV Chosun, another South Korean outlet, cited an unnamed North Korean official who confirmed that "around 20 to 30 leaders were charged with corruption and dereliction of duty. They have been sentenced to capital punishment." Among those reportedly executed was Kang Pong-hun, the former chief secretary of the Jagang provincial committee of the ruling party. South Korean media also reported that other senior officials, including the public security minister, Ri Thae-sop, were dismissed during the politburo meeting in late July. The situation underscores the brutal measures the North Korean regime is willing to take in response to crises, even when natural disasters are involved. Amidst the reports of executions, Kim Jong-un was seen personally overseeing flood relief efforts. State media released images of him aboard a dinghy in Sinuiju and Uiju County in North Pyongan province, directing an operation that reportedly rescued around 5,000 people trapped by the floodwaters using military helicopters. Despite these efforts, the devastation has left many in a dire situation. A resident from Ryanggang province told Radio Free Asia that the flooding had created a "life-threatening" situation for those in the affected areas. North Korea's vulnerability to natural disasters is exacerbated by its weak infrastructure and its reluctance to accept international aid. The country has a long history of suffering from severe weather events, which have had devastating consequences. In 2012, a rainstorm killed an estimated 169 people, and the country experienced a famine from 1994 to 1998, partly caused by a series of floods and droughts that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of thousands. More recently, in 2016, international aid agencies appealed for millions of dollars in relief funds after typhoon-triggered floods in North Korea's remote northeast left 70,000 people homeless and 600,000 others in desperate need of assistance. The current reports of executions highlight the extreme measures the North Korean government may take in response to internal failures, even as the country continues to grapple with the aftermath of natural disasters that threaten the lives and livelihoods of its people. Credit: The Guardian 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

The UK government is exploring the possibility of sending offenders to Estonia to address the severe overcrowding in British prisons. According to Sky News, this proposal is one of several options under consideration as the prison system in England and Wales faces extreme pressure, with only around 1,000 spaces reportedly remaining. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has repeatedly warned that the escalating overcrowding crisis could undermine law and order unless immediate action is taken to reduce the strain on the prison system. The problem has been exacerbated in recent months, particularly following riots triggered by the Southport stabbings. Last month, it was reported that there were just 100 spare spaces left in male prisons across the region, bringing the system dangerously close to full capacity. To alleviate the crisis, the government has already implemented several controversial measures, including the early release of prisoners who have served just 40% of their sentences. Typically, offenders in England and Wales, except for the most serious, are released on licence after serving 50% of their sentences. However, this threshold has now been reduced in a bid to free up more prison space. Magistrates have also been advised to consider delaying sentencing for certain offenders to help manage the overcrowding issue. A Ministry of Justice spokesperson stated, “The new government inherited a justice system in crisis, with prisons on the point of collapse. We will continue to investigate all viable options to increase the number of places in the prisons estate so we can keep locking up dangerous criminals and protect the public.” The concept of sending UK prisoners to Estonia was first proposed by former Justice Secretary Alex Chalk. At last year's Conservative Party conference, Chalk revealed that the previous government, under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, had initiated exploratory talks with several European countries to potentially rent prison space abroad. The proposal stipulated that any agreements with foreign prisons would need to meet UK standards in terms of facilities and rehabilitation programs. This approach mirrors actions taken by Belgium and Norway, which have rented prison space in the Netherlands over the past decade. In her first address as Justice Secretary, Mahmood criticized the previous administration, accusing Sunak and his team of failing to act on clear warnings about the state of the prison system. “Rishi Sunak and his gang in Number 10 were too weak to heed the warning signs that were flashing,” she said. According to leaked documents, more than 10,000 prisoners were released early between October last year and June this year under the previous government’s policies, highlighting the ongoing struggle to manage the prison population. The current administration continues to explore all possible solutions, including the controversial option of relocating prisoners abroad, as it seeks to address one of the most pressing issues facing the UK justice system today. Credit: Sky News 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

