Social Media

The UK Government is set to ban the flesh-rotting drug xylazine, commonly known as "tranq," in a move to curb its rising use and prevent further deaths. Xylazine, a potent veterinary sedative, has become notorious for its effects on addicts, particularly in the United States, where it has been linked to nearly 3,500 deaths. Now, the drug has spread to the UK, where it has been found in vapes and is used by some illicit drug users to enhance their highs. The Home Office is preparing to introduce legislation that will ban xylazine along with 21 other dangerous illegal substances. This is part of the government's broader strategy to prevent drug-related deaths and crack down on drug-dealing gangs. Experts have warned that xylazine is now "widespread" in the UK, and its impact has been devastating. Long-term users often find themselves immobilized on the streets, suffering from non-healing skin lesions, which has led to the drug being dubbed the "zombie drug." Research conducted by King’s College national substance abuse team has revealed that at least 11 people in the UK have died from taking xylazine since the first recorded death of a 43-year-old man from Solihull in May 2022. In the United States, xylazine-involved overdose deaths surged from 102 to 3,468 in just three years between 2018 and 2021. The White House designated xylazine as an "emerging drug threat" in April 2023, a classification that often precedes the drug being made illegal. Xylazine has increasingly been combined with opioids such as heroin and fentanyl to extend the effects of each dose at a lower cost. Under the new UK legislation, xylazine will be classified as a class C drug. This means that possession for personal use will carry a maximum prison sentence of two years, while dealing the drug could result in a sentence of up to 14 years. The UK is believed to be the first country to implement a nationwide ban on xylazine, a step that has not yet been taken in the United States, Canada, Mexico, or other countries affected by its abuse. However, some individual US states, including Florida, Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, have already implemented their own bans. Diana Johnson, the UK policing minister, emphasized the government's commitment to making streets safer and protecting vulnerable individuals from the dangers of these drugs. "One of this new Government’s central missions is to make our streets safer, and we will not accept the use of substances that put lives at risk and allow drug gangs to profit from exploiting vulnerable people," she said. Johnson also pointed to the dangers of allowing the use of such drugs to grow unchecked, drawing lessons from other countries where xylazine has caused significant harm. "The criminals who produce, distribute, and profit from these drugs will therefore face the full force of the law, and the changes being introduced this week will also make it easier to crack down on those suppliers who are trying to circumvent our controls," she added. Xylazine is just one of 22 harmful substances that will be banned under the new legislation, six of which will be classified as class A drugs under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. Those caught producing or supplying these class A drugs could face life imprisonment, an unlimited fine, or both. Among the drugs included in the ban are variations of nitazenes, highly addictive synthetic opioids that can be hundreds of times more potent than heroin, thus significantly increasing the risk of accidental overdose. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

A post making inflammatory false comparisons to the holocaust has been removed. The topic is: The Inhumanity of Hamas and the Global Silence

In a devastating incident off the French coast, 12 migrants, including six children and a pregnant woman, lost their lives when an overloaded boat sank in the English Channel. The local prosecutor’s office reported that among the deceased, 10 were female and two were male. The disaster occurred near Cape Gris-Nez, close to Boulogne-sur-Mer, with the French coast guard managing to rescue more than 50 people. However, two of the survivors are currently in critical condition. The boat was reported to have been severely overloaded, leading to its bottom "ripping open," according to officials. Tragically, fewer than eight passengers on board were wearing life jackets at the time of the sinking. This incident marks the deadliest loss of life in the Channel this year. There are suspicions that a Syrian smuggler may have been involved in organizing the perilous crossing. Local prosecutor Guirec Le Bras stated that the victims were believed to be "primarily of Eritrean origin," though the exact nationalities have not yet been confirmed. This tragedy adds to an already grim statistic; before Tuesday's disaster, 30 people had died crossing the Channel in 2024, surpassing the 45 deaths recorded in 2021, which had been the highest annual figure until now, according to the UN's International Organisation for Migration. French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin emphasized that authorities were intercepting 60% of small boat departures. However, he noted that smugglers are increasingly cramming more people onto vessels than they are designed to carry, with some boats now holding up to 70 individuals instead of the usual 30 to 40. This overcrowding has led to more frequent and deadlier shipwrecks. Darmanin called for the UK and EU to negotiate a "treaty on migration" to address the crisis and reduce the number of small boat crossings. In response to the incident, UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper expressed her horror and sadness, describing the event as "horrifying and deeply tragic." She condemned the "appalling and callous trade in human lives" perpetrated by smuggling gangs, who have been sending increasingly overloaded and unseaworthy dinghies into the Channel, even in poor weather conditions. Cooper stressed the importance of continuing efforts to "dismantle these dangerous and criminal smuggler gangs" and to "strengthen border security." Steve Smith, CEO of Care4Calais, a charity supporting migrants in Calais, highlighted the growing frequency of such tragedies. He urged political leaders on both sides of the Channel to take action, questioning, "How many lives will be lost before they end these avoidable tragedies?" The French coastguard confirmed that helicopters, Navy boats, and fishing vessels were all involved in the rescue operation. Despite these efforts, the number of people attempting the perilous crossing of the English Channel in small boats has risen significantly. Since 2018, more than 135,000 people have reached the UK via this route, with over 21,000 making the crossing so far this year. This is a slight increase compared to the same period in the previous year, but fewer than the record 45,755 who crossed in 2022. Both the current Labour government and the previous Conservative administration have made pledges to tackle the problem. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reversed the previous Tory government's controversial plan to send some asylum seekers to Rwanda, which was never implemented after being announced in 2022. Starmer has vowed to take stronger measures to "smash" the people-smuggling gangs responsible for these dangerous crossings. Downing Street has stated that it has already begun taking action against these criminal networks by recruiting more officers to the National Crime Agency and establishing the government’s Border Security Command. However, critics argue that the government must do more to provide safe routes for asylum seekers. Amnesty International UK warned that "No amount of 'smash the gangs' policing and Government rhetoric is going to stop these disasters from unfolding time and again if the needs of people exploited by those gangs remain unaddressed." Credit: BBC 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Hunter Biden, is set to face his second trial this year, this time on charges related to his failure to pay over a million dollars in federal taxes. The charges allege that he withheld at least $1.4 million between 2016 and 2019, during a period marked by his severe addiction to crack cocaine, which intensified following his brother Beau Biden's death from brain cancer. The addiction played a pivotal role in his earlier trial, where Hunter was convicted of lying about his drug use on a federal gun purchase form, marking the first criminal conviction of a sitting president’s child. Hunter’s battle with addiction is expected to once again be at the center of his defense in the upcoming tax trial, which will begin with jury selection on September 5, followed by opening statements on September 9 in a California federal court. Hunter has pleaded not guilty to the charges. During a pretrial hearing in Los Angeles last month, his lawyer, Mark Geragos, accused the prosecution of attempting to smear Hunter’s character by focusing on his personal struggles rather than the alleged crimes. “They want to slime him because that is the whole purpose,” Geragos argued, suggesting that the prosecution’s strategy is to paint Hunter in a negative light through salacious evidence and testimonies. The evidence prosecutors plan to present includes details about Hunter's lavish lifestyle during his addiction, including his involvement with strip clubs, sex workers, drugs, and alcohol. Prosecutors argue that these personal expenditures provide insight into Hunter’s state of mind during the time he allegedly failed to file and pay his taxes. In court, prosecutor Leo Wise highlighted Hunter’s spending habits as potentially relevant to the jury’s assessment of whether his tax-related actions were intentional or reckless. Wise cited Hunter’s payment to a pornographic website as an example of an expense Hunter categorized as a business deduction, showcasing his problematic financial decisions during that period. “He describes partying in hotels with a cast of strippers,” Wise said. “He chose to pay them, which is fine — it’s America, you can do that. But then he chose to take it as a business deduction.” Hunter’s legal team has sought to limit references to his extravagant lifestyle, proposing to acknowledge his spending on generalized personal expenses if the court restricts detailed descriptions of his actions. U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi, overseeing the trial, stated that he would decide on these requests on a case-by-case basis during the trial but noted the importance of such evidence for assessing Hunter’s mental state in relation to some of the felony counts he faces. Hunter is charged with nine counts, including tax evasion and filing false tax returns. While his legal team argues that his addiction severely impaired his judgment, making it impossible for him to have willfully committed these crimes, it will ultimately be up to the jury to decide his fate. A conviction could have severe consequences, especially since Hunter is no longer a first-time offender, following his earlier conviction on gun charges. The trial promises to be highly charged, not just legally but emotionally, as Hunter’s personal history will undoubtedly play a prominent role. While Hunter and his father, President Biden, have openly discussed his struggles with addiction, Judge Scarsi has ruled that Hunter’s legal team cannot argue that his past traumas, such as his brother’s death or the 1972 car accident that killed his mother and sister, directly caused his addiction, deeming such evidence irrelevant to the case. Throughout his legal battles, Hunter Biden has expressed gratitude for his journey toward recovery. “Recovery is possible by the grace of God, and I am blessed to experience that gift one day at a time,” he said after his conviction on gun charges. As his second trial unfolds, Hunter’s addiction will once again be at the forefront, but this time, the stakes are even higher, with his future hanging in the balance as a jury of 12 Californians prepares to deliver their verdict. Credit: The Hill 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

