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Number of trolling posts and conspiracey nonsense removed @Centigrade32 Any more of the same and be prepared for your own removal

A way off topic post on homocide crime statistics removed along with a trolling deflection post @Harrisfan

‘Starved, emaciated and pained’ After 16 harrowing months in captivity, three Israeli hostages abducted during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack were released on Saturday. Their return, though a moment of relief, came with haunting images that underscored the desperate urgency of bringing all captives home. The handover was staged against a backdrop orchestrated by Hamas, featuring a banner reading “total victory,” a phrase frequently used by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu throughout the war. The theatrical display contrasted starkly with the suffering of the hostages. Sharabi was taken from Kibbutz Be’eri when Hamas militants stormed southern Israel, while Levy and his wife were caught in the attack on the Supernova rave near Kibbutz Re’im. They had attempted to flee in their car when the rockets began but were forced to seek refuge in a roadside bomb shelter. Days later, the Israeli military informed Levy’s family that his wife had been killed, her body found in the shelter, and that he had been taken hostage. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum released a statement condemning the conditions in which the captives had been held. “The horrifying images of Ohad, Eli, and Or reveal the devastating toll of 491 days in Hamas captivity,” the forum declared. “These are men who have endured hell itself. This is a crime against humanity.” The statement further drew a powerful historical parallel, likening the images of the released men to those of liberated prisoners from World War II. “These disturbing images show the entire world the desperate reality facing every hostage still held in Gaza. These images evoke the horrifying pictures from the liberation of the camps in 1945, the darkest chapter of our history. We have to get ALL OF THE HOSTAGES out of hell,” the forum urged. “There can be no more delays—a second stage of the hostage deal must be implemented immediately.” As part of the agreement, Israel is expected to release 183 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the three hostages, including 18 serving life sentences, 54 with long-term sentences, and 111 detained in Gaza during the war. The release of these three men, while a moment of hope, is also a reminder of the many still held in Gaza and the urgent need for further negotiations to bring them home. Based on a report by Time | Daily Telegraph 2025-02-10

An inquest has determined that the use of lethal force by SAS soldiers in the 1992 ambush that killed four IRA members in Clonoe, County Tyrone, was unjustified. Kevin Barry O'Donnell, 21, Sean O'Farrell, 22, Peter Clancy, 21, and Patrick Vincent, 20, were shot dead minutes after carrying out a gun attack on Coalisland police station. The men had arrived at St Patrick’s Church car park in a hijacked lorry fitted with a heavy machine gun welded to the tailgate when SAS soldiers, who had been lying in wait behind a hedgerow, opened fire. Security forces had intelligence that the car park would be used, and 12 soldiers were in position before the men arrived. Following the ruling, Downing Street stated, "Addressing the issues of the past must be done in a way that commands the support of families, survivors and, importantly, the families of those killed serving the state." A spokesperson added that "any veteran who served during the Troubles is provided legal support where appropriate." The IRA unit had fired 60 shots at Coalisland police station about 20 minutes before they were killed, though no one was injured in the attack. When the lorry drove into the car park, SAS soldiers opened fire without warning, discharging more than 500 rounds. The soldiers later stated that their actions were justified to protect their own lives and those of their colleagues. However, coroner Mr Justice Michael Humphreys ruled that the use of lethal force "cannot have been reasonable," noting that there was no attempt to arrest the men, even after they were wounded. He stated that the soldiers would have known the IRA members would need to dismount the machine gun, which would have improved the possibility of an arrest. "The operation was not planned and controlled in such a way as to minimise to the greatest extent possible the need for recourse to lethal force," he said. Mr Justice Humphreys also criticised state agencies for "perpetuating falsehoods" about the incident, as it had been described at the time as a gun battle, despite the IRA men not having fired on the soldiers. A Ministry of Defence document even referred to the operation as "an excellent security forces success." Solicitor Niall Murphy responded to the ruling by saying, "Anyone who sat through those months of hearings, the inescapable conclusion, the only conclusion is the verdict the judge has found today." He added, "Whereas truth has been excavated and published today, justice has not." Murphy indicated that legal options would be considered, stating, "We're going to carefully consider this verdict with regards to any prospect of prosecutions." Speaking to BBC News NI, Murphy suggested that "the families will expect a file to be prepared for submission to the Public Prosecution Service." Sinn Féin MP Cathal Mallaghan welcomed the decision, calling on the British government to "fully repeal and replace the Legacy Act." He said the ruling "confirms what many in our community knew for a long time; that these four men were executed by the SAS without justification." However, Ulster Unionist Party justice spokesperson Doug Beattie dismissed the ruling, calling it "ludicrous." He argued, "Instead of dead police officers, civilians and lawful military personnel, four PIRA terrorists were killed. It is ludicrous to say that the shooting was unjustified." Based on a report by BBC 2025-02-08

It may come as a surprise to those under 30, but there was a time when the term “LGBT” did not exist. In the late 1990s, university groups dedicated to sexuality were simply known as “LGB Societies.” The acronym was clear and specific—standing for lesbian, gay, and bisexual individuals. The idea of adding a “T” was unheard of because sexuality and gender identity were seen as entirely separate matters. Had someone asked why “transgender” wasn’t included, they likely would have been directed elsewhere. “LGB” referred to sexual orientation, while being transgender was about gender identity—two fundamentally different concepts. The idea of combining them, at the time, would have seemed as odd as grouping trainspotters with those fighting for gay rights. It wasn’t about exclusion but rather about logic. Over time, however, this distinction blurred. Activists pushed for the inclusion of transgender identity under the same umbrella as sexual orientation, effectively merging the two in the public consciousness. The shift wasn’t accidental—it was a strategic move. The argument was that since most people already supported gay rights, they should naturally extend that support to transgender activism as well. The phrase “No LGB without the T” became a rallying cry, reinforcing the idea that the movements were inherently linked. This notion suggested that gay rights had only been achieved through the efforts of trans activists, and therefore, the gay community owed unwavering support to the trans cause, whether that meant backing gender self-identification laws, medical treatments for minors, or changes in women’s sports. But now, the tide appears to be turning. The U.S. government under Donald Trump officially stopped using the term “LGBT,” reverting instead to “LGB” in official documents. The State Department, for example, provides travel advice specifically for “LGB travellers” rather than using longer, more encompassing acronyms. This makes sense when considering that the guidance pertains to countries where homosexuality is illegal—gender identity is simply not relevant in that context. Despite this shift in some areas, certain institutions remain committed to the broader term. Schools in the UK continue to promote “LGBT History Month,” sometimes introducing children as young as 11 to films advocating for medical interventions such as cross-sex hormones and chest binders. Meanwhile, the BBC still adheres to strict language policies. In a recent case involving a rapist who identified as “non-binary,” the national broadcaster respected the perpetrator’s chosen pronouns of “they/them” while reporting on the crime. The decision to prioritize an offender’s self-identification over the reality of their actions raises questions about where societal priorities lie. The day institutions like the BBC acknowledge that gender identity and sexual orientation are separate issues may signal a return to common sense. Until then, the debate over language and categorization will continue to reflect broader ideological battles over identity, rights, and the shifting boundaries of activism. Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2025-02-08

A wave of panic has swept across college campuses as students rush to delete online records of their involvement in pro-Palestinian protests. The sudden purge follows former President Donald Trump’s recent executive order, signed on January 30, which calls for the cancellation of student visas for individuals who have expressed support for Hamas. In response, The Exponent, an independent newspaper serving Purdue University, announced that it would be removing the names, images, and likenesses of all students involved in such protests since October 7, 2023. The editorial board, writing anonymously, framed the decision as a stand against what they called a violation of free speech. "We refuse to be party to such a blatant violation of the First Amendment rights of potentially hundreds of Purdue students," the board stated. They further pledged that, moving forward, the publication would not include identifying information about protestors in either print or online coverage until Trump's order is overturned. Purdue University, a well-regarded public research institution in Indiana, clarified that it has no official ties to The Exponent, which operates as an independent foundation. Seth Nelson, the newspaper’s editor-in-chief, is known for covering social issues such as poverty and drug addiction. Trump’s executive order specifically targets