Social Media

Britain’s wealthiest family have been handed prison sentences for exploiting Indian staff at their Geneva mansion. The Hindujas, a family with an estimated fortune of £37 billion, faced charges that exposed a darker side of their opulent lifestyle. The Swiss court found Prakash Hinduja and his wife, Kamal, each guilty and sentenced them to four years and six months in prison. Their son, Ajay, and his wife, Namrata, received four-year terms. While the family was acquitted of human trafficking, they were convicted of other serious charges related to the exploitation of their domestic staff. The verdict marked a stunning blow to the prestigious family, known for their immense wealth and business empire. The case arose from the family’s practice of bringing servants from India to work in their Geneva residence. The accusations included allegations of passport confiscation and severe restrictions on the staff’s freedom once they arrived in Switzerland. Prosecutors argued that the Hindujas paid their employees meager wages and allowed them little liberty to leave the mansion. In response, the family denied these allegations, claiming that the prosecution aimed to tarnish their reputation. Despite reaching a confidential out-of-court settlement with the three employees who brought the accusations, the prosecution pursued the case due to the severity of the charges. Geneva prosecutor Yves Bertossa sought custodial sentences of five and a half years for Prakash and Kamal Hinduja, citing their exploitation of vulnerable employees to save money. Both Prakash, aged 78, and Kamal, aged 75, were absent from the trial, citing health issues. In his closing argument, Bertossa accused the Hindujas of exploiting the “asymmetrical situation” between powerful employers and vulnerable employees. He highlighted the paltry salaries paid to the household staff, which ranged between 220 and 400 Swiss francs (£195-£350) a month, significantly below the standard wages in Switzerland. “They’re profiting from the misery of the world,” Bertossa declared. Defense lawyers for the Hinduja family argued that the plaintiffs were provided ample benefits and were free to leave the villa. Nicolas Jeandin, one of the defense attorneys, contended that the employees were not mistreated slaves but rather individuals who were “grateful to the Hindujas for offering them a better life.” Robert Assael, another defense lawyer, insisted that no employee was cheated out of their salary, emphasizing that payments were made in addition to their cash salaries. Representing Ajay Hinduja, Yael Hayat criticized the prosecution’s indictment as excessive and argued that the trial should focus on justice rather than social justice. Similarly, Romain Jordan, representing Namrata Hinduja, claimed that the prosecutors aimed to make an example out of the family and failed to acknowledge additional payments made to the staff. The Hinduja Group, a global conglomerate with interests in oil and gas, banking, and healthcare, operates in 38 countries and employs approximately 200,000 people. This high-profile case, however, has cast a shadow over the family’s business empire, raising questions about the treatment of domestic staff by wealthy employers. The verdict has not only brought to light the exploitation faced by the staff at the Geneva mansion but also highlighted broader issues of labor rights and fair treatment of employees, regardless of their socioeconomic status. The case serves as a reminder that wealth and power come with significant responsibilities, and the abuse of such power can lead to serious legal and ethical consequences. Related Topic: UK's Richest Family Spent More on Dog Than Their Servant. Credit: The Guardian 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

As I conversed with NASA’s chief scientist about a potentially habitable planet 120 light-years from Earth, my mind wandered back to memories of my father and his telescope. The last time I used his telescope was in February 1986. We were standing in our driveway in Palos Verdes, a place far enough from the glare of downtown Los Angeles to see the night sky clearly. Halley’s Comet was approaching its perihelion at about 122,000 miles per hour, appearing as a small, silver-gray smudge in the sky. We had only a few hours to glimpse it before it disappeared for another 76 years. I was 13, and my father was 44. “The accident of the years of our births,” he mused quietly. My father had built the telescope when he was 15 in his parents’ apartment in Forest Hills, Queens. He took it with him to medical school in Syracuse, then to Boston, Pittsburgh, and eventually Southern California. He viewed space with the same awe and curiosity he had for mathematics, analytic philosophy, the Torah, or Mozart’s twentieth piano concerto. It was beautiful, complex, infinite, and irresistible to explore. Now, thanks to the James Webb Space Telescope, which NASA launched into space on Christmas 2021, we are on the verge of knowing a little more about our place in the universe. The telescope, orbiting the sun about a million miles from Earth, recently captured several images of K2-18b, an exoplanet located 120 light-years away. Importantly, K2-18b resides in the habitable zone around its star, a region where conditions might be just right for an Earth-like atmosphere and potentially life. Until the 1990s, humanity did not know exoplanets existed. Today, we know of over 5,000 in our galaxy alone, and astronomers estimate there may be as many as 40 billion in the habitable zones across the universe. “There might be simple life all throughout the galaxy,” said Jessie Christiansen, an astrophysicist at Caltech and chief scientist at the NASA Exoplanet Science Institute. She referred to microbes, bacteria, and single-celled organisms. Alexei Filippenko, an astronomer from UC Berkeley, echoed this sentiment in an email: “If there is life on K2-18b, it would demonstrate that life on Earth is not unique—a very important discovery.” He added, “Perhaps it would change the religious outlooks of some people, but not others. It depends on whether one subscribes to the belief that God made Earth unique in terms of life.” The big question, according to Christiansen, is whether there is intelligent life—organisms with brains or brain-like structures. Astronomers are currently analyzing the James Webb Space Telescope images, and in a few months, we will know whether dimethyl sulfide, a molecule associated with life, is present in K2-18b’s atmosphere. If it is, the likelihood of life on K2-18b increases significantly. Nikku Madhusudhan, the Cambridge astrophysicist who first viewed the images of K2-18b, described the experience as “surreal, overwhelming, and humbling.” He said, “You are literally the first person looking at this outside world. You are no longer one scientist but a representative of the planet seeking to find the truth about the universe.” Because light takes time to travel, when we look at distant objects, we are seeing them as they were in the past. Filippenko explained, “You see the sun not as it is now, but as it was about 8.3 minutes ago.” The further away an object is, the further back in time we see. This means that the images of K2-18b are snapshots of a past era, making our exploration of exoplanets a journey through time as much as it is through space. Imagining the inhabitants of K2-18b looking back at Earth, they would see our planet as it was 120 years ago—around 1904. This was decades before my parents were born, grew up, left New York, and created a life in California. It was a time when Halley’s Comet had already come and gone and would return again. My sister and I would traverse the continent and the world, enter a new century, and start our own families. My father’s life would slowly decline, culminating in his passing near the Pacific Ocean. Gazing at exoplanets is supposed to provoke thoughts about the nature of life, our place in the universe, and the origins of everything. Reflecting on K2-18b, I remembered my father narrating as I watched Halley’s Comet through his telescope. The comet, a smudge of ammonia, carbon dioxide, ice, and rock, was about to vanish for the rest of his life, and maybe mine. “I’ve known this was coming for most of my life,” he said, “but somehow there’s something shocking about it.” My father would have been thrilled at the prospect of life on another planet, pondering the shapes, lights, and ancient constellations slowly coming into focus. The piecing together of all these mysteries inevitably leads back to the greatest question: How did something come from nothing? For Jessie Christiansen, finding extraterrestrial life would be akin to a religious experience. “I have dreamed about it and thought about it,” she said, admitting, “I am scared that it’s true.” She pondered, “Is it more terrifying that we are alone, or that we aren’t alone?” This curiosity and wonder reminded me of my six-year-old son, Ivan, who dreams of being an astronaut. His fascination with space is a constant topic during bath time, story time, breakfast, and dinner. My father would have been pleased. Ivan frequently asks about the conditions on distant planets and whether there might be life in other solar systems. Recently, I told him about K2-18b, and we discussed the possibility of parallel amoebas in parallel oceans on a distant rock. He was fascinated, and as he sat in the bath, he wondered about life on Neptune or Uranus and if there are beings out there pondering who we are right now. In our quest to understand the universe, we are driven by the same curiosity that fueled my father’s love for space and the same wonder that inspires my son’s dreams. As we await more discoveries from the James Webb Space Telescope, we inch closer to unraveling the mysteries of existence, forever expanding our understanding of where we come from and who we are. Credit: The Free Press 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

In the weeks leading up to the Republican National Convention, the Trump campaign has found itself grappling with an unexpected internal threat from within its own ranks. This issue emerged most prominently during a recent gathering of Arizona delegates in a Phoenix suburb. What was meant to be a routine meeting for delegates to familiarize themselves with their responsibilities instead became the setting for a clandestine plot aimed at disrupting Donald Trump’s nomination. At this meeting, a group of delegates identifying as staunch "America First" supporters proposed a secret plan to break free from their pledge to support Trump. Unlike previous attempts to thwart Trump by "Never Trumpers," this effort originated from the far-right faction within his base. According to people present at the meeting and others briefed on it, these delegates discussed using covert signals, such as wearing matching black jackets, to identify one another. The precise aim of this plot remains ambiguous. Some speculate it could be an effort to block a vice-presidential pick deemed undesirable by the far-right faction. Others suggest the goal might be to position former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn as a substitute nominee if Trump were to face incarceration. Among the far-right, there is a growing suspicion that Trump has surrounded himself with advisers loyal to the so-called "deep state," fueling these internal machinations. The Trump campaign, perceiving this scheme as an "existential threat," acted swiftly to replace the dissenting delegates. A campaign staffer involved in addressing the situation described it to some Republicans as the "only process that would prevent Trump from being the nominee." The urgency and seriousness with which the campaign addressed this issue underscore the potential impact such an internal revolt could have on the convention. This episode in Arizona has broader implications for the upcoming convention in Milwaukee, where around 5,000 delegates and alternates are expected to participate. Many of these delegates are influenced by the same falsehoods and baseless accusations that animate much of Trump’s supporter base. The incident has sparked memories of the 2016 Republican convention, which briefly descended into chaos during an attempt by Trump’s opponents to derail his nomination. Suspicions have also spread among Trump supporters that covert saboteurs might have infiltrated their ranks. At the Georgia GOP convention in May, for instance, a would-be delegate withdrew after being accused of lobbying for Dominion Voting Systems, a company frequently targeted by false claims of fraud in the 2020 election. Intra-party conflicts have become a significant issue within the Republican Party. Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy recently resigned, lamenting that "we have Republicans who would rather fight other Republicans than engage in the harder work of defeating incumbent Democrats by convincing swing voters to vote Republican." This sentiment highlights the internal struggles that have distracted the party from its broader electoral goals. The financial motivations behind these internal conflicts cannot be overlooked. Some Republicans involved in these discussions believe that certain activists profit from the turmoil surrounding election integrity claims. One Republican suggested that these activists "really don’t want us to win" and instead "make money when we lose." The specific plot in Arizona was led by Shelby Busch, chair of the state delegation and founder of the We the People AZ Alliance. This group has raised nearly $1 million and is closely aligned with Senate candidate Kari Lake, funded largely by entities linked to prominent election deniers like Flynn and former Overstock.com executive Patrick Byrne. Byrne recently suggested on social media that Trump’s advisers are deep-state operatives and that "his VP needs to be a General," tagging Flynn’s profile in the post. The June meeting in Arizona included a presentation by delegate Joe Neglia, detailing a maneuver to suspend the convention’s rules and take control of the proceedings from the floor. When the Trump campaign learned of this plan, they collaborated with local party officials to recruit new delegates to replace those involved in the plot. The campaign’s memo described the leaders of this group as being engaged in a "multi-state conspiracy to suspend the rules at the national convention." Despite the campaign’s efforts to replace the dissenting delegates, Busch’s group responded by accusing those challenging them of being part of an "anti-Trump establishment group." They argued that the challenge was an attempt to sabotage Trump from within his own campaign and the Republican National Committee. In a statement, Busch’s group claimed that the Arizona grassroots patriots overwhelmingly supported their delegation because of their unwavering support for Trump, even if he were to be incarcerated. Ultimately, an agreement was reached between Busch’s bloc and the Trump campaign. Neglia agreed to step aside, the other delegates could remain, and there would be no revolt on the convention floor. While this resolution defused the immediate threat, it left some volunteer replacements feeling jilted. These volunteers had stepped up to support the campaign, only to be cast aside after the agreement was reached. Campaign political director James Blair attempted to smooth things over by publicly thanking the replacements for their service and praising their loyalty to Trump. He emphasized that the convention should remain focused on celebrating Trump’s nomination, warning against any distractions that could arise from internal conflicts. "It’s not just a question of loyal Trump support, it’s willingness to not do anything that could distract from the historic nomination and celebration of President Trump, which is a four-day commercial," a campaign official said. In the end, the Arizona Republican Party chair had to step in to manage the internal discord among the delegation. "I’m closing the thread," the chair posted in a private chat, signaling the need to focus on unity and function as a team. Credit: Wasgington Post 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pro-Palestinian students sprayed red paint over Cambridge University's historic Senate House as a form of protest against the Israeli bombing of Gaza. The students, in collaboration with Palestine Action, targeted the 18th-century graduation hall, demanding that the University of Cambridge "divest from genocide." The protest occurred just a week before the Senate House was scheduled to host graduation ceremonies. Palestine Action tweeted about the incident, stating: "BREAKING: Cambridge Students, in collaboration with Palestine Action, spray historic hall red demanding the University of Cambridge divest from genocide. The action took place ahead of planned graduations at the University's Senate House." This is not the first disruption of graduation ceremonies due to protests. Last month, graduation events had to be relocated from the Senate House to a secret location following a similar protest against the war in Gaza. The Cambridge for Palestine group previously set up tents outside King's College and later moved to the lawn outside the Senate House as part of their demonstration. In related actions earlier this week, members of Palestine Action forced entry into the Instro Precision factory at Sandwich Discovery Park in Kent. Eight individuals were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and have since been bailed, with a police investigation ongoing. A spokesperson for Palestine Action stated, "Palestine Action's decommissioning of Elbit Systems' electro-optics weapons sights factory in Kent has left the Instro Precision site immobilized, unable to produce weapons parts for export to Israel." The protests at Cambridge are part of a broader wave of campus activism across the UK in solidarity with Gaza. At the beginning of May, students from Oxford and Cambridge set up encampments in front of their universities, demanding an end to the violence in Gaza and calling for various forms of institutional divestment and support for Gaza's education system. These sit-ins have been mirrored at other British universities including Manchester, Leeds, Bristol, Sheffield, and Newcastle. At Oxford, students established a "liberated zone" outside the Pitts Rivers museum, listing six demands including boycotting Israeli actions, ceasing banking with Barclays, and helping to rebuild Gaza's education infrastructure. Similarly, Cambridge for Palestine has vowed not to leave their encampment until the university meets their four demands, which include disclosing financial ties with organizations they deem complicit and protecting at-risk students. Palestine Action group is very active on X with numerous posts on their continuing vandalism throughout the UK. Seven of their members were arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary at a factory in Kent. Protest group Palestine Action said members had targeted the Instro Precision factory at Discovery Park, Sandwich. "A glimpse into how Palestine Action destroyed Kent's Israeli weapons factory. After seven actionists broke in on Monday morning and caused over £1million worth of damage, the site remains SHUT DOWN." Credit: Daily Mail 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) faces allegations of plagiarism following a detailed analysis of his 2019 Ed.D. dissertation. The Daily Wire's investigation uncovered multiple instances where Bowman’s work closely mirrored the writings of other academics without proper attribution. This revelation comes at a critical time as Bowman prepares for the Democratic primary for New York’s 16th Congressional District. Bowman’s dissertation, titled “Community Schools: The Perceptions and Practices that Foster Broad-Based Collaboration among Leaders within the Community School Ecosystem,” includes numerous passages that are nearly identical to previously published academic papers. For example, in one section, Bowman appears to replicate a summary by University of Delaware Professor Rosalie Rolón-Dow almost verbatim. Bowman writes, “The CRT movement drew heavily on the critical legal studies movement, radical feminism, and civil rights ideas to develop a framework that squarely challenged the racialized ways in which law affects people of color (Delgado & Stefancic, 2001; Parker, 2003; Rolon-Dow, 2005).” Comparatively, Rolón-Dow’s text states, “The movement drew heavily on the critical legal studies movement, radical feminism, and conventional civil rights ideas to develop a framework that more squarely challenged the racialized ways in which laws affect people of color (Delgado & Stefancic, 2001; Parker, 2003).” Despite including Rolón-Dow in his citation, Bowman did not use quotation marks where his text directly matches hers. In another instance, Bowman’s changes to Rolón-Dow’s work include minimal alterations, such as a typo and the substitution of "Latino" with "Latinx," while maintaining the rest of the original text. Bowman’s version reads, “Further, from the perspective of Puerto Rican girls in middle school, Rolon-Dow (2005) explored the intersection between race/ethnicity caring [sic] in the educational experiences of middle school Puerto Rican girls. Critical Race Theory and Latinx/Latina critical theory are used as data analysis frameworks because of their emphasis on the roles of race/ethnicity and racism in shaping the circumstances of individuals and institutions.” Rolón-Dow originally wrote, “In this article, the author explores the intersection between race/ethnicity and caring in the educational experiences of middle school Puerto Rican girls. Critical race theory and Latino/Latina critical theory are used as data analysis frameworks because of their emphasis on the roles of race/ethnicity and racism in shaping the circumstances of individuals and institutions.” Further instances of apparent plagiarism include passages lifted from works by Rene Antrop-Gonzalez and Anthony De Jesus, and a 2017 article by Tenah K.A. Hunt, Kristen S. Slack, and Lawrence M. Berger. Bowman’s dissertation closely mirrors their language without sufficient rephrasing or quotation marks, indicating a failure to properly distinguish his own writing from that of others. These allegations come after Bowman previously defended former Harvard University President Claudine Gay, who resigned amid her own plagiarism scandal. Bowman tweeted, “This isn’t about plagiarism or antisemitism. This is about racism and intimidation,” referring to Gay’s resignation. As Bowman faces off against Westchester County Executive George Latimer in the June 25 Democratic primary, a recent Emerson College/WPIX poll shows Bowman trailing Latimer by 17 points among likely primary voters. Bowman has not responded to requests for comment regarding the plagiarism allegations. The unfolding plagiarism scandal adds to the challenges Bowman faces in his bid for re-election, raising questions about academic integrity and the potential impact on his political career. Credit: New York Post 2024-06-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

An off topic post has been removed, the topic here is: Scotland Fans Stir Controversy Mock Death of Late Queen

An extremely disrespectful troll post removed @Neeranam carry on like that and it will not only be posts removed. Additional history lesson posts removed

Questionable source and off topic web link removed. Contravening our Community Standards.

Unatributed trolling meme removed along with comment on moderation by usual suspect

A post contravening our community standards has been removed along with a comment on moderation @Neeranam. The topic here is: Al Jazeera’s Terrorist Ties and the Controversy Over Its Operations

A post contravening our community standards has been removed. The topic here is: Open Letter: They Turned into Monsters

New topic Al Jazeera’s Terrorist Ties and the Controversy Over Its Operations

The United States has announced a ban on the sale of antivirus software from the Russian company Kaspersky, citing concerns about its alleged connections to the Kremlin. According to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Moscow's influence over Kaspersky poses a significant risk to US infrastructure and services. The decision is based on fears that Russia has the "capacity and... intent to collect and weaponize the personal information of Americans." Raimondo emphasized the necessity of the ban, stating, "Kaspersky will generally no longer be able to, among other activities, sell its software within the United States or provide updates to software already in use." This restriction is part of a broader set of powers, originally created by the Trump administration, that allows the US to ban or restrict transactions between American firms and technology companies from countries considered "foreign adversaries" like Russia and China. The ban, which will take effect on September 29, 2024, includes prohibitions on software updates, resales, and licensing of Kaspersky products. New business transactions with Kaspersky will be restricted within 30 days of the announcement. Sellers and resellers found violating these restrictions will face fines imposed by the Commerce Department. Additionally, two Russian and one UK-based unit of Kaspersky will be listed for allegedly cooperating with Russian military intelligence. Kaspersky, which has a multinational presence with offices in 31 countries and serves more than 400 million users and 270,000 corporate clients worldwide, has denied any involvement in activities that threaten US security. The company announced its intention to pursue "all legally available options" to challenge the ban. The US government has scrutinized Kaspersky for several years. In 2017, the Department of Homeland Security banned Kaspersky's flagship antivirus product from federal networks, citing alleged ties to Russian intelligence. Despite these accusations, Kaspersky has maintained that it operates independently and does not engage in activities that compromise security. The exact number of Kaspersky customers in the US remains classified business data. However, a Commerce Department official informed Reuters that a "significant number" of customers would be affected by the ban, including state and local governments and companies involved in telecommunications, power, and healthcare sectors. This recent move by the US government highlights ongoing concerns about cybersecurity and the potential risks posed by foreign technology firms. The decision to ban Kaspersky reflects broader geopolitical tensions and the increasing measures taken by nations to safeguard their digital infrastructure from perceived threats. Credit: BBC 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former President Donald Trump is currently outpacing President Joe Biden in six pivotal battleground states, according to recent polling data from Emerson College and The Hill. The polls indicate that Trump has a lead over Biden in Arizona (47%-43%), Georgia (45%-41%), Michigan (46%-45%), Nevada (46%-43%), Pennsylvania (47%-45%), and Wisconsin (47%-44%). In addition, both candidates are tied at 45% in Minnesota, a state that has not favored a Republican presidential candidate since the Great Depression era. The Emerson College Polling Executive Director, Spencer Kimball, noted that despite Trump’s recent conviction on 34 business fraud charges by a Manhattan jury, the polling numbers for both candidates have remained relatively stable. "In our first polling in several key swing states since Trump’s conviction last month, there has been little movement, with support for both Trump and Biden staying largely consistent since November," Kimball explained, emphasizing that the results fall within the poll’s margin of error. The Trump campaign has argued that Minnesota is a competitive state for the upcoming election. "Independent voters break for Trump in all seven states – however, there has been some movement among these voters since April," Kimball said. He pointed out that while Trump’s support among independents in Arizona, Michigan, and Pennsylvania has dropped, Biden also saw declines among independents in Georgia and Nevada. The RealClearPolitics polling average corroborates these findings, showing Trump ahead of Biden in the same six battleground states with margins ranging from 0.2 percentage points in Michigan to 5.7 percentage points in Nevada. Interestingly, the Emerson/The Hill survey also indicates that Democratic candidates in key Senate races are outperforming Biden. In Arizona, Democrat Rep. Ruben Gallego leads Republican Kari Lake, 45% to 41%. In Pennsylvania, incumbent Democratic Senator Bob Casey is ahead of Republican David McCormick, 47% to 41%. Similar trends are observed in Michigan, Nevada, and Wisconsin, with Democratic candidates maintaining leads over their Republican counterparts. A significant portion of voters in the surveyed states disapproves of Biden's performance in office, with approval ratings ranging between 35% in Georgia and 39% in Michigan and Pennsylvania. The economy emerged as the top concern among voters across all states surveyed, with varying secondary issues such as threats to democracy, immigration, healthcare, and housing. In Arizona, a majority of voters (55%) expressed support for a ballot measure that would empower state and local police to arrest illegal immigrants and allow state judges to order deportations. Similarly, majorities in Arizona (56%) and Nevada (58%) indicated they would approve measures to enshrine the right to an abortion in their state constitutions. The polling data, collected from 1,000 registered voters in each state between June 13 and June 18, has a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points. The first debate between Biden and Trump for the general election season is scheduled to take place next Thursday in Atlanta. Credit: NYP 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning to South Korea, cautioning against supplying arms to Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. This warning follows Seoul's consideration of such a move in response to the newly forged pact between Russia and North Korea, which promises mutual assistance in the event of aggression against either nation. Putin, addressing reporters from Vietnam shortly after his state visit to North Korea, described the potential arming of Ukraine by South Korea as a "big mistake." He emphasized that such an action would provoke decisions from Moscow that would be displeasing to the South Korean leadership. The warning comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, as Moscow and Pyongyang solidify their defense agreement, a development that Seoul has vehemently criticized. The Russian leader's comments underscore his readiness to retaliate should South Korea proceed with arming Ukraine. "Those who supply these weapons believe that they are not at war with us. I said, including in Pyongyang, that we then reserve the right to supply weapons to other regions of the world," Putin stated. This suggests a possible escalation in the arms race, with Russia hinting at arming Pyongyang in response to Western and allied support for Ukraine. South Korea's response to these developments has been measured but firm. Seoul's presidential office announced that it would consider "various options" regarding arms supplies to Ukraine, indicating that its stance would hinge on Russia's future actions. Additionally, South Korea summoned Russian Ambassador Georgy Zinoviev to express its strong protest against the Moscow-Pyongyang pact, demanding an immediate cessation of military cooperation with North Korea. While South Korea has provided humanitarian aid and military equipment to Ukraine, it has maintained a policy of not supplying lethal weapons to countries at war. This restraint is now being tested as the dynamics of international alliances shift. Ukraine, facing increased military collaboration between Russia and North Korea, has been hopeful that these developments might persuade Seoul to change its stance. During Putin's visit to North Korea, Kim Jong Un pledged full support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine, further solidifying the alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang. There is growing evidence that North Korean missiles are already being used by Russian forces in Ukraine, exacerbating the conflict and international concerns. John Kirby, spokesman for the U.S. National Security Council, commented on the Russia-North Korea agreement, stating it should "be of concern to any country that cares about maintaining peace and stability" in the region. He highlighted that the burgeoning defense relationship between Moscow and Pyongyang had been anticipated for months. Similarly, Japan's government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi expressed "serious concern" over potential military technology cooperation between Russia and North Korea, labeling the agreement as "unacceptable." Analysts warn that the Russia-North Korea treaty could have far-reaching implications beyond the immediate region. Not only does it signal the possibility of North Korea openly arming Russia, but it also raises the specter of Russian intervention in any new conflict on the Korean peninsula. The two Koreas remain technically at war, maintaining a heavily fortified border where tensions have recently escalated. In a separate but related incident, North Korean troops briefly crossed the border into South Korea before retreating after warning shots were fired by South Korean forces. This marks the third such incursion in less than three weeks, with the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff suggesting that the previous incidents were likely unintentional. Credit: BBC 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Al Jazeera, the international news network funded by the state of Qatar, has long been a subject of controversy. While it is lauded in some circles for its in-depth reporting and coverage of global issues, there is another side to this media giant that raises significant concerns. Recent revelations have brought to light instances where individuals working as journalists for Al Jazeera were found to be affiliated with terrorist organizations such as Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. These allegations have serious implications, particularly in the context of media ethics and national security. Last month, The Washington Post reported that the Israeli government had shut down Al Jazeera’s operations in Israel due to its coverage from Gaza. The Post portrayed this move as a "dark day" for press freedom, highlighting the perceived overreach by the Israeli authorities. However, there are substantial reasons behind Israel’s decision to halt the network’s activities within its borders, one of the most compelling being that some Al Jazeera journalists reporting on Israel’s conflict with Gaza were themselves involved in terrorist activities. One such individual is Muhammad Washah, whom Al Jazeera presented as a dedicated journalist merely reporting the truth. Unfortunately for the network, Washah is also a senior commander in Hamas. His involvement with Hamas is extensive; he used to be in the group’s anti-tank missile unit and has been in charge of research and development for aerial weapons, known commonly as rockets, since 2022. This dual role allowed him to both create weapons aimed at Israel and report on the resultant destruction from the Israeli retaliations, painting a one-sided narrative that omits his involvement in the conflict. This duplicity was revealed when IDF soldiers in Gaza managed to obtain Washah’s laptop, which provided evidence of his true loyalties. This discovery highlights a significant conflict of interest and raises questions about the integrity of the reports coming from such journalists. Similar issues arose with two Al Jazeera "journalists" who were killed in an airstrike in Rafah in January. Hamza Wael Dahdouh, the son of Al Jazeera’s Gaza correspondent Wael Al-Dahdouh, was in a vehicle with a Hamas drone operator targeting Israeli soldiers when they were hit. Wael Dahdouh was not just a journalist; he was actively involved in Palestinian Islamic Jihad, participating in attacks against Israel. The network’s narrative of them being innocent journalists targeted by Israeli aggression fails to acknowledge their direct involvement in terrorist activities. Another Al Jazeera journalist, Ismail Abu Omar, was reported by the network as being badly injured in Khan Yunis in February. Al Jazeera claimed he had been "deliberately targeted" as part of a broader pattern of intimidation against their journalists. However, it turned out that Abu Omar was not just a correspondent but also the deputy commander of Hamas’ Eastern battalion in Khan Yunis. His involvement in the October 7 terrorist attack on Israel, where he praised the massacres and boasted about the atrocities, further discredits the image of him as merely a journalist. One of the most shocking revelations came earlier this month when the Israeli army rescued four hostages from homes in Gaza. One of the captors, Abdallah Aljamal, was found to be an Al Jazeera contributor. While writing articles about the humanitarian suffering in Gaza, he was simultaneously holding and torturing Israeli hostages in his home. This dual role of reporting and participating in terrorist activities is a new low even by Al Jazeera’s controversial standards. These instances illustrate a disturbing pattern where individuals associated with Al Jazeera are found to have significant ties to terrorist organizations, thus raising questions about the network’s credibility and the true nature of its operations. This is not a new issue for Al Jazeera, as its ties to Qatar, a state accused of supporting various extremist groups, have long been scrutinized. The network's ability to operate with these alleged connections while maintaining a facade of journalistic integrity is troubling. In a debate in Toronto, Al Jazeera contributor Mehdi Hasan, known for his extreme views, defended the network against accusations related to its coverage of the conflict. Despite working for a network funded by Qatar, an actual apartheid state where a small number of citizens are served by a large class of foreign workers with no human rights, Hasan criticized Israel and those questioning Al Jazeera's integrity. The network’s close ties with Hamas, whose leaders reside in Doha, Qatar, further complicate its position as a credible news source. Hasan’s return to Al Jazeera after being let go by MSNBC, which cited his increasingly extreme views, underscores the challenges in balancing journalistic freedom with accountability. His defense of Al Jazeera amidst these serious allegations raises important questions about media ethics and the role of journalists in conflict zones. The Washington Post's portrayal of Israel's shutdown of Al Jazeera as an attack on press freedom ignores the substantial evidence linking the network’s staff to terrorist activities. The presence of six former Al Jazeera journalists on the Post's foreign desk may explain the newspaper's biased coverage. This situation exemplifies how media organizations can become complicit in perpetuating biased narratives, further complicating the public's understanding of complex geopolitical issues. In conclusion, the allegations against Al Jazeera and its ties to terrorist organizations are serious and warrant thorough investigation. The network’s ability to operate with these connections while presenting itself as a credible news source is troubling and highlights the need for greater scrutiny of media organizations and their affiliations. As the debate over media integrity and national security continues, it is crucial to hold all news outlets accountable for their actions and the roles their employees play in conflicts around the world. Related Topics: Al Jazeera journalist reportedly moonlights as Hamas commander claims IDF Israeli Forces Rescue Hostages, Held By Al Jazeera & Palestine Chronicle Journalist Exposing What Others Prefer to Hide The Dismal State of Hamas Propoganda by Media Credit: NYP 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer stated that Jeremy Corbyn would have made a better prime minister than Boris Johnson. During a special BBC Question Time programme, Starmer faced tough questions about his past support for Corbyn, whom he succeeded as Labour leader. Although initially reluctant to repeat his 2019 remark that Corbyn would have been a "great" prime minister, Starmer eventually conceded, "He would be a better prime minister… look what we got, Boris Johnson, a man who made massive promises, didn’t keep them, and then had to leave parliament in disgrace." This statement is particularly notable given Starmer's recent efforts to distance himself from Corbyn, a left-wing figure who has been ousted from the Labour Party and is now standing as an independent candidate. Despite Starmer's distancing, he defended his past support during the programme, explaining, "In 2019 I campaigned for the Labour Party as I’ve always campaigned for the Labour Party. I wanted good colleagues returned to parliament." The programme also highlighted Starmer's stance on various current issues, including the rental market. He criticized the practice of landlords "ripping off" tenants through bidding wars, where potential tenants are pitted against each other to drive up rents. Starmer proposed legislation to ban such practices if Labour wins office. He stated, "We have to stop the landlords ripping off tenants who are doing this bidding war: who’ll pay more until people are paying through the roof. We have to end that." However, when pressed for details by BBC presenter Fiona Bruce, Starmer provided limited specifics on how the plan would work. He emphasized the need for change, saying, "We can’t have this bidding war like this. We have to have a scheme in place to stop them driving rents up and up. Lots of renters are paying huge deposits and we have to stop that as well." Starmer also faced scrutiny over his shifting positions on other policies, including trans issues and NHS waiting lists. On trans issues, he clarified his stance, stating, "On the biology, I agree with what Tony Blair said in relation to men having penises and women having vaginas. That doesn’t help on the gender. There are some people who don’t identify with the gender that they are born into and they go through a lot of anxiety and distress. My view in life is to respect and give dignity to everyone." Regarding NHS waiting lists, Starmer admitted that it could take up to five years to return to normal levels. Initially hesitant to provide a timeline, he eventually stated, "We will start the work on waiting lists on day one in government... we will get those operations going as quickly as we can with staff." He later specified that backlogs would be addressed "over the course of the parliament," indicating a timeframe extending to 2029. Starmer also tackled the issue of immigration, a topic on which Labour has faced criticism for being perceived as too lenient. While he expressed a desire to reduce net migration, he refrained from setting a specific target. "Migration is at record levels under this Government. They’ve completely lost control. We need to get that number down. We need to get it significantly down," he said, adding, "I’m not going to put an arbitrary figure on it because every single politician who has put a number on it has never met that number." Throughout the programme, Starmer was repeatedly challenged on his policy reversals since becoming Labour leader. Critics have pointed out that he has abandoned many of the ten pledges he made during the 2020 Labour leadership contest. Defending his pragmatic approach, Starmer described himself as a "commonsense politician" and justified his decision to drop plans to nationalize energy firms, arguing it would be too costly and ineffective in reducing bills. The session on BBC Question Time showcased Starmer's attempts to navigate his past support for Corbyn while outlining his vision for Labour's future policies. His comments have sparked debate and highlighted the challenges he faces in balancing his leadership with the legacy of his predecessor. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused China of systematically changing the names of hundreds of villages in the Xinjiang region, aiming to erase the culture and history of the Uyghur Muslim population. The allegations, detailed in a recent HRW report, suggest that between 2009 and 2023, the Chinese government replaced names related to Uyghur religion, history, or culture with terms that align with the ideology of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), such as "harmony" and "happiness." This renaming initiative is part of a broader effort by Chinese authorities to assimilate the Uyghur minority into mainstream Chinese culture. The report, based on data from the National Bureau of Statistics of China, highlights that out of 25,000 villages in Xinjiang, 3,600 had their names changed during this period. While many of these changes might seem inconsequential, around one-fifth, or 630, specifically targeted names with significant cultural, historical, or religious connotations for the Uyghurs. Examples of the changes include the replacement of words like "Hoja," a title for a Sufi religious teacher, and "Sultan," a political or honorific title, with terms reflecting CCP ideology. One notable instance is the renaming of Aq Meschit, which means "white mosque" in Akto County, to Unity village in 2018. HRW claims these changes are an attempt to eliminate references to Uyghur culture and impose a homogenous Chinese identity. Xinjiang, home to the majority of China’s Uyghur Muslims, has been the focal point of international criticism due to allegations of human rights abuses. Reports from various human rights organizations and researchers have pointed to a pattern of systematic repression, including mass detentions, forced labor, and cultural assimilation policies aimed at eradicating Uyghur identity. Despite these allegations, Chinese authorities have consistently denied any wrongdoing. In response to the HRW report, a spokesperson from the Chinese embassy in London refuted the claims, asserting that "people of all ethnic groups enjoy freedom of religious belief under the law" and that the "languages and cultures of the Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities are protected and promoted." The HRW report was conducted in collaboration with the Norway-based organization Uyghur Hjelp, examining the names of villages over a 14-year period. The study underscores the deliberate nature of these name changes and suggests that they are part of a broader strategy to assimilate the Uyghur population and suppress any distinct cultural or religious identity that could challenge the CCP's narrative of unity and harmony. This latest report adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that China's policies in Xinjiang are aimed at cultural genocide. International reactions have varied, with some governments and human rights organizations calling for sanctions and other punitive measures against China. However, Beijing continues to assert its sovereignty over Xinjiang and denies all allegations of human rights abuses, framing its policies as necessary for national security and social stability. The issue remains a contentious point in international relations, with significant implications for global human rights advocacy and the geopolitical dynamics involving China and the Western world. As the evidence of cultural erasure and human rights violations continues to mount, the international community faces increasing pressure to address these issues and hold the Chinese government accountable for its actions in Xinjiang. Credit: BBC 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two men have been charged with the horrific murder of a 12-year-old Texas girl. Jocelyn Nungaray's body was found floating in a creek near her Houston home on Monday. Johan Jose Rangel Martinez, 21, and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos, 26, have now been charged with capital murder following a manhunt for the suspects. Houston PD explained that the murder of anyone aged under 15 automatically results in a capital murder charge. They previously suggested the youngster had also been raped and sent off a sexual assault kit to obtain further evidence. Officials are also working with Homeland Security Officials to see whether Martinez and Ramos are illegal immigrants. The medical examiner confirmed that Jocelyn died by strangulation. Police issued images of two persons of interest seen with the pre teen hours before her death after she had snuck out of her home at around 10pm. Officers said the suspects, who lived in the same block as the girl, bumped into Jocelyn and walked with her to a convenience store. She called her 13-year-old boyfriend from the convenience store at around midnight that night. He reported hearing her talking to two adults, Houston Mayor John Whitmire announced at a news conference Tuesday. Her grieving mother, Alexis Nungary, is now struggling to process what has happened. 'It's like it's not real,' she told Click2Houston. She said she does not believe she knows the two men Jocelyn was seen with at the convenience store, whom the Houston Police Department have identified as 'persons of interest in the case.' But Alexis says she suspects they either live in the apartment complex or may have walked to the store from a nearby state park. 'I want karma to hit them, I'm angry,' Alexis added. 'They took advantage of her. 'She's so young, she's 12. I want justice. I want whoever has seen them to please call police. They took my baby away.' Credit: Daily Mail 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Germany is on high alert for potential large-scale terror attacks similar to the Moscow concert hall assault, as it hosts the Euro 2024 football championship. German officials have expressed concerns that jihadist organizations, particularly Isis and its Afghan-based affiliate Isis-Khorasan (Isis-K), could target the event, which has entered its second week. Interior Minister Nancy Faeser and Thomas Haldenwang, head of Germany’s domestic intelligence agency (BfV), have highlighted the increased threat posed by Isis-K. This group claimed responsibility for the massacre at Moscow’s Crocus City Hall in March, raising fears of a similar attack during the Euro 2024. Haldenwang emphasized that Isis-K is "certainly the most dangerous group" and warned of potential large-scale, coordinated attacks. The warning comes amid heightened security measures for the Euro 2024, an event that could serve as an attractive target for jihadist terrorists. Isis-K’s propaganda organ, "Voice of Khorasan," recently released a threatening collage showing a militant with an assault rifle in a football stadium, captioned: “shoot the last goal!” A poll conducted by Hohenheim University revealed that 20 percent of people planned to avoid public viewing events of Euro 2024 matches due to fears of terror attacks. Haldenwang noted that Isis-K had successfully sent its supporters to Western Europe under the guise of refugees from Ukraine. The group has been actively inciting violence against "soft targets" in Europe, reminiscent of past terror rampages in Paris and Brussels. Germany's threat perception has intensified following Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7 and the subsequent conflict in Gaza. Isis-K and other groups have been inciting violence against Israel and Jews worldwide, contributing to a surge in antisemitic crimes in Germany. Faeser reported a significant increase in antisemitic incidents, with individuals displaying Jewish symbols frequently subjected to verbal abuse or attacks. Isis-K, established in Afghanistan in 2015, has grown stronger since the US withdrawal from Kabul in 2021. Despite a counterinsurgency campaign by the Taliban, the group has expanded its international activities, including bombings in Iran, an attack on a church in Turkey, and a foiled plot to attack Sweden’s parliament. The BfV’s 2023 annual report indicates that Isis-K is increasingly targeting the West to assert its prominence within Isis. Last July, German police arrested seven individuals suspected of being Isis-K members, all from Central Asia who had entered Germany from Ukraine. They had planned attacks, scouted potential targets, and attempted to procure weapons. Earlier this month, authorities arrested Soufian T, a German-Moroccan-Polish national, for allegedly transferring $1,675 in cryptocurrency to an Isis-K account and attempting to secure a job as a steward for Euro 2024 public viewing events. Credit: The Times 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

In response to the ongoing violence in Gaza, a group of nearly 70 Democratic senators and representatives have called on Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to create pathways for Palestinian refugees to enter the United States. This initiative aims to help Palestinians, particularly those with U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relatives, escape the dire conditions in Gaza. The letter, sent to Blinken and Mayorkas on Thursday, was led by Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Representatives Greg Casar (D-Texas), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), and Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.). It highlights the urgency of granting a priority-2 (P-2) designation to Palestinians affected by the conflict. This designation would provide them special access to the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program, facilitating their resettlement based on their specific circumstances and needs. "Since the outbreak of the conflict in Gaza, many congressional offices have received distressing requests for assistance from constituents desperately seeking to reunite with their loved ones," the letter states. The lawmakers expressed appreciation for the Biden administration's efforts to evacuate American citizens from Gaza but emphasized that more needs to be done for those with familial ties to the U.S. who remain in peril. Durbin underscored the importance of the P-2 designation, saying, "By granting a P-2 designation for refugee processing for certain Palestinians, the United States will be giving hope to Americans with relatives in Gaza who have strong ties to our nation but remain stranded in life-threatening conditions." The ongoing war, which began over eight months ago following a Hamas attack on southern Israel that resulted in over 1,200 deaths and 250 captives, has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In light of these events, the White House is reportedly considering admitting a limited number of Palestinians with U.S.-based families as refugees, marking a significant shift in the U.S.'s refugee policy. Historically, the U.S. has resettled few Palestinians, with fewer than 600 among the over 400,000 refugees admitted in the past decade. Efforts are underway to facilitate the safe passage of U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and their immediate families from Gaza. The State Department, working with Egypt and Israel, has assisted over 1,800 individuals in leaving Gaza through the Rafah crossing into Egypt. Earlier this year, President Biden directed Blinken and Mayorkas to defer the removal of certain Palestinians currently living in the U.S. for 18 months in response to the conflict. The lawmakers emphasized that Palestinian refugees would need to meet specific eligibility criteria, undergo interviews with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, provide biometric data, and pass required medical and security screenings. The Democrats highlighted the refugee program as a crucial tool for the U.S. to de-escalate international conflicts and support regional stability. A spokesperson for Homeland Security confirmed that the agency responds to congressional inquiries through official channels, while a State Department spokesperson expressed concern over the famine in Gaza and stressed the need for safe distribution of aid and protection for humanitarian workers. As the situation in Gaza remains dire, the call for opening pathways for Palestinian refugees reflects a growing recognition of the humanitarian imperative to provide relief and reunite families separated by conflict. Credit: Hill 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office announced on Thursday that nearly all protesters charged with storming and occupying Columbia University’s campus during anti-Israel demonstrations will not face criminal charges. This decision has sparked outrage among law enforcement officials, higher education authorities, and Jewish advocates. In a dramatic NYPD raid on April 30, protesters were rounded up at Columbia University's Morningside Heights campus, resulting in charges against 46 individuals for trespassing in Hamilton Hall. However, the DA's office dismissed cases against 31 of these individuals, citing insufficient evidence, such as security footage, to tie them directly to the building's takeover. Michael Nussbaum, a member of the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, expressed his frustration, stating, "This is turnstile justice. This is a green light for chaos, a green light for destroying property." The decision has been seen as undermining the severity of the incident and potentially encouraging similar actions in the future. Assistant District Attorney Stephen Millan explained that the prosecution faced significant challenges due to "extremely limited" video surveillance. During the police raid, cameras inside Hamilton Hall were covered, making it difficult to prove any damage or specific misconduct by individuals. Additionally, the protesters wore masks, complicating identification efforts. Millan also noted that none of the individuals whose charges were dropped had a criminal history, and the involvement of Columbia, Barnard, or Union Theological Seminary students and staff in the protests influenced the decision. These individuals face potential disciplinary action from their respective institutions. Among those whose charges were dropped is Aidan Parisi, a 27-year-old postgraduate student in social work at Columbia. However, James Carlson, considered a "possible leader" of the protests, remains charged with hate crime, assault, and petit larceny. Carlson allegedly torched an Israel supporter’s flag and hit the individual with a rock during an April demonstration. He is also accused of destroying a camera inside a holding cell at One Police Plaza. Carlson's attorney, Moira Meltzer-Cohen, has disputed the validity of these allegations. Prosecutors informed 14 other individuals, including 12 unaffiliated with the Ivy League school, that their cases would be dismissed under certain conditions. Defense attorney Matthew W. Daloisio argued for immediate dismissal, emphasizing that no one was harmed or property damaged. The decision to drop charges has been met with disbelief and anger from several police sources. One officer questioned the adequacy of body-worn camera footage as evidence, while another veteran cop criticized the DA's actions as giving protesters a mandate to escalate their behavior. Jeffrey Wiesenfeld, a former trustee on the governing board for CUNY, criticized the inability to identify any individuals involved in the protests. "How can it be that you can’t identify a single person? It’s not acceptable and it’s not good for the city," Wiesenfeld stated. This incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement and judicial systems in dealing with large-scale protests and the need for clear and effective evidence to pursue criminal charges. The decision by DA Bragg’s office underscores the complexity of balancing legal standards of proof with public demands for accountability and justice. Credit: NYP 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Link to Telegram a member only unapproved social media source has been removed.

A couple of off topic troll posts removed. If you cant keep to the topic then dont expect your post to remain. No further warnings given. The Gaza Famine Has Been Cancelled Unmasking the Propaganda Against Israel

Donald Sutherland, the renowned Canadian actor whose illustrious career spanned over half a century, has passed away at the age of 88 after a prolonged illness. His son, actor Kiefer Sutherland, shared the heartbreaking news, stating, "With a heavy heart, I tell you that my father, Donald Sutherland, has passed away. I personally think one of the most important actors in the history of film. Never daunted by a role, good, bad or ugly. He loved what he did and did what he loved, and one can never ask for more than that. A life well lived." Donald Sutherland's death has elicited a flood of tributes from colleagues, fans, and notable figures around the world. Cary Elwes, who starred alongside Sutherland in the 2001 television film *Uprising*, expressed his sorrow on Instagram, saying, "Our hearts are breaking for you. So grateful to have known [and] worked with him. Sending our love." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also paid homage to Sutherland, reflecting on their first encounter: "My thoughts go out to Kiefer and the entire Sutherland family, as well as all Canadians who are no doubt saddened to learn, as I am right now. He was a man with a strong presence, a brilliance in his craft and truly, truly a great Canadian artist." Director Ron Howard, who worked with Sutherland on the 1991 film *Backdraft*, lauded him as "one of the most intelligent, interesting [and] engrossing film actors of all time." Born in New Brunswick, Canada, in 1935, Sutherland initially pursued a career as a radio news reporter before venturing to London in 1957 to study at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. His early career saw him take on minor roles in British film and television, but it wasn't long before he made a significant impact in Hollywood. His breakout role came in 1967 with *The Dirty Dozen*, a war film that set the stage for his future success. The 1970s were a prolific period for Sutherland, with notable performances in *M*A*S*H* and *Kelly's Heroes*. He starred alongside Jane Fonda in Alan J. Pakula's 1971 thriller *Klute*, where their on-screen chemistry blossomed into a two-year romantic relationship. During this decade, he also showcased his versatility with roles ranging from an IRA member in *The Eagle Has Landed* to a pot-smoking college professor in *National Lampoon's Animal House*, and the lead in the 1978 remake of *Invasion of the Body Snatchers*. In the 1980s, Sutherland delivered a poignant performance as the father of a suicidal teenager in the Oscar-winning *Ordinary People*. The following decades saw him embrace television roles in series such as *Dirty Sexy Money* and *Commander-in-Chief*, while continuing to make impactful film appearances. Despite his extensive body of work, which includes nearly 200 credits, Sutherland was never nominated for an Oscar. However, he received an honorary Academy Award in 2017, recognizing his significant contributions to the film industry. Throughout his career, Sutherland was known for his political activism, particularly his opposition to the Vietnam War, which he protested alongside Jane Fonda. His socio-political beliefs often influenced his choice of roles, most notably his portrayal of the tyrannical President Snow in *The Hunger Games* series. In a 2015 interview with the BBC, he expressed hope that the film's message would resonate with young audiences, encouraging them to become more aware of global issues. Reflecting on the changes in the acting industry over his career, Sutherland remarked on the increased financial rewards for actors. "I don't think anybody of my generation became an actor to make money. It never occurred to me. I made £8 a week here [on stage in London]. When I starred in a play at the Royal Court, I made £17 a week, that was in 1964," he told the BBC. Even in his later years, Sutherland had no intention of retiring from his craft. "It's a passionate endeavour. Retirement for actors is spelt 'DEATH'," he said. Sutherland's legacy will continue to be celebrated, with his memoir, *Made Up, But Still True*, set for publication in November. His passing marks the end of an era for a remarkable actor whose talent, dedication, and passion for his craft have left an indelible mark on the film industry. Credit: BBC 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe