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Prime Minister Keir Starmer has stated that he is ready to deploy British troops to Ukraine to help enforce a peace agreement, recognizing that such a move could put soldiers "in harm’s way" should Vladimir Putin launch another attack. Calling the crisis a “once in a generation moment” and an “existential” challenge for Europe, Starmer emphasized the urgency of ensuring Ukraine’s security and preventing future aggression. Starmer is attending emergency talks in Paris on Monday alongside European leaders to coordinate a response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts to broker a deal with Putin. Concerns have grown over the possibility that the U.S. might scale back its defense commitments in Europe, prompting European nations to reassess their own roles in safeguarding regional stability. Writing in *The Daily Telegraph* on Sunday, Starmer reaffirmed the UK's commitment to Ukraine’s defense, including a financial pledge of £3 billion annually until 2030. However, he also made it clear that military aid alone would not be sufficient. "It also means being ready and willing to contribute to security guarantees to Ukraine by putting our own troops on the ground if necessary," he said. “I do not say that lightly. I feel very deeply the responsibility that comes with potentially putting British servicemen and women in harm’s way,” Starmer continued. “But any role in helping to guarantee Ukraine’s security is helping to guarantee the security of our continent, and the security of this country. The end of this war, when it comes, cannot merely become a temporary pause before Putin attacks again.” Previously, Starmer had only suggested that British forces could be involved in Ukraine’s security post-ceasefire. However, in what appeared to be a direct message to European allies and Trump, he confirmed that military deployment was a serious consideration. The Prime Minister, who is scheduled to visit Washington later this month, underscored the importance of continued American support. “While European nations must step up in this moment – and we will – U.S. support will remain critical and a U.S. security guarantee is essential for a lasting peace, because only the U.S. can deter Putin from attacking again,” he stated. As part of ongoing diplomatic efforts, U.S. and Russian officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia following Trump’s recent phone call with Putin. However, Ukrainian officials have not been invited to the talks, and other European leaders may also be excluded. “We must be clear that peace cannot come at any cost. Ukraine must be at the table in these negotiations, because anything less would accept Putin’s position that Ukraine is not a real nation,” Starmer warned. He also drew a comparison to the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan under former President Joe Biden, which followed a deal struck between Trump’s administration and the Taliban. "We cannot have another situation like Afghanistan, where the U.S. negotiated directly with the Taliban and cut out the Afghan government," he said. “I feel sure that President Trump will want to avoid this too.” The meeting in Paris, convened by French President Emmanuel Macron, will include Starmer alongside leaders from Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Denmark, as well as top officials from the European Council, the European Commission, and NATO. Starmer made it clear that Europe must take greater responsibility for its own defense. "We have got to show we are truly serious about our own defense and bearing our own burden," he said. Based on a report by ITV News 2025-02-17

A number of off topic posts and responses have been removed. Please discuss the topic which is: Updates and events in the War in Ukraine 2025

James Garnor, a former parish councillor, has stepped down from his position after shocking footage emerged of an 11-year-old tabby cat named Suki being blasted off a bird table by an explosive device. In an exclusive image, Garnor is seen holding a barbecued pig, while those who know him insist he "would never hurt a fly." Whittlebury Parish Council confirmed his resignation, stating, "We understand the concerns raised by the community and want to assure everyone that we take all matters of animal welfare seriously." The incident has divided opinion in the village of Whittlebury, just south of Towcester. Nikki Elam, 46, the owner of Suki, accused Garnor of being "sadistic," claiming her cat was targeted twice in separate incidents. Another villager, identified only as Amelia, alleged that Garnor had also been involved in harming local wildlife, including squirrels. However, friends of Garnor have come to his defense, with one telling MailOnline, "He wouldn’t harm a fly, he just meant to give the cat a fright." Northamptonshire Police were called, and Garnor attended a voluntary interview where he was shown the footage. Officers also visited his home but decided in October 2023 that there was insufficient evidence for criminal charges. Instead, the case was handled under anti-social behavior legislation. However, just a month after the police dropped their investigation, a second video surfaced in November 2023. The new footage once again showed Suki jumping onto a wooden bird table in what was believed to be the garden of Garnor’s elderly neighbor. Moments later, another explosive device—larger and louder than the first—detonated beneath her, leaving her with singed whiskers. The slow-motion replay of the explosion further intensified public outrage. Ms. Elam is convinced the attacks were deliberate. "The attacks were premeditated. I think he’s sadistic," she said. "He’s done it twice. The second time just after the police dropped a criminal investigation into him. It was like a two fingers up at me—that he could do what he wanted." She also revealed that Garnor had experience handling fireworks and had been involved in organizing Bonfire Night displays in the nearby village of Greens Norton. According to Elam, the incidents have had a lasting impact on Suki. "She used to come and sit for hours, cuddling and playing, but now she very rarely comes near you," she said. Amelia further alleged that Garnor had a history of dangerous behavior. "He caused practically the whole village to be evacuated two years ago. His neighbor’s shed—right next to his—caught fire, and the flames spread across the fence. As firefighters were putting out the blaze, they found tanks of acetylene, which could have blown the whole village up. We were all moved out of our homes for safety while fire crews made it safe. Why he had such a dangerous gas stored in his shed is beyond me. It was highly irresponsible." Garnor, who works in engineering and frequently travels for work, is usually based at home. While opinions remain divided in the village, the disturbing accusations and resurfaced footage have left many residents questioning how he ever held a public position in the first place. Based on a report by Daily Mail | LBC 2025-02-17

President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday barring federal funding for schools and universities that enforce COVID-19 vaccine mandates for students. While such requirements have largely faded, the move reinforces a campaign promise to defund institutions imposing vaccine mandates and follows the recent swearing-in of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a well-known vaccine skeptic, as Secretary of Health and Human Services. The order directs the Department of Health and Human Services and the Education Department to establish guidelines for eliminating COVID-19 vaccine mandates, identify institutions that fail to comply, and implement a system to withdraw federal funding. "Such mandates usurp parental authority and burden students of many faiths," the order states. However, it does not address other routine immunization requirements for diseases such as measles, mumps, polio, diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough. Most schools require students to receive several vaccines before attending classes, though exemptions for medical reasons or personal beliefs vary by state. Since the pandemic, vaccine hesitancy has grown, leading more parents to seek exemptions from standard childhood vaccinations. According to the CDC, vaccine exemptions among kindergarteners increased in 40 states and Washington, D.C., during the 2023-24 school year, reflecting a broader shift in attitudes toward immunization. Based on a report by AXIOS 2025-02-17

Social media is rife with disturbing posts that bear all the hallmarks of anti-Semitism. One such post reads, "Calling me a 'terrorist' doesn't scare me," overlaid on an image of a masked man making an upside-down triangle with his hands—a symbol widely associated with Hamas propaganda. Another post asserts, "Non-violence is a privilege that Palestinians cannot afford," accompanied by images glorifying the "armed struggle" and praising militants brandishing weapons. Shockingly, these posts are not from anonymous trolls or extremists hiding in the shadows. They originate from a doctor working in the NHS, a profession dedicated to saving lives and serving the most vulnerable. Even more troubling, she is not alone. Over the past year, more than a dozen NHS doctors, nurses, and dentists have been found promoting hate speech, praising terrorist organizations, and spreading dangerous misinformation. Jewish medical professionals and patients have reported deeply unsettling incidents, including NHS staff displaying anti-Israel posters in operating theatres, wearing pro-Palestine badges while treating patients, and even holding political meetings during working hours. Between October 7, 2023, and November 19, 2024, the General Medical Council (GMC) received 402 complaints related to anti-Semitism. These complaints involved 98 identified doctors and an additional 26 whose identities could not be confirmed. Despite the alarming numbers, no doctors were struck off during this period. This prompted an investigation into the presence of anti-Semitism within the NHS. What was uncovered was shocking, both in terms of the inflammatory content shared online and the sheer scale of the problem. One of the most egregious offenders is trauma and orthopaedics doctor Dr. Rahmeh Aladwan. Of Palestinian descent, she has "Free Palestine" tattooed on her left bicep and has littered her social media accounts with alarming endorsements of Hamas. In a post titled "Resist," she declared, "We never condemn the Palestinians. We back their struggle, including armed struggle," alongside an upside-down red triangle. Other posts include images of masked gunmen with fire emojis, a toddler in a Hamas headband, and a militant brandishing a large weapon with the caption, "A picture of AlQasem a day keeps the Zs locked away," referencing Hamas's military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades. A Jewish colleague who worked with Dr. Aladwan expressed fear over her presence in the hospital. "From the moment I met her, her views were very obvious. She wore a keffiyeh and a Palestine badge on her uniform. I felt scared whenever I was around her and even lied about my name to avoid conflict. It was extremely distracting. After a complaint was made about her activism, she stormed into the staff room and accused 'some Zionist woman' of reporting her. It was aggressive. I worried about what could happen if she treated a Jewish or Israeli patient. A hospital just shouldn't be a political place." Despite being reported to counter-terror police, Dr. Aladwan has not been suspended by the GMC and has not responded to requests for comment. This case is not isolated. Dr. Rehiana Ali, a consultant neurologist of Palestinian descent, was suspended in December following a complaint from the UK Lawyers for Israel association. However, her suspension is only temporary and does not constitute an official finding of misconduct by the GMC. She appears to take pride in the situation, changing her social media bio to, "Suspended by GMC UK for hurting Israeli feelings. I still say killing kids is demonic." In October 2024, she tweeted that Hamas "are not terrorists and are legitimate Palestinian resistance," advocating for the UK to remove the group from its list of proscribed terrorist organizations. Dr. Wahid Shaida, a Harrow-based GP, has also drawn criticism for referring to Hamas as a "resistance" group and calling the October 7 attacks "a very welcome punch on the nose." Despite a brief NHS suspension, he was reinstated last July and remains licensed to practice. Likewise, Wolverhampton GP Dr. Kamran Ahmed received only a formal warning from the GMC after calling the Israeli flag the "modern-day swastika" and comparing Gaza to Auschwitz. Nevertheless, he remains an active doctor. In another case, Dr. Daniel Nava Rodrigues, a former pathologist at the Royal Free Hospital in Hampstead, tweeted that "dead and suffering Israelis... brightens the day." Meanwhile, Dr. Ranjeet Brar, a consultant vascular surgeon at King's College Hospital, was arrested for selling pamphlets promoting conspiracy theories about Jews, featuring a Star of David intertwined with a swastika. Though he received a warning from the GMC, he retains his medical license. When confronted, he denied all allegations, stating, "I have been exonerated of all charges. No wrongdoing was found. I am a lifelong anti-racist campaigner and I will deny in any way being labelled a racist or an anti-Semite." Jewish doctors have spoken out about the increasing hostility they face in the NHS. One doctor, speaking anonymously, stated, "Both staff and patients have experienced escalating levels of anti-Semitism in healthcare, and there is growing fear as people feel unsafe and unprotected." A private Facebook group called "The On Call Room," used by over 16,000 healthcare professionals, exposes just how deeply rooted the problem is. Accessible only to those with a GMC number, the group contains numerous racist comments and conspiracy theories. One member, South East-based GP Shamroz Afghan, claimed that Gaza was being used as a "military testing ground" and "organ harvesting area." He went on to declare, "Zionism is an inherently racist apartheid system based on Jewish supremacy... You can't have peace if one's land is being occupied... justice means Zionism must be eradicated." The Department of Health and Social Care has acknowledged the severity of the issue. A spokesperson stated, "These kinds of posts are totally unacceptable—no Jewish people should feel unsafe or uncomfortable at work or during treatment. There is no room for racists in the National Health Service. We expect NHS employers and regulators to act against any staff who promote hatred towards Jewish people." Despite these statements, concerns remain about whether enough is being done to ensure Jewish staff and patients feel safe. Alex Hearn from Labour Against Anti-Semitism stated, "We are painfully aware that many Jews feel unsafe and try to hide their identity when receiving medical attention. Complaints by Jewish doctors subjected to racist abuse by colleagues have surged. It is high time the GMC woke up to this issue and took concrete steps to address this on an institutional, systemic level." The growing prevalence of anti-Semitism in the NHS raises serious questions about whether medical institutions are doing enough to protect both their employees and their patients. Urgent action is required to ensure that hospitals and clinics remain places of care, free from the influence of hate and political extremism. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-02-17

As discussions about postwar Gaza continue, the challenge of reconstruction remains a pressing issue. U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal for an American-led “takeover” of the region has generated headlines but lacks practical solutions for the deeply rooted issues that plague the coastal enclave. A lasting transformation of Gaza requires addressing two fundamental challenges that have historically hindered its development. The first challenge is Hamas’s continued presence in the region. Despite being weakened after the events of October 7, 2023, the organization still exerts influence through its militant ideology. Hamas’s governance has long been characterized by corruption, violence, and extremism, making it an obstacle to meaningful progress. The second challenge lies in the deeply ingrained belief among many Palestinians in Gaza that their fate is inseparable from the broader Israel-Palestine conflict, particularly events in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. This perspective prevents them from focusing solely on developing Gaza as a thriving Palestinian statelet. Traditional postwar reconstruction efforts have failed because they have not effectively tackled these two strategic problems. Any future approach must go beyond rebuilding infrastructure and instead address the underlying political and ideological roadblocks that fuel cycles of violence. To move forward, Hamas’s monopoly on power must be dismantled. This can be achieved through targeted financial restrictions, efforts to divide moderate members from the group’s hardline leadership, and possible exile for senior military figures who remain in Gaza. Any solution will also require an internationally supervised long-term truce with Israel, ensuring stability while integrating former Hamas members into a professionalized governance structure. Isolating Hamas in Gaza from its counterpart in the West Bank will further weaken the group’s influence and prevent it from acting as a unified political entity. The second challenge requires reshaping public discourse and redefining Gaza’s social contract. A new governing authority—ideally a technocratic administration with some Palestinian Authority oversight—must acknowledge the failures of past leadership and commit to avoiding the mistakes of the past. Moving forward, political leaders in Gaza should pledge never to use violence or reckless political maneuvering that puts their people at risk. A key component of this transformation is the creation of a new media platform that counters Hamas’s narrative and extremist rhetoric. A proposed initiative, “Radio Free Gaza,” could serve as a voice for alternative perspectives, challenging destructive ideologies while promoting stability and development. International aid will continue to play a crucial role in Gaza’s recovery, but it must be channeled with clear expectations. Donor nations and organizations should establish a framework that ensures their contributions are used for economic development, infrastructure, and public welfare rather than fueling further instability. Gaza’s dependency on international assistance will not last indefinitely, and efforts should be directed toward creating a self-sufficient economy that can integrate with both Israel and a future Palestinian state. If trust between Israelis and Palestinians can be restored, economic cooperation between Gaza and Israel could lead to job creation, trade expansion, and regional stability. However, this vision requires Palestinians in Gaza to move away from cycles of destruction and conflict, using aid and investment as tools for long-term transformation rather than temporary relief. Rebuilding Gaza into a prosperous and stable region will not be easy, but it is possible. The key lies in addressing these two critical challenges—dismantling Hamas’s power and redefining Gaza’s political and social priorities. While Trump’s desire to reshape the status quo is understandable, an external-imposed solution will not bring lasting peace. Instead, security, governance, and ideological reform must be approached with innovation, commitment, and a clear understanding that the future of Gaza depends on its people embracing change and rejecting the forces that have held them back. Based on a report by the Atlantic Council 2025-02-17

The head of a New York City nonprofit organization that assisted former inmates has been accused of accepting $2.5 million in bribes, including luxury car payments, stacks of cash, and two homes, in exchange for directing $51 million in city COVID funds to two businesspeople, federal prosecutors claim. Julio Medina, 64, founder and CEO of Exodus Transitional Community, was indicted on Thursday by the Brooklyn US Attorney’s Office. His organization, which played a role in placing inmates in hotels during the pandemic to curb the spread of COVID-19 in jails, reportedly received $122 million in public funds from the mayor’s office between June 2020 and December 2023. Prosecutors allege that Medina funneled $51 million of this money to businesses operated by Christopher Dantzler, 49, and Weihong Hu, 59, in return for substantial kickbacks. Dantzler and Hu allegedly purchased a $1.3 million townhouse in Washington Heights for Medina, as well as a house in Clifton Park, NY, covering $750,000 in renovations. Additionally, Hu, through her company, is accused of providing over $50,000 in car payments for Medina on a luxury vehicle valued at $107,000, while Dantzler allegedly paid off $75,000 in personal debts for Medina and his family members. Prosecutors claim that Dantzler’s company was paid by Exodus for security services at the hotels, despite not being a licensed security firm and never actually providing any services. Hu, meanwhile, operated two hotels in Queens and was also part of a catering business that supplied food services at the hotels. Both Hu and Dantzler allegedly provided Medina with cash bribes. Included in the indictment were photos showing Medina accepting a stack of cash from Hu, which prosecutors claim was around the same time her catering company received two checks totaling more than $187,000 from Exodus. “Shamefully, the defendants saw the pandemic as an opportunity to line their pockets with stacks of cash, finance a luxury vehicle, purchase homes and pay off personal debts,” Brooklyn US Attorney John J. Durham stated. The three defendants have been charged with wire fraud conspiracy, honest services wire fraud, and conspiracy to violate the travel act. If convicted, they each face up to 45 years in prison. During their arraignment in Brooklyn federal court on Thursday, Judge James Cho set bail at $250,000 for Medina, $20 million for Hu, and $750,000 for Dantzler. Hu’s attorney, Benjamin Brafman, defended his client, stating, “In my judgment, Ms. Hu is in many ways a ‘victim’ in this case and not a co-conspirator.” Based on a report by NYP 2025-02-17

A British couple detained in Iran on unspecified “security charges” have been identified as Craig and Lindsay Foreman, a husband and wife who were in the middle of a global motorbike adventure. The pair, who had planned to reach Australia, were taken into custody last month after crossing into Iran from Armenia. Lindsay Foreman, a life coach with a doctorate in psychology, and Craig Foreman, a carpenter, had been documenting their travels online and sharing their experiences. Before their arrest, they had expressed admiration for Iran, with Mrs. Foreman describing it as “amazing” and Mr. Foreman calling it a “lovely country” with “lovely people.” The couple had visited Tabriz, Tehran, and Isfahan with a tour guide before heading toward Kerman, where they never checked into their hotel. Photographs released this week show the couple meeting with Hugo Shorter, the British ambassador to Iran, at the Public and Revolutionary Prosecutor’s Office in Kerman. The meeting was also attended by local prosecutor Mehdi Bakhshi and Rahman Jalali, the province’s deputy governor for security and law enforcement affairs. Despite official Foreign Office warnings against travel to Iran, the couple had acknowledged the risks. “Yes, we’re aware of the risks,” Mrs. Foreman wrote on social media. “But we also know the rewards of meeting incredible people, hearing their stories, and seeing the breathtaking landscapes of these regions could far outweigh the fear.” Originally from East Sussex, the Foremans moved to Andalusia, Spain, in 2019. They embarked on their extensive motorbike journey in October, traveling across Europe and into Asia via Turkey. Their ultimate destination was Brisbane, Australia, where they planned to attend a positive psychology conference in July 2025. In a statement, their family described their detention as a “distressing situation” and expressed deep concern. “We would like to take this opportunity to address the distressing situation concerning Craig and Lindsay Foreman who are currently being detained in Kerman, Iran. This unexpected turn of events has caused significant concern for our entire family, and we are deeply focused on ensuring their safety and well-being during this trying time. We are actively engaging with the British government and relevant authorities, working diligently to navigate the complexities of this matter. The family are united in our determination to secure their safe return. We truly appreciate the outpouring of support from friends, family, and the community, which has provided us with strength and encouragement as we face this ordeal.” The British Foreign Office has confirmed it is in contact with local authorities in Iran and is providing consular assistance to the couple. The UK government currently advises all British nationals against travel to Iran due to ongoing security concerns. Iran has detained several European nationals in recent years, with Western governments repeatedly accusing the country of using foreign and dual nationals as bargaining chips in international negotiations or for prisoner exchanges. Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2025-02-17

European leaders are set to convene next week for an emergency summit in response to growing concerns that the United States is proceeding with peace negotiations with Russia that may exclude the continent from key discussions on Ukraine’s future. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who is expected to attend the summit in Paris, described the moment as a "once-in-a-generation moment for our national security" and emphasized the need for Europe to take on a greater role within NATO. The urgency of the meeting follows remarks from Donald Trump's special envoy to Ukraine, who stated that European leaders would be consulted but not included in direct negotiations between the US and Russia regarding an end to the war. US officials also confirmed that senior White House figures are scheduled to meet with Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in Saudi Arabia in the coming days. In comments likely to raise alarm among European allies and Ukraine, special envoy Keith Kellogg suggested that previous negotiations had faltered due to the involvement of too many parties. "It may be like chalk on the blackboard, it may grate a little bit, but I am telling you something that is really quite honest," he said on Saturday. Sir Keir views his role as essential in bridging the gap between the US and Europe to ensure a unified approach toward peace in Ukraine. He is set to convey the perspectives of European leaders when he meets with US President Trump at the White House later this month. A subsequent meeting between European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected upon his return from Washington. Emphasizing the importance of transatlantic unity, Sir Keir stated, "The UK will work to ensure we keep the US and Europe together. We cannot allow any divisions in the alliance to distract from external enemies." He underscored the security challenges posed by Russia, saying, "This is a once-in-a-generation moment for our national security where we engage with the reality of the world today and the threat we face from Russia. It’s clear Europe must take on a greater role in NATO as we work with the United States to secure Ukraine’s future and face down the threat we face from Russia." Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski disclosed that French President Emmanuel Macron had called for the emergency summit, although Macron has yet to make a formal announcement. Sikorski remarked, "President Trump has a method of operating, which the Russians call reconnaissance through battle. You push and you see what happens, and then you change your position, legitimate tactics. And we need to respond." Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the formation of a European military force amid rising concerns that the US may withdraw support for the continent. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, he expressed apprehension following US Vice-President JD Vance’s speech, which suggested that the traditional US-Europe alliance was shifting. "The old relationship between Europe and America is ending, and the continent needs to adjust to that," Zelensky said. However, he strongly opposed any negotiations conducted without Ukraine’s direct involvement. "Ukraine will never accept deals made behind our backs without our involvement," he asserted, following reports that Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to initiate peace talks. Earlier this week, Trump announced he had held a lengthy conversation with Putin and that negotiations to halt the "ridiculous war" would commence "immediately." Trump then informed Zelensky of his plan. On Saturday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Russia's foreign minister to follow up on the February 12 call between Trump and Putin, further signaling a renewed diplomatic push from Washington. Trump’s conversation with Putin marked the first direct contact between Washington and Moscow in nearly three years. According to US Representative Michael McCaul, senior Trump administration officials are set to engage in peace discussions with Russian and Ukrainian negotiators in Saudi Arabia in the coming days. McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, stated that he understood Zelensky had been invited to these talks, which were aimed at setting the stage for a meeting between Trump, Putin, and the Ukrainian president to "finally bring peace and end this conflict." US Vice-President Vance has meanwhile criticized European democracies, arguing that the greatest threat to the continent is not from Russia or China, but "from within." Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, he echoed the Trump administration’s stance that Europe must "step up in a big way to provide for its own defense." UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy reinforced the necessity for increased European defense spending, warning that Europe faces an "existential question" even if a peace deal is reached in Ukraine. Speaking at the same conference, he stated, "Putin will not go away," and while it is positive that 23 NATO members are now spending at least 2% of their GDP on defense, "we all know we have to go upward." The upcoming European summit will be a crucial moment for the continent’s leaders as they seek to secure a strong role in the future of Ukraine and reaffirm Europe’s place in the transatlantic alliance. Based on a report by BBC 2025-02-17

A group of white South Africans gathered outside the US Embassy in Pretoria on Saturday to show support for President Donald Trump and protest what they claim are racist policies implemented by their own government. Holding signs that read “Thank God for President Trump,” the demonstrators voiced their opposition to laws they believe discriminate against the white minority in the country. Many of the protesters were from the Afrikaner community, which Trump highlighted in an executive order last week that cut aid to South Africa’s Black-led government. In the order, Trump argued that Afrikaners, descendants of mainly Dutch colonial settlers, were being unfairly targeted by a new land expropriation law. The law allows the South African government to redistribute certain private lands, a move that has sparked controversy. The South African government has rejected Trump’s claims, insisting that the law is not based on race. Officials have accused Trump of distorting the situation, pointing out that no land has actually been taken under the legislation. Despite this, Trump has described Afrikaners as “racially disfavored landowners” and announced a plan to grant them refugee status in the United States. Afrikaners, however, represent only a portion of South Africa’s white population. Addressing Parliament this week, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa firmly dismissed concerns that the law would result in forced removals. “The people of this country know the pain of forced removals,” he said, referencing the apartheid era when millions of Black South Africans were dispossessed of their land. Ramaphosa emphasized that the law does not allow for arbitrary land seizures and is instead aimed at redistribution for public benefit. Trump’s criticisms and subsequent policy decisions have amplified a long-running debate in South Africa over how to address the legacy of white minority rule. The South African government has stated that its land policies are intended to correct historical injustices, as white landowners still control a disproportionate share of farmland despite making up only 7% of the population. At Saturday’s protest, demonstrators also criticized affirmative action policies that have been in place since the end of apartheid in 1994. These policies, known as Black Economic Empowerment, are designed to increase economic opportunities for Black South Africans but have been a source of frustration for some white citizens. Influential Trump adviser Elon Musk, who was born and raised in South Africa, has also spoken out against the government’s policies, frequently claiming they are discriminatory against white people. Musk recently faced his own struggles with the South African government after being denied a license for his Starlink satellite internet service, as it did not meet the country’s affirmative action requirements. His criticism of the government, however, has been met with skepticism by some observers. While race has historically shaped South African politics, the country has largely managed to reconcile its diverse population in the post-apartheid era. The current government is composed of a coalition of ten political parties, both Black-led and white-led, working together in governance. Based on a report by CNN 2025-02-17

The discontent within Labour’s government has reached a boiling point. One frustrated minister summed up the mood, saying, “To be honest, we’re all sick of Downing Street. No 10 is constantly trying to blame everyone else for the Government’s failings. It’s time they started looking closer to home.” Tensions between Sir Keir Starmer and his Cabinet have been growing for months, with ministers increasingly disillusioned by what they see as disorganized leadership. That frustration has now exploded, driven by a series of damaging briefings against senior Cabinet members, which sources claim were sanctioned at the highest levels. But No 10’s attempts at internal maneuvering have only fueled further resentment. “The problem No 10 has is that they’re rubbish at it,” one minister revealed. “I know exactly who’s been briefing against me and to whom. Their fingerprints are all over it.” The breakdown in trust is so severe that some ministers have started deliberately withholding information from Starmer’s aides. “We’ve decided we’re just going to have to cut them out,” one admitted. “We can’t trust them. If we bring them in too early, they try to sabotage what we’re doing.” Adding to the frustration is the growing perception that Downing Street’s decision-making is painfully slow and dysfunctional. “It’s really, really hard to get a decision out of there,” one minister complained. Another recalled being berated by No 10 for failing to inform them about a policy decision, only to remind them that it had been signed off two weeks earlier. There is also growing alarm over the government’s economic messaging. The leadership’s abrupt shift from prioritizing investment and public services to an almost singular focus on growth has left many ministers confused and concerned. “They understand they talked down the economy too much,” a minister explained. “But now they’re trying to just talk the economy back to growth. Well, that’s fine. But it wasn’t what we were told the strategy was.” Inside No 10, there is reportedly “terror” over the upcoming Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) growth forecasts. In an attempt to soften the impact of the expected bad news, ministers have been ordered to come up with new policies to fill the headlines. “We’ve been told to come up with things to pack the grid for March,” one government official admitted. “They want to try to bury the OBR figures. They’re that terrible.” The final straw for many ministers has been the brutal spending cuts being proposed in the Government Spending Review. With Rachel Reeves’s fiscal headroom rapidly shrinking, departments are being asked to make cuts that some ministers believe are simply unworkable. “I just haven’t got the scope in my budget,” one minister protested. “What the Treasury and No 10 are asking for is impossible. The deficit I inherited from the Tories was already massive. I can’t implement the cuts they want without everything just collapsing.” Much of the blame is being directed at Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, who has been tasked with identifying where the axe will fall. One minister was blunt in their assessment: “He’s a disaster. He doesn’t really understand what he’s doing. He finds it hard to even grasp basic figures.” A senior government official went even further, calling him “a very strange man” who shows “no empathy” when confronted with the real-world consequences of his proposals. While most Cabinet members are worried about the real-world effects of these cuts on public services, they are equally alarmed by the political fallout. “We’re about to commit electoral suicide,” one minister warned. “The reaction to the winter fuel cut was terrible. Well, this is going to set off carnage inside the party. People backed us because they thought we’d improve public services, not slash them further.” Another predicted disaster at the ballot box: “The local elections will be a bloodbath. Farage is going to run riot.” Discontent within government is not uncommon, especially when budgets are tight. But the sheer scale of anger towards Starmer’s leadership so early in his tenure is remarkable. Many had hoped that the departure of Starmer’s former chief of staff, Sue Gray, and the arrival of Morgan McSweeney would stabilize Downing Street. But those hopes have been dashed. “Everyone who thought Sue was the problem has been given a nasty shock,” a minister admitted. The deeper issue is Labour’s shifting economic strategy. Ministers believed they had a solid, if difficult, approach: protecting public services, blaming the Tories for financial mismanagement, and justifying necessary tax increases. But the pivot to prioritizing growth has upended that framework—just as the OBR is set to announce grim economic forecasts. Some Tories believe the government is merely managing expectations. “We don’t think the OBR figures will be quite as bad as people are expecting,” one Conservative strategist suggested. “That will allow Reeves to say, ‘It’s hurting, but there are signs it’s working.’” But Labour ministers aren’t convinced. “No 10 aren’t that clever,” one argued. “This isn’t expectation management. The OBR figures are going to be bad. And when we see them, the blame will lie in Downing Street.” The patience of the Cabinet has run out. Starmer’s government is on the brink of open conflict, and Labour’s internal war is about to begin. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-02-17

MUNICH—In an effort to ease concerns in Kyiv, U.S. officials assured Ukraine that it would be directly involved in negotiations with Russia. This reassurance came after President Volodymyr Zelensky made it clear that Ukraine would not accept a peace deal imposed without its consent. During a meeting of foreign ministers from the Group of Seven nations at the Munich Security Conference, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized to his Ukrainian counterpart that Washington had no intention of sidelining Ukraine in diplomatic discussions. According to diplomats present, Rubio stated that it would be unwise to exclude Ukraine from negotiations. Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, the Trump administration’s envoy for Ukraine, later expanded on the U.S. approach, explaining that direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine would be the foundation of any peace deal, with the United States serving as a mediator. However, he offered a stark message to European leaders, asserting that they would not have a direct role in the negotiations. “I think that’s not going to happen,” Kellogg said, though he acknowledged that European countries could provide input. These statements concluded a week that had unsettled trans-Atlantic relations and left Ukrainian officials questioning Washington’s intentions. The uncertainty began on Tuesday when President Trump informed Russian President Vladimir Putin of impending negotiations before publicly announcing them. Additionally, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that Ukraine’s membership in NATO was off the table and ruled out a direct U.S. role in enforcing a future peace agreement. Following backlash from European allies, Hegseth later seemed to soften his stance. However, the unease deepened on Friday when Vice President JD Vance spoke at the Munich conference. Instead of outlining the U.S. strategy for Ukraine, as many European leaders had anticipated, Vance sharply criticized European governments, accusing them of suppressing free speech and disregarding public opinion. The series of events left European leaders deeply concerned about the stability of the trans-Atlantic alliance, which is crucial to Europe’s security and economy. Zelensky, too, expressed doubts about Washington’s commitment to Ukraine’s cause. When asked in Munich whether he believed the Trump administration fully grasped the stakes of the war, he responded, “I will be honest. We have to work on it…There are a lot of different voices around the new American administration and I am not sure that all these voices are on our side.” European leaders are now formulating a response to Washington’s approach, emphasizing that their involvement is essential for a sustainable resolution. Their argument is that European financial support will be crucial in strengthening Ukraine’s defenses and rebuilding the war-torn nation. The Trump administration has suggested that European troops may be required to help implement a peace deal, but European governments are unlikely to commit to such a role without a say in shaping the agreement. European Council President António Costa underscored this point during his speech in Munich. “In a nutshell: There will be no credible and successful negotiations, no lasting peace, without Ukraine and without the European Union,” he declared. Costa further stressed that any lasting resolution must recognize that the Russian threat extends beyond Ukraine. He warned against a ceasefire that would allow Russia to renew hostilities in the future. “It must guarantee that Russia will no longer be a threat to Ukraine, to Europe, to its neighbors,” he stated. Discussions among European officials are now focused on coordinating a response to Washington’s position. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has called an emergency meeting of foreign ministers in Munich on Sunday. Additionally, leaders from France, Britain, Poland, Germany, and other European nations are scheduled to meet in Paris on Monday to explore ways Europe can contribute to securing peace. One option under consideration is deploying European troops to Ukraine, potentially extending beyond peacekeeping to include military training. This would ensure Europe has a stake in Ukraine’s security, particularly in the event of future Russian aggression. Despite the U.S. dominating recent headlines, some European leaders argue that Washington is merely filling a void left by Europe’s failure to articulate a comprehensive strategy for ending the war on terms favorable to Kyiv. Finnish President Alexander Stubb voiced this sentiment, urging Europe to take decisive action. “Europe needs to get its act together. Europe needs to talk less and act more,” he said. Criticizing U.S. pronouncements was not enough, he argued. “OK, what are you going to do about it?” While European leaders remain divided on their next steps, some have cautioned against an overreaction to Washington’s rhetoric. Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics emphasized the complexity of the negotiations, warning against premature conclusions. “We are at the very beginning,” he said in an interview in Munich. “I view this week, especially the communication coming out from the White House or the Kremlin or President Zelensky’s office, only as the opening of the opening” of the talks. As diplomatic maneuvering intensifies, all sides recognize that the coming weeks will be critical in determining the future of Ukraine, European security, and trans-Atlantic relations. Based on a report by WSJ 2025-02-17

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has established a new cost-cutting unit modeled after Elon Musk’s efficiency drive in the U.S., aiming to root out wasteful spending within the Home Office. The ‘DOGE’ division—short for Department of Government Efficiency—has already begun freezing contracts that are deemed an unnecessary use of taxpayer money. Inspired by Musk’s approach to streamlining the U.S. civil service, the unit will scrutinize every expenditure, with a particular focus on curbing the use of external consultants. One of its immediate targets is the practice of holding costly ‘away days’ at hired venues. A government insider revealed that such events, like a recent Home Office gathering in an extravagant central London ballroom, would likely be banned. “We have a lot of spaces the Government owns across Whitehall. These can be used instead of spending money on hiring external venues,” the source said. The DOGE unit is set to meet weekly to review all proposed contracts, rejecting any that appear excessive. It is headed by Home Office minister Lord Hanson and former Gordon Brown adviser Damian McBride, known for his no-nonsense approach to government spending. The unit was formed after Cooper discovered the department had allocated £3 million over three years for digital graphics and filming from a Soho-based PR firm, along with £100,000 for leadership training from Deloitte. Insiders said these planned contracts were “the last straw,” prompting Cooper to halt both immediately. The Home Office’s efforts to cut spending align with broader government financial pressures. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is facing shrinking fiscal headroom ahead of the upcoming Budget, increasing the likelihood of public-sector cuts. Departments are under mounting pressure to find savings, and the Home Office is no exception. Lord Hanson has already conducted two spending reviews that identified millions in savings, which have since been redirected to support neighborhood policing. Previously, only contracts exceeding £5 million required ministerial approval. However, under the new system, all contracts, regardless of value, must be signed off by the DOGE team. Sources confirmed that the unit held its first meeting last Wednesday. One of its key priorities is ending the use of external headhunters for departmental hiring, as well as preventing managers from excessive year-end spending to exhaust remaining budgets. A government source explained that Lord Hanson is determined to curb this habit, stating, “We are living in fiscally straitened times. We are trying to drive much better planning and management.” Labour MP Jake Richards, a member of the Home Affairs Select Committee, backed the initiative, saying, “It’s right the Home Secretary is getting a grip so that more money can be directed towards the Government’s plan for more police and secure borders.” As the government braces for potential cuts, the DOGE unit’s mission is clear: eliminate waste and ensure that taxpayer money is spent efficiently, with a focus on delivering frontline services rather than funding unnecessary extravagances. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-02-17

Donald Trump will support Israel in its efforts to "finish the job on Iran," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday during a visit from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Speaking at a joint appearance, Netanyahu emphasized that both Israel and the United States share the belief that Iran must not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons and that its regional influence must be curtailed. "Iran fuels terror and instability across the region," says Rubio in Israel, as he reaffirms U.S.-Israel cooperation on Gaza, Iran, and hostage negotiations. On the subject of Hamas, Rubio fully backed Netanyahu, asserting that the group "must be eradicated, it must be eliminated," and cannot continue to function as either a governing or military force. His visit coincided with the arrival of a large shipment of U.S. military aid to Israel. On Saturday night, a vessel carrying 1,800 heavy MK-84 2,000-pound bombs docked at the Port of Ashdod, following an order by President Trump. Since the start of the war, over 76,000 tons of military equipment have been delivered to Israel via hundreds of airlifts and sea shipments. Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz described the latest munitions shipment as a significant boost for the Israeli military and proof of the strong alliance between Israel and the United States. "The munitions shipment that arrived in Israel tonight, released by the Trump administration, represents a significant asset for the Air Force and the IDF and serves as further evidence of the strong alliance between Israel and the United States," Katz said. Many view the shipment as a direct warning to Iran. Rubio and Netanyahu also discussed the ongoing negotiations regarding the remaining 14 hostages in Gaza as part of the first phase of a potential ceasefire. According to Hamas and Israeli sources, only six of the 14 hostages are still alive. Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2025-02-17

@MalcolmB yet another highly antisemitec post of yours has been removed.

UPDATE: The Jew-Hating Australian nurse who claimed to have killed Israeli patients may not have been bluffing. Ahmad Nadir, who admitted to killing patients, asked a former coworker to clean out his locker. • Inside, police have found a bottle of morphine, likely stolen from the hospital, which could have been used to overdose and kill patients.

A horrifying knife attack in the Austrian city of Villach has left a 14-year-old boy dead and four others injured. Authorities have arrested a 23-year-old Syrian asylum seeker in connection with the random stabbings, which occurred in the city center just before 4 p.m. on Saturday. Rainer Dionisio, a police spokesman, confirmed the shocking nature of the assault. “A man randomly attacked passers-by with a knife,” he stated. “One victim, a 14-year-old boy, died.” The other victims, all men, sustained varying degrees of injuries. Two suffered serious wounds, while the other two received less severe injuries. The oldest victim is 32 years old. Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos and terror. A food delivery rider, witnessing the attack unfold, intervened by ramming his vehicle into the attacker, allowing the police to apprehend him immediately. Authorities have confirmed that the suspect holds a valid residence permit and has no prior criminal record. However, images from the arrest show him appearing to smile as officers surrounded him with their weapons drawn. This tragic event comes just two days after another violent attack in neighboring Germany. In Munich, a 24-year-old Afghan asylum seeker was arrested after allegedly driving a car into a trade union demonstration. The attack, which took place on Thursday, resulted in the deaths of a two-year-old girl and her mother, while 37 others were injured. German authorities are investigating the possibility of Islamist extremist motives behind that incident. As Austria reels from the Villach attack, questions are being raised about public safety and the motivations behind such violent acts. The police continue to investigate, while the nation mourns the loss of a young life and the trauma inflicted upon the victims. Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2025-02-17

@MalcolmB an off topic and insensitive troll post has been removed. Please comment on the topic not deflect to tourists and expats in Thailand

After enduring 498 harrowing days in Hamas captivity, Israeli hostages Sagui Dekel-Chen, Sasha Troufanov, and Iair Horn have finally returned to Israel. Escorted out of Gaza by Israeli special forces following their handover by the Red Cross, the three men were brought to a secure facility near the border for initial medical evaluations and to reunite with their families. Despite their joy, they acknowledged the painful reality that he may not yet know his father was murdered on the same day. "This knowledge – or lack thereof – will completely transform his homecoming from a day of great joy to one of deep mourning for his beloved father," they said. Iair Horn’s family also expressed both relief and continued anguish. "Now we can breathe a little. Our Iair is home after surviving hell in Gaza. Now, we need to bring [hostage brother] Eitan back so our family can truly breathe," they said. Their focus remains on securing the release of all remaining hostages, with a commitment to "continue working to bring Eitan and all other hostages home." For Sagui Dekel-Chen, the moment of freedom carried additional emotion as he learned he had become a father for the third time while in captivity. "I’m great," he responded upon hearing the news that his daughter was born two months after his abduction. Their return comes amid tensions between Israel and Hamas over the implementation of hostage agreements. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office condemned Hamas’s actions, stating, "This week too, Hamas attempted to violate the agreement and create a false crisis with baseless claims. Thanks to the deployment of our forces inside and around Gaza, and thanks to President Trump’s clear and unequivocal statement, Hamas backed down, and the release of the hostages continued." The government reaffirmed its commitment to recovering every hostage, both the living and the fallen. "We are working in full coordination with the United States to rescue all our hostages as quickly as possible, and we are fully prepared for what comes next, in every respect," the statement continued. The three freed men will now begin the difficult process of rehabilitation, both physically and emotionally, with the full support of their families and the Israeli government. The moment of their return was met with cheers and tears from loved ones and the wider public, but the struggle is not over. Families of other captives vowed to keep pushing until every last hostage is safely back home. Based on a report by AP | TOI 2025-02-15

A post with false claims has been removed @Chomper Higgot. As stated in the OP. Hamas still officially governs Gaza and as such all departments of government are under Hamas and its political wing control.

From afar, the Ivanpah solar plant appears like a shimmering mirage in the vast Mojave Desert. Up close, it reveals itself as an otherworldly collection of hundreds of thousands of mirrors, each meticulously positioned to reflect sunlight toward three towering structures, each surpassing the height of the Statue of Liberty. When it launched in 2014 near the California-Nevada border, it was heralded as the future of solar energy. Just over a decade later, the facility is set to close. Co-owner NRG Energy confirmed in January that it had begun unwinding contracts with power companies and, pending regulatory approval, would commence shutting down the plant in early 2026. The site may ultimately be repurposed for a different type of solar technology. To critics, Ivanpah has become a gleaming symbol of wasted taxpayer dollars and environmental mismanagement. Advocacy groups have long condemned its impact on desert wildlife. Supporters, however, argue that setbacks like these are an inevitable part of the search for effective renewable energy solutions. When first conceived, Ivanpah’s technology—known as concentrated solar power or thermal solar—was considered revolutionary. The concept relied on an intricate system: thousands of computer-controlled mirrors, called heliostats, tracked the sun’s movement and directed its rays onto the three towers. Atop each stood boilers filled with water, heated by the concentrated sunlight until they produced steam, which then powered a turbine to generate electricity. A key advantage of this approach was its ability to store heat, enabling power generation even when sunlight was unavailable, without the need for batteries. The project secured $1.6 billion in Department of Energy loan guarantees and agreements with utility companies Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and Southern California Edison to purchase its electricity under long-term contracts. By the time it commenced operations in 2014, Ivanpah was the world’s largest solar thermal plant, spanning roughly five square miles of federally managed desert. “This project is a symbol of the exciting progress we are seeing across the industry,” then-Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz declared during the facility’s dedication ceremony in February 2014. Despite such optimism, problems soon emerged. According to Jenny Chase, a solar analyst at BloombergNEF, the technology was finicky and never quite performed as intended. “These kinds of plants are just technically really difficult to operate,” she explained, noting that they incorporate the complex mechanical components of fossil fuel plants, such as turbines and moving parts, alongside the challenges of managing a distributed energy source. The system depended on precisely aligned mirrors that tracked the sun’s movements flawlessly—something that proved challenging to maintain. However, Ivanpah’s greatest obstacle was the rapid decline in the cost of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, which convert sunlight directly into electricity. Chase noted that PV technology became remarkably affordable in just a few years. “In some parts of the world, you can basically buy a solar module for the price of a fence panel,” she said. When Ivanpah was built, few could have predicted that PV solar and battery storage would become so inexpensive so quickly. NRG acknowledged that when power purchase agreements were signed in 2009, the pricing was competitive, but subsequent advancements in solar technology ultimately made alternative solutions far more cost-effective. In January, NRG reached a deal with PG&E to terminate contracts that were originally set to run until 2039. This move, according to an NRG spokesperson, “will provide significant savings for California ratepayers.” Southern California Edison confirmed it remains in discussions with the plant’s owners and the Department of Energy regarding its contract. For critics, Ivanpah’s impending shutdown is proof that the project was doomed from the start. “It was a financial boondoggle and environmental disaster,” said Julia Dowell, senior campaign organizer at the Sierra Club. She emphasized the environmental cost, stating, “The project’s construction destroyed irreplaceable pristine desert habitat.” The Mojave Desert, while an ideal location for harnessing solar energy, is also home to the threatened desert tortoise. Despite efforts by developers to mitigate harm by relocating the animals, many environmentalists argued the plant should never have been approved. Another major concern was its impact on birds. Reports emerged of birds, dubbed “streamers,” being incinerated midair by the plant’s intense beams of light, further fueling opposition. NRG declined to comment on the plant’s effect on wildlife. Some have pointed to Ivanpah as an example of why government subsidies for renewable energy projects should be reconsidered. This perspective aligns with the approach taken by former President Donald Trump, who, early in his administration, halted approvals for new renewable energy developments on federal land. However, clean energy experts argue that government investment in various technologies is essential. While some projects may fail, others, like photovoltaic solar, have thrived. Kenneth Gillingham, an economics professor at Yale School of the Environment, emphasized the unpredictability of technological success. “Picking winners is extremely difficult,” he said. “And it’s not a problem that some technologies are outcompeted by others, as long as innovation continues occurring.” Though the Ivanpah plant’s days are numbered, its story underscores both the challenges and rapid evolution of the clean energy industry. While one vision for the future fades, another is already on the horizon. Based on a report by CNN 2025-02-15

Last Saturday, Adrián Simancas and his father, Dell, were kayaking in Bahía El Águila near the San Isidro Lighthouse in the Strait of Magellan when the massive marine mammal surfaced. Without warning, the whale engulfed Adrián and his yellow kayak for a few harrowing seconds before spitting him out. “When I came up and started floating, I was scared that something might happen to my father too, that we wouldn’t reach the shore in time, or that I would get hypothermia,” Adrián recalled. Despite the chaos, Dell remained focused, continuing to film while ensuring his son was safe. Within seconds, Adrián reached his father’s kayak and was assisted back to safety. Both father and son made it to shore without injury, though visibly shaken by the extraordinary event. Located about 1,600 miles (3,000 kilometers) south of Santiago, Chile’s capital, the Strait of Magellan is a well-known tourist destination in Chilean Patagonia. The area attracts adventurers eager to explore its stunning landscapes and encounter its diverse marine wildlife. However, as Adrián’s experience proves, nature can be as unpredictable as it is awe-inspiring. Based on a report by AP 2025-02-15

A source close to the situation has revealed that Bianca Censori has finally had enough. "The swastika shirt was the last straw," the insider told the New York Post on Thursday. "She told him that’s not who she is, and that she can’t be associated with that." Kanye West, however, reportedly responded by asserting his control over the situation, saying, "he has dominion over" and that "he's selling those shirts." The source added, "It reflects on her, and she doesn’t want any part of that circus. He believes that she’ll come back to him, he’s saying that she’s just ‘mad at him,’ but right now she’s told him that she’s completely done." The Daily Mail was the first to break the news that the couple has split and is expected to file for divorce in the coming days. Both sides are said to be searching for divorce attorneys, according to *TMZ*. Following the reports, West, 47, appeared to react to the situation on Instagram with an eerie post on Thursday, just an hour after the news broke. The post, which he captioned "Is the coercion," contained a definition of the term, reading, "Yes, coercion is illegal. Coercion is the act of forcing someone to do something against their will through threats or intimidation. It can involve physical harm, psychological abuse, extortion, blackmail, or sexual assault." The post was mysteriously deleted just minutes later. The reported split comes only 11 days after Censori's controversial appearance on the Grammys red carpet, where she followed West’s instructions to remove her fur coat in front of photographers. While she complied, witnesses noted she appeared visibly uncomfortable. Sources suggest the pair have already discussed financial arrangements, with Censori allegedly set to receive a $5 million payout following their brief marriage, which began in December 2022. She is currently staying at their $35 million Beverly Park North home in Los Angeles. As for West, his whereabouts remain uncertain, though some speculate he might return to Tokyo, Japan, where he spent much of last year. The split marks another turbulent chapter in West’s personal life, with Censori seemingly determined to distance herself from the controversies surrounding him. Whether this break is final or just another pause in their unpredictable relationship remains to be seen. Based on a report by NYP 2025-02-15

Two brothers have denied charges of assaulting police officers in a widely publicized incident at Manchester Airport. The altercation, which occurred at the airport's Terminal Two on July 23, was captured on video and rapidly circulated online. Authorities also claim he assaulted a member of the public, Abdulkareem Ismaeil, at a nearby Starbucks café prior to the airport incident. His brother, Muhammad Amaad, 25, also from Rochdale, has been accused of assaulting PC Marsden, likewise resulting in actual bodily harm. Both men appeared before Liverpool Crown Court on Thursday, where they entered not guilty pleas to all charges. The court has scheduled their trial to begin on June 30, with proceedings expected to last three weeks. In the meantime, the brothers remain on unconditional bail as they await the upcoming trial. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-02-15