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UPDATE: Trump issues new ultimatum for Hamas to release Israeli hostages President Trump told Hamas he will greenlight additional Israeli military strikes on Gaza unless the group releases its remaining hostages. Trump's ultimatum comes during direct negotiations in Doha between his envoy for hostages affairs Adam Boehler and Hamas officials in an effort to reach a new Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal. Trump issued the ultimatum after a meeting with six hostages who were released as part of the first phase of the ceasefire deal. Hamas is still holding 59 hostages in Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces have confirmed 35 are dead. Israeli intelligence believes 22 are still alive, and the status of two others is unknown. Among the remaining hostages are five Americans, including 21-year-old Edan Alexander who is believed to be alive. "'Shalom Hamas' means Hello and Goodbye - You can choose. Release all of the Hostages now, not later, and immediately return all of the dead bodies of the people you murdered, or it is OVER for you," Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. He called on Hamas to also return the bodies of dead hostages it is holding. "Only sick and twisted people keep bodies, and you are sick and twisted!" he wrote. Trump told Hamas leaders in Gaza to leave the enclave "while they still have a chance and "not a single Hamas member will be safe" if the group doesn't release the hostages. "This is your last warning!" he said. "To the People of Gaza: A beautiful Future awaits, but not if you hold Hostages. If you do, you are DEAD! Make a SMART decision. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!" Trump wrote. Based on a report by AXIOS 2025-03-06 Breaking: released hostages met with President Trump and thanked him for managing to get the hostage deal done - and asked him to get the rest of them out as well. This is what they told him: Omer Shem Tov: “My family and, I, myself we believe you’ve been sent by god to release us. You really helped. You have the power to do it”. naama Levy: “You were our hope, and now you’re the hope of the rest of the hostages”. Trump: “so you didn’t think I came along that you’re gonna get out?” Naama: “no. Once you were elected we heard that you want to do everything to make a deal asap”. Trump: “well we said you better let them out. Something happened. We’re gonna get the rest of them. We’re working on it very hard”.

UPDATE: NASA Stranded Astronaut Sides with Musk in Controversy Over ISS Rescue Plan

Donald Trump has escalated his stance against pro-Palestinian demonstrations on college campuses, threatening to withdraw federal funding from universities that allow what he terms "illegal protests." In a post on Truth Social, Trump declared that all federal aid to such institutions would be halted, and he vowed to imprison "agitators" or deport them if they were foreign nationals. "American students will be permanently expelled or, depending on the crime, arrested. NO MASKS! Thank you for your attention to this matter," he wrote. We look forward to ongoing work with the new federal administration to fight antisemitism, and we will continue to make all efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff." Protests at Columbia last year saw students setting up encampments and occupying a campus building in response to the conflict. The recent wave of demonstrations reignited at Barnard College and City College in Manhattan, with students demanding the reinstatement of two peers expelled over an alleged bias incident. During one protest, a security guard was injured as demonstrators forced their way into a building. Trump's stance aligns with previous actions he has taken on campus protests. During his presidency, he signed an executive order targeting antisemitism in higher education, which included measures to prosecute offenders and revoke visas for international students found guilty of antisemitic acts. The Federal Task Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, created under that order, has since intensified its scrutiny of universities, announcing visits to 10 campuses where antisemitic incidents have been reported since October 2023. Leo Terrell, Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights and a leading member of the Task Force, stated that universities may have failed to protect Jewish students and faculty from discrimination, potentially violating federal law. He added that the Task Force intends to meet with university leadership, students, law enforcement, and community members to assess whether remedial action is necessary. Based on a report by Newsweek 2025-03-06

Ukraine has long endured broken promises from the West, and the latest decision to cut military aid was just another insult in a series of betrayals. While U.S. President Donald Trump’s move to block Biden-era defense authorizations may have delivered a severe blow to Ukraine’s resistance, the current military stalemate was set in motion years ago. Since the war began, the United States provided military assistance to Ukraine, enabling it to hold the line against Russian forces. However, that support has now come to an abrupt halt. Trump has effectively cut Ukraine off from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, a crucial program allowing Kyiv to purchase hundreds of millions of dollars worth of weaponry from U.S. defense companies. Unless Ukraine submits to humiliating negotiations, Washington’s financial backing of the war effort is effectively over. Ukraine has every reason to view this as a betrayal. Oleksandr Merezhko, chair of Ukraine’s Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee, likened Trump’s decision to the 1938 Munich Agreement, arguing that it is an even greater foreign policy disaster because, in this case, no one is falsely accusing Ukraine of being the aggressor. Merezhko suggested that Trump’s actions were designed to force Ukraine into surrendering to Russia. Yet, while Ukrainians are right to be outraged, the reality is that the West’s abandonment of Ukraine began much earlier. From the very start of the invasion, Western nations provided Ukraine with just enough support to prevent its defeat but never enough to secure victory. This half-hearted approach led to missed opportunities that might have turned the tide of the war in Ukraine’s favor. One of the clearest examples of this occurred in the fall of 2022. In a rapid counter-offensive, Ukraine reclaimed key territories in Kharkiv, forcing Russian troops into retreat beyond the Oskil River. Ukrainian forces continued their momentum with decisive victories in Izyum, Lyman, and Kherson. The Russian military, suffering from severe manpower shortages, resorted to chaotic “partial mobilization” efforts, and Putin was forced to seek military aid from Iran. Tensions within the Russian establishment were also escalating, particularly between Wagner Group chief Yevgeny Prigozhin and the Russian Ministry of Defense. At that moment, Russia’s war effort was teetering on the brink of collapse. But rather than seizing the opportunity, the West hesitated. While Ukraine pleaded for comprehensive sanctions against Russia, European nations continued buying Russian gas. The U.S. even refrained from sanctioning Russia’s state nuclear company, Rosatom. Zelensky repeatedly called for NATO-class tanks, long-range missiles, and F-16 fighter jets—requests that were largely ignored at the time. Instead of acting decisively, the West yielded to Putin’s nuclear threats. Although these weapons were eventually provided, they came far too late. By the time Ukraine launched its counter-offensive in June 2023, Russia had already fortified its defenses in Zaporizhzhia, conscripted hundreds of thousands of troops, and strengthened its military supply chains. The window for a decisive Ukrainian victory had closed. By late 2023, Ukraine’s Armed Forces chief Valery Zaluzhnyi admitted the war had become a stalemate. Even as Russia made slow but costly advances in 2024, the West refused to alter its strategy. A report from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air revealed that Europe spent more on Russian energy (21.9 billion euros) than it provided in financial aid to Ukraine (18.7 billion euros). Biden’s administration, despite its public support for Ukraine, only approved ATACMS strikes on Russia’s Kursk region in the final days of his presidency. Even the deployment of North Korean forces alongside Russian troops was not enough to convince the West to provide Ukraine with long-range cruise missiles. From the beginning, the U.S. and its allies pursued an attritional war, one designed to gradually weaken Russia rather than secure a swift Ukrainian victory. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin made this clear in April 2022 when he stated, “We want to see Russia weakened to the degree that it can’t do the kinds of things that it has done in invading Ukraine.” Now, with Trump cutting off aid entirely, Ukraine is left in an even more desperate position. But the truth is, long before Trump’s decision, the West had already laid the groundwork for Ukraine’s current predicament. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-03-06

Apple has launched a legal battle against the British government over a secret order demanding the company install a backdoor in iPhones, allowing authorities to access encrypted messages and photos. The tech giant has filed an appeal with the Investigatory Powers Tribunal, which oversees the country’s surveillance laws, challenging Home Secretary Yvette Cooper’s directive to weaken its encryption. The order requires Apple to break the security measures protecting its iCloud storage system, a move the company strongly opposes. Last month, Apple disabled its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature in the UK rather than comply, expressing its disappointment. “We have never built a backdoor or master key to any of our products or services and we never will,” the company stated. The UK government’s demand has also drawn criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who likened it to surveillance practices used in China. Trump condemned the move, saying, “We told them you can’t do this... We actually told him [Starmer] ... That’s incredible. That’s something, you know, that you hear about with China.” Tulsi Gabbard, the U.S. national intelligence director, called the request “egregious” and vowed to investigate whether it complied with legal agreements between the U.S. and the UK. British security officials argue that end-to-end encryption allows criminals to operate freely and obstructs law enforcement investigations. The ADP encryption prevents Apple from accessing iPhone backups, even if requested by authorities. The Home Office’s order could potentially extend beyond the UK, affecting users in other countries where the feature remains active. The appeal, which could be heard within the next month, marks the first known challenge to a UK government-issued technical capability notice to break encryption. Under recent legal changes, companies must still comply with encryption-breaking orders even while appealing them. The Home Office has refused to comment, stating: “We do not comment on operational matters, including, for example, confirming or denying the existence of any such notices.” Apple maintains that complying with the order would endanger millions of users by making private data vulnerable to hackers. Based on a report by The telegraph 2025-03-06

A Hong Kong-based corporation has announced plans to sell its stake in two crucial Panama Canal ports to a U.S.-led investment group, a move that comes amid heightened tensions between Panama and the Trump administration. The deal would shift ownership of the ports to an investment group spearheaded by BlackRock, one of the largest asset management firms in the world. CK Hutchison, the company behind the sale, confirmed that the port stakes would be transferred as part of a broader agreement with BlackRock, which is set to acquire control of 43 additional ports across 23 different countries. The decision follows increasing pressure from President Donald Trump, who has openly voiced concerns over China’s influence in Latin America and its potential military use of the Panama Canal. Since returning to office, Trump has repeatedly called for the canal to be returned to U.S. control. “China is operating the Panama Canal. And we didn’t give it to China. We gave it to Panama, and we’re taking it back,” Trump declared in his January inaugural address. His administration has not ruled out the use of military force to reclaim the strategic waterway, further escalating tensions between Washington and Panama City. Despite Trump’s demands, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has remained firm, showing no interest in surrendering the canal, which Panama has solely controlled since 1999. In a sign of the issue’s significance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio made an official visit to Panama shortly after taking office, reinforcing the administration’s focus on the region. With the planned sale of the ports, U.S. corporate ownership over key infrastructure near the canal is expected to increase, aligning with Trump’s broader strategy of countering Chinese influence in Latin America. However, it remains to be seen how Panama’s government will respond to the evolving geopolitical landscape surrounding one of the world’s most critical maritime passages. Based on a report by Politico 2025-03-06

Meghan Markle’s estranged half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., has launched a fresh attack on the Duchess of Sussex following the release of her new Netflix series *With Love, Meghan*. He criticized the show as "embarrassing" and accused Meghan of fabricating details about her childhood for sympathy. Speaking to journalist Kevin O’Sullivan on *TalkTV*, Markle Jr., 58, ridiculed his sister’s portrayal of her upbringing. “This is probably the first time I felt sorry and embarrassed for her,” he said. He also revealed that he hadn’t allowed their father, Thomas Markle Sr., to watch the series due to concerns for his health. "I didn’t have enough heart medication for him to watch it. I didn’t want him to kick the bucket, so I’d have to go refill the prescription before I let him watch it," he quipped. In the series, Meghan described herself as a "latchkey kid" who grew up eating fast food and TV dinners. In a previous 2021 letter to U.S. politicians advocating for paid parental leave, she also claimed her family was financially struggling and that she “grew up on the $4.99 salad bar at Sizzler.” Markle Jr. dismissed these claims, calling them “another one of the malarkey stories she sold to the Royal Family for sympathy.” He insisted, “We weren’t poor. She didn’t have to rub two nickels together at Sizzler’s salad bar.” Critics have also pointed out that Meghan was raised in a middle-class home in Woodland Hills, where her father, an Emmy-winning lighting director, provided a comfortable lifestyle. He reportedly won a $750,000 lottery prize when Meghan was nine, which helped pay for her tuition at the prestigious Immaculate Heart Catholic School in Los Angeles. "The entire world knows how she treated her family, especially her father, who gave her everything," Markle Jr. continued. "That’s why nobody’s buying it." In his interview, he also mocked *With Love, Meghan*, sarcastically stating that dropping bricks on his pinky toes "would probably be better" than watching the show. Predicting its failure, he said, "Everybody’s going to watch the first episode, and it’ll be the worst critically acclaimed episode of all time. Then, five or six minutes into the second, they’ll probably commit themselves to a psychiatric ward." Markle Jr. went on to accuse Meghan of exaggerating her involvement in cooking, claiming, "She didn’t cook anything for anybody ever growing up." He also referenced what he called the "Meghan Markle death stare," saying, "There was always that little look. The Meghan Markle death stare, like her viper jaw pitches up, and she’s about to strike." His latest remarks follow previous controversies surrounding his treatment of Meghan. Last year, he faced backlash for YouTube videos in which he mocked her by wearing a wig and tiara while stuffing a cushion inside his jumper, referring to himself as "Me-gain." Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond called the videos "grotesque" and described his actions as "the ultimate betrayal." Markle Jr. has also suggested plans to cash in on his connection to Meghan by selling merchandise, including glasses, mugs, and T-shirts, telling viewers in a clip, “I'm gonna be riding those coat-tails, baby – oh yeah. If it wasn’t for Meghan Markle, I don’t know what I’d be doing.” His past criticism of Meghan dates back to 2018, when he wrote an open letter to Prince Harry before their wedding, warning him that Meghan was “obviously not the right woman for you” and calling her “jaded, shallow, [and] conceited.” Despite his past attacks, Markle Jr. briefly attempted to reconcile with his half-sister during his appearance on *Big Brother VIP Australia* in 2021. He was filmed writing an apology letter to Meghan and Harry, admitting that his previous words were “very immature and wrong.” In the letter, he explained, “The letter was definitely written out of me feeling really hurt and confused... I know that it was very immature and wrong, and I truly regret it.” Meghan’s new series, which offers lifestyle tips from inside a rented $8 million mansion, has already faced criticism. While it does not directly reference the Royal Family, it showcases the Duchess’s life in California with Prince Harry and their children, Archie and Lilibet. The show has been described by some reviewers as “gormless lifestyle filler” with “a tangible desperation,” raising questions about whether it will justify the couple’s $100 million streaming deal. Despite the backlash, Meghan appears committed to her rebranded media presence, presenting herself as a relatable figure who, as she puts it, believes that even those in "little flats" in London can enjoy a small taste of her California lifestyle. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-03-06

Kyle Clifford, a former soldier, has denied allegations that he raped his ex-girlfriend, Louise Hunt, before murdering her, her mother Carol Hunt, and her sister Hannah Hunt in a shocking attack. The court heard how Clifford, 26, committed "acts of extreme violence" at the Hunt family home in Bushey, Hertfordshire, on July 9 last year. During the trial at Cambridge Crown Court, the prosecution described Clifford’s attack as premeditated and meticulously planned. Alison Morgan KC, for the prosecution, stated that Clifford, angered by Louise’s decision to end their relationship, had assumed that her family had influenced her decision. Following the breakup on June 26, he began preparing for an attack, purchasing weapons and equipment designed for a multi-person assault that included the planned restraint and rape of Louise. Morgan told the jury that Clifford had deceived Carol Hunt to gain entry to the family home. Once inside, he fatally stabbed her before waiting for Louise to return. “The defendant then waited for Louise Hunt to enter the property, before restraining, raping, and ultimately murdering her with a crossbow,” she stated. Hannah Hunt, 28, was also shot and killed when she returned home from work. Following the murders, Clifford fled the scene, sparking a 22-hour manhunt before being found with self-inflicted injuries at Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield. He was taken to the hospital for life-saving surgery and is now paralyzed from the chest down after shooting himself with the crossbow. The court was told that Clifford and Louise had been in a relationship for 18 months after meeting online. However, she had expressed concerns to friends about his “nasty temper.” The Hunt family reportedly found him “disrespectful, rude, and arrogant” and hoped Louise would end the relationship. Evidence was presented that Louise had documented her concerns about Clifford in a phone note five days before the murders. She described him as “racist,” intolerant of transgender people, and someone who frequently used belittling language. She also mentioned his regular visits to his imprisoned brother, noting that he never acknowledged the seriousness of his sibling’s crimes. Investigations revealed that in the days leading up to the attack, Clifford had conducted online searches for crossbows and accessed pornography. He had also written what appeared to be a suicide note on his phone. CCTV footage captured him buying 30 meters of rope, petrol cans, and duct tape, as well as purchasing a crossbow and airgun online. On the day of the attack, Clifford visited a garden center with his family before driving to the Hunt residence, arriving at 1:07 PM. A recorded conversation on the home’s doorbell camera captured his interaction with Carol Hunt, who allowed him inside under the belief he was returning Louise’s belongings. Within minutes, he fatally stabbed her. Louise, who operated a dog-grooming business from a garden pod in the backyard, remained unaware of the attack while continuing to serve clients. Forensic analysis later confirmed beyond reasonable doubt that “penetrative sexual activity took place,” Morgan told the jury. Clifford’s defense team, however, claimed that any sexual contact had been consensual and had occurred on June 23. After the attack on Louise, Clifford used her phone to browse Instagram and text her father, John Hunt, to determine when he would be home. When Hannah arrived at 6:50 PM, CCTV audio recorded the sound of a crossbow bolt being fired. A few minutes later, Hannah was heard exclaiming, “Kyle, I swear to God,” before messaging her partner, Alex Klein, with a desperate plea: “Call police… immediately. To mine. Now. Kyle here. Police now. He’s tying us up.” Screams followed, and another crossbow bolt was fired at 6:54 PM, killing Hannah. She managed to dial 999 using her mother’s phone and identified Clifford as the attacker before she succumbed to her injuries. Emergency services arrived at the scene to find Carol and Louise already deceased, while paramedics attempted, unsuccessfully, to save Hannah. While recovering in the hospital, Clifford reportedly told police, “What I have done is atrocious.” He has since pleaded guilty to the three murders, false imprisonment of Louise, and two counts of possessing offensive weapons. However, he continues to deny the charge of rape. The trial is ongoing. Based on a report by The Times 2025-03-06 Related Topic: Kyle Clifford Charged with Murders of BBC's John Hunt’s Wife and Daughters

NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, who has been stranded aboard the International Space Station (ISS) since June, has backed Elon Musk’s claim that the billionaire had proposed an early rescue plan that was ultimately rejected by then-President Joe Biden. Wilmore and fellow astronaut Suni Williams initially embarked on what was meant to be an eight-day mission, but their return was delayed when the Boeing Starliner spacecraft they were testing was deemed unsafe for the journey home. As their stay stretched into months, the situation became politically charged, with Musk and former President Donald Trump accusing Biden’s administration of intentionally leaving the astronauts aboard the ISS to avoid making Musk look like a hero. Musk’s assertion that the astronauts were abandoned for "political reasons" recently sparked a public clash between him and Danish astronaut Andreas Mogensen. In a Fox News interview, Musk claimed the Biden administration had neglected the stranded astronauts, but Mogensen countered, accusing him of spreading falsehoods. Mogensen noted that NASA had long planned to bring Wilmore and Williams back aboard the SpaceX Crew-9 mission, which arrived at the ISS in September with two spare seats. No alternative plan was ever officially proposed, and the delay in Crew-9’s return has been due to setbacks in preparing the Dragon spacecraft for Crew-10, now scheduled for launch on March 12. NASA has also stressed that extended astronaut stays in space are not uncommon. In 2023, astronaut Frank Rubio spent over a year on the ISS after a meteoroid damaged his return vessel, a Russian Soyuz spacecraft. Similarly, following the 2003 Columbia disaster, NASA suspended shuttle flights for two years, forcing astronauts to rely on Soyuz and prolong their missions. Musk’s comments have drawn criticism from the space community, particularly after he used a slur for people with intellectual disabilities in response to Mogensen. Former NASA astronauts Scott and Mark Kelly publicly defended Mogensen and condemned Musk’s remarks. “Obviously, we’ve heard some of these different things that have been said,” Wilmore commented. “We have the utmost respect for Mr. Musk, and obviously respect and admiration for our president of the United States, Donald Trump. We appreciate them… and we’re thankful that they are in the positions they’re in.” Wilmore’s statement comes at a time when NASA’s leadership is facing scrutiny over its shifting rhetoric. Acting NASA administrator Janet Petro recently raised eyebrows with remarks that echoed Trump’s political slogan, stating that the agency aimed to put "America first" in its space endeavors. “We’re going to be putting America first, we’re making America proud, we’re doing this for the U.S. citizens,” she said, just before a private Moon lander touched down on Sunday. The remark marked a departure from NASA’s long-standing philosophy of conducting space exploration “for all mankind.” As the situation continues to unfold, Wilmore and Williams remain aboard the ISS, awaiting their long-delayed return home. Based on a report by AP 2025-03-06 Related Topic: Elon Musk Claims Biden Administration Delayed NASA Astronauts’ Return for Political Gain

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi has expressed his firm belief that U.S. President Donald Trump has the capability to broker peace in the Middle East. His statement came as Egypt unveiled a $20 billion proposal aimed at rebuilding war-torn Gaza, an initiative backed by several Arab nations. The proposal was presented during a summit of Arab leaders in Cairo, positioning itself as an alternative to Trump’s controversial plan, which suggested evacuating Gaza’s more than 2 million residents and redeveloping the enclave under U.S. administration. Trump’s idea, which involved transforming Gaza into a luxurious “Riviera,” faced strong criticism, with many accusing it of attempting “ethnic cleansing.” The U.S. administration had implied that Palestinians would be relocated to Egypt and Jordan, raising concerns over whether they would ever be allowed to return to their homeland. In contrast, Egypt’s plan calls for financial contributions from oil-rich Arab nations and the international community to fund extensive reconstruction efforts over the next two years. The initiative has been well received by the Arab League, proposing the construction of 200,000 new housing units in Gaza, where approximately 70% of buildings have been damaged or destroyed due to the ongoing conflict. Despite this effort, a major obstacle remains unresolved. The cease-fire between Israel and Hamas expired over the weekend, and while fighting has not resumed, no agreement has been reached to extend the truce. The uncertainty surrounding the cease-fire adds another layer of complexity to the already fragile situation. The United Nations has expressed strong support for Egypt’s initiative. “I welcome and strongly endorse the Arab-led initiative to mobilize support for Gaza’s reconstruction, clearly expressed in this summit,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement. “The UN stands ready to fully cooperate in this endeavor.” Palestinian Authority (PA) has shown openness to Egypt’s plan, which also includes a provision for elections to be held in Gaza within a year. Hamas has not allowed elections since it took power in 2006, while PA President Mahmoud Abbas, whose faction was ousted from Gaza by Hamas, insists that his group is the only legitimate governing body capable of leading the enclave. Abbas has expressed his readiness to organize presidential and parliamentary elections. One of the major sticking points in achieving a long-term resolution is determining who will govern Gaza post-war. Israel has remained firm in its stance that Hamas must be completely removed from power and cannot return as the ruling force. All plans for Gaza fail if they do not start with a complete defeat and disarmament of Hamas. Either Hamas surrenders military and political power, or operation to do that by force are required. Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri dismissed the Arab Summit’s proposed Gaza reconstruction plan, stating: “We will not trade our weapons for reconstruction or the entry of aid.” While Hamas has rejected proposals from “external forces,” referring to Trump’s plan, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has endorsed the former president’s vision, calling it an “innovative” and “visionary” idea that should be implemented. As discussions continue, the future of Gaza remains uncertain. The success of Egypt’s reconstruction initiative depends not only on securing the necessary funding but also on resolving the political disputes that have long plagued the region. Meanwhile, all eyes remain on Trump, whose potential involvement in the peacemaking process has sparked both optimism and controversy. Based on a report by NYP | X 2025-03-06

BBC director-general Tim Davie has acknowledged that he lost trust in a controversial documentary about Gaza, leading to its removal from iPlayer while an internal review is conducted. Speaking before the Culture, Media and Sport select committee on Tuesday, Davie explained that concerns arose over the background of a key individual featured in the film. Shah revealed that the BBC began questioning the integrity of the film from the moment it aired. "To my shock, I think that we found that there were serious failings on both sides, on the independent production side as well, as well as on the BBC side," he admitted. The issue has drawn attention from media watchdog Ofcom, which wrote to the BBC to express "ongoing concerns" regarding the "nature and gravity" of the documentary. Shah welcomed the scrutiny. Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police have confirmed that officers from the Counter Terrorism Command are assessing whether any police action is necessary in relation to the documentary. The controversy has also prompted criticism from the charity Campaign Against Antisemitism. In a statement, the organization accused the BBC of "marking its own homework" and argued that "no other broadcaster would be permitted this latitude, and no other regulated industry would allow this." They also called for the suspension of the BBC licence fee pending an independent investigation into the matter. The dispute over the Gaza documentary has intensified, raising questions about the BBC's editorial processes and the broader implications for its credibility as a trusted news source. Based on a report by Sky News | X 2025-03-06 Related Topics: BBC Could Face Counter-Terror Investigation Over Payments to Hamas Official’s Family BBC Admits ‘Serious Flaws’ in Gaza Documentary, Apologizes for Oversight Did BBC Pay Hamas Members To Be In Documentary? BBC Faces Fresh Backlash Over Alleged Gaza Documentary Cover-Up BBC Doc Features Son Of Hamas Leader but Fails to Disclose to Viewers

A growing number of private schools are shutting their doors, blaming the Labour government’s new tax policy for their financial struggles. Since the introduction of VAT on school fees on January 1, twelve independent institutions have directly linked their closures to the policy, with dozens more folding since Labour first announced the plan. Government statistics reveal that 77 private and specialist schools in England have shut down since Labour disclosed in October 2023 that VAT would be imposed on school fees within its first year in power. While some closures were attributed to pre-existing financial difficulties, four schools have explicitly cited the VAT policy as the decisive factor in their shutdowns, and eight more have announced upcoming closures due to the tax burden. St Joseph’s Preparatory School in Stoke-on-Trent closed in December, just before the VAT policy took effect. The school described its closure as an “incredibly difficult” decision, driven by the “changes coming regarding independent school funding.” Roisin Maguire, who served as headteacher for 12 years, explained that parents “simply could not manage an extra 20 per cent” on fees and predicted more school closures to come. The policy’s impact is not limited to England. In Scotland, Cedars School in Greenock shut its doors in September, describing the VAT hike as the “straw that broke the camel’s back.” Kilgraston School in Perthshire, the country’s only Catholic boarding school, also cited VAT concerns as a key reason for its closure last August, warning that the policy would worsen declining pupil numbers and further strain its already precarious financial situation, which had recorded an £860,000 deficit in the last academic year. Several schools have announced closures at the end of this academic year, attributing their financial struggles directly to the tax policy. Among them is St Hilda’s Prep School for Girls in Hertfordshire, which recently informed parents that it was consulting on a possible closure by summer. The school, which counts former Home Secretary Suella Braverman among its alumni, admitted to operating at a significant financial loss. A letter to parents highlighted a range of financial pressures, including “falling pupil numbers,” the VAT introduction on school fees from January 2025, the rising employer National Insurance contributions, and the removal of an 80 per cent business rates relief from April 2025. While some schools have not explicitly linked their closures to the VAT policy, many were already struggling with declining enrollment and financial deficits, leaving them vulnerable to the effects of the tax hike. The government has stated that around 50 private schools typically close each year, but education leaders warn that the removal of business rates relief next month will trigger another wave of shutdowns. Under the change, charitable private schools in England will have to pay full business rates on their buildings for the first time. Experts predict that smaller private schools will be most at risk, while prestigious institutions such as Eton College, which have greater financial reserves and a wealthier parent base, will be less affected. Treasury estimates suggest that the VAT policy will ultimately reduce private school enrollment by 37,000 pupils—approximately 6 per cent—many of whom will need to transition to state schools, potentially straining public education resources. Labour MP Rupa Huq recently urged the government to consider reversing the policy if the economy improves, acknowledging that the private school sector is not a “one size fits all” system. She warned that the VAT measure could ultimately “make an elitist system more elitist” by limiting access to private education to only the wealthiest families. Meanwhile, the Independent Schools Council (ISC) has launched a High Court challenge against the policy, arguing that it infringes on the human rights of some children. A judicial review hearing is scheduled for April 1-3. Julie Robinson, chief executive of the ISC, has cautioned that the policy’s impact will continue to grow in the coming months and years. Neil O’Brien, the shadow schools minister, echoed concerns about the wider consequences of the tax, stating, “Once again, we can see the deeply damaging impacts of Labour’s education tax.” He warned that the closures of independent schools would increase pressure on already overstretched state schools, making it harder for parents to secure places for their children. “There are 130,000 children with special needs being educated in the independent sector at present, and if thousands of them are taxed into the state sector, that will put a lot of pressure on special needs provision,” he said. “At the end of the day, it will be parents, pupils, and teachers in the state sector that will pay the price for Labour’s ideological attack.” As the debate over Labour’s VAT policy intensifies, private schools across the country are left grappling with rising costs and uncertainty, with many fearing they will be next to close their doors. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-03-06 Related Topics: Looming Crisis: Private Schools Face Closures Amid VAT Hike Top Oxfordshire Prep School to Close Amid Controversial VAT Policy on Private Education England’s Special Educational Needs Crisis: A System in Desperate Need of Reform Legal Challenge Against Private School VAT Policy Deems It Discriminatory

"Donald Trump is doing us a favour, if we choose to think about it that way. And we may as well look on the bright side. Otherwise, these times are too dark." These words, spoken by a diplomat from a major European country who requested anonymity, capture the uneasy mix of alarm and forced optimism sweeping through European capitals after Trump abruptly halted military aid to Ukraine on Monday. The rapid shifts in Washington's stance have left European leaders scrambling to formulate a cohesive response. Most European governments view Ukraine's struggle as a battle for the security of the entire continent, with Russia seeking to upend the Western-aligned order that has existed since the end of the Cold War. However, the continent is deeply divided on how to address the crisis. Friedrich Merz, the man likely to become Germany’s next leader, bluntly summed up the growing concern: "Washington, which has had Europe's back in terms of security and defence since World War Two, now appears not to care about the fate of Europe." This sentiment underscores the fundamental uncertainty gripping the region. The flurry of emergency summits and high-profile diplomatic meetings reflect Europe's efforts to respond effectively. The strategy is twofold. First, European leaders are determined to show Trump that they are stepping up to the challenge, as UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak put it, by doing "the heavy lifting" to defend themselves. The hope is that this display of self-reliance will convince Trump to restore military support for Ukraine and maintain the broader US security umbrella in Europe. At the same time, European governments must prepare for the worst-case scenario—one where Trump decisively turns away from Ukraine and, potentially, from European security altogether. In such a scenario, Europe will have no choice but to rapidly enhance its own defences and increase direct support for Kyiv. The stakes are high, not only in Washington but also in Moscow. The Kremlin is closely monitoring Europe's reaction. If the continent's emergency meetings fail to produce swift and substantial results, Russia will perceive Europe as weak and divided. Moscow has already taken pleasure in what it sees as fractures in Western unity. For decades, the US has filled the gaps left by Europe's chronic underinvestment in defence. Since the Cold War, military conscription has largely been abandoned, and troop numbers have dwindled across the continent. Meanwhile, the US maintains around 100,000 troops in Europe, along with nuclear weapons under NATO’s nuclear-sharing policy. One of the most vulnerable nations in this equation is Germany, a major European power without nuclear arms of its own, which could find itself dangerously exposed if Trump withdraws American support. The coming weeks will be crucial. Europe must prove—both to Washington and to Moscow—that it can act decisively. If its leaders fail, the repercussions could extend far beyond Ukraine, reshaping the balance of power on the continent for years to come. Based on a report by BBC 2025-03-06

President Donald Trump has once again expressed his interest in acquiring Greenland, assuring its residents that joining the United States would bring them prosperity and security. Speaking before Congress on Tuesday, Trump described Greenland as an "incredible" place with vast potential, emphasizing its strategic importance for military defense and global security. "We will keep you safe, we will make you rich, and together, we will take Greenland to heights like you have never thought possible before," Trump declared. He pointed out that the island, though sparsely populated, is geographically significant and offers valuable resources that could benefit the United States. "It's a very small population, a very, very large piece of land, and very, very important for military security," he added. Despite Trump’s enthusiasm, polls indicate that most Greenlanders are against becoming part of the United States, although a majority support eventual independence from Denmark. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has repeatedly been declared "not for sale" by its ruling government in Copenhagen. However, Trump remains optimistic about bringing it under U.S. control, citing its geographical position along the shortest route between Europe and North America—an essential factor for America’s ballistic missile warning system. "We need it really for international world security," Trump argued, emphasizing that U.S. interests in the Arctic are growing amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. In his address, he reaffirmed his support for the people of Greenland to decide their future, stating, "We strongly support your right to determine your own future, and if you choose, we welcome you into the United States of America." He also noted that his administration was actively working with various parties to make Greenland part of the U.S., before adding, "I think we're going to get it, one way or the other, we're gonna get it," drawing laughter from Republican lawmakers in the House chamber. Trump's remarks have further energized Greenland’s independence movement, prompting calls for Denmark to begin negotiations on severing political ties. However, Greenland’s ruling Inuit Ataqatigiit party has urged caution, refusing to rush into an independence vote following the March 11 general election, citing concerns about economic and welfare stability. Denmark, while acknowledging Greenland’s right to self-determination, has dismissed Trump's ambitions. "The future of Greenland is really for the people of Greenland to decide," Denmark’s U.N. Ambassador Christina Markus Lassen told reporters. "Independence is possible, and they have the right to self-determination." Lassen also highlighted Denmark’s ongoing cooperation with NATO and the United States on Arctic security, stressing that both nations recognize the need to strengthen defense efforts in the region. "We have a very close transatlantic bond with the United States. We've been working very closely with the U.S. on security matters related to Greenland and the Arctic for decades," she said. While Trump’s renewed push to acquire Greenland has stirred global debate, the island’s future remains in the hands of its people. Whether Greenland chooses independence, remains under Danish rule, or considers U.S. offers, its role in the evolving geopolitical landscape will continue to draw international attention. A 2019 poll showed that 67.8% of Greenlanders support independence from Denmark sometime in the next two decades. A 2025 poll showed that 84% of Greenlanders would support independence from Denmark, but 45% of the population would oppose independence if it meant a lower standard of living. Based on a report inspired by Reuters 2025-03-06

The UK Chancellor is preparing to implement significant cuts to welfare spending, amounting to several billion pounds, as part of an effort to balance the country's finances. These reductions, along with cuts to other government departments, are being considered ahead of the upcoming Spring Statement. The Treasury is set to present these proposed cuts to the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) on Wednesday. This move comes amid growing concerns that the financial buffer established in the last budget has now disappeared. According to sources, "the world has changed" since Rachel Reeves delivered her budget last October, when the OBR estimated she had £9.9 billion available to spend under her self-imposed borrowing rules. The upcoming announcement will outline major fiscal measures, including tax changes and spending cuts, aimed at ensuring compliance with these borrowing constraints. The government has reiterated its commitment to reducing debt as a proportion of the economy during this parliamentary term. It has also pledged to limit borrowing to investment purposes only, avoiding its use for day-to-day expenditures. Such fiscal rules are common among wealthy nations and are seen as a key strategy for maintaining credibility in financial markets. Reeves has firmly stated that these rules are "non-negotiable." To address the emerging budget shortfall, the Treasury is expected to introduce "politically painful" welfare reductions. These cuts are primarily aimed at curbing the significant rise in health-related benefits and are likely to be detailed further in an upcoming speech by Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall. The Treasury has attributed the increased cost of government borrowing to global economic trends and geopolitical instability. When questioned about the potential impact of welfare cuts, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood told BBC Radio 4’s *Today* programme that the welfare budget had seen a "huge rise" and that there were "too many" young people not engaged in work, education, or training. "There's a moral case here for making sure that people who can work are able to work and there's a practical point here as well, because our current situation is unsustainable," Mahmood stated. However, she refrained from confirming whether the justice department would be affected by budget cuts, saying she was "not going to get ahead" of Treasury decisions. Reeves has previously promised a "fundamental" overhaul of the welfare system, citing growing concerns over rising expenditure on health-related benefits. Government figures show that last year, spending on sickness benefits reached £65 billion—a 25% increase from pre-pandemic levels. That amount is expected to rise to approximately £100 billion before the next general election. While some of this increase is linked to the long-term effects of Covid-19, ministers have raised concerns over the structure of the current benefits system. Under existing rules, individuals receiving universal credit must provide proof of job applications to continue receiving payments, or risk sanctions. However, those who qualify for sickness benefits often receive higher payments and are not necessarily required to look for work. Government officials argue that this disparity creates incentives for some individuals to "game the system," further exacerbating the financial burden on the state. As the Treasury moves forward with its plans, the debate over the future of welfare spending is set to intensify. Based on a report by BBC 2025-03-06

@SMIAI another of your posts removed for flaming and trolling. A link was supplied please take note.

A post with conspiracy theory weblink and further unsubstantiated claims have been removed @BangkokHank along with the responses to it.

President Trump is delivering an address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday where he's expected to lay out his agenda for his second administration. This marks the first time the president will address both chambers of Congress since he took office and comes on the same day 25% tariffs against Canada and Mexico went into effect. China was also hit with a second 10% tariff on U.S. exports. Based on a report by Face the Nation 2025-03-05

Elon Musk has accused the Biden administration of intentionally delaying the return of two NASA astronauts from space for political reasons, alleging that officials wanted to prevent former President Donald Trump from receiving credit. During an appearance on *The Joe Rogan Experience* podcast, Musk claimed that the White House rejected his offer to bring astronauts Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore home early. According to Musk, the administration intentionally "pushed the return date past the inauguration date" to avoid helping Trump's image. "There's no way that they're gonna make anyone who's supporting Trump look good," Musk said. MUSK: We offered to bring them back early. This offer was rejected by Biden. ROGAN: Why? MUSK: For political reasons. They pushed the return date back past the Inauguration. Elon Musk tells Joe Rogan how Biden played politics with the lives of stranded American astronauts. "People say, like, 'Oh, Elon's making it up. The Biden administration wasn't against SpaceX,'" Musk told Rogan. "I'm like, bro, the Department of Justice had a massive lawsuit against SpaceX for not hiring asylum seekers, even though it is illegal for us to hire anyone who is not a permanent resident." The lawsuit was quietly dismissed just weeks ago, without an explanation from the DOJ. Musk's comments on *The Joe Rogan Experience* were not the first time he suggested politics played a role in delaying Williams and Wilmore’s return. In a recent Fox News interview with Trump, he made similar allegations about the Biden administration interfering with NASA’s decision. Williams and Wilmore were originally scheduled to spend only eight days on the International Space Station after their June 6 launch aboard the Boeing Starliner. However, technical issues with the spacecraft forced NASA to repeatedly postpone their return, citing safety concerns. NASA Administrator Bill Nelson dismissed any suggestion that politics influenced the decision. "I can tell you unequivocally, from a personal standpoint, that politics has not played any part in this decision. It absolutely has nothing to do with it," Nelson said last August. Williams and Wilmore also pushed back against Musk’s claims in a recent *Good Morning America* interview. When asked about the suggestion that political motives were involved, Wilmore responded: "Political reasons — I have not heard that. I'm not sure that that could be the case based on what I know." He also rejected the notion that they were "stranded" in space, saying: "That's not how we feel." The astronauts are now expected to return to Earth around March 19 or 20 aboard SpaceX's Crew-9 flight, meaning they will have spent over nine months in space. Musk told Rogan that only a SpaceX spacecraft is capable of bringing them back safely. "There isn't anyone else who can do it," he said. "The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is the only one that is considered safe enough to bring them back." NASA has not yet publicly responded to Musk’s latest remarks. Based on a report by NYP 2025-03-05

Keir Starmer has defended his approach to addressing the Channel migrant crisis, even as the number of small boat crossings has risen by 20 percent compared to last year. At the same time, Downing Street has indicated that the Prime Minister is unlikely to accept a request from French mayors to visit their beaches in person. According to the latest figures from the Home Office, 592 migrants arrived in the UK on Sunday after making the perilous journey across the Channel in 11 small boats. This marks the highest single-day total so far in 2025 and brings the overall number of arrivals for the year to 2,716. The figure is 20 percent higher than the 2,255 arrivals recorded at the same point in 2024 but remains 8 percent lower than the 2,953 seen by this time in 2023. Previously, the highest number of arrivals in a single day this year was 260, recorded on January 13. No.10 has pushed back against accusations that the Prime Minister has failed in his pre-election pledge to "smash" the people-smuggling gangs that facilitate these dangerous crossings. A spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer emphasized that there were "no quick fixes" to the issue of illegal migration and stated that Labour had inherited an asylum system "in chaos" from the previous Conservative government. Despite calls from French officials for Sir Keir to personally assess the situation at the beaches where migrants embark on their journeys, Downing Street signaled that this was unlikely. Stephane Pinto, the mayor of Ambleteuse, urged the Prime Minister to "come and look at our beaches," warning that measures needed to be put in place to prevent more deaths. Philippe Mignonet, the deputy mayor of Calais, echoed this sentiment, stating that it was time for Sir Keir to see the situation firsthand. However, when asked whether the Prime Minister would accept the invitation, his official spokesperson pointed to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper’s visit to the region last month. "The Home Secretary last week became the first British home secretary to visit the French coast in five years to meet her French counterpart," the spokesperson stated. "They agreed to ramp up our joint efforts to smash people-smuggling gangs." The spokesperson also outlined new measures being implemented as part of an extended agreement with France. These include the creation of a specialist intelligence unit based in Dunkirk, which will focus on tracking and prosecuting people smugglers, as well as a new policing unit equipped with enhanced enforcement powers, modeled after those used during the Paris Olympics. Additionally, more training is being provided for drone pilots to enhance surveillance and intercept boats before they reach the sea. "The Prime Minister will obviously consider the invitations in the usual way, but we are committed to working with France as our closest partner when it comes to tackling illegal migration," the spokesperson said. "We work hand-in-glove every day to tackle these gangs, and we will continue to do so." In response to concerns that Sir Keir’s plan to curb Channel crossings was not yielding results—particularly given Sunday’s spike in arrivals—his spokesman insisted that the government was taking decisive action. "This government is focused on taking the practical steps to deal with the chaos of the asylum system that we inherited from the previous government," he said. He highlighted several initiatives, including the establishment of the new Border Security Command, an increase in enforcement resources leading to a 24 percent rise in returns, and a 38 percent increase in illegal working arrests. He also noted that the removal of foreign national offenders had risen by 21 percent and that the UK had conducted the four largest returns charter flights in its history. "We're taking the measures that will ultimately deter and smash the people-smuggling gangs that have been plying this illegal trade," the spokesperson added. "We're extending a deal with France to step up our work with the French to further smash the gangs and stop these small boat crossings." Despite the rising number of crossings, the government maintains that its strategy will deliver results in the long term, as it works with French authorities to disrupt the operations of people-smuggling networks. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-03-05

Britain has distanced itself from French President Emmanuel Macron’s proposal for a one-month ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, despite his claims that both nations were advocating for the truce. Macron announced on Sunday that France and Britain were pushing for a four-week pause in fighting “in the air, at sea, and on energy infrastructure,” though it would not initially extend to ground combat. However, Kyiv has expressed concerns about any ceasefire that lacks security guarantees. On Monday, a British official clarified that no agreement had been reached on Macron’s proposed truce. “There are various options on the table, subject to further discussions with the US and European partners, but a one-month truce has not been agreed,” the official told the *Financial Times.* France has maintained that a temporary ceasefire would be a test of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s sincerity in wanting to end the war. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot defended the plan, stating on *France Inter* radio that a one-month truce “would allow to prove the good will of Vladimir Putin if he commits to a truce.” He added, “And it’s then that real peace negotiations would start. We want a solid peace and a durable peace.” Barrot emphasized that this initial truce would be a way to assess whether Russia is genuinely willing to end the conflict. However, he also specified that the proposal does not require Russian troops to withdraw from occupied Ukrainian territory during the ceasefire period. His remarks followed a summit in London, where European leaders reaffirmed their support for Ukraine after a tense exchange between former US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Macron revealed his ceasefire plan during an interview with *Le Figaro* on his flight back from the London summit. The publication noted that Macron does not trust any ceasefire agreement brokered between the US and Russia, believing that Putin’s true aim is to humiliate Ukraine by demilitarizing it. Instead, Macron and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer have suggested a four-week ceasefire that would not involve ground forces. The French president explained that the advantage of this type of ceasefire is that it can be easily measured. “You have to bear in mind that the front line today is the equivalent of the Paris-Budapest line (in terms of distance). In the event of a ceasefire, it would be very difficult to check that the front was being respected,” Macron said. He added that European peacekeeping troops would not be deployed immediately but could be introduced later as negotiations progress. “There will be no European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks. The question is how we use this time to try to obtain an accessible truce, with negotiations that will take several weeks and then, once peace has been signed, a deployment.” However, the UK government has downplayed Macron’s remarks. Armed Forces Minister Luke Pollard stated that there was no formal agreement on the truce. “No agreement has been made on what a truce looks like,” he told *Times Radio.* “But we are working together with France and our European allies to look at what is the path to how... we create a lasting and durable peace in Ukraine.” Pollard stressed the importance of US involvement in any peace effort, saying, “We think it essential there is a US backstop to make this work.” When pressed further, he maintained, “At the moment we’ve pledged that the UK will step up as part of that multinational movement. We’re still working through those negotiations at the moment. I don’t think it’s right to get into making an announcement before we’ve obviously reached the deal, which I obviously can’t do… If the US isn’t involved, we will struggle to get that durable peace.” UK government sources have suggested that Macron’s comments were premature, reiterating that multiple options remain under discussion with the US and European allies. Meanwhile, both the UK and France are working on forming a “Europe Plus” coalition to safeguard Ukraine in the event of a peace deal. Canada and Turkey are among the nations involved in talks to join what has been described as Starmer’s “coalition of the willing,” which could involve sending troops to Ukraine to help enforce any agreement. This plan is reportedly part of the UK and France’s response to private requests made by Trump after his highly publicized confrontation with Zelensky in the Oval Office last Friday, *Bloomberg* reports. As diplomatic negotiations continue, the question remains whether a temporary ceasefire can serve as a meaningful step toward lasting peace—or if it would merely give Russia an opportunity to strengthen its position. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-03-05

First Lady Melania Trump took aim at congressional Democrats on Monday during a Capitol Hill roundtable focused on online safety and the dangers of non-consensual intimate imagery. The discussion centered around the "Take It Down Act," a proposed bill that would make it a crime to share such content online without permission. Though Melania has largely remained out of the public eye since the inauguration, her presence at the roundtable reaffirmed her commitment to online safety, a cause she previously championed through her "Be Best" initiative during Donald Trump's first term. During the discussion, the first lady commended Senators Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat from Minnesota, and Ted Cruz, a Republican from Texas, for working across party lines to move the legislation forward. The bill successfully passed the Senate in February. However, she did not hold back her disappointment over the lack of Democratic attendance at the roundtable. "I was heartened to learn that Senator Cruz and Senator Klobuchar unified to prioritize this fundamental matter, but I must admit, however, I expected to see more Democrat leaders here today to address this serious issue. Surely, as adults we can prioritize America's children ahead of partisan politics," Melania stated. Although the bill is co-sponsored by Klobuchar, it remains unclear whether she was present at the event. Newsweek reached out to her office for comment. The only Democratic lawmaker reported to have attended the roundtable was Representative Ro Khanna of California, according to the Daily Mail. Cruz, who was actively engaged in the discussion, spoke about the personal story that inspired the legislation—an encounter with Elliston Berry and her mother, who spent nearly a year trying to remove an AI-generated explicit image from Snapchat. The "Take It Down Act" aims to protect victims from both real and digitally altered intimate images, addressing the growing threat of deepfake technology. As of now, the Republican-led House has not yet moved forward with the measure. However, Melania’s vocal support could increase its chances of passing and ultimately being signed into law by President Trump. The first lady is set to return to the Capitol on Tuesday to attend her husband's primetime address to a joint session of Congress. Based on a report by Newsweek 2025-03-05

Brazilian tattoo artist Diabao Praddo, widely known as Human Satan, has once again pushed the boundaries of body modification by amputating two fingers from his left hand to create an alien-like claw. The 50-year-old shared images of the drastic transformation on social media, revealing his hand now consists of just a thumb and two remaining fingers. Praddo, who legally changed his name from Michel to Diabao—Portuguese for Devil—underwent the procedure on March 1. “All done,” he wrote to his followers, marking yet another step in his lifelong journey of extreme modifications. This isn’t the first time he has altered his hands; he previously removed the little and ring fingers from his right hand to achieve a similar claw-like appearance. Initially, he hesitated to proceed, fearing it might hinder his career as a tattoo artist. However, he ultimately decided it wouldn’t stop him. Reflecting on the adjustment period, he admitted, “In the beginning, it was quite difficult, but it didn’t take long for me to get back to tattooing almost normally.” He also described experiencing occasional pain and phantom sensations, which sometimes caused confusion in both work and daily life. Praddo is no stranger to extreme modifications. With over 100 alterations, including full-body tattoos, a split tongue, and multiple subdermal implants, he has drastically transformed his appearance. One of his most controversial procedures involved amputating and consuming his own nipple. He also holds a Guinness World Record for having the most subdermal horn implants on his head, boasting an impressive 33. Among his more radical modifications, Praddo is one of only three people worldwide to have undergone a highly risky procedure to remove the tip of his nose. Additionally, he has multiple forehead implants and four prominent horns protruding from either side of his head. His dedication to altering his body has earned him international recognition. In 2023, he secured a Guinness World Record, surpassing another contender with 18 horn implants. The verification took place on the Italian TV show Lo Show Dei Record, an experience Praddo described as deeply emotional. “At several moments, I was emotional, with tears in my eyes, as I went over my life. An experience that I will cherish forever in my heart and memory,” he said. Despite already holding a world record, Praddo has no plans to stop modifying his body. His goal is to claim the title of the world’s most modified man. He is supported in his journey by his wife, Carol Praddo—nicknamed Mulher Demonia (Demon Woman)—who is also heavily modified and specializes in body transformations. She has played a key role in helping him achieve his distinctive look. A professional tattoo artist for 25 years, Praddo specializes in blackwork and brutal tattoos, covering a significant portion of his body in ink. “Most of my tattoos are done by professionals I’ve paid, but my wife is an expert in body modifications. The idea is for me to become her masterpiece when it comes to tattooing,” he explained. His high pain tolerance has allowed him to endure numerous painful procedures. “Actually, I have a good resistance to pain. I don’t think anything is too painful. I suffer a lot more in the post-procedure stage than during the actual process,” he said. However, he acknowledged that some modifications would be nearly impossible without anesthesia. For Praddo, pain is simply part of the transformation. “If I have to feel pain to achieve what I want, for sure I will face it,” he declared, reinforcing his commitment to his ever-evolving appearance. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-03-05