In a recent interview, former President Donald Trump defended his actions surrounding the 2020 election, asserting that he had “every right” to interfere. His remarks, aired on Fox News’s “Life, Liberty and Levin,” come as he faces multiple criminal charges related to his alleged efforts to overturn the election results. Trump, the current GOP presidential nominee, dismissed the charges against him as politically motivated. “It’s so crazy, that my poll numbers go up. Whoever heard you get indicted for interfering with a presidential election, where you have every right to do it, you get indicted, and your poll numbers go up. When people get indicted your poll numbers go down,” he stated. The former president was responding to a suggestion by the host, Mark Levin, that President Biden or Vice President Harris could have potentially influenced the Department of Justice’s actions regarding the federal election interference case. The legal challenges Trump faces are significant. He has been charged federally in Washington, D.C., for his alleged attempts to subvert the 2020 election, and separately in Georgia, where he faces state charges including racketeering. The Georgia case revolves around an alleged scheme to overturn the state’s election results. Trump described these cases as unprecedented in American history. “Well, this is the worst case of election interference that anyone’s ever seen, certainly in our country,” he said during the interview. “They do this in Third World countries, they have some of it in South America, they don’t do it a lot, believe it or not. But they do it.” He lamented the potential long-term impact of these cases, stating, “It’s such a bad precedent because people are going to think about it differently, and they’re going to think about it differently. And it’s very sad, actually.” The former president further argued that the prosecutions against him are driven by political bias. He accused the Department of Justice of placing individuals in the District Attorney’s office with the intent to target him. “They put people in the DA’s office,” Trump claimed. “This was all coming out of the Department of Justice in order to get their political opponent — me.” He specifically criticized Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, alleging that she “came up with this crazy scheme and a lot of people were hurt,” referring to the co-defendants charged alongside him in Georgia. These remarks follow a significant legal development last week when special counsel Jack Smith filed a superseding indictment in the federal election subversion case. This move came after the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in July, which stated that presidents have absolute immunity for actions within the core responsibilities of their office and are “at least presumptively immune” for all other official acts. Trump has argued that this ruling should grant him immunity from the charges he currently faces. The Supreme Court’s decision has sent the case back to a lower court to reconsider whether Trump’s actions on January 6, 2021, merit special protection from criminal prosecution. Despite this, Smith presented the case to a second grand jury, which, like the first, concluded that the charges against Trump were warranted. In response to Trump’s claims, the Harris-Walz campaign criticized his defense of election interference. “Everything Donald Trump has promised on the campaign trail – from ‘terminating’ the Constitution, to imprisoning his political opponents and promising to rule as a dictator on ‘day one’ – makes it clear that he believes he is above the law. Now, Trump is claiming he had ‘every right’ to interfere in the 2020 election. He did not,” said Sarafina Chitka, a spokesperson for the campaign. She added, “While Donald Trump is pushing his false history about the past, the American people are ready for a new way forward. They know Vice President Harris is the tough-as-nails prosecutor we need to turn the page on chaos, fear, and division, and uphold the rule of law.” As the legal battles continue, Trump remains defiant, maintaining that his actions were justified and that the charges against him are part of a broader political effort to undermine his candidacy. Whether this defense will hold up in court remains to be seen, but the controversy surrounding the former president shows no signs of abating. Credit: Hill 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Recent polling data from key battleground states suggests that former President Donald Trump could potentially secure a decisive victory against Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. Surveys conducted by Trafalgar and Insider Advantage between August 28-31 indicate a possible path to 296 electoral votes for Trump, which could see him reclaim the presidency with a narrow but significant margin. Trafalgar's polling, conducted from August 28 to August 30, reveals that Trump could sweep 44 electoral votes from the critical Blue Wall states of Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. These states have historically played a pivotal role in determining the outcome of presidential elections. According to the poll, Trump holds narrow leads in these states, with the results falling within the margin of error, suggesting that the race could still go either way. In Michigan, Trump is ahead by the slimmest of margins, with 47% of the vote compared to Harris's 46.6%. In Pennsylvania, Trump has a slightly larger lead, with 47% compared to Harris's 45%. Although a 2% lead is not a landslide, it would represent a more substantial victory than Trump's razor-thin 0.72% margin in the state in 2016. Wisconsin presents a middle ground, with Trump leading Harris 47% to 46%, a narrow margin that reflects the state's history of close elections. Trump won Wisconsin by just 0.77% in 2016 but lost it by 0.63% in 2020. Despite these encouraging numbers for Trump, it's important to note that the RealClearPolitics polling average currently shows Harris leading in all three of these states, with Michigan notably shifting in her favor on August 29. In addition to the Blue Wall states, Insider Advantage's polling from August 29 to August 31 shows Trump leading in four other key battlegrounds: Arizona, Nevada, North Carolina, and Georgia. In Arizona, Trump is ahead by 49% to 48% in the race for the state's 11 electoral votes, a narrower margin than Biden's 0.3% victory in 2020, which would trigger an automatic recount in the state. Trump's strong support among independents, where he leads by more than 12 points, is a significant factor in his lead. In Nevada, Trump is buoyed by a 9.5% lead among independents, giving him a slight edge over Harris, 48% to 47%, in a state he lost in both 2016 and 2020. Meanwhile, in North Carolina, Trump leads Harris 49% to 48%, a tighter margin than his 1.34% victory in the state in 2020. Despite Harris leading with independents in North Carolina, 50% to 46%, Trump could still secure the state's 16 electoral votes. Georgia, however, presents the only deviation from this trend, with Harris narrowly leading Trump 48% to 47.6% in the race for the state's 16 electoral votes. Harris holds a razor-thin lead among independents, 45.2% to 45.1%. While the polling data suggests that Trump could secure a significant victory in the Electoral College, the races in these battleground states remain extremely close, and the final outcome will depend on voter turnout and other factors in the coming months. Credit: NYP 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Tim Walz, Kamala Harris’s vice-presidential pick, took aim at Donald Trump, comparing the former president to school bullies and accusing him of running his campaign on "the politics of fear." Speaking to a crowd in Milwaukee on Labor Day, September 2, Walz drew on his own experience as a high school social studies teacher and football coach to highlight his perspective on Trump’s tactics. "Donald Trump has been running on the politics of fear," Walz said, emphasizing his firsthand knowledge of dealing with bullies during his years supervising the lunchroom. "Look, I know something about that; I supervised the lunchroom for a bunch of years." Walz continued, using his experience with students to underscore his point. "What I did know about that lunchroom too is the bullies who want to instill fear—they're the first ones to find out what happens when the tide turns," he added. Drawing a parallel between Trump’s approach and schoolyard bullies, Walz’s remarks reflect a broader critique of Trump’s fear-driven political style, positioning Harris and her campaign as advocates for a more hopeful and positive vision for America. Credit: The Independent 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

The brutal murder of six Israeli hostages by Hamas, taken during the October 7 attack last year, lays bare the sheer mercilessness of this terrorist organization. The horror of this atrocity is underscored by the fact that much of Gaza now lies in ruins, a consequence of Hamas's actions in starting a war by massacring approximately 1,200 Israelis and kidnapping more than 200. Despite the devastation and the undeniable cruelty of Hamas, the international narrative remains overwhelmingly anti-Israeli, even as special forces recover the bodies of innocent people dragged from their homes. The lack of outrage from global leaders, including the United Nations Secretary-General, who has been quick to denounce Israel's counter-offensive, further compounds this issue. If Hamas intended to derail the ceasefire talks by murdering the hostages, it was met with defiance from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who reaffirmed his government's commitment to securing a deal to bring the remaining 97 captives home, including 27 who are presumed dead. As Netanyahu stated, "Whoever murders hostages does not want a deal." Despite this, a temporary "humanitarian pause" in the conflict began over the weekend in parts of Gaza to allow for a polio immunization program among 600,000 children under 10, a move that could pave the way for a broader cessation of hostilities. Netanyahu now faces increased pressure to agree to a halt, particularly as some of the families of the murdered hostages accuse him of abandoning their loved ones while others support the ongoing IDF action. Amidst the grief and political fallout, it is crucial not to lose sight of where the true culpability lies. The actions of Hamas have not only brought devastation upon Israel but have also led to widespread suffering in Gaza. The international community's failure to hold Hamas accountable for its inhumanity is a troubling reflection of its inability to confront the real source of violence in this conflict. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

As Election Day looms closer, Donald Trump is intensifying his efforts to dismantle Kamala Harris' image as a transformative leader and undermine her credibility as a potential president. Despite his advisors urging him to focus on voter concerns such as inflation and immigration, Trump is doubling down on his combative, insult-driven approach that first catapulted him to power in 2016. Recently, Trump has used international tragedies to launch accusations against Harris, blaming her for the deaths of U.S. troops in Afghanistan and implying her involvement in hostage killings in Gaza. Alongside his running mate JD Vance, Trump has also attacked Harris’ multiracial heritage, suggesting it reveals a duplicitous character that accounts for her changing positions on energy and immigration. In a particularly offensive move, Trump amplified a sexually charged slander against her on social media, while his campaign ads accuse Harris of intending to cut Social Security benefits by allowing undocumented migrants into the country. Echoing past Republican strategies, Trump and his allies are portraying Harris as a dangerous extremist, branding her as a communist and even a “Bolshevik.” The barrage of attacks has extended to Harris' running mate, Tim Walz, with South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem describing him as a “security risk” because of his past teaching stint in China. Trump, meanwhile, continues to stoke fears of a rigged election, hinting that the 2024 race might not be “free and fair,” and dismissing charges against him related to interfering in the 2020 election as baseless. As Trump ramps up his attacks, he is simultaneously grappling with his own political challenges. Desperate to narrow a significant polling gap among women, Trump has altered his stance on reproductive rights, even as his role in appointing a conservative Supreme Court that overturned Roe v. Wade remains a contentious issue. Vance, too, has made missteps, including a demeaning comparison of Harris to a frazzled Miss Teen USA contestant, further alienating female voters. The critical question remains whether Trump’s attacks will succeed in galvanizing his base or if they might start to sway opinions against Harris in key battleground states. With his inability to capture more than 49% of the vote in pivotal states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin during past elections, Trump’s path to victory may hinge more on damaging Harris’ appeal among swing voters than on broadening his own support base. However, Trump’s tactics come with significant risks. His controversial behavior, such as posing for campaign photos at Arlington National Cemetery in a manner some perceived as disrespectful, could backfire and reinforce Harris’ narrative that America is ready to move past the chaos of the Trump era. Despite her gains in recent polls, Harris' campaign remains cautious, acknowledging the ongoing threat posed by Trump. As her campaign manager Jennifer O’Malley Dillion noted, “Make no mistake: the next 65 days will be very hard… This race will remain incredibly close.” Harris' recent campaign stops in Detroit and Pittsburgh emphasize her focus on union workers, a group that traditionally voted Democrat but has been increasingly swayed by Trump’s appeal to blue-collar voters. A crucial debate scheduled for September 10 in Philadelphia could be one of the final turning points of the campaign, occurring just as mail-in voting begins. Trump’s relentless attacks have not yet succeeded in redefining Harris negatively in the eyes of the electorate. While Republicans criticize Harris for lacking policy clarity and changing her stances on fracking and immigration, her centrist positions appear to be frustrating Trump’s attempts to land a decisive blow. Harris has worked to counter Trump’s criticisms, such as rebuking his campaign stunt at Arlington and his efforts to hold her responsible for past military failures in Afghanistan. Credit: CNN 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