A new study by UK researchers has found that hypertonic saline nasal drops can significantly reduce the duration of cold symptoms in children, cutting the illness short by two days. This inexpensive and straightforward method not only helps kids recover faster but also lowers the risk of spreading the virus to family members. “Children have up to 10 to 12 upper respiratory tract infections, what we refer to as colds, per year, which have a big impact on them and their families,” said Steve Cunningham, a professor at the University of Edinburgh. “There are medicines to improve symptoms, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, but no treatments that can make a cold get better quicker.” In the study, researchers demonstrated to parents how to make and administer saltwater drops to their children's noses. Each child received three drops in each nostril at least four times a day until their symptoms subsided. The study included 150 children who received the saline drops and 151 who continued with their usual cold treatments. “We found that children using salt water nose drops had cold symptoms for an average of six days where those with usual care had symptoms for eight days,” Cunningham explained. “The children receiving salt water nose drops also needed fewer medicines during their illness.” The study also revealed that families using the nasal drops experienced a lower transmission rate of colds, with only 46% of these households reporting additional family members catching the virus, compared to 61% in households that followed typical treatment methods. The nasal drops were well-received by parents, with 82% reporting that the drops helped their child recover quickly, and 81% expressing their willingness to use them in the future. This positive feedback suggests a practical and effective approach to managing common colds in children. These findings will soon be presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress in Vienna, Austria. Chief investigator Sandeep Ramalingam, a consultant virologist, noted that using saltwater solutions to treat colds is a common practice in South Asia, highlighting the simplicity and accessibility of this approach. Cunningham explained the science behind the effectiveness of the nasal drops, stating that the chloride in the saline solution helps the cells lining the respiratory tract produce hypochlorous acid, a natural defense against viruses. “By giving extra chloride to the lining cells, this helps the cells produce more hypochlorous acid, which helps suppress viral replication, reducing the length of the virus infection, and therefore the duration of symptoms,” Cunningham said. This study offers hope for parents seeking a safe, affordable, and efficient way to manage colds in children, potentially changing the way we approach this common illness in the future. Credit: Sky News 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

White House Condemns Tucker Carlson’s Interview with Holocaust Denier as “Disgusting and Sadistic Insult The Biden administration has strongly condemned far-right commentator Tucker Carlson after he hosted an interview with Darryl Cooper, a podcaster who suggested that the Holocaust was an unintended consequence rather than the deliberate, systematic extermination of Jews by Nazi Germany. The White House described the interview as "a disgusting and sadistic insult to all Americans." On Thursday, the White House entered the fray with a statement released through CNN. Senior Deputy Press Secretary Andrew Bates denounced the interview, saying, "Giving a microphone to a Holocaust denier who spreads Nazi propaganda is a disgusting and sadistic insult to all Americans, to the memory of the over 6 million Jews who were genocidally murdered by Adolf Hitler, to the service of the millions of Americans who fought to defeat Nazism, and to every subsequent victim of Antisemitism." Bates also refuted Cooper's claim about Churchill, stating, "Hitler was one of the most evil figures in human history and the ‘chief villain’ of World War II, full stop." The administration emphasized that "trafficking in this moral rot is unacceptable at any time, let alone less than one year after the deadliest massacre perpetrated against the Jewish people since the Holocaust and at a time when the cancer of Antisemitism is growing all over the world." Carlson responded to the White House’s condemnation with sharp criticism, accusing the administration of warmongering. “The fact that these lunatics have used the Churchill myth to bring our country closer to nuclear war than at any moment in history disgusts me, and should terrify every American,” Carlson stated in a text message to CNN. “They’re warmonger freaks. They don’t get the moral high ground.” Numerous commentators have highlighted inaccuracies in Cooper’s statements, particularly his assertion that the Nazis “went in with no plan” for housing millions of prisoners of war, which resulted in millions of deaths. Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, condemned the interview as “truly revolting.” Greenblatt clarified, “The Nazis’ extensive network of concentration, forced labor, and death camps was part of Hitler’s deliberate plan to exterminate the Jewish people. Inmates didn’t just ‘end up dead’ and they did not ‘surrender.’” Since being dismissed from Fox News a year and a half ago, Carlson has continued to stir controversy through his online videos and public appearances. Despite the outrage surrounding his latest interview, Carlson remains a prominent figure within the Republican Party. He was given a prime time speaking slot at the party’s convention in Milwaukee last month and is set to embark on a live speaking tour across the country this fall. Donald Trump’s vice presidential nominee, JD Vance, is expected to join Carlson at an event in Hershey, Pennsylvania, later this month. However, the Cooper interview has raised questions among conservative columnists about whether Vance will continue to associate with Carlson. In response, the Vance campaign issued a statement distancing the senator from the interview, stating, "Senator Vance doesn’t believe in guilt-by-association cancel culture but he obviously does not share the views of the guest interviewed by Tucker Carlson." Credit: CNN 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has emphasized the "moral imperative" to dismantle the criminal networks facilitating dangerous small boat crossings to the UK. Her statement comes ahead of a critical summit involving ministers, intelligence agencies, and law enforcement officials. The meeting follows a tragic incident in which 12 people, including six children and a pregnant woman, lost their lives attempting to cross the English Channel—the deadliest such event in 2024. The devastating incident has brought renewed scrutiny to the government’s strategy for addressing the crisis. Conservative shadow home secretary James Cleverly criticized the government, stating that merely "talking about 'smashing the gangs'" is insufficient given the serious real-life consequences. Yvette Cooper echoed the urgency of the situation, describing how people had been "packed into an unsafe boat which literally collapsed in the water." She reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring that these networks are dismantled and brought to justice. To date, more than 21,000 people have made the perilous crossing this year—slightly more than the same period last year, but still 20% lower than in 2022. Following the scrapping of the previous Conservative government's Rwanda plan, which aimed to curb the number of crossings, the current Labour government faces mounting pressure to prove the effectiveness of its approach. The government has vowed to focus on disrupting smuggling gangs, with Mr. Cleverly advocating for the re-establishment of the Rwanda policy to "stop vulnerable people being exploited and secure our border." The summit, chaired by Ms. Cooper, includes participation from Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, Attorney General Lord Hermer, and representatives from the National Crime Agency (NCA), Border Forces, and the Crown Prosecution Service. NCA head Graeme Biggar is expected to highlight recent successes, including cooperation with Bulgaria that led to the seizure of more than 40 small boats and engines, which could have been used to transport 2,400 people across the Channel. Since last spring, the NCA has seized more than 410 small boats and engines and is currently involved in 70 other investigations, including raids on warehouses in Libya where migrants were being held. The Home Office has announced a "rapid" recruitment of a border security command chief to target these gangs, though no appointment has yet been made. Downing Street has promised an announcement "in the next few weeks." Ms. Cooper highlighted the "encouraging progress" made over the past two months, citing significant seizures of boats and equipment in Europe. She stressed the need for continued efforts, stating that the Border Security Command would unite relevant bodies to investigate, arrest, and prosecute these networks while deepening ties with international partners. Ms. Cooper also emphasized the government's commitment to swiftly removing individuals with no right to remain in the UK, aiming to establish a "fair, firm and functioning asylum system" where the rules are both respected and enforced. The Home Office pointed to a "reset in the relationship with Europe" that has resulted in a 50% increase in NCA officers based with Europol and the deployment of officers to Romania and Southeast Asian countries where gangs are promoting Channel crossings. The recent tragedy in the Channel, the department argued, underscores the "increasingly extreme measures the gangs are willing to contemplate as more people are crammed into less seaworthy vessels." Intelligence reports indicate that smugglers have raised the prices for migrants to cross the Channel, including charging for children to board boats, as their business model faces growing pressure from UK and partner law enforcement. Steve Smith, head of the charity Care4Calais, contended that the "only way to stop the crossings is to create safe routes for people to claim asylum in the UK," urging the government to focus on this solution. Christa Rottensteiner, chief of the UN’s migration agency, echoed this sentiment, stating that more safe and legal routes would reduce demand for smugglers. She also stressed the importance of "good international cooperation" in tackling smuggling along the entire migration route. However, Tony Smith, the former head of the UK Border Force, expressed hope that the government would reconsider scrapping the Rwanda scheme. He argued that the UK must make it clear to migrants in France that getting into a small boat will not guarantee a stay in the UK and that they are likely to be relocated elsewhere. Credit: BBC 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Vice President Kamala Harris seems to be a politician plagued by contradictions, repeatedly shifting her stance on key issues while attempting to present a clear image to the American public. Her campaign, marred by inconsistencies, highlights a troubling pattern of flip-flopping that raises questions about her convictions and respect for voters. Recently, Axios' Alex Thompson reported on a "lengthy 'fact-check'" circulated by Harris' team to media allies, attempting to revise her past positions on controversial policies. One of the key points was that Harris “does not support an electric vehicle mandate,” a statement that contradicts her earlier legislative actions. This isn’t so much a fact-check as it is a blatant reversal on a significant issue. Back in 2019, Harris co-sponsored a bill aiming to phase out gas-powered vehicles by 2040, pushing for all automobiles to be electric or hydrogen-powered. During her 2020 presidential bid, she even advocated for an accelerated transition by 2035. Yet, when pressed recently on whether she would support the bill she once championed, Harris’ campaign declined to respond for days, ultimately refusing to clarify her stance. This evasiveness leaves voters questioning where she truly stands. It seems Harris is trying to reap the political benefits of distancing herself from a now-unpopular position without directly addressing it. The mixed signals suggest a strategy designed to appeal to moderates while keeping the door open for progressive support. “I don’t support an electric vehicle mandate, but I just might sign one into law,” appears to be the unspoken message, leaving the public guessing about her true intentions. Harris' approach might seem brazen, but it has political logic. With significant media backing, she appears to believe she can craft her narrative without facing the fallout of her past positions. By reshaping her policies in press releases rather than openly addressing them, she aims to appeal to both independent voters and progressives who hope she will revert to her original stances once in office. Harris' political maneuvering doesn’t end with policy; it extends to her public persona. She has been criticized for adopting exaggerated accents when speaking to different audiences, a tactic some see as pandering. This behavior underscores a cynical strategy that only someone as unrestrained as Harris could pursue—shifting styles and messages to fit the crowd, often without consistency or sincerity. Imagine responding with “No comment” during a job interview or altering your speech to mimic your interviewer’s background. Harris, however, seems unbothered by such tactics while making her case to lead the country. Her campaign is not just an exercise in typical political flip-flopping; it’s an embodiment of strategic ambiguity designed to please everyone, yet truly satisfying no one. Politicians have always twisted truths and adapted to suit their needs, but Harris’ lack of a clear vision, coupled with her refusal to firmly articulate her positions, shows a profound disregard for voters. Her recent political pivots are reminiscent of her previous run for the White House, where she supported positions like dismantling private health insurance, defunding the police, abolishing ICE, and embracing the Green New Deal. Now, she claims to oppose all those initiatives, yet insists her “values have not changed.” Each time, there's a figurative wink, signaling yet another shift without a straightforward explanation. Harris' attempt to distance herself from her failed 2020 campaign may be understandable, but the shallow, performative nature of her rebranding efforts is insulting. Her strategy of trying to simultaneously appease the far left while luring back moderates leaves both sides uneasy and raises a critical question: just how little does Kamala Harris think of the American people? As Harris continues her opaque campaign, voters deserve more than evasive answers and carefully curated narratives. The lack of transparency and consistency from someone seeking the highest office in the land is not just disappointing—it’s a disservice to the very people she aims to lead. Credit: NYP 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

The push to legalize assisted dying in England and Wales has taken a significant step forward after Labour MP Jake Richards won a ballot allowing him to introduce a Private Member’s Bill. Richards, representing Rother Valley, has expressed his determination to reform what he describes as "archaic" laws surrounding assisted dying, a practice currently considered a criminal offense in the region. Though Richards did not secure a top seven spot in the ballot—which would have guaranteed him a full day’s debate—he was drawn in 11th position. This placement likely ensures that he will have the opportunity to present his Bill to the Commons during a Friday sitting, bringing the contentious issue of assisted dying closer to parliamentary discussion. Assisting someone to end their life remains illegal in England and Wales, but there is growing support for reform. Richards has aligned himself with organizations like Dignity in Dying, advocating for changes that would allow terminally ill individuals to make autonomous decisions about their death. "The time has come," Richards tweeted, signaling his commitment to the cause. This renewed push for legislative change comes as the topic of assisted dying gains attention both in the UK and internationally. Lord Falconer, a former Labour justice secretary, has introduced the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults Bill in the House of Lords, with a debate expected in mid-November. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has also acknowledged the need for debate on the issue, although he remains undecided on the matter. Not everyone supports the proposed changes. Ross Hendry, chief executive of Christian Action, Research and Education, voiced strong opposition, arguing that what he calls "assisted suicide" undermines human dignity and could put vulnerable individuals at greater risk. Hendry emphasized the importance of investing in high-quality palliative care and enhancing suicide prevention efforts. "UK politicians should ensure that investment and infrastructure are in place to ensure high-quality palliative care for all people," Hendry stated, pointing to what he sees as a chronic underfunding of this aspect of healthcare. On the other side of the debate, Nathan Stilwell from the campaign group My Death, My Decision, argued that Richards' proposed Bill represents "the first step in changing the law to give adults a compassionate and dignified choice at the end of their lives." This sentiment reflects a broader movement toward legalizing assisted dying, particularly in light of public figures like television presenter Dame Esther Rantzen, who recently revealed her decision to join Dignitas following her cancer diagnosis. The outcome of the ballot was heavily skewed in favor of Labour, with the party securing 15 out of the 20 available spots for Private Member’s Bills. This leaves the Conservative Party without any representatives in the top positions, a fact that could influence the direction of upcoming debates. Among the first seven MPs to secure a place in the ballot were Labour’s former shadow defense secretary Clive Lewis and Traditional Unionist Voice MP Jim Allister. As the successful MPs prepare to present their Bills to the Commons on October 16, the debate over assisted dying is set to intensify. Richards’ efforts to bring this issue to the forefront could mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing discussion about how society views and legislates the right to die. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

In a recent policy speech, former President Donald Trump announced his intention to ban undocumented immigrants from obtaining home mortgages, a move he argued would help curb rising home prices. This proposal, however, has generated significant debate, as these borrowers make up a small fraction of the U.S. housing market. Trump, the Republican nominee for the 2024 presidential election, made his remarks during an address to the Economic Club of New York, positioning his mortgage ban as a solution to the nation's housing affordability crisis. "The flood of undocumented immigrants is driving up housing costs," Trump declared, stating that his plan would "ban mortgages for illegal aliens." However, he did not provide specifics on how this ban would be implemented. Undocumented immigrants in the U.S. can legally obtain mortgages through special loans designed for taxpayers without Social Security numbers. These loans, while legal, are not widespread. Researchers at the Urban Institute estimate that only 5,000 to 6,000 such mortgages were issued last year. In contrast, over 3.4 million mortgages were granted to all homebuyers in 2023, according to federal data. Trump’s remarks come at a time when housing remains a critical issue for American voters. The pandemic led to unprecedented increases in rent and home prices, and mortgage rates have soared to levels not seen in over two decades. In a recent Wall Street Journal poll, housing ranked as the second-biggest inflation concern for voters, following groceries. Despite Trump's assertions, many affordable housing advocates and real estate professionals believe his mortgage ban would have little impact on home prices. David Dworkin, president of the National Housing Conference, expressed frustration that such a small segment of the market was being targeted. “It’s unfortunate that given the significant housing affordability crisis that is widely acknowledged across most partisan lines, we are arguing about a minuscule segment of the market,” he said. Gary Acosta, CEO of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, criticized the proposal as a political tactic to vilify immigrants. “It’s just another effort to vilify immigrants and to continue to scapegoat them for any issues that we have here in the United States,” Acosta said. He also noted that mortgage loans for undocumented immigrants typically come with higher interest rates and are often issued by regional credit unions and community development financial institutions. While Trump’s mortgage ban has garnered attention, it remains unclear how much it would affect the broader housing market. Residential real estate purchases by foreign nationals, a related but separate issue, are far more significant, especially in cities like New York and Los Angeles. Yet, these sales have been declining, with many foreign buyers opting to pay cash rather than seek mortgage financing. In addition to the proposed mortgage ban, Trump outlined other measures aimed at reducing housing costs, including cutting regulations for builders and expanding development on federal land. These ideas echo similar proposals from Vice President Kamala Harris, who has also been vocal on housing issues during her campaign. As the 2024 election approaches, housing is likely to remain a key issue for voters. Trump’s proposal has added fuel to an already heated debate, but whether it will have the intended effect on home prices remains to be seen. Credit: WSJ 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Leaders of major news organizations in the United States are voicing serious concerns about the state of press freedom in the country, especially in light of alarming declines observed in other democratic nations. Traditionally seen as a global beacon for free expression, the United States is now facing what many see as a historic low point in press freedoms. The growing alarm was notably highlighted by A.G. Sulzberger, the publisher of The New York Times, who took the unusual step of penning an opinion piece for The Washington Post. In his essay, Sulzberger warned of the dangers facing press freedoms in the U.S., especially in the context of the upcoming election. He pointed to recent trends in democratic nations like Hungary and Brazil, where press freedoms have been significantly eroded, as a stark reminder of the potential risks. "Over the past century in the United States, Trump stands out for his aggressive and sustained efforts to undermine the free press," Sulzberger wrote. He emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding these freedoms, which are explicitly protected by the First Amendment. "I hope our nation, with protections for a free press explicitly enshrined in the First Amendment, will maintain its distinctively open path, regardless of the outcome of this election or any other." Sulzberger's decision to publish his essay in The Washington Post also served as a symbolic gesture of unity among leading news organizations in the fight to protect press freedoms. "I'm grateful to The Post for running it, especially given the length," Sulzberger noted in a message to his staff. He praised The Post for being more than just a competitor, recognizing it as a close partner on matters of press freedom. "These challenges cannot be solved by one institution," he added, underscoring the need for a collective effort to address these issues. The concerns raised by Sulzberger are part of a broader trend within the global news industry. The brutal murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 marked a significant moment in the fight for press freedom, with The Post and its former CEO Fred Ryan becoming prominent voices in this struggle. More recently, Dow Jones CEO and Wall Street Journal publisher Almar Latour has taken up the mantle, particularly in the wake of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich's release from Russia. Latour expressed optimism about the solidarity shown by the global news industry in response to Gershkovich's ordeal. "It's been heartening to see the global news industry come together around Evan," Latour said in an interview with Axios. He noted that this unity has brought the critical issue of press freedom to the forefront in ways that haven't been seen in recent years, especially on such a large scale. As the U.S. grapples with these challenges, the actions of autocratic leaders in countries like Hungary, Turkey, and Russia serve as a cautionary tale. These leaders have spent years undermining the free press, providing a blueprint for democratic leaders in nations like India, Israel, Brazil, and Guatemala, who may be inclined to follow a similar path. Reflecting on the situation in Brazil under former President Jair Bolsonaro, Sulzberger observed, "Though much of the damage he caused to democratic traditions has been reversed, the norms around the free press and free expression remain weakened." The warnings from U.S. news leaders highlight the precarious state of press freedom, both at home and abroad, and underscore the importance of vigilance in protecting this fundamental pillar of democracy. Credit: AXIOS 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Former President Donald Trump has announced his intention to adopt Elon Musk’s proposal for a government efficiency commission aimed at reducing federal spending if re-elected. Trump revealed that Musk, who originally suggested the plan, has agreed to lead the commission “if he has the time.” The announcement was made during a speech before the Economic Club of New York in Midtown Manhattan, where Trump detailed a seven-pillar economic strategy. “I will create a government efficiency commission tasked with conducting a complete financial and performance audit of the entire federal government and making recommendations for drastic reforms,” Trump declared. He emphasized that the first order of business would be for the commission to develop an action plan to eliminate fraud and improper payments within six months, projecting savings in the trillions. Despite the ambitious nature of these claims, Trump did not specify the commission's size or funding sources, leaving questions about feasibility. The plan aligns with Trump’s longstanding objective of firing more federal employees and potentially dismantling some federal agencies, a move he has repeatedly advocated. This announcement comes as part of a broader economic vision that Trump hopes to implement if he returns to office. However, given the federal government’s vast scale—employing millions of people and managing annual spending that exceeds $6 trillion—experts are skeptical about the promised benefits and the rapid timescale for implementation. Despite a previously tumultuous relationship, Trump and Musk have recently reconciled, with Musk endorsing Trump earlier this summer following a rally incident in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Trump and attendees were targeted by a would-be assassin. This endorsement marks a notable shift, given Musk’s past critical comments about Trump. In 2022, shortly after Trump dismissed him as a “bullshit artist,” Musk remarked on his social media platform X, “I don’t hate the man, but it’s time for Trump to hang up his hat & sail into the sunset.” The pair’s relationship has evolved publicly, with Musk interviewing Trump on X Spaces on August 12, although technical difficulties delayed the event by about 40 minutes. The two now appear united in their shared interest in reforming federal spending and government efficiency. Trump’s broader economic plan, outlined during his speech, also includes several other key initiatives, such as cutting federal regulations, imposing higher tariffs, and making permanent the 2017 tax cuts that he signed into law during his presidency. These proposals form part of Trump’s vision to reshape the American economy, emphasizing a more streamlined government and reduced federal oversight. While Musk’s role in potentially leading this commission adds a high-profile dimension to Trump’s proposal, questions remain about the logistics, scope, and realistic impact of the suggested reforms. As Trump continues to rally support for his economic vision, the proposed efficiency commission highlights his commitment to significant government restructuring, albeit with challenges ahead in turning these bold ideas into reality. Credit: NBC 2024-09-07 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

German police fatally shot an armed man on Thursday morning after he opened fire near the Israeli Consulate and a Nazi Documentation Center in central Munich. The incident took place on the anniversary of the 1972 Munich Olympics massacre, adding a layer of historical poignancy to the day's events. Israeli President Isaac Herzog also reacted to the incident, speaking with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier shortly after the shooting. "Both heads of state expressed our joint condemnation and horror," Herzog shared on X. As a result of the attack, the annual memorial event at Fürstenfeldbruck Air Base for the victims of the 1972 massacre was canceled just before it was scheduled to begin. Additionally, security measures were heightened at Munich’s Ohel Jakob Synagogue, located less than a mile from the scene. The Süddeutsche Zeitung reported that patrol cars were stationed at the entrance, and officers armed with submachine guns surrounded the building. Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder reflected on the tense day, stating, "Munich held its breath for a moment today." He extended his thanks to the police for their "prudent, quick behavior," as well as to the residents who promptly alerted authorities. "Their cooperation was the reason that nothing worse happened," Söder remarked, affirming a "promise of protection for Jewish fellow citizens." Credit: W.P. 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

The weapon used in the killings, an AR-style rifle, had been a holiday gift from Gray’s father, according to two law enforcement sources familiar with the investigation. Colin Gray, the suspect’s father, revealed to investigators that he had purchased the rifle as a gift for his son in December 2023. Despite multiple attempts by CNN to contact him, Colin Gray has not responded, and it is unclear if he has secured legal representation. The tragedy at Apalachee High marks the 45th school shooting in the U.S. this year and stands as the deadliest since the Covenant School massacre in Nashville in March 2023, where six people were killed. Among the victims at Apalachee High were two students and two teachers, while nine others were hospitalized. One student, 14-year-old Macey Right, described the harrowing experience, saying, "I heard gunshots outside my classroom and people screaming, people begging not to get shot." She went on to recount how her classmates were "just shaking and crying." The events unfolded around 9:45 a.m., when Gray left his Algebra 1 class, according to his classmate, Lyela Sayarath. When he attempted to return, the classroom doors, which lock automatically, were shut. Another student, seeing the gun in Gray’s possession, refused to let him back in—a decision that may have saved lives. Instead, Gray turned his weapon on a nearby classroom, firing 10 to 15 rounds in quick succession. The first report of an active shooter came in at 10:20 a.m., prompting a swift response from two school resource officers and other law enforcement personnel. One of the officers confronted Gray, who then surrendered and was taken into custody. Gray is currently being held at Gainesville Regional Youth Detention Centers and is set to make his first court appearance on Friday. As the investigation continues, Barrow County Sheriff Jud Smith confirmed that Gray is cooperating with authorities. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp described the incident as "everybody’s worst nightmare," a sentiment echoed across the country as mass shootings continue to plague the nation. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been at least 385 mass shootings in the U.S. this year alone, averaging more than 1.5 incidents per day. Among the victims were 14-year-old students Christian Angulo and Mason Schermerhorn, who never made it home from school that day. The other two victims were 53-year-old math teacher Christina Irimie and 39-year-old math teacher and assistant football coach Richard Aspinwall. Sheriff Smith noted that all teachers at the school are equipped with Centegix, an ID system designed to alert law enforcement in emergencies. This system, which includes real-time locating capabilities and a wearable panic button, was activated during the shooting. Gray, who faces four counts of felony murder, is expected to be tried as an adult. His past interactions with law enforcement include a troubling incident from May 2023, when he was questioned after posting online threats to "shoot up a middle school" on the chat platform Discord. Despite these red flags, the tragedy at Apalachee High School was not prevented, leaving yet another community grappling with the aftermath of senseless violence. Credit: CNN 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Hunter Biden, son of President Joe Biden, pleaded guilty to federal tax evasion charges, shocking prosecutors who were prepared to begin his trial on Thursday. Biden, who had previously denied any wrongdoing, was accused of intentionally avoiding the payment of $1.4 million in income taxes between 2016 and 2019. At the outset, Biden, 54, indicated his intention to enter an Alford plea—a legal move allowing him to accept the charges while maintaining his innocence. However, when prosecutors objected, Biden simply pleaded guilty. This unexpected shift occurred as the entire 56-page indictment against him was read aloud in court. When asked by the judge if he agreed that he had committed "every element of every crime charged," Biden responded, "I do." This reversal, announced in a Los Angeles courtroom just as jury selection was about to begin, marks Biden’s second criminal conviction this year. His attorney, Abbe Lowell, stated that Biden chose to plead guilty to avoid a trial "for the sake of private interest," sparing his friends and family from having to testify about events that took place "when he was addicted to drugs." Judge Mark Scarsi warned that Biden now faces a maximum penalty of 17 years in prison and fines ranging from $500,000 to $1 million. Sentencing is scheduled to take place after the upcoming election in December. In a symbolic moment, Biden, accompanied by his wife, lawyers, and Secret Service detail, had to pass by a portrait of his father, President Joe Biden, on his way to court. President Biden has previously stated that he would not use his executive power to pardon his son. The prosecution, representing the President’s own Justice Department, expressed surprise at the proposed Alford plea and hesitated to agree to a deal that would allow Hunter Biden to maintain his innocence. "Hunter Biden is not innocent. Hunter Biden is guilty," lead prosecutor Leo Wise stated emphatically in court. "We came to court today to try this case." Biden had earlier attempted to have the case dismissed, arguing that the Justice Department's investigation was politically motivated and that he was targeted because Republican lawmakers are seeking to impeach his father. He also claimed that the special counsel on the case, David Weiss, was unlawfully appointed. These arguments were rejected by Judge Scarsi, a Trump appointee overseeing the case. The indictment charged Biden with three felony tax offenses and six misdemeanors, including failure to file and pay taxes, tax evasion, and filing a false return. The charges stem from his foreign business dealings, which reportedly earned him $7 million between 2016 and 2019. According to the indictment, Biden spent nearly $5 million during that period on personal indulgences, including drugs, escorts, luxury hotels, cars, and clothing, all falsely labeled as business expenses. Prosecutors argued that these actions amounted to "a four-year scheme" to evade taxes. This tax evasion case is the second federal criminal proceeding for Biden this year. In June, he was found guilty of charges related to gun possession and drug use, making him the first criminally convicted son of a sitting U.S. president. In that case, Biden was convicted of three felony charges connected to his purchase of a revolver in 2018 while struggling with drug addiction, and for lying about his drug use on a federal form when buying the gun. Biden had previously reached a plea deal with federal prosecutors, but that agreement fell apart. His decision to plead guilty on Thursday did not come with any concessions from the prosecution, other than the avoidance of a public trial. Credit: BBC 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe