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A surge of energy detected in the brain of a dying patient who had no measurable blood pressure or heart rate could be a sign of the soul leaving the body, according to an expert in the field. Dr. Stuart Hameroff, an anesthesiologist and professor of anesthesiology and psychology, discussed a recent study that recorded unusual brain activity in a clinically dead patient. The study, which used electroencephalogram (EEG) sensors, captured a sudden burst of energy post-mortem, raising intriguing questions about consciousness and the nature of life after death. “They saw everything go away and then [psh] you got this activity when there was no blood pressure, no heart rate,” Hameroff explained during an interview with Project Unity. “So that could be the near-death experience, or it could be the soul leaving the body, perhaps.” This remarkable energy burst, known as gamma synchrony, is a type of brainwave pattern typically associated with conscious thought, perception, and awareness. According to Hameroff, this phenomenon can last between 30 to 90 seconds, occurring even when the patient is deemed clinically dead. While skeptics argue that this may simply be the final neural firings of a dying brain or a neurological illusion, Hameroff proposes that it might actually represent the departure of consciousness from the body. He suggests that consciousness might not require the same level of energy as other brain functions and could exist on a more fundamental level, making it the last function to cease during the dying process. “The point is it shows that consciousness is actually, probably, a very low energy process,” he stated. Hameroff credits Dr. Lakhmir Chawla as one of the pioneers in studying this phenomenon. He noted that anesthesiologists routinely use EEG technology to monitor brain activity in brain-dead patients before organ donation. According to Hameroff, this unique brain activity has been observed in about 50% of cases where such monitoring is conducted. Further supporting his theory, Hameroff referenced a study by Dr. Robin Lester Carhart-Harris, a researcher examining the effects of psychoactive drugs on mental health and behavior. In this study, volunteers were given a steady drip of psilocybin while inside MRI machines or while being monitored by EEGs. Participants were instructed to remain quiet and still during the test and later describe their experiences. Despite reporting vivid hallucinations and an altered state of consciousness akin to a psychedelic trip, the MRI scans remained dark and inactive, as if the subjects were comatose. “I think they were expecting the MRI to light up like a pinball machine when they gave them the psilocybin because all this stuff would be going on,” Hameroff said. “They were at a loss to explain this.” As the chair of one of the sessions discussing the findings, Hameroff proposed that consciousness might be operating at a “deeper quantum level.” The concept of quantum brain activity, as discussed in Neuroscience News, suggests that certain brain functions may occur at a microscopic level within neurons, beyond the conventional neural pathways. This theory posits that consciousness could emerge from quantum vibrations within neurons, rather than from classical neural activity alone. Hameroff believes Carhart-Harris’s study may also explain why the brain exhibits a final surge of activity at the end of life. “I think consciousness is actually low energy,” he reiterated, suggesting that these observations could provide insight into the fundamental nature of human awareness and the possibility of an existence beyond death. Based on a report by NYP 2025-02-20

@beautifulthailand99 another of your trolling posts has been removed. This is getting tedious and will result in more than posts removed if it carries on. There is already a topic on that incident here This is not it.

Another troll post @frank83628 if you can't offer any updates on the conflict and refuse to engage in productive discussion then don't bother posting as they will be removed.

More off topic posts removed, perhaps time to read the topic header: Updates and events in the War in Ukraine 2025

A couple of off topic and antisemitic slurs have been removed. 15. You will not discriminate or post slurs, degrading or overly negative comments on the basis of race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, nationality, disability, medical history, marriage, civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity, paternity, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other irrelevant factor. Please discuss the topic: Thai PM Assures Locals: No Israeli Takeover in Pai District - video

Speaking in Riyadh, Senator Marco Rubio emphasized that the European Union would inevitably need to be involved in discussions regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. “They’re going to have to be at the table at some point because they have sanctions as well that have been imposed,” he stated. Addressing concerns over Ukraine’s absence from the meeting, Rubio insisted that no one was being excluded. “No one is being side-lined,” he said. “Everyone involved in that conflict has to be OK with it, it has to be acceptable to them.” Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appeared visibly exhausted and frustrated when reacting to the meeting during a news conference in Turkey. “We want everything to be fair and so that nobody decides anything behind our back,” he said. “You cannot make decisions without Ukraine on how to end the war in Ukraine.” Despite his concerns, Zelensky is likely aware that there is little he can do to influence any agreements reached without his direct involvement. The sight of both American and Russian officials engaging in discussions in Riyadh will be deeply unsettling for him. More critically, he understands that Ukraine’s ability to resist—let alone defeat—Russian forces remains heavily dependent on continued American support. Based on a report by BBC 2025-02-19

Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters delivered a controversial speech at the United Nations, appearing via Zoom during a Security Council meeting in New York. Wearing a small Palestinian flag pin on his lapel, the 81-year-old musician addressed diplomats about the ongoing war in Ukraine but also briefly referenced the situation in Gaza. Russia once again rolled out their guest clown, Roger Waters, at the UN Security Council as they probably couldn’t find someone else to play their act. During his monologue, Waters primarily focused on Ukraine but made a passing comment about Palestine, saying, "Palestine isn't really a war, is it? Don't get me started. Back to Ukraine." He began his remarks by addressing skepticism over his qualifications to speak on global conflicts. "I sense an objection, somewhere out here in this room, a questioning of my credentials, so forgive me," Waters said. "I may be just a musician, but I'm here to talk about war and peace and love, and my credentials are firmly in place." He justified his authority on the topic by referencing his father’s death in 1944 while fighting the Nazis at Anzio when Waters was just five months old. Waters condemned Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, saying his "blood ran cold" on February 24, 2022. He argued that the war could have been prevented through "diplomacy, common sense, and talking to each other." He also accused former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson of undermining early peace negotiations in Istanbul, claiming that Johnson encouraged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to prolong the war for the benefit of the United States. Imitating Johnson’s alleged conversation with Zelensky, Waters said, "'It's been decided to continue it (the war) for as long as it takes, and just between you and me, the longer it takes, the better. They (the Americans) will keep sending you ammo of course, and they'd like you to, just, you know, fight on.'" Waters' remarks come after a series of controversies that have impacted his career. In late 2023, his record label BMG dropped him, with Waters later claiming he was "fired" by CEO Thomas Coesfeld. This move halted the planned release of a re-recorded version of Pink Floyd’s 1973 album *Dark Side of the Moon*, which was ultimately reassigned to UK-based label Cooking Vinyl. The musician has also faced allegations of antisemitism. Former producer Bob Ezrin has publicly criticized him, alleging that Waters once referred to his ex-agent Bryan Morrison as a "f***ing Jew." His latest appearance at the UN has only added to the controversy surrounding him, with critics calling his speech unhinged and politically charged. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-02-19