London is set to witness a groundbreaking development in education as David Game College, a private institution, introduces the UK's first AI-driven classroom. This innovative approach, which eliminates traditional human teachers in favor of artificial intelligence, is both lauded for its precision and criticized for its potential to create a "soulless, bleak future." Starting in September, 20 GCSE students at David Game College will embark on a learning journey guided entirely by AI. The system employs a combination of artificial intelligence platforms on computers and virtual reality headsets to deliver customized education. These platforms continuously assess each student's strengths and weaknesses, tailoring lesson plans accordingly. Topics that students excel in are scheduled for review later in the term, while areas where they struggle are addressed immediately. The result is a bespoke learning experience for each student, designed to maximize their potential. John Dalton, the school's co-principal, highlighted the advantages of AI over traditional teaching methods. "There are many excellent teachers out there but we're all fallible," Dalton remarked. "I think it's very difficult to achieve [AI's] level of precision and accuracy, and also that continuous evaluation. Ultimately, if you really want to know exactly why a child is not learning, I think the AI systems can pinpoint that more effectively." The cost of this cutting-edge education is steep, with each student paying approximately £27,000 a year. Despite the price, some students see clear benefits. Joseph, a GCSE student who has been testing the AI system, explained, "A teacher doesn't really know your flaws because he has so many students. So he doesn't know your flaws while the AI will figure out what your flaws are and help you improve." However, students are not entirely left to their own devices. Three "learning coaches" will be present in the classroom to monitor behavior, provide support, and teach subjects that AI currently struggles with, such as art and sex education. One of these learning coaches, Alexander Vansittart, a former Latin teacher who worked with Special Educational Needs (SEN) students, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. "I got really excited about what this could do for young people, how it could help them change their lives. That's why I applied for the job; because I believe this will change lives," he said. Despite the excitement surrounding this new approach, the concept of AI-driven education has sparked controversy. Chris McGovern, a retired headteacher and former advisor to the policy unit at 10 Downing Street, voiced his concerns. As the current head of the Campaign for Real Education, McGovern acknowledged that AI has a role in the classroom but argued that this initiative goes too far. "I understand why [schools] may push AI. For one thing, it's cheaper," he said, although David Game College disputes this, claiming the AI-driven course is not a cost-saving measure but actually requires more personnel. McGovern's primary concern is the potential dehumanization of education. "The problem with AI and the computer screen is that it is a machine and it's inert, so you're straight away dehumanizing the process of learning, taking away those interpersonal skills and the interaction between pupils and teacher," he explained. "It's a soulless, bleak future if it's going to be along the AI path only." While artificial intelligence is already being used in classrooms across the UK to enhance learning and assist with lesson planning, the extent of its involvement at David Game College marks a significant shift. The government's recent announcement of a new project to help teachers use AI more effectively underscores the growing role of technology in education. "Artificial Intelligence, when made safe and reliable, represents an exciting opportunity to give our schools' leaders and teachers a helping hand with classroom life," said Stephen Morgan, Minister for Early Education. At David Game College, however, AI is not just offering a helping hand—it’s taking control. The implications of this shift will be closely watched, as educators and parents alike grapple with the question of whether AI can truly replace the human touch in teaching. Credit: Sky News 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Elon Musk, has once again stirred controversy by endorsing a theory that advocates for governance by "high-status males" while excluding women and "low T men" from decision-making roles. The theory, which appears to have originated on the internet forum 4chan in 2021, was reposted by Musk on X, drawing widespread criticism. The theory suggests that a truly free-thinking "Republic" could only be established if governed by "high [testosterone] alpha males" and "aneurotypical people"—a term that the post appears to use to describe individuals on the autism spectrum. According to the theory, these "high-status males" are the only individuals capable of objectively analyzing information and making decisions based on truth rather than consensus. The post further argues that individuals who cannot defend themselves physically, particularly women and men with low testosterone, rely on societal consensus to filter information as a safety mechanism. "People who can’t defend themselves physically (women and low T men) parse information through a consensus filter as a safety mechanism,” the post reads. “Only high T alpha males and aneurotypical people (hey autists!) are actually free to parse new information with an objective ‘is this true?’ filter,” it continues. “This is why a Republic of high-status males is best for decision making. Democratic, but a democracy only for those who are free to think.” Such theories, which promote a hierarchical and exclusionary form of governance based on perceived masculine traits, have been widely criticized for being sexist, unrealistic, and toxic. These ideas are often associated with alt-right communities that champion hegemonic masculinity and reject egalitarian principles. In response to the post, Musk commented, "Interesting observation," which has led to speculation about his stance on the matter. The post was originally uploaded to X by an account named "AutismCapital," which frequently posts content appealing to right-wing audiences and supportive of Musk's ventures. The account labeled the theory as "also known as the Reich effect," seemingly alluding to Robert Reich, a former US Secretary of Labor, who recently penned an op-ed in The Guardian criticizing Musk as "out of control" and in need of restraint. Much of the account's content on Sunday was focused on mocking Reich while defending Musk. It remains unclear whether Musk’s reposting of the theory indicates his agreement with its premise or if he was merely taking a jab at Reich. However, Musk’s history of engaging with controversial and often misleading information on his social media platform suggests that he may see such posts as part of a broader commitment to "free speech." Musk has frequently argued that allowing controversial, and sometimes offensive, posts is essential to maintaining free discourse on X, even when the content contains false or misleading information. This approach has not been without consequences. X was recently blocked in Brazil after Musk refused to comply with a legal order aimed at preventing the spread of fake news on the platform. This incident is part of an ongoing legal battle between Musk and Brazilian authorities over the platform's role in disseminating misinformation. Credit: The Independent 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Two US service members were violently attacked in Turkey on Monday by a group of anti-American protesters, an incident captured in a shocking video that has since gone viral. The brief yet intense 10-second clip, which was shared on X, shows one of the servicemen standing in the middle of a group of men who aggressively grab him by the arms and torso. Online sources identified the serviceman as being from the USS Wasp, a US Navy ship that had recently docked in Turkey's port city of Izmir. The USS Wasp had arrived in Izmir on Sunday for a scheduled port visit, during which sailors and Marines from the ship took part in tours organized by the ship’s administration, according to The Mirror. The ship, which carries over 3,000 crew members and troops from the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, had recently participated in a joint training exercise with the Turkish Navy. The Wasp, an amphibious assault ship designed to carry aircraft and Marines into combat, has been stationed in the Mediterranean since June as part of a broader naval buildup aimed at deterring potential Iranian aggression against Israel following the assassination of a Hamas official in Tehran in July, as reported by Stars and Stripes. This incident is not the first time American service members have faced hostility in Turkey. In 2014, three US Navy sailors from the USS Ross were attacked by members of the Youth Union in Istanbul. The protesters chanted “Yankee, go home!” as they attempted to place bags over the sailors’ heads. The group later stated that their actions were a protest against American “imperialism” in the Middle East and across the globe. “Long live oppressed nation’s war against imperialism,” they declared in a statement on their website. Although the sailors were not physically harmed, the attack was widely condemned by both American and Turkish officials. The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs labeled the attack as “in no way tolerable.” The use of bags by the protesters is symbolic, referring to a 2003 incident in which US forces in Iraq detained Turkish special forces soldiers they suspected of smuggling weapons to a Turkish-backed group in Kirkuk. The American troops allegedly placed bags over the heads of the detained Turkish soldiers before eventually releasing them. The latest attack underscores ongoing tensions between nationalist elements in Turkey and American military presence in the region, highlighting the deep-seated resentment some groups harbor against what they perceive as US imperialism. Credit: NYP 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