non-citizens living in the U.S. on visas, including students, who have participated in illegal activities during demonstrations that followed the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Declaring a tough stance on campus radicalism, Trump vowed to take action against those he described as "Hamas sympathizers." “To all the resident aliens who joined in the pro-jihadist protests, we put you on notice… we will find you, and we will deport you,” Trump stated. He further emphasized that his administration would aggressively prosecute acts of violence, vandalism, and terroristic threats targeting American Jews. This directive follows a series of pro-Palestinian demonstrations at universities across the country, with students at institutions like Columbia University demanding that their schools sever financial ties with Israel and urging the U.S. government to end military aid to the country. Trump’s latest order gives federal agencies 60 days to develop strategies for identifying and addressing anti-Semitic threats. His strong pro-Israel stance was further reinforced this week when he welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House—the first foreign leader to visit since Trump’s return to office. During the meeting, Trump reiterated his vision for Gaza’s future, stating that he would take control of the war-torn territory and transform it into the "Riviera of the Middle East." His administration has long made clear that combating anti-Semitism and campus radicalism is a priority. This is not the first time Trump has taken executive action on the issue. In 2019, during his first term, he signed an order expanding the interpretation of the Civil Rights Act to include protections against anti-Semitism, ensuring that federally funded programs could not engage in such discrimination. With this latest order, Trump has once again signaled that his administration will not tolerate what he views as anti-American and anti-Semitic rhetoric on college campuses, leaving many international students fearful of the consequences of their past activism. Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-02-08

The only secondary school on St Helena, a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean, has announced it will be changing its name to remove any association with Prince Andrew. The decision comes in response to the Duke of York’s past scandals, which have led to widespread criticism. The school believes the change is a vital step in ensuring that its identity reflects the values and aspirations of its students and the broader community. In a statement, the island’s government explained, “The school believes a neutral name will foster a positive and forward-thinking learning environment, free from contentious associations.” The move is seen as an effort to distance the institution from the negative publicity surrounding Prince Andrew, who has been embroiled in controversy for years. The Duke of York faced intense scrutiny in 2019 due to his association with convicted US paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. A well-known photograph showing him with his arm around the waist of 17-year-old Virginia Giuffre further fueled the scandal. Andrew was also criticized for continuing to visit Epstein in New York even after the financier’s 2008 conviction for child sex offences. In the wake of these revelations, he stepped down from public duties and later reached a multi-million-pound settlement in a civil sexual assault case brought by Ms. Giuffre, despite stating in a 2019 BBC interview that he had no recollection of meeting her. Last year, the Duke, now 64, was again in the headlines after a High Court hearing disclosed that alleged Chinese spy Yang Tengbo, who had been banned from the UK, was considered a close confidant. These controversies have further damaged Andrew’s reputation, leading to growing pressure to sever associations with his name. The St Helena government confirmed that Buckingham Palace had approved the school’s decision to rebrand, emphasizing that the move followed “recent public controversy” and “negative media coverage.” The government also highlighted the opportunity to select a new name that aligns with the school’s core principles and its vision for students and the community. Head teacher Phil Toal explained the importance of the change, stating, “While we respect history, we must also be mindful of how past associations impact the present and future. Choosing a new name allows us to honour the contributions of our students and community without the burden of controversial ties.” Students at the school will have the opportunity to propose new names, which will then be put to a vote. The selected name will be submitted to the Portfolio Advisory Board for final approval. Meanwhile, the Duke of York continues to face difficulties within the royal family. King Charles is widely believed to have cut financial ties with his brother after Andrew resisted moving out of Royal Lodge, a sprawling 30-room mansion in Windsor Great Park. Despite the ongoing controversies, Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on the school’s renaming decision. Based on a report by The Independent 2025-02-08

Colombian President Gustavo Petro stirred controversy on Tuesday when he told his cabinet that cocaine is no worse than whisky. During the meeting, he argued that cocaine remains illegal primarily because it is produced in Latin America, while other substances that impact the United States, such as fentanyl, are not subjected to the same regulations. Petro then put forward a radical proposal to dismantle drug trafficking by legalizing cocaine. “It would be sold like wine,” he stated, suggesting a regulated market could curb the violence associated with the illegal drug trade. His comments come at a time when Colombia’s Catatumbo region, long plagued by armed conflict and drug trafficking, has been experiencing a surge in violence. The government has accused the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels of launching a series of attacks against former members of the now-demobilized Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), as well as civilian community leaders. The Catatumbo region remains a key hub for drug trafficking and organized crime, further complicating the country’s security challenges. Based on a report by The Independent 2025-02-08

Angela Rayner’s meeting with those affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy descended into chaos as she revealed that the devastated high-rise would be demolished to ground level. The deputy prime minister, who had anticipated a difficult conversation, reportedly grew flustered and defensive in the face of emotional and angry reactions from survivors and bereaved families. The atmosphere became so tense that she was eventually escorted from the room by security. The meeting, held near the remains of Grenfell Tower, was expected to address the fate of the building where 72 people lost their lives in 2017. Though an announcement had been anticipated, Rayner’s firm statement that the structure would be dismantled entirely took many in attendance by surprise, prompting an audible gasp from the room. For those who consider Grenfell’s charred remains a sacred site, the sudden finality of her words was deeply unsettling. Despite acknowledging the gravity of the decision, Rayner quickly found herself overwhelmed by a wave of anger. According to one person present, the discussion became a “car crash,” with raised voices and mounting frustration. “It was such a horrible meeting,” said Karim Mussilhy, vice-chairman of Grenfell United, an advocacy group for survivors and bereaved families. “She’s just gone about it completely the wrong way. And I think they’ve completely messed up the relationship with the Grenfell families.” Mussilhy recalled that Rayner was repeatedly questioned about how many families had been consulted before the decision was made, but she was unable to provide an answer. “You could see she was getting quite flustered and angry, and then shortly after that she was escorted out of the room,” he said. At one point during the meeting, those present were asked to raise their hands if they had been directly consulted about the demolition. Very few did. The outrage in the room was not just about the decision itself but about how it had been reached. Many attendees felt that, once again, their voices had been disregarded—a painful echo of past failures by those in power. A public inquiry last year determined that the deaths in the Grenfell fire were preventable, the result of systemic neglect spanning decades. Residents had repeatedly raised safety concerns, but politicians failed to act. The announcement regarding the tower’s fate follows years of inaction by Conservative ministers, who had delayed a final decision until now. In 2019, structural engineers recommended demolishing the building at least down to the tenth floor due to concerns over the stability of its upper sections. Although the tower is currently secure, experts warned that the internal concrete will degrade over time due to weather exposure, making demolition increasingly dangerous the longer it is postponed. Some survivors had proposed a compromise: demolishing the top floors while preserving the lower section to incorporate into a permanent memorial. Emma O’Connor, who lived on the 20th floor and escaped the fire, voiced support for this approach. Speaking to the BBC, she explained, “We understand it’s unsafe, but if it’s out of sight, it will definitely be out of mind for those responsible for the tragic deaths.” Rayner had conducted several consultation meetings in January, but the process was widely criticized as chaotic. Some families did not receive letters informing them of the meetings, while last-minute schedule changes left others unable to attend. Many had hoped to be properly consulted before a final decision was made, but this did not happen. When Rayner finally confirmed that the tower would be taken “to the ground,” the room erupted in shock and anger. Sitting at the back, Mussilhy stood up and asked how many families she had spoken to before making the decision. “She turned around and said, ‘I can’t, I can’t give you that.’ Everyone got really upset and angry.” He added, “We understand it’s inevitable that the tower can’t remain the way it is indefinitely. But you need to have a meaningful consultation and conversation with the bereaved families. Our families’ remains are still embedded in that concrete.” For many in the community, the handling of this announcement has only reinforced the feeling that they are still being ignored—just as they were before the tragedy unfolded. Based on a report by The Times 2025-02-08

The Conservative Party is facing a major crisis as a new poll suggests that a third of its 2024 voters have now switched allegiance to Nigel Farage’s Reform UK. This seismic shift in support has propelled Reform to the top of the polls, tying with Labour and surpassing the Tories, dealing a fresh blow to Kemi Badenoch’s leadership. A weekly tracker poll conducted by Techne UK for *The Independent* reveals that 33% of those who backed the Conservatives last year have now thrown their support behind Reform UK. For the first time, Reform has drawn level with Labour, mirroring findings from a YouGov poll earlier this week. The latest numbers show Reform climbing by one percentage point to 25%, while Labour has dropped one point to the same level. Meanwhile, the Conservatives remain stagnant at 23%, trailing by two points. Another poll by FindOutNow paints an even bleaker picture for the Tories, placing Reform at 29%, four points ahead of Labour (25%) and a significant 11 points clear of the Conservatives, who have slumped to just 18%. The Liberal Democrats have risen by one point to 13%, while the Greens remain unchanged at 7%. Reacting to the surge in support for his party, Farage called the polling figures “astonishing,” particularly as they come just after he launched a campaign against Labour’s decision to cancel numerous local election contests in May. The deepening rift within the Conservative Party is becoming increasingly evident. While shadow justice secretary Robert Jenrick, a former leadership contender, has refused to rule out a potential deal with Reform, Badenoch’s spokesperson has categorically dismissed any such possibility. The Tory leader has instead responded by unveiling a stringent immigration policy aimed at discouraging low-paid workers from entering the UK—an apparent attempt to reclaim voters who have drifted towards Reform’s hardline stance. However, Badenoch’s strategy may not be enough to quell the growing discontent within her party. The latest poll results have only intensified the murmurs of dissent, with questions mounting over her leadership just three months into her tenure. Michela Morizzo, chief executive of Techne UK, described the situation as a moment of reckoning for the Tories. “Our regular tracker poll this week brings continued success for Nigel Farage’s Reform UK, who are for the first time neck and neck with the Labour Party. The Conservatives stay steady at 23% of the national vote, but this does mean they are now two points behind both Labour and Reform,” she said. Morizzo warned that without immediate action, the Conservatives risk becoming uncompetitive in future elections. “At this time, looking towards the next by-elections too, the Tories should do some soul-searching by analysing the reason for this situation. If nothing is done, the risk for the Conservative Party is to lose the appeal and no longer be competitive in the electoral challenges. And this must be done now—time flies, and watchful waiting is not the right strategy, in this historical moment in particular.” With Reform UK making unprecedented gains and Badenoch struggling to contain the crisis, the political landscape is shifting dramatically. Whether the Conservatives can recover from this exodus of voters remains uncertain, but the urgency for decisive action has never been greater. Based on a report by The Independent 2025-02-08

Russia is prepared to drive a tough negotiation with U.S. President Donald Trump over Ukraine, according to Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, who made the statement on Wednesday. The senior Russian diplomat discussed the possibility of Trump facilitating peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, as outlined in remarks published on the Russian Foreign Ministry’s website. Trump has repeatedly vowed to bring an end to the war in Ukraine, now approaching its third year. Trump has indicated that both Russia and Ukraine would need to make compromises to achieve peace. However, Kyiv has firmly rejected the idea of surrendering any of its territory to Moscow, while Putin has continued to insist that Ukraine must abandon its ambitions of joining NATO. Ryabkov stated that Russia remains "open to dialogue and ready to negotiate [with the U.S.] through a hard bargain while taking into account the 'realities on the ground' and our national interests." He emphasized that Washington must take the first step in improving U.S.-Russia relations, which have significantly deteriorated since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. "It is up to [Donald] Trump and his team to make a decision," Ryabkov added. While the Kremlin has confirmed that it has reached out to Trump’s team for talks, it has not clarified whether Putin and Trump have directly communicated about the war in Ukraine. Sean Monaghan, a visiting fellow at the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS), a Washington-based think tank, noted that Trump’s unpredictable nature and deal-making style could potentially help Ukraine negotiate a ceasefire on more favorable terms. "His temperament and character, combined with shifting political, military, and economic conditions around the war, could make an ultimatum strategy viable again," Monaghan wrote. Bloomberg reported on Wednesday, citing sources familiar with the matter, that U.S. allies anticipate the Trump administration will unveil a proposal to end the war at the upcoming Munich Security Conference in Germany. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Wednesday, "There are indeed contacts between individual departments, and they have intensified recently, but I cannot tell you any other details." Trump is expected to meet with Putin soon. Speaking to reporters on Sunday, he confirmed that talks are planned "with various parties, including Ukraine and Russia." "We'll be speaking, and I think we'll perhaps do something that'll be significant. We want to end that war," he stated last week. Based on a report by Newsweek 2025-02-08

Even brief exposure to air pollution can disrupt cognitive functions essential for daily life, a new study has revealed. Researchers have found that air pollution can impair a person’s ability to interpret emotions, focus on tasks, and engage in social situations, shedding new light on the broader dangers of environmental toxins beyond their well-documented effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Published in *Nature Communications*, the study demonstrates that short-term exposure to high levels of air pollution can immediately reduce cognitive performance. "Our study provides compelling evidence that even short-term exposure to particulate matter can have immediate negative effects on brain functions essential for daily activities such as doing the weekly supermarket shop," said Dr. Thomas Faherty, a researcher at the University of Birmingham and co-author of the study. To measure the impact of air pollution on cognitive function, participants were exposed either to high levels of air pollution, simulated using candle smoke, or to clean air. Researchers then tested their cognitive performance before exposure and again four hours later, focusing on working memory, selective attention, emotion recognition, psychomotor speed, and sustained attention. While working memory remained unaffected, selective attention and emotion recognition declined significantly following exposure to polluted air. These effects were observed regardless of whether participants inhaled through their mouths or noses, indicating that the route of inhalation played no significant role in the cognitive impact. Scientists believe that inflammation triggered by particulate matter, a major component of urban air pollution, could be responsible for these impairments. While working memory appears more resilient to short-term exposure, attention and emotional processing are particularly vulnerable. "Poor air quality undermines intellectual development and worker productivity, with significant societal and economic implications in a high-tech world reliant on cognitive excellence," said Professor Francis Pope from the University of Birmingham, another co-author of the study. He warned that reduced productivity could impact economic growth, underscoring the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and public health initiatives to combat pollution’s effects on brain health, particularly in urban environments with high pollution levels. Selective attention is a crucial cognitive skill, enabling individuals to focus on goal-oriented tasks, such as navigating a grocery store while ignoring distractions. Emotion recognition, another essential function, allows people to interpret social cues and respond appropriately in interpersonal interactions. The study highlights the importance of understanding how air pollution affects these critical mental processes and calls for further research into how different pollution sources influence brain health, especially in vulnerable populations like older adults and children. Professor Gordon McFiggans from the University of Manchester stressed the significance of this research in protecting at-risk groups. "This study shows the importance of understanding the impacts of air pollution on cognitive function and the need to study the influences of different sources of pollution on brain health, particularly in vulnerable older members of society," he said. Air pollution remains the leading environmental health risk worldwide, contributing to premature mortality and various diseases. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), one of the most harmful pollutants, was linked to 4.2 million deaths in 2015 alone, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO advises that PM2.5 concentrations should not exceed 15 micrograms per cubic meter over a 24-hour period, with an annual limit of 5 micrograms per cubic meter. However, pollution hotspots such as Delhi frequently report levels as high as 249 micrograms per cubic meter, vastly exceeding recommended safety limits. The study’s authors emphasize the need for further research to determine how different pollution sources affect cognitive function and to identify protective measures that could mitigate these effects. They urge policymakers to recognize air pollution as a cognitive health issue, not just a respiratory or cardiovascular one. "Our brains are just as vulnerable to environmental toxins as our lungs, and it's time public health policies reflect that reality," Dr. Faherty warned. Based on a report by The Independent 2025-02-08

WASHINGTON—A bipartisan effort is underway to ban the DeepSeek chatbot application from all government-owned devices due to fears that the app could provide user data to the Chinese government. The bill, set to be introduced Thursday, is spearheaded by Representatives Darin LaHood, a Republican from Illinois, and Josh Gottheimer, a Democrat from New Jersey. The move mirrors past congressional action against TikTok, which led to the app's prohibition on government devices and initiated efforts to block its operations in the U.S. "This should be a no-brainer in terms of actions we should take immediately to prevent our enemy from getting information from our government," Gottheimer said. DeepSeek, a Chinese AI company that burst onto the scene just last month, has rapidly become the most downloaded app in the U.S. The company’s decision to release its AI models as open-source software contributed to its immediate popularity among businesses, developers, and consumers. However, concerns have emerged over its potential risks to data security. An analysis conducted by Ivan Tsarynny, CEO of Feroot Security, a firm specializing in data protection and cybersecurity, revealed that the chatbot contains concealed code capable of transmitting user login information to China Mobile, a state-owned telecommunications company banned from operating in the U.S. The Associated Press had previously published Tsarynny’s findings. "Our personal information is being sent to China, there is no denial, and the DeepSeek tool is collecting everything that American users connect to it," Tsarynny stated in an interview. This revelation prompted LaHood and Gottheimer to craft legislation aimed at blocking DeepSeek from government networks. Both lawmakers hold key positions on a subcommittee of the House Select Committee on Intelligence, making them central figures in U.S. cybersecurity oversight. "Under no circumstances can we allow a CCP company to obtain sensitive government or personal data," LaHood emphasized, referring to the Chinese Communist Party. Several countries have already moved to restrict DeepSeek's access to government systems. On Tuesday, Australia announced a ban on the app from its government networks, citing data-security concerns. Key ministries in South Korea implemented similar restrictions this week, and Italy had already done so in January. Some federal agencies, including the U.S. Navy and NASA, have already blocked the app due to security and privacy concerns. Texas was the first U.S. state to implement a ban on DeepSeek for government devices, citing national-security risks. The approach taken against DeepSeek closely resembles Congress’s actions against TikTok in 2022 when the app was banned from government devices as part of a spending bill. Lawmakers were concerned that the Chinese government could access user data, leading to further efforts to prohibit the app entirely unless it severed ties with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. Although Congress passed legislation requiring TikTok to secure an American buyer, the deadline passed without a sale. In response, President Trump extended the timeframe for TikTok to divest its U.S. operations. The company has repeatedly denied sharing American user data with the Chinese government, asserting that it would not comply with such a request. Based on a report by WSJ 2025-02-08

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to push past “Nimbyism” as he lifts restrictions on where nuclear power plants can be built across England. The move is intended to accelerate the approval of a wave of "mini" nuclear reactors, with the first expected to be operational by 2032. Starmer’s broader initiative aims to override opposition to key infrastructure projects, including housing developments, wind farms, data centers, and pylons, as his government seeks to cut through red tape. The UK has not constructed a new nuclear power station since 1995. Under current regulations, nuclear plants can only be built in eight designated areas in England and Wales. These restrictions will now be scrapped, allowing more sites to be considered for nuclear expansion. While the move is being positioned as a step toward securing the country’s energy future and ensuring a clean power supply, it will also bar Chinese firms from investing in the projects. Despite Starmer’s confidence, some Labour MPs—particularly those representing rural constituencies—are privately concerned that large-scale development in their areas could weaken their chances of re-election. Addressing these concerns on Wednesday, the Prime Minister made clear his intention to challenge opposition. “By going for more sites than the eight, then obviously you’re opening up more space. There’s no point us pretending otherwise," he said. "That means there is the potential now for nuclear sites in places where, until now, it wasn’t thought they would ever be. We do have to push past the Nimbyism, and we’re going to do so on housing and other infrastructure.” To ease local opposition, the government may offer discounted energy bills to residents near newly built nuclear plants. A similar incentive has already been introduced for onshore wind farms under Starmer’s administration. The changes are being made to the “national policy statement,” which has not been updated since 2011. This document serves as a key guideline for councils, planning inspectors, and courts when assessing infrastructure projects. Under current rules, new nuclear power stations are permitted only in Bradwell, Hartlepool, Heysham, Hinkley Point, Oldbury, Sellafield (Moorside), Sizewell, and Wylfa. The revised policy will remove site-specific limitations while maintaining restrictions on construction in densely populated areas and near military installations. The usual planning process for projects categorized as critical national infrastructure will remain in place, allowing communities to voice objections. However, the Prime Minister suggested that his party’s significant parliamentary majority would provide the necessary leverage to advance these initiatives. “We have got the advantage of a big majority to help us. There’s a window here which, to be fair, we haven’t had that big working majority in Parliament for a long time now,” Starmer stated. The policy changes will not directly impact Scotland or Northern Ireland, where devolved governments set their own nuclear energy policies. However, in England and Wales, the removal of site restrictions marks a major shift in nuclear planning regulations. Investment from Chinese companies, whether state-backed or private, is unlikely to be welcomed in the construction of these new power stations, according to the Prime Minister. This follows the government’s ongoing efforts to limit Chinese involvement in critical national infrastructure. Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2025-02-08

Kanye West ignited a storm of controversy on Thursday night, launching into a shocking anti-Semitic, sexist, and homophobic rant while also claiming to have control over his wife, Bianca Censori. The rapper, 47, left fans confused as he also made a bizarre plea to former President Donald Trump, urging him to free rapper Diddy from prison. West first faced accusations of anti-Semitism in 2022 after making inflammatory remarks. He later issued an apology, stating he never intended to offend or demean the Jewish community. However, in a dramatic reversal, the rapper took to social media to double down on his views, stating that he would never “trust or work with Jewish people” again and that he would not apologize for his beliefs. Among his most shocking statements, West boldly declared: "I AM A NAZI," later adding, "I LOVE HITLER NOW WHAT B*****S." Concerns over his treatment of Bianca Censori escalated after he addressed speculation that she is a victim of coercive control. West claimed he had "dominion" over his wife, following her controversial nude appearance at the Grammys. In a string of increasingly aggressive posts, West seemed prepared to face the consequences of his remarks, stating, "IF I LOST EVERYTHING AGAIN TONIGHT WAS WORTH IT I CAN DIE AFTER THIS." He insisted that he was sober while making these statements and vowed to cut ties with anyone who disagreed with him, using homophobic slurs to attack those who support Vice President Kamala Harris. West's tirade escalated as he issued a violent warning, writing, "ANY N*A COME IN MY FACE AN ASK ME ABOUT THAT PUFF ST IM STEALING OFF THEM IMMEDIATELY I DONT GIVE A F**K IF YOU 8 FEET TALL IMA JUMP AND STEAL OFF YOU." He also lashed out at what he called "woke" culture, taking issue with plus-size models in fashion shows. In a message that name-dropped singer Adele, he wrote, "FK ALL THIS WOKE ST THEY PUTTING FAT B*S ON THE RUNWAY NOBODY WANNA SEE THAT ST ITS UNHEALTHY IT PROMOTES OBESITY AND THE WILD ST IS IF THE FAT B*****S LOOSE WEIGHT THEN THEY LOOSE THEIR ACCEPT FOR ADELLE CAUSE SHE ACTUALLY HAS ANOTHER TALENT THEN BEING USED AS A PAWN FOR POLITICAL AGENDAS [sic]." West then turned his attention back to his anti-Semitic rhetoric, retracting his previous apology and raging against Jewish businesspeople, stating, "IM NEVER APOLOGIZING FOR MY JEWISH COMMENTS I CAN SAY WHATEVER THE FK I WANNA SAY FOREVER WHERES MY F*ING APOLOGY FOR FREEZING MY ACCOUNTS SUCK MY D**K HOWS THAT FOR AN APOLOGY." Continuing his unfounded claims, he accused the Jewish community of targeting Black and Latino children through abortion, writing, "BE CLEAR YOU JEWISH N****S DONT RUN ME NO MORE THIS IS A FREE COUNTRY AND THIS IS MY FREE OPINION YOU ABORT BLACK CHILDREN FOR STEM CELLS ABORTION IS MURDER AND ITS PUSHED ONTO THE BLACK AND LATINO COMMUNITIES." West made it clear that anyone who disagreed with him should not work for him, stating, "AMY JEWISH PERSON THAT DOES BUSINESS WITH ME NEEDS TO KNOW I DONT LIKE OR TRUST ANY JEWISH PERSON AMD THIS IS COMPLETELY SOBER WITH NO HENNESY [sic]." His rant initially began with a focus on rapper Diddy, who has been in prison on sex trafficking and racketeering charges, which he vehemently denies. Addressing Diddy, West tweeted, "FREE PUFF," before accusing celebrities of abandoning him. He wrote, "ALL THESE CELEBRITY N****S AND BS IS PY YALL A WATCH OUR BROTHER ROT AND NEVER SAY ST." Comparing his situation to Diddy's, West referenced the rapper’s falling out with Diageo, the global beverage company that distanced itself from him. Using