A third of Labour voters have lost confidence in the economy following Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s sweeping tax increases and the decision to strip millions of pensioners of winter fuel payments. A survey by Ipsos reveals that more Labour supporters have been disheartened by her policies than reassured, with just 29 percent believing the party has improved the economy, while 26 percent remain undecided. Overall, 52 percent of Britons feel more pessimistic due to Reeves’s economic decisions, compared to only 14 percent who are more optimistic. Additionally, around half of the public expects unemployment to rise this year. According to Gideon Skinner of Ipsos, although many support increased NHS spending, "the public remain unconvinced about the overall direction of the economy under Rachel Reeves’s stewardship." He added, "The fact that half of Britons believe she is doing a bad job as Chancellor, coupled with widespread pessimism about rising unemployment, should sound alarm bells in Downing Street." A significant 50 percent of the public feel less confident about economic growth as a result of Reeves’s policy choices. While she has attempted to highlight investment and long-term economic planning, voters continue to feel the financial strain. This widespread discontent poses a challenge for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who secured a parliamentary majority with a modest 34 percent vote share. Businesses, too, are reeling from Labour’s economic strategy. Confidence among company leaders has plummeted following the unexpected £25 billion National Insurance hike in October’s Budget. Many in the private sector had assumed such a tax increase had been ruled out in Labour’s election manifesto. Recent surveys from the Bank of England indicate that more than half of business leaders plan to offset at least part of the tax hike by reducing staff, while a similar percentage intend to increase prices to pass the burden onto consumers. Defending her policies, Reeves insisted they are part of a broader strategy to reverse years of economic stagnation. "It’s not possible to turn around more than a decade of poor economic performance in just a few months. But we are doing what is necessary to bring stability back to the economy," she said. "We need to go further and faster in doing that, to turn around our poor growth performance and to make working people better off." Older voters have been especially critical of Labour’s handling of the economy. Nearly three-quarters of those over 55 have lost confidence since Starmer took office, compared to just under a third of 18 to 34-year-olds. With economic anxiety growing and businesses expressing uncertainty, Labour’s leadership faces mounting pressure to restore public trust. Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2025-02-19

A chilling moment captured on CCTV shows a predator stalking a lone woman at an east London station before launching a brutal attack. Edward Ampeh, 33, targeted women traveling alone, assaulting them and robbing them in a series of violent encounters that ultimately led to his conviction and an eight-year prison sentence. The first attack took place just after midnight on May 6, 2022, at Greenwich Station. Ampeh was seen following a female passenger off a DLR train, trailing her along the platform before launching his assault. As she reached the top of a staircase, he struck her on the back of the head and began verbally threatening and abusing her. Demanding to know the contents of her handbag, the frightened woman complied, handing over some money and a phone charger. Shockingly, after robbing her, Ampeh attempted to initiate further contact. He asked the woman where she lived and insisted she email him her phone number and follow him on Instagram, a bizarre and unsettling demand after his violent attack. A second victim fell prey to Ampeh on September 5, 2022, after she disembarked from a train at Limehouse Station. In this instance, he crept up behind her and forcefully grabbed her handbag straps. Startled, the woman screamed and struggled to hold on to her belongings. As she resisted, she lost her balance and fell down a set of stairs, landing heavily on her leg and twisting it. Footage from the incident shows Ampeh rummaging through the woman’s bag before leaving the scene, carelessly discarding it on the ground as he made his escape. Despite clear video evidence, Ampeh denied any involvement and displayed no remorse during police questioning. However, he was found guilty of two counts of robbery and sentenced at Inner London Crown Court. Investigating Officer Detective Constable Tom Bolton expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating, *"I am extremely pleased with the outcome in this case. Ampeh acted in a predatory and violent manner, targeting lone women for his own gain. His actions will have a lifelong impact on his victims, and I hope this result will bring them some closure."* He reinforced the authorities’ commitment to tackling such crimes, adding, *"Violent and abusive behaviour will never be tolerated on the railway, and we will ruthlessly investigate these sorts of dangerous offenders and hold them to account before the courts. Anyone who witnesses this sort of offending, or any other crime on the railway, is urged to text us on 61016 or call 999 in an emergency."* Ampeh’s conviction serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by lone commuters and the importance of reporting suspicious or threatening behavior. With his sentencing, authorities hope to send a strong message that such violent crimes will not go unpunished. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-02-19

The Wall Street Journal’s editorial board has called on Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to distance himself from his long-held anti-vaccine positions as Texas faces a growing measles outbreak. The op-ed, published Monday, comes as nearly 50 confirmed cases—primarily among unvaccinated children—have been reported in the South Plains region of Texas. “We are on record as skeptical of RFK Jr.’s nomination. The Senate confirmed him. Now the best-case scenario would be for Mr. Kennedy to internalize that he is no longer an activist outsider who needs to take provocative potshots to get attention,” the Journal’s editorial board wrote. As of last week, 48 children had been diagnosed with measles, with 13 requiring hospitalization. Health officials warn that the disease is highly contagious, with the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases stating that up to 90% of unprotected individuals exposed to measles will become infected. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, all of the infected children were either unvaccinated or had unconfirmed vaccination statuses. Officials have cautioned that the outbreak could continue to grow due to measles’ extreme transmissibility. “The tragedy is that this doesn’t have to keep happening. In 2000, measles was declared eliminated from the U.S., meaning 12 months with no continuous spread,” the Journal’s op-ed noted. “Yet for some people, the reality of measles feels like a sepia-toned history lesson, whereas the antivax hooey featured on podcasts these days sounds current.” The editorial directly criticized Kennedy’s role in spreading vaccine skepticism. “RFK Jr., an environmental lawyer by trade, has long been part of the problem, and at his Senate confirmation hearings he presented himself as just asking questions, man. That undersells his role in spreading doubt and confusion.” The piece also pointed to the declining vaccination rates among U.S. kindergarteners. While states and Washington, D.C., mandate vaccinations for school attendance, exemptions are commonly granted. During the 2023-2024 school year, coverage for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine among kindergarteners fell to 92.7%, below the federal “Healthy People 2030” target of 95%—the threshold considered necessary to maintain herd immunity. With Kennedy now leading HHS, concerns remain about how the administration will address declining immunization rates. Though federal health officials have long emphasized the importance of MMR coverage, Kennedy has signaled that his priorities will focus on chronic illnesses rather than infectious disease. As the measles outbreak unfolds, the WSJ’s editorial serves as a pointed reminder of the stakes involved in vaccine policy and public health leadership. Based on a report by The Hill 2025-02-19

A Jamaican drug dealer has avoided deportation from the UK after convincing an immigration judge that he would refrain from selling drugs, though he admitted he would continue using cannabis. Shawn Rickford McLeod, 40, who arrived in Britain in 2000, was initially ordered to be deported following a prison sentence of three years and four months for supplying class A drugs. However, he successfully appealed the order, arguing that deportation would violate his right to a family life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), as he has three young children in the UK with his wife. Judge David Chaim Brannan, presiding over a lower immigration tribunal, ruled in McLeod’s favor, stating that deportation would be “unduly harsh” on his children and acknowledging that “he genuinely wants to avoid reoffending (except for cannabis use) so he can care for his children.” Despite this, McLeod openly admitted to both his prison and probation officers, as well as Judge Brannan, that he intended to continue using cannabis regardless of whether he was permitted to remain in the country. The Home Office challenged the ruling, and an upper tribunal judge, Karim-ullah Akbar Khan, sided with the government in December, sending the case back to the lower court for reconsideration. The case, revealed through court documents, highlights a broader trend where illegal migrants and convicted foreign criminals use human rights laws to resist deportation. Similar cases include an Albanian national who avoided removal after claiming his son had an aversion to foreign chicken nuggets and a Pakistani man convicted of child sex offences who was permitted to stay in the UK because his deportation was deemed “unduly harsh” on his own children. The backlog of immigration appeals has reached a record 34,169 cases, the majority based on human rights arguments, posing a challenge to Labour’s pledge to fast-track the removal of illegal migrants. Last week, Sir Keir Starmer promised to close a loophole that allowed a family from Gaza to enter the UK through an application under a Ukrainian refugee scheme. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has called for a major overhaul of human rights laws to restrict judges from using ECHR family rights provisions to block deportations. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp criticized the decision in McLeod’s case, calling it “mind-boggling” and “appalling.” He stated, “These foreign criminals should all be kicked out. The ever-expanding interpretation of ECHR articles by weak immigration judges has to end. Immigration judges seem more interested in letting foreign drug dealers and paedophiles stay in the UK than in upholding the law and protecting the British public from likely re-offending. This farce has to end, and it’s clear fundamental changes to human rights laws are needed.” Judge Brannan referenced the 2002 Immigration Act, which mandates deportation for individuals sentenced to less than four years in prison unless they can demonstrate a “genuine and subsisting” relationship with a qualifying child and prove that removal would be “unduly harsh.” He concluded that McLeod’s deportation would be too severe a hardship for his three children, aged seven, four, and one, despite noting that there was no evidence his imprisonment had caused them “any specific harm.” The judge did warn McLeod about his continued cannabis use, stating, “You cannot look after your children properly or do a job properly if you are stoned. It is also illegal, and the rule of law overrides any contention that it is legitimate because it is part of [McLeod’s] culture.” However, he ultimately ruled in McLeod’s favor, accepting that “it is [McLeod] who has the power to decide what to do, and I accept that he genuinely wants to avoid reoffending (except for cannabis use) so he can care for his children.” Judge Khan, in rejecting the lower court’s ruling, found a “contradiction” in McLeod’s claim that he wanted to avoid reoffending while simultaneously stating he would continue using cannabis. Cannabis remains illegal in the UK, carrying a maximum prison sentence of five years for possession. In the year leading up to March 2024, police recorded over 90,405 cannabis-related offences. “The judge was well aware that [McLeod] intended to continue to use cannabis,” Judge Khan stated. “Despite this clear evidence, the judge goes on to find that if he refrains from offending, including from the use of drugs, that the prospects of the children will be considerably improved.” A Home Office spokesperson reaffirmed the government’s position, saying, “We have been clear that we do not agree with this judgment and vigorously contested this case last year. We remain resolute in our commitment to ensuring there are no barriers to deport foreign criminals, as it is in the public interest for these people to be removed swiftly.” Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2025-02-19

French President Emmanuel Macron’s sudden shift against European Union green regulations has ignited a storm of opposition, even from within his own political circle. Once a leading advocate for stringent environmental policies, Macron is now accused of undermining his own environmental legacy and bowing to external pressures from business groups and international competitors, particularly the United States. Key figures within Macron’s camp are voicing their discontent over his administration’s push to weaken upcoming EU rules that mandate companies to report on their environmental impact and potential human rights violations in their supply chains. Many believe this reversal betrays France’s hard-earned reputation as a champion of green policies in Europe. They also warn that succumbing to anti-regulation lobbying could ultimately harm both France and the EU. “We are aiming at the wrong target,” said Macronist lawmaker and former minister Olivia Grégoire in defense of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), a regulation requiring businesses to disclose their environmental footprint and climate-related risks. France had previously supported the directive wholeheartedly. “My fear is disavowal, my fear is that we are naive enough to think for a minute that we'll be able to confront the new American economy with the tools it uses itself,” said Grégoire, who had helped negotiate the directive’s text in Brussels. Last month, a confidential note leaked by POLITICO revealed that France urged the European Commission to indefinitely delay the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) and postpone the CSRD by two years. The French government contends that stringent environmental regulations could hurt Europe’s struggling economy by placing undue burdens on businesses. This shift in stance aligns with Macron’s recent call for a “massive regulatory break,” in which he described the impending regulations as a threat to economic competitiveness. “We ourselves have supported certain regulations with very good intentions, and I share their philosophy. But at the moment we’re living in, we need to be able to suspend them until we’ve regained our ability to compete,” Macron told French ambassadors in January. This U-turn mirrors a broader change in direction within the European Commission, which has pivoted from aggressive green policymaking to a more pro-business industrial approach, emphasizing deregulation and red tape reduction. Many see this as a concession to rising right-wing political forces across Europe, causing unrest among Macron’s liberal allies. “Let’s not give in to populism that consists in thinking, like the far right, that every time there is a rule, you shoot against it,” warned Grégoire, arguing that if Europe fails to uphold its green standards, it will ultimately have to conform to those dictated by global powers such as the United States. With the return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency, his administration is expected to dismantle much of the environmental agenda implemented under Joe Biden. “We don’t see any reason to postpone,” said Pascal Canfin, a French MEP from Macron’s Renew Europe group, reaffirming the group's position: “Yes to simplification, but no to delay.” France was one of the first EU countries to introduce a national-level due diligence law in 2017. The government had proudly positioned the EU-wide directive as an expansion of France’s own regulations, requiring companies to monitor their supply chains for compliance with environmental and labor standards. During France’s presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2022, Macron and his ministers championed both the due diligence directive and the CSRD as key economic priorities. Yet, even at the time, critics accused France of not fully committing to these measures behind closed doors—particularly as the financial sector was exempted from due diligence rules. With business groups complaining that excessive red tape would make them less competitive against U.S. and Chinese companies, the French government has shifted its stance. A French industry lobbyist with inside knowledge of the negotiations admitted they were “positively surprised” by the change in France’s position, crediting Macron’s office as instrumental in this shift. However, for many within Macron’s party, this change has been met with frustration and disappointment. “France was the one that defended and obtained these achievements at [the] European level in recent years. It is not acceptable to start a movement in which we would undo regulations and standards,” said MP Pieyre-Alexandre Anglade, chairman of the National Assembly’s European affairs committee and a member of Macron’s party. Similarly, Clément Beaune, who served as Macron’s Europe minister during France’s EU presidency, condemned the move, warning that aligning with right-wing demands could lead France and the EU toward a diluted form of Trumpism. The combination of increasing pressure from business lobbies and the rise of right-wing political forces opposing EU green policies has significantly influenced Macron’s change in direction, according to Phuc-Vinh Nguyen, head of the Jacques Delors Energy Center in Paris. With Macron doubling down on his call for a “massive regulatory break,” France’s commitment to its once-proud environmental leadership now hangs in the balance. As European leaders debate the fate of these directives, the fallout from France’s U-turn continues to reverberate through the corridors of power. Based on a report by Politico 2025-02-19

Hamas is set to release the bodies of four hostages from Gaza on Thursday, according to Israeli security officials. Additionally, three living hostages are expected to be freed on Saturday as part of the ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas. The names of the deceased hostages will be provided to the Israel Defense Forces on Thursday morning, and their families will be informed shortly after. Israeli authorities are also pushing for the release of all six remaining living hostages included in the first phase of the agreement, rather than just three. If successful, this would leave only four hostages—who are believed to be dead—remaining in Gaza under the original 33-person deal. So far, 19 Israeli hostages have been released, along with five Thai nationals. Officials have stated that eight of the 33 hostages due for release by March 2 are deceased, but their identities remain unconfirmed. Concerns are growing that Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel, 5, and Kfir, 2, may be among the dead. The Bibas family has become a symbol of the brutal October 7 Hamas terrorist attack. Despite the initial cease-fire agreement prioritizing the release of women, including those who served in the military, Shiri and her children were not among those freed. Recently, Hamas has only released male hostages, including Shiri’s husband, Yarden Bibas. He has since spoken about the psychological torment he endured at the hands of Hamas, who repeatedly used his family’s uncertain fate as a form of torture. Hamas also forced Yarden to appear in a propaganda video, in which he was coerced into claiming that his wife and children had been killed by an Israeli airstrike in Gaza. Meanwhile, Zeev Elkin, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet, stated that the Knesset is working on the second phase of the cease-fire deal with Hamas. This next phase aims to secure the release of the remaining hostages. If all 14 hostages are freed by the March 2 deadline, Hamas would still hold approximately 59 hostages in Gaza, with around 36 presumed dead, according to Israeli officials. Among those expected to be released in the second phase is Israeli-American Edan Alexander, a 20-year-old from Tenafly, New Jersey. Speaking to Israeli public broadcaster KAN, Elkin emphasized the urgency of securing the hostages' freedom while balancing the broader implications for the ongoing conflict. “We all want to proceed to phase two and release the hostages, the question is under what conditions is the war ended,” he said. As negotiations continue, the fate of the remaining hostages remains uncertain, with growing international pressure on Hamas to release those still in captivity. Based on a report by NYP 2025-02-19

A shocking new revelation has emerged, highlighting widespread anti-Israel sentiment within the Australian healthcare system. This comes after an alarming video surfaced featuring two nurses from Bankstown making antisemitic remarks and threatening to "kill" Israeli patients. While the video caused significant outrage, it appears to be just the "tip of the iceberg" in what is being described as a toxic and racist culture in the health sector. If you thought those two nurses in Bankstown Australia were bad, then just watch this. @SharriMarkson exposes just how bad the jihadists in the Australian medical field are, and how the government are doing next to nothing about it. The letter urged Butler to instruct the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and the Australian Medical Council to investigate antisemitic behavior among medical professionals. It described the issue as a "systemic problem" and insisted: "It is entirely unacceptable for any medical professional to use their platform to spread discriminatory or hateful remarks, especially in a divisive manner." Attached to the letter was a dossier detailing the worst offenders, submitted in the immediate aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks. The doctors also requested a reminder be sent to all medical professionals, reinforcing that hate speech violates the core principles of healthcare. However, no apparent action was taken. As a result, antisemitic rhetoric has continued unchecked, leaving Jewish patients vulnerable. One of the most appalling cases involves Dr. Mohamed Ghilan, who publicly shared a post stating, "Live like Sinwar or die trying," in reference to Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. He also shared another post quoting Sinwar: "Humiliation will never be for us." Additionally, another post of his read: "I am Hamas, they are Hamas, we are all Hamas." Dr. Ghilan was employed at Alfred Hospital until three months ago. In response to inquiries, Alfred Health stated that concerns about the doctor’s online activity had been raised with them in November of last year. "He was suspended from work, and a workplace investigation into the allegations commenced," the statement read. "Dr. Ghilan resigned from our health service while the investigation was still in progress. The concerns raised with Alfred Health were reported to both AHPRA and Victoria Police at the time." Despite this, he remains a registered medical practitioner. Another case involves a Junior Medical Officer from the Western Sydney Local Health District, who posted, "Every Zionist, young to old, is a psychotic maniac." In another post, he wrote, "Antisemitism is just a weaponized cop-out to protect this criminal entity which is Zionism and all its followers." He also reshared a post calling for Zionists to be "defeated, crushed and utterly removed from power," adding, "Any supporter of Israel is a rotten human. If nobody had any sympathy for the Nazis, nobody should have any sympathy for any of these people." In one of the most disturbing instances, a Western Sydney doctor posted on Twitter: "I've even become fearful when I see new patients Jewish names book in with me." This raises deep concerns about how Jewish patients might be treated in such an environment. A long-term NSW Health employee, who has worked in Bankstown, shared her experiences of both explicit and implicit antisemitism but has chosen to remain anonymous to protect her career. She recalled a manager referring to someone by saying, "He’s such a f***ing Jew." On another occasion, a colleague told her, "There will be peace (between Palestinians and Israelis) when one side puts down their arms, and that side should be Israel," implying that Israel should be wiped out. The extent of the anti-Zionist and antisemitic sentiment in the healthcare sector has become so significant that an Instagram account, "Not My Doctor," has been created to expose these cases. NSW Health was confronted with these black-and-white examples of social media posts. In response, Secretary Susan Pearce stated that the department "is committed to combatting antisemitism and hate in all its forms." However, she did not comment on whether any of the implicated doctors would face investigation. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-02-19 Related Topics: Anti-Semitism in the NHS: The Disturbing Reality of Hate Among Medical Professionals Australian Nurses Suspended Over Hate Speech Antisemitic Video as Investigation Unfolds

A senior US senator has strongly criticized Sir Keir Starmer’s agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, calling it a “dangerous surrender” that jeopardizes Western security interests in the Indian Ocean. Jim Risch, the Republican chair of the Senate’s foreign relations committee and a close ally of Donald Trump, has warned that this move poses an “unneeded risk to our military position” and could allow China to gain greater insight into US activities at Diego Garcia, the crucial American naval base on the largest island in the archipelago. “Ceding ground to China is dangerous surrender, and the US and the UK need to work together to push back on this,” Risch stated during a visit to London, speaking at the think tank Policy Exchange. “While this is ultimately a British decision, retaining sovereign control over Diego Garcia is imperative for our collective security.” The Trump administration is currently reviewing the deal ahead of Starmer’s upcoming visit to Washington DC. Several high-profile Republicans, including Marco Rubio, the US secretary of state, and Mike Waltz, Trump’s national security adviser, have publicly voiced their concerns. However, with the White House currently focused on Ukraine negotiations and efforts to broker a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the Chagos Islands have not yet become a top priority. Risch, who was recently invited by Trump to celebrate the release of American schoolteacher Marc Fogel from Russian detention, emphasized the strategic importance of Diego Garcia. “Diego Garcia plays an indispensable role in helping all of us deter Chinese aggression,” he said. “I’m concerned that the decision to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius creates unneeded risk to our military position in the Indian Ocean and will allow [the] Chinese to gain greater insight into our activities at Diego Garcia. We understand that the government has put measures in place to limit the Chinese navy’s ability to encroach upon Diego Garcia, but it isn’t just about the Chinese navy. We are equally worried about collection activities conducted by China’s commercial — so-called commercial — and oceanographic spy vessels.” Beyond the Chagos issue, Risch also criticized Britain’s military capabilities, arguing that “the British military is too small” to meet current security challenges. His concerns were echoed by HR McMaster, Trump’s former national security adviser, who recalled working on the Chagos issue during the first Trump administration and described the deal as a “travesty.” “This would put us at a significant strategic disadvantage,” McMaster said. Policy Exchange has blamed the Chagos deal on what it describes as a “hyper-legalist” and “flawed” approach to international law led by Attorney General Lord Hermer. The 2019 advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which ruled 13-1 in favor of Mauritius’ claim over the islands, has played a significant role in Britain’s decision to proceed with the handover. The lone dissenting judge was American, while the majority included a Russian and a Chinese judge. Starmer has argued that the ICJ ruling created legal uncertainty that threatened the future of Diego Garcia. His plan involves leasing the base from Mauritius for £90 million annually, with the payment increasing over 99 years in line with inflation. However, critics believe this concession was unnecessary. Stephen Doughty, a foreign office minister, recently defended the decision, writing in *The Times* that Britain had to finalize a deal before Mauritius secured a binding ICJ ruling. He warned that such a judgment could have “serious real-world operational impacts,” including potential consequences from UN bodies such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which controls electromagnetic spectrum allocations, and the International Civil Aviation Organisation, which regulates airspace. However, Tom Tugendhat, the former UK security minister, dismissed these concerns, stating that the ITU had “absolutely no authority to interfere in — let alone shut down — our satellite facilities on Diego Garcia.” He argued that the real threat to the base came not from international legal bodies but from the UK government’s own willingness to concede to Mauritius. “The main threat to the future of our military base in the Indian Ocean is not some unilateral punitive action of an international body. It is simply the government’s distorted interpretation of the UK’s legal obligations and its willingness to surrender meekly to a Mauritian shakedown,” he said. Richard Ekins KC, co-author of the Policy Exchange report, also criticized the UK government, stating that it was “failing to defend the UK’s legal rights.” “The government’s attempts to rationalize its surrender of a vital strategic asset betray a damaging hyper-legalist disposition. No international court can force the UK to cede the Chagos and no responsible government should pretend that its hands are tied,” he said. The report suggests that the controversial guidance issued by Hermer to government lawyers last year may be a key factor behind the Chagos deal. His directive advised legal teams to assess “the likelihood of a legal challenge being successful” even if a case never reached court. The report describes this approach as “badly misguided,” arguing that any legal advice based on it is “worse than useless.” “As long as the UK does not accept the jurisdiction of the ICJ over the Chagos sovereignty dispute, the prospects of a binding judgment against Britain are non-existent,” the report concludes. Based on a report by The Times 2025-02-19

Ursula von der Leyen has kicked off her second term as European Commission president with a sweeping and rapid deregulation push—one that took many in Brussels by surprise. Few officials had prior knowledge of the plan before it was already in motion, leaving policymakers scrambling to catch up with the new direction. Facing pressure from right-wing governments, von der Leyen has made cutting bureaucratic red tape a cornerstone of her second term, aiming to boost Europe's economic competitiveness. However, this shift in focus has come at the expense of environmental regulations and other long-standing priorities, raising concerns among various stakeholders in the European policymaking community. POLITICO spoke with a range of Brussels insiders, including Commission officials, national diplomats, European Parliament lawmakers, industry representatives, and NGO figures. Their accounts describe a centralized, fast-moving agenda designed to "simplify" European Union regulations while easing burdens on businesses. The rapid nature of these changes has alarmed many in Brussels, particularly those who have spent years crafting the very regulations now being reconsidered. Some Commission staffers have been left “depressed” as years of regulatory efforts are swiftly undone. Cabinet officials, too, have struggled to exert influence over von der Leyen’s highly centralized approach to policymaking. This top-down strategy has raised transparency concerns across EU institutions. “When we’re going that fast, how can we be sure we’re getting it right?” questioned a senior national regulator, who, like others interviewed, spoke anonymously due to the sensitivity of the discussions. The deregulation push began in November during a meeting in Budapest, where von der Leyen announced a major shift in EU green policy. The move surprised many, as it signaled a departure from some of the Commission’s previous environmental priorities. The plan has the backing of key EU member states, including France and Germany, as well as von der Leyen’s political allies in the center-right European People’s Party (EPP). At the heart of the effort is an “omnibus” bill aimed at simplifying a set of laws designed to hold companies accountable for environmental and social damages. Von der Leyen has insisted that the bill will not weaken existing regulations but will streamline them by eliminating unnecessary duplication and paperwork. She argues that this will make the EU a more attractive place to do business. However, critics warn that reopening these files could ultimately lead to a dilution of the laws themselves. The suddenness of this initiative has caught even Commission officials off guard. Four officials admitted to POLITICO that they first learned of the plan—which directly affects their work—through von der Leyen’s Budapest speech. Since then, the deregulation push has expanded, with promises of “at least” five omnibus packages in 2025 and the scrapping of previous Commission proposals deemed too burdensome. Despite the criticism, von der Leyen’s push for a faster, more agile approach to EU lawmaking has its supporters. Jean-Paul Servais, head of the global securities watchdog IOSCO, defended the urgency of the effort, stating: “In wartime, speed is maybe the most important aspect.” European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde also voiced her support, co-authoring an op-ed in the Financial Times alongside von der Leyen. In it, they argued that the EU has “too much at stake” to allow excessive regulation to hold back economic growth. They praised the deregulation effort as an “unprecedented simplification” initiative aimed at keeping Europe competitive on the global stage, promising to “do whatever is necessary to bring Europe back on track.” Still, as one senior Commission official noted, the EU executive branch is “only one player in this game.” The official pointed out that EU governments and Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) often dilute legislative proposals during negotiations. “If they want ambition, we give them ambition. But then they have to be ambitious.” As von der Leyen forges ahead with her deregulatory agenda, the debate over the balance between economic growth and regulatory oversight is set to intensify. While some see the push as a necessary step to maintain Europe’s global standing, others fear it could come at the cost of hard-won environmental and social protections. The speed and scope of these changes ensure that the controversy surrounding them is far from over. Based on a report by Politico 2025-02-19

President Donald Trump on Sunday dismissed concerns over reports that the European Union might respond to his "reciprocal" tariff policy by restricting imports of certain American food products. "That’s all right. I don’t mind. Let them do it. Let them do it," Trump told reporters. "They’re just hurting themselves if they do that. I can’t imagine it, but it doesn’t matter." According to a report from the Financial Times, citing three unnamed officials, the European Commission is set to move forward next week with plans to limit imports of specific U.S. food products that do not comply with EU regulations. Among the potential targets of these restrictions are U.S. soybean crops, which use pesticides that are banned in the EU. European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety Olivér Várhelyi emphasized the EU's stance in a recent interview with the Financial Times. "We have very clear signals from the parliament, very clear signals also from the member states and from our farmers: whatever is banned in the EU, it should be banned in the EU, even if it is an imported product," he stated. Trump recently signed a presidential memorandum proposing reciprocal tariffs, arguing that the policy is necessary to counter unfair and discriminatory trade practices from both adversaries and allies. While the tariffs were not enacted immediately, the memorandum initiated a review process to implement them. Under this plan, reciprocal tariffs would be determined based on five factors: the tariffs imposed on U.S. products by a given nation, unfair taxes, costs to U.S. businesses and consumers from foreign policies, exchange rates, and any other measures deemed unfair by the U.S. trade representative’s office. White House officials indicated that Trump aims to move quickly on implementing the tariffs, suggesting they could be in place within "weeks" or, at most, "a few months." Defending the policy on Sunday, Trump reiterated the fairness of reciprocal tariffs. "We’re having reciprocal tariffs. Whatever they charge, we charge. It’s very simple. If a certain country—like India, which is very high tariff—if they charge us X dollars, we charge them X dollars," he said. "It’s a fair thing to do," he added. "Even the media said it was fair, and it’s going to be very good for the United States." Based on a report by The Hill 2025-02-19

Couple of posts removed for comments on moderation and a foreign language interview. "All video content must be from a credible media source, and in English. Foreign languages, even with subtitles, are not permitted."

Please discuss the topic not some posters repetative references to historical perspectives of the conflict. There are alternative topics already on that. BBC Faces More Serious Accusations of Bias in Gaza Hostage Release Coverage

Nonsense troll post removed @beautifulthailand99

As North Korea prepares to welcome Western visitors once again, the leading tour operator to the reclusive state has likened the experience to “a school trip.” Simon Cockerell, general manager of Koryo Tours, explained that every aspect of the journey is tightly controlled, making independent exploration virtually impossible. “Everything is guided, the itinerary is all planned in advance by us with our partners there,” Cockerell told The Independent daily travel podcast. “You don't really have to do much thinking for yourself. Thinking for yourself is not hugely encouraged in North Korea anyway.” Koryo Tours is finalizing its first trip to the country in five years, with the inaugural departure scheduled for Thursday, 20 February. Due to high demand from adventurous travelers eager to visit the isolated nation, the tour is already fully booked. North Korea initially shut its borders to Western tourists in January 2020, becoming the first country to do so in response to the Covid pandemic. Now, it will be the last to reopen. While a group of Russian tourists was granted access a year ago, largely for publicity purposes, it was only this month that Westerners were given permission to visit. “It's happened really quickly,” Cockerell said. “Just a week-and-a-half ago or so, we were told, ‘Send in some staff for final meetings.’ We scrambled a bit and sent in one of my colleagues.” For now, entry is limited to the Rason Special Economic Area in the northeast of the country, a mountainous region that shares borders with China and Russia. “There are two cities in the area, called Rason and Sombong. There are fishing villages, farming villages, and so on,” Cockerell said. “But by North Korean basic standards, it's actually quite advanced.” According to him, the region enjoys a relatively better economy than much of the north, benefiting from trade—both legal and otherwise—primarily with China. “Most North Koreans would consider it a good place to live,” he noted. “It's an interesting and quirky place, but it is definitively North Korea. The rules and regulations remain the same. The same kind of propaganda stuff you see everywhere is still present.” Since there is no airport in Rason, visitors will cross into the country via bus from the Chinese city of Yanji. “Rason is technically visa-free,” Cockerell explained. “The procedure for an entry permit is the same as applying for a visa, but quicker. So there's no actual document.” However, tourists must attend a mandatory one-hour pre-trip briefing covering regulations, etiquette, and safety. Koryo Tours warns that infractions that might seem minor elsewhere can have severe consequences in North Korea. “Offences that would be considered trivial in other countries can incur very severe penalties in North Korea, particularly actions the authorities deem to be disrespectful towards the North Korean leadership or government, or those involving religion.” Starting in March, Koryo Tours will operate two trips per month to the region, with the longest tour spanning four nights at a cost of €705 (£587). Highlights of the itinerary include a visit to the Three Country Border Viewpoint, Rason Taekwondo School, Ryongyson Brewery, and the Golden Triangle Bank, where, in theory, visitors can open a North Korean bank account. Despite the opportunity to explore this enigmatic country, the UK Foreign Office strongly advises against travel to North Korea, citing the unpredictable security situation. “The security situation in North Korea can change quickly with no advance warning about possible actions by the authorities. This poses significant risks to British visitors and residents.” The Foreign Office further warns that foreign nationals have been detained for allegedly violating local laws, sometimes without access to assistance from their governments. “Support from FCDO is severely limited, especially while there is no British Embassy presence. Remote support is available if you’re able to contact us online or by phone. However, the routine lack of access to internet and mobile networks makes it almost impossible to communicate outside of North Korea.” Based on a report by The Independent 2025-02-18

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declared that a "US security guarantee" is the only way to ensure peace in Ukraine and deter further Russian aggression. Speaking in Paris after an emergency summit with European leaders, he emphasized that a "US backstop" is crucial to preventing another attack on Ukraine by Moscow. "This is an existential question for Europe as a whole, and therefore vital for Britain's national interests," Starmer said, adding that the current geopolitical landscape demands a shift in approach. "This is a once-in-a-generation moment for the collective security of our continent. We are in a new era in which nations cannot cling hopelessly to the comforts of the past." During his discussions at the Élysée Palace with leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, Denmark, and the European Union, as well as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Starmer reiterated that any peace agreement must safeguard Ukraine’s sovereignty and deter Russian President Vladimir Putin from future aggression. "Europe must play its role, and I'm prepared to consider committing British forces on the ground alongside others if there is a lasting peace agreement," Starmer stated. He also announced that he will be traveling to Washington next week to meet with US President Donald Trump to discuss what the UK sees as "key elements of a lasting peace" for Ukraine. Despite concerns about shifting US priorities, Starmer expressed confidence that Washington would remain committed to NATO. "It is clear the US is not going to leave NATO," he said. "But we Europeans will have to do more. The issue of burden sharing is not new, but it is now pressing, and Europeans will have to step up, both in terms of spending and the capabilities that we provide." The prime minister revealed that he had spoken with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday and would do so again in the coming days. "We envisage further engagement with European colleagues when I return from the US," he added. Britain, he insisted, would continue to take "a leading responsibility, as we always have," stressing that "democracy must prevail." US President Donald Trump has previously stated that the United States no longer sees the defense of Europe as its primary concern and has called on European nations to increase their defense spending. When asked by Sky News Europe correspondent Adam Parsons whether the US had undermined the UK, Europe, and Ukraine by unilaterally initiating talks with Russia, Starmer responded that Washington, like Ukraine, wanted "lasting peace." He reinforced his view that a "US backstop" was essential to any credible security guarantees for Ukraine. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-02-18

With a power vacuum in Syria and little international will to repatriate jihadists, Kurdish forces warn that Islamic State could regain strength by breaking out prisoners like Hamza Parvez. As a masked guard opened a slot in the door and called for the British detainee, the air outside the cell filled with a foul stench. Hamza Parvez stepped forward, complaining about his meager hygiene supplies—a small bar of soap and a worn towel. Once known as "Hungry Hamza," the 31-year-old from west London was among the first Britons to join ISIS in 2014. He gained notoriety through social media, where he posted not only recruitment videos urging fellow Britons to join but also reviews of fast-food restaurants under the so-called caliphate in Syria and Iraq. When The Times visited his cell this week in Syria’s al-Hasakah prison—a facility that exclusively holds former ISIS fighters—Parvez appeared gaunt. He described his treatment as “genocide,” complaining that he had been using the same blanket and pillow for years. However, he acknowledged that his conditions were far better than those endured by the prisoners tortured and executed by ISIS during what he once called “the golden era of jihad” between 2014 and 2019. The extremist group, once promising its followers an apocalyptic caliphate, has been reduced to small bands of fighters hiding in the Syrian desert. However, experts warn that the group’s best chance at resurgence lies in breaking out detainees like Parvez and rebuilding its ranks—something the heavily armed guards of al-Hasakah prison are determined to prevent. Parvez stopped short of renouncing ISIS, instead suggesting that the group had made errors in its approach. “They wanted to take a very hard stance,” he said. “They wanted to scare the world.” He admitted, “We definitely made mistakes. Here in the Middle East, unfortunately, they are not the most organised … I don’t want to lie. It’s not easy to say I don’t believe in the Islamic State. It’s an organisation. But the foundations of Islam, I believe in them.” At al-Hasakah, approximately 4,500 prisoners are held behind multiple layers of blast walls and razor wire. Most are kept in isolation, with cells holding 15 to 20 men. They are allowed about 45 minutes of outdoor exercise each day. Guards instruct journalists not to discuss current affairs with the inmates, preferring to keep them in the dark. Parvez, for instance, appeared unaware that the overthrow of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad in December had reignited discussions about the fate of foreign ISIS fighters and the thousands of women and children still held in separate detention camps. The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which defeated ISIS in 2019 with Western support, now controls eastern Syria and oversees these prison facilities. The SDF has repeatedly urged foreign governments to take back their citizens for trial or establish an international court, but most nations prefer to strip their citizenship and leave them imprisoned in Syria. With Assad gone, the SDF fears ISIS could use the resulting instability to regain a foothold in Syria. The new regime in Damascus, led by former al-Qaeda commander Ahmed al-Sharaa, insists it can secure the prisons. However, doubts remain about whether hardliners within his ranks—many of whom resent his failure to implement Islamic law—could be swayed by the extremist ideology of the prisoners they are supposed to guard. In his headquarters in al-Hasakah, SDF commander General Mazloum Abdi warned that ISIS is already exploiting the security vacuum left by Assad’s downfall. His forces, which drove ISIS from its de facto capital of Raqqa and defeated them at their last stronghold in Baghuz in 2019, remain on high alert. “There is a security vacuum. In the desert, Daesh has been able to secure locations and weapons,” Abdi said, using the Arabic acronym for ISIS. “And we know their primary goal is the cities.” He added that ISIS has begun infiltrating urban areas. Abdi noted that the new Syrian administration is attempting to accommodate international demands for inclusivity. However, this runs counter to its base, which adheres to Salafism and jihadist ideology. “The direction now is towards imposing [non-Islamic] civil law and Daesh is exploiting this” by appealing to radical hardliners, he said. Critics, including some terrorism analysts, argue that the SDF and the US may be overstating the ISIS threat to justify maintaining control over northeastern Syria’s oil-rich regions while negotiating a federal arrangement with the central government. They also point out that the SDF has long faced opposition from Turkish-backed militias that reject Kurdish autonomy. However, the SDF, which claims it lost 13,000 soldiers fighting ISIS, strongly refutes these claims. US-led airstrikes, including multiple attacks coinciding with Assad’s ouster on December 8, have significantly weakened ISIS, according to two Western counterterrorism officials. However, intelligence suggests the group is quietly planning its next move. The US is reportedly considering a withdrawal of its troops from Syria, but Abdi, who maintains close ties with the American military, said he has not been informed of any such plans. “There are a lot of discussions in ISIS circles about assassinating Sharaa. So they could be quiet because they’re trying to plan along those lines,” said Aaron Zelin, a jihadist expert at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. He noted that the absence of ISIS attacks over the Christmas period might indicate strategic planning rather than a loss of capability. A mass prison breakout could change everything. In 2022, ISIS orchestrated a major attack on al-Hasakah prison, detonating car bombs outside the facility while inmates staged an uprising inside. The ensuing battle lasted a week before SDF and US forces regained control. Since then, prisoners have been transferred to a more secure building within the complex. Beyond breaking out fighters, ISIS also aims to free the women and children held in SDF-administered camps, which are largely funded by US foreign aid. The largest, al-Hawl, holds nearly 40,000 people. The US has warned that it cannot continue funding the camps indefinitely. Al-Hawl’s director, Jihan Hasan, has voiced concerns over potential disaster if funding is cut. “At the end, the whole world is concerned with al-Hawl,” Hasan said. “The burden shouldn’t be on the [SDF’s] autonomous administration.” While Iraq has begun repatriating some of its citizens, most Western nations have only taken back a handful of detainees, leaving thousands of women and children in limbo. The SDF has attempted to send children to rehabilitation centers where they learn languages and music, but space is limited. Critics have also accused the SDF of separating children from their mothers. During a recent tour of the al-Hawl camp in an armored vehicle, children pelted the car with stones and chanted the ISIS slogan “baqiya”—meaning “it remains” in Arabic. One child climbed onto the vehicle’s bumper and raised his index finger in a sign of allegiance to the group, while his mother looked on. “The last time there was unrest in the camp, they were telling the guards: ‘Soon you will be the ones in the camp, and we will be the ones detaining you,’” said an SDF counterterrorism official. ISIS, he warned, sees these children as a future army. “You can’t defeat an ideological jihadist group only using combat.” Based on a report by The Times 2025-02-18

The Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT) in Dun Laoghaire, Ireland, has confirmed to Sky News that it received $24,000 (£19,000) from the US State Department to support a film project centered on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The funds were allocated to facilitate storytelling from marginalized communities through film. This revelation follows criticism of a separate $70,000 (£56,000) grant for a "DEI musical" in Ireland, which the Trump administration recently described as "crap" and a waste of taxpayer money. The administration is in the process of dismantling the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which has been involved in funding international cultural projects. However, spending records indicate that the $24,000 grant given to IADT in October 2021 was not through USAID but rather via the US Embassy in Dublin. The Irish college used the funding, along with additional support from Screen Skills Ireland, to produce four short documentaries created by individuals from marginalized backgrounds. These films premiered at a Galway film festival in July 2023. Project lead lecturer and filmmaker Vanessa Gildea expressed her strong belief in the importance of diversity and inclusion in the film industry. "I believe passionately that the future of film and television must be based on diversity, inclusion, and gender parity. This belief is the reason we created this film project," she said. "We are all incredibly proud of these beautiful and moving films, and of each and every filmmaker." Among the four short films was Falling, a poetic portrayal of a courageous young Afghan woman seeking a better life. Another, Cultural Medium, directed by Britney Madondo, offered a vibrant and lyrical exploration of the Black and Irish experience through the artistic lens of Yomi Attention. What is Freedom?, directed by Mohadesa Shojaee, took viewers on a journey of navigating freedom in a new land, while Sticks & Stones delved into experiences of discrimination and the significance of language. The revelation of the funding came amid a broader scrutiny of US government expenditures on DEI projects abroad. Two weeks ago, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt highlighted what she described as "insane priorities" funded by USAID, including $1.5 million (£1.2m) for workplace DEI initiatives in Serbia, $47,000 (£37,000) for a "transgender opera" in Colombia, and the previously mentioned $70,000 (£56,000) grant for the "DEI musical" in Ireland. "I don't know about you, but as an American taxpayer, I don't want my dollars going towards this crap, and the American people don't either," Leavitt stated. "And that's exactly what Elon Musk has been tasked by President Trump to do." The funding revelations have provoked strong reactions from conservative commentators in the US. However, it appears that both the $70,000 grant and the IADT funding were awarded by the State Department, not USAID. Reports suggest the $70,000 grant was used for an event in Dublin rather than a musical, though repeated attempts to contact the event's organizer have been unsuccessful. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-02-18

Reform UK is gaining ground against the struggling Conservative Party, with new polling indicating that Nigel Farage's party is now viewed as a serious competitor to the Tories. An exclusive YouGov poll for Sky News reveals that Reform UK is performing at least as well as the Conservatives in key areas, highlighting the scale of the challenge facing Kemi Badenoch. The survey suggests that the Conservative brand has suffered significant damage, while Reform UK is increasingly resonating with voters. Despite the early stage of this parliamentary term, with most parties yet to outline detailed policy platforms, the poll provides insight into how the electorate perceives both parties. Only 10% of voters currently see the Tories as strong, while 61% view them as weak. By contrast, Reform UK fares much better, with 31% of respondents calling the party strong and just 27% considering it weak. This means that three times as many voters perceive Reform UK as strong compared to the Conservatives. A similar trend is evident when assessing whether each party has a clear sense of direction. Just 18% of voters believe the Conservatives have a clear purpose, while 59% say their direction is unclear. Reform UK, however, scores significantly higher, with 49% believing the party has a clear sense of purpose and only 24% unsure about what it stands for. Voters are thus more than twice as likely to see Reform UK as having a clear direction compared to the Tories. The gap is narrower when it comes to trust, but Reform UK still leads. Only 11% of voters see the Tories as trustworthy, while 65% consider them untrustworthy. For Reform UK, 19% say they are trustworthy, with 52% holding the opposite view. Ten years ago, when Nigel Farage led UKIP, some believed that his leadership or the party’s brand was too controversial for mainstream success. There was speculation that Farage had a lower potential ceiling of support compared to the Conservatives. However, the latest polling suggests that this perception may have changed now that he leads Reform UK. One way to gauge this is by examining the proportion of voters who say they would never support each party. According to the poll, 56% of respondents say they would never vote for Reform UK, leaving a potential voter base of 44%. An almost identical figure—55%—say they would never vote Tory, leaving them with a 45% pool of potential voters. This indicates that Reform UK does not face a lower ceiling of support than the Conservatives. Further analysis shows that right-leaning voters are more likely to switch from the Conservatives to Reform UK than the other way around. Among those who voted for Reform UK in the general election, 46% say they would never vote Tory. However, among Conservative voters from last year’s election, only 36% rule out voting for Reform UK. Additionally, 24% of those who voted Conservative in the last election now say they "will" or "might" vote for Reform UK, while only 8% of Reform UK voters indicate they "will" or "might" switch to the Conservatives. These figures suggest that Reform UK is emerging as a serious alternative for right-leaning voters, further challenging the Conservative Party’s position. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-02-18