As Labor Day approaches, it’s a reminder that the holiday is more than just picnics and barbecues—it’s a time to reflect on the choices that will shape our future. With just nine weeks left until one of the most important elections in modern history, American workers are at a pivotal moment. Early voting is set to begin, and the outcome will significantly impact the workforce, particularly union members and those fighting to form unions—a powerful voting bloc that could determine election results across the board in November. The stakes are high, and a fierce battle is underway to shape public perceptions about which party truly stands with workers. But the facts are undeniable: Democrats have long been the party of labor, and the Biden-Harris administration has proven to be the most pro-labor government in recent memory. From the very beginning, this administration has prioritized the needs of working families, investing in union jobs and advocating for the care economy—an often overlooked but crucial part of our society. Care workers, many of whom are women of color, play an essential role in supporting communities by caring for children, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Despite their critical contributions, these workers have historically been undervalued and underpaid. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they were on the front lines, risking their lives to protect others. Recognizing their significance, the Biden-Harris administration introduced measures to support them, such as new rules for safe staffing in nursing homes, substantial investments in home care and child care, and policies to ensure families receive the support they need. However, the Harris-Walz campaign cannot take the support of union members and households for granted. A continued commitment to investing in the care economy is essential, including advocating for paid family and medical leave, affordable child care, and home care for older adults and those with disabilities. These initiatives not only uplift care workers but also strengthen communities and the broader economy. Looking ahead, the election presents a clear choice. One path offers a brighter, more inclusive future for all workers, where economic, gender, and racial justice are intertwined. The other path threatens to undo progress, prioritizing corporate interests over the needs of working families. A concerning example of this opposing vision is the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025—a 900-page proposal outlining a second-term agenda for Donald Trump that would severely undermine workers’ rights. This plan, crafted by Trump’s allies, aims to make it easier for employers to dismantle unions, ban public employee unions, eliminate overtime protections, ignore the national minimum wage, and even roll back child labor laws that protect young workers from hazardous jobs. Despite attempts by Trump’s team to distance themselves from these proposals, the involvement of over 140 former administration officials highlights the seriousness of this anti-worker agenda. In stark contrast, Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are committed to protecting and expanding workers’ rights. Harris’s promise to sign the Protect the Right to Organize (PRO) Act is just one example of the administration’s dedication to securing higher wages, better benefits, and safer working conditions. Walz has already proven his support for unions and working families in Minnesota, delivering on many key policies and demonstrating his unwavering commitment to workers. As we celebrate the achievements of the labor movement this Labor Day, we must also recognize the challenges that lie ahead. Unions are not only essential to our economic future but also to the health of our democracy. Studies consistently show that when workers have more power, states develop more equitable economies, stronger social structures, and healthier democracies. In these divisive times, worker organizing also fosters greater civic engagement and support for policies that benefit all communities. From now until Election Day, Democrats will continue to demonstrate their unwavering support for workers. The Biden-Harris administration has shown that through strong leadership and a commitment to justice, it’s possible to build a future that works for everyone—not just the wealthy few. Credit: Hill 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Lucy Connolly, the wife of a Conservative councillor, has admitted to a charge of inciting racial hatred with a post she made on social media. Connolly, 41, who works as a childminder and is married to a councillor serving on West Northamptonshire Council, posted an inflammatory message on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter. Her post, laced with expletives, called for hotels housing asylum seekers to be set on fire and demanded mass deportations. The post was made on the same day that three young girls tragically lost their lives in Southport. Connolly appeared in court via video link from HMP Peterborough, wearing a short-sleeved dress with a floral pattern. During the hearing at Northampton Crown Court, Judge Adrienne Lucking KC sternly warned her that she faced a likely prison sentence. Connolly’s post, which openly called for violence against migrants, included the statement, “If that makes me racist, so be it,” showing her willingness to accept the label in pursuit of her inflammatory views. The judge acknowledged the seriousness of the offense, stating that Connolly’s sentencing would be moved to Birmingham to avoid any potential local bias that might arise due to her husband’s political position. Judge Lucking emphasized, “Sentencing will entirely be a matter for the judge on the next occasion, but it’s likely to be a substantial custodial sentence. In the meantime, you are remanded in custody.” Connolly’s husband, Raymond Connolly, was present in the public gallery, witnessing the proceedings as his wife faced the consequences of her actions. The case comes amid a broader context of legal actions involving young offenders across the country. In unrelated court proceedings, a sentencing hearing for a 12-year-old boy who admitted to participating in two incidents of disorder in Manchester was postponed because his mother was on holiday in Ibiza. Additionally, a 15-year-old boy from Sunderland became the first person in England to be charged with rioting over the disorder and appeared before magistrates, while another 15-year-old boy from Hull, who admitted to stealing from shops during the riots, also had his sentencing postponed. Connolly’s case highlights the growing issue of hate speech on social media and the legal system’s efforts to address incitement to racial hatred. The outcome of her sentencing could set a precedent for how the courts handle similar offenses in the future, reinforcing the message that online hate speech intended to incite violence will not be tolerated. Credit: BBC 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

A questionable source site link post and quote has been removed. A questionable source exhibits one or more of the following: extreme bias, consistent promotion of propaganda/conspiracies.

Post removed for making more unsubstanitated claims on what was seen on AJ and what you claim Netanyahu was saying @thaibeachlovers

Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, faced widespread criticism on social media after accusing Kamala Harris of being "horrible" to his former Vice President Mike Pence. The comments were made during an interview with Fox News's Mark Levin, which aired on Saturday, and a clip of the exchange quickly gained traction online. According to The New York Times, Trump later called Pence, allegedly telling him, “You can either go down in history as a patriot, or you can go down in history as a p****.” The situation escalated that afternoon as Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol, chanting “Hang Mike Pence” and erecting a gallows outside. Pence was evacuated from the Senate chamber at 2:13 p.m., narrowly avoiding the rioters who breached the Capitol. At 2:17 p.m., Trump tweeted again, criticizing Pence for lacking the courage to challenge the election results. This tweet, like many others from that day, has since been deleted. The events of January 6 remain a focal point of criticism for Trump, with many questioning the safety and integrity of his vice presidency under the circumstances he himself helped to create. Trump’s recent comments about Harris have only reignited these debates, underscoring the ongoing scrutiny of his actions during one of the most contentious moments in recent American history. Credit: Newsweek 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

A woman without biological children is running for high political office, and predictably, this aspect of her life is being used against her. Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate for the U.S. presidency, has faced scrutiny over her lack of children. Conservative figures like lawyer Will Chamberlain have argued that Harris “shouldn’t be president” because she doesn’t have “skin in the game.” Republican vice-presidential candidate JD Vance has gone so far as to dismiss Harris and other Democrats as “a bunch of childless cat ladies miserable at their own lives.” This obsession with women’s reproductive choices is not just an American phenomenon, though it is particularly pronounced in the U.S., where right-wing movements are deeply fixated on women’s roles as mothers. This mindset was also evident in the 2016 Conservative Party leadership race in the U.K., when Andrea Leadsom suggested that her opponent, Theresa May, was less invested in the country’s future because she didn’t have children. “I feel that being a mum means you have a real stake in the future of our country,” Leadsom stated, implying that childless women are less qualified to lead. The fixation on whether or not a woman has children is not simply a matter of ideological debate. It is a reflection of a deeper, more insidious belief that a woman’s worth and credibility are tied to her ability to reproduce. JD Vance’s comments reveal this mindset clearly. He claims that childless leaders on the left are “trying to brainwash the minds of our children,” suggesting that their lack of biological offspring makes them untrustworthy or incapable of understanding the needs of future generations. This line of thinking is rooted in a traditional view that struggles to see women as anything other than potential mothers. It is a perspective that persists even in supposedly progressive societies, where women who choose not to have children—or who cannot have them—are often viewed with suspicion or contempt. The higher a woman rises in the professional sphere, the more likely she is to face questions about her childlessness. Society seems to demand an explanation, as if a woman’s value is incomplete without motherhood. Behind this obsession lies an uncomfortable truth about how capitalist societies function. Women who do not have children are less likely to be confined to the domestic sphere, where they provide unpaid labor that supports not only their families but also the broader economy. As writer Helen Charman argues in her book Mother State, motherhood is not just a personal experience but a political one. The work of raising children, which is foundational to society, is often unequally shared and undervalued, yet it is essential to maintaining the status quo. A woman who does not bear children disrupts this system. She is less likely to stay at home, providing free care that underpins the economy. Without such women, the lack of adequate parental leave, childcare, and eldercare in capitalist societies becomes glaringly obvious. The absence of this “free” labor challenges the inequitable economic arrangements that many societies are built upon. As Charman notes, “Nurture, care, the creation of human life… have more to do with power, status, and the distribution of resources than we like to admit.” This view reduces the decision not to have children to a matter of personal selfishness, ignoring the broader social and economic factors at play. The lack of affordable childcare, the absence of support networks, and the financial risks associated with motherhood are often downplayed in favor of a narrative that blames women for choosing not to have children. As Charman points out, assuming that motherhood happens without consideration of these factors is a “useful fantasy” that supports the existing power structures. The discourse surrounding childless women is often binary, ignoring the complex realities of women’s lives. Many women who do not have children have experienced pregnancies, miscarriages, and abortions. Some have stepchildren, like Harris, but these relationships are often dismissed as irrelevant. Others extend their nurturing roles to the children of friends and family. Yet, these experiences are frequently overlooked in favor of a simplistic narrative that equates motherhood with a woman’s ultimate purpose. Credit: The Guardian 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

The Islamic State Khorasan (IS-K), a branch of the Islamic State, has increasingly become a significant global threat. In 2024 alone, the group has been linked to numerous attacks and plots, highlighting its expanding influence and reach. Among the most high-profile incidents were a deadly attack on a Moscow concert hall, plans to disrupt three Taylor Swift concerts in Austria, and twin bombings in Iran. The rise in IS-K's activities has prompted concerns among international security agencies, with the group now considered "the greatest external terror threat" to Europe. "Recently, especially since the uptick in propaganda, we've seen a bigger focus on Central Asia and on Europe," he said. Initially focused on gaining territory in Afghanistan to establish a caliphate, IS-K's ambitions have since broadened. Following the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan in 2021 and the Taliban's return to power, IS-K has strengthened its global operations despite the Taliban’s efforts to suppress them. A recent UN Security Council report noted that "The threat posed by [IS-K] has grown with significant terrorist attacks outside of Afghanistan," citing the Moscow attack in March as a notable example. The foiled plot to attack the Swift concerts in Austria underscores the group's intent to carry out high-profile attacks that could generate significant media attention. The US's Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) stated that the suspects in this plot intended to kill "tens of thousands" of people, highlighting the group's capacity for large-scale violence. IS-K's growing international ambitions were also evident in their involvement in the March attack on Crocus City Hall in Moscow, which left nearly 140 people dead. While IS-K did not directly claim responsibility, their subsequent actions, including posting a video from one of the attackers' phones, suggested their involvement. Even when their plots are foiled, as in the case of the planned attacks on the Swift concerts, IS-K still considers these incidents as victories. The group's ability to generate widespread fear and attention, even without successfully carrying out an attack, underscores the growing threat they pose to global security. As IS-K continues to expand its influence and operations, the international community must remain vigilant in countering this rising terror threat. Credit: Sky News 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Despite being detained in a Greenland prison, anti-whaling activist Paul Watson remains undeterred in his mission to save whales. The 73-year-old US-Canadian campaigner, known for his radical and confrontational tactics against whaling, continues to fight for the cause even while facing potential extradition to Japan. "If they think it prevents our opposition, I've just changed ship. My ship right now is Prison Nuuk," Watson told AFP with a mischievous smile during an interview in the visitors' room of Nuuk Prison. Watson, who gained fame through the reality TV series "Whale Wars" and as the founder of Sea Shepherd and the Captain Paul Watson Foundation (CPWF), has long been a thorn in the side of whaling nations. His arrest in July in Nuuk was based on a 2012 warrant issued by Japan, which accuses him of causing damage to one of its whaling ships in 2010 in the Antarctic. Japan also alleges that Watson injured a Japanese crew member with a stink bomb intended to disrupt whaling activities and has requested his extradition to face trial. To ensure Watson does not flee, he is being held in custody pending the Greenlandic government's decision. Watson and his legal team argue that Tokyo's pursuit of him is motivated by a desire to make an example out of him. "They want to set an example that you don't mess around with their whaling," Watson said, clad in a thick grey sweater. The Nuuk court is set to decide on September 4 whether to extend his detention. "The lawyers tell me they're going to extend my detention," he remarked. Watson remains resilient, even finding solace in his current situation. From his cell in the modern grey prison building overlooking the sea, he can watch whales and icebergs pass by his window. "It's almost like I'm on the deck of my ship," he said, calling it "the best prison I've ever been in." While he does not mind the detention, he admitted that he misses his young children, aged three and seven. Watson spends his time watching detective shows, reading, and most importantly, writing. He passes his writings to Lamya Essemlali, head of Sea Shepherd France, who has visited him almost daily since his arrest. Support for Watson is widespread, with more than 100,000 people signing a petition calling for his release. Even his fellow inmates in the prison have shown admiration, despite his opposition to Greenland's traditional seal hunt. "I signed autographs when I arrived," Watson shared. He also receives numerous letters of support, many from children who are passionate about the environment. "If we manage to reach children, I think things can change," he said. International support for Watson has also been strong, with French President Emmanuel Macron's office and animal rights activist Brigitte Bardot urging Denmark not to extradite him. Watson, who has lived in France for nearly two years, believes Denmark is in a difficult position. "They can't extradite me because first they are vocal proponents of human rights," he said, criticizing the Japanese judicial system as "medieval." He maintains his innocence, stating, "I didn't do anything, and even if I did, the sentence would be a fine of 1,500 kroner ($223) in Denmark—not even a prison sentence—while Japan wants to sentence me to 15 years." Despite his incarceration, Watson’s resolve remains unbroken. He has one ship stationed in each hemisphere, ready to act if any of the countries that still permit whaling—Iceland, Japan, and Norway—resume their hunts. "In 1974, my objective was to eradicate whaling, and I hope to do that before I die," Watson said. He emphasizes that his organization is not a protest group, but rather an "enforcement organization" dedicated to protecting the seas. Rejecting the label of ecoterrorist, Watson explained, "I do aggressive non-violence interference. There is no contradiction between aggressive and non-violence—it means that I will try and get the knife from the person trying to kill a whale, but I won't hurt them. I don't cross the line, I've never hurt anyone." Credit: ABC News 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

A NASA astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS) recently reported hearing an unusual noise emanating from the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. The report came just days before the spacecraft was scheduled to undock from the ISS and attempt a return to Earth on autopilot. The astronaut, Butch Wilmore, who has been stationed on the ISS, relayed his concerns to Mission Control at Johnson Space Center in Houston. Listen to Real Audio The strange noise was first brought to public attention by Ars Technica, which cited a recording initially captured and shared by Michigan-based meteorologist Rob Dale. As of now, the source of the sound remains unidentified. Fox News Digital has reached out to both Mission Control and Boeing to inquire if the origin of the sound has been determined, but no conclusive information has been provided. The Starliner spacecraft is set to undock from the ISS without a crew and is expected to land in the New Mexico desert using its autopilot system. NASA had previously deemed it too risky to bring back Wilmore and fellow astronaut Suni Williams in the Starliner, delaying their return until February. This mission has faced numerous challenges, initially planned as a weeklong trip in early June. However, the mission has been plagued by issues, including thruster failures and helium leaks. Boeing, which has been relying on Starliner’s first crewed mission to revitalize its troubled spacecraft program, has faced years of delays and escalating costs. Despite these setbacks, the company has maintained that the Starliner is safe, citing successful recent thruster tests conducted both in space and on the ground. Credit: NYP 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scaling back the country’s migrant worker program amidst growing domestic backlash and strained relations with the United States. The decision marks a significant shift for Trudeau, who once championed Canada’s open immigration policies but now faces mounting pressure both at home and from US lawmakers concerned about illegal migration. According to the Financial Times, the Canadian government has been under increasing pressure from the US to curb the flow of migrant workers entering from Canada, which has one of the world’s most permissive immigration systems. Glenn Cowan, founder and CEO of the security company One9, highlighted the concerns: “U.S. lawmakers are calling to harden the northern border with Canada because of the fears of illegal migration from Canada. Stemming the flow of these visas will bolster U.S. relations.” Trudeau’s move to limit the foreign worker program is seen as a response not only to US concerns but also to rising domestic criticism. Facing a decline in the polls ahead of next year’s election, Trudeau addressed the issue by emphasizing the need for balance: “We are looking at the various [migration] streams to make sure, as we move forward, Canada remains a place that is positive in its support for immigration but also responsible in the way we integrate and make pathways for success.” Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has been a vocal critic, accusing Trudeau of mismanaging Canada’s immigration system and calling for “smaller population growth” in the future. Under the new policy changes, the number of low-wage workers that Canadian companies can hire will be reduced by 10% to 20%. Trudeau also hinted at broader immigration reforms set to be unveiled later this year. While some business leaders have expressed concern that these rollbacks could disrupt the supply of affordable labor, others argue that the influx of migrants has led to rising youth unemployment, increased housing costs, and additional pressure on Canada’s healthcare system. The debate around immigration has also intensified in the United States, where President Biden and Vice President Harris are under increasing scrutiny over record-breaking border crossings from 2021 to 2023. Immigration has consistently ranked as a top concern for voters, prompting US officials to call for stronger measures at the border, including with Canada. As Trudeau navigates the complex political landscape, his office has yet to comment publicly on these latest developments. Meanwhile, the changes to Canada’s immigration approach could significantly impact the nation’s economic and social dynamics, as the government attempts to strike a balance between openness and responsibility. Credit: NYP 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Prince Harry has reportedly sought advice from his former British aides about a potential return from the United States that could involve a partial reinstatement into the royal family, according to sources. This move marks the initial phase of what some insiders describe as a strategy to "rehabilitate" the Duke of Sussex, highlighting his desire to mend relationships within the royal fold. The Mail on Sunday reported that Harry has been in contact with advisers who worked with him during his time as a senior royal. This consultation is believed to be driven by ongoing challenges with American-based PR firms, which have reportedly prompted Harry to consider a more balanced approach between his life in the US and his ties to the UK. Despite his efforts to reconnect with the royal establishment, sources emphasized that neither Harry nor his wife Meghan Markle are contemplating a full-time return to the UK. A key element of Harry’s strategy, according to insiders, is to repair his strained relationship with his father, King Charles. While the exact nature of the advice Harry has received remains private, the outreach to former aides suggests he is exploring ways to rebuild connections and reestablish a more harmonious relationship with his family. For now, Harry and Meghan appear focused on creating a scenario where they can maintain their lives in the US while fostering a healthier, albeit limited, connection to the British royal family. Sources have underscored that this approach is still in its infancy and no formal decisions have been made. However, the conversations between Harry and his former aides point towards a deliberate effort on his part to find a middle ground—one that could enable him to bridge the gap between his past responsibilities as a working royal and his current role as a private individual. This initiative could also be seen as a broader attempt by Harry to redefine his place within the royal narrative without fully abandoning his newfound independence in America. Credit: The Independent 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Since April, the war in Ukraine has claimed the lives of approximately 16,000 Russian soldiers, marking a significant increase in casualties as the conflict drags on. This troubling figure comes from a data project conducted by the BBC's Russia service and the independent Russian media outlet Mediazona, both of which have been meticulously tracking deaths through official reports, media coverage, and satellite images of Russian graveyards. However, the numbers provided by the project likely represent a conservative estimate, as they only include deaths that could be definitively verified. As of August 30, Mediazona reported that it had identified the names of 66,471 Russian soldiers who have been killed since the onset of the war. Back in April, the same project had recorded over 50,000 confirmed deaths, illustrating the sharp rise in the death toll over the subsequent months. The escalation in fatalities is consistent with the estimates provided by the British Ministry of Defence, which in June predicted that Russia was suffering an average of 1,000 casualties per day. This prediction was based on the sustained Russian pressure across various front lines, leading to increasingly heavy losses. The term "casualties" encompasses both deaths and injuries, meaning the human cost of the war is even more severe than the death toll alone suggests. The Ministry of Defence's June estimate indicated that Russia had already sustained 70,000 casualties in just the two preceding months. This forecasted trend of high casualty rates appears to be continuing, with Russia now facing a prolonged period of intense losses. Mediazona noted that the recent increase of 4,600 deaths in the last four weeks was not directly related to specific military operations, such as Ukraine's incursion in Kursk or Russia's advances in the eastern regions. Instead, this surge in recorded deaths reflects the ongoing work of researchers who are still processing a backlog of death reports. As the war continues with no clear resolution in sight, the human toll continues to climb, casting a shadow over the future of both nations involved. The rising numbers highlight the devastating impact of the conflict on Russian forces, as the country grapples with the consequences of sustained military engagement in Ukraine. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

This summer, Britain witnessed some of its worst riots in over two decades. The catalyst was the horrific murder of three children during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport. False claims online that the suspect was a Muslim asylum seeker sparked widespread violence, with mosques and refugee accommodations being targeted by angry mobs. The violence was not only directed at immigrants but also at long-standing communities of color, fueled by various far-right groups. As the newly elected Labour government under Prime Minister Keir Starmer searches for answers, a glaring issue has emerged: the previous Conservative government’s neglect of the rising threat of far-right extremism. According to officials working in counter-extremism, the last three years of the Conservative administration saw a significant drop in monitoring far-right activities, despite escalating tensions over immigration. Prime Minister Starmer responded swiftly to the riots by deploying a "standing army" of police officers, resulting in over 1,000 arrests and more than 600 charges. Among those arrested were two 12-year-old boys accused of throwing projectiles at the police and brothers who looted a local library. However, the roots of the violence seem to trace back to a failure to adequately address far-right extremism. A civil servant involved in national security suggested that this oversight was partly due to diverted funding and low morale among those tasked with monitoring extremism. Another official revealed that while the Conservative government had effectively managed public health disinformation during the pandemic, their focus on far-right extremism waned, leaving the country vulnerable. The official added that previous governments, both Conservative and Labour, had traditionally kept a close watch on right-wing extremism, but there had been a significant reduction in resources dedicated to this threat in recent years. Professor Paul Thomas, a counter-extremism expert, pointed out that financial constraints due to the post-COVID cost of living crisis further contributed to this lack of focus on the far-right. He noted that there had been no new or revised counter-extremism strategy in the past few years, leading to a discontinuation of preventative activities that were crucial in some areas prone to far-right extremism. A review by Sara Khan, the government’s former social cohesion and resilience adviser, echoed these concerns. Her review warned that budget cuts were leaving communities vulnerable to exploitation by extremists, including the far-right. The city of Stoke, for instance, lost its anti-terrorism funding despite ongoing extremist activity, resulting in increased violence during the riots. London also saw cuts to its anti-extremism efforts, with Prevent funding set to be reduced by half by 2025. Dr. Jessica White, a terrorism and conflict studies expert, highlighted that far-right activity had indeed fueled the riots. She pointed out that while not all participants in the unrest were violent extremists, the far-right's influence made it easier for them to get caught up in extremist ideologies. The previous government had been repeatedly warned about the growing far-right threat, including by the Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) in 2022. The committee criticized the transfer of responsibility for extreme right-wing terrorism to MI5 without adequate resources, leaving the security services stretched thin. The ISC also noted that the armed forces lacked a ban on joining extremist organizations, which they deemed risky. Despite these warnings, there was a prevailing belief among some officials that the far-right did not pose a significant threat. Alex Carlile, a former MP and terrorism legislation reviewer, mentioned that the far-right was often dismissed as “idiotic political activists” rather than a serious threat. However, the recent riots have shown that this underestimation had severe consequences. As Britain moves forward, Prime Minister Starmer has emphasized the need to tackle the "snake oil of populism and nationalism" that fueled the unrest. His government has announced a review of its counter-extremism strategy, with a focus on both Islamist and far-right extremism, as well as extreme misogyny. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that action against extremism had been severely weakened in recent years, just when it was needed most. The government now faces the challenge of rebuilding its approach to countering extremism, addressing both the immediate threat from the far-right and the underlying issues that allowed this summer's riots to spiral out of control. Credit: Politico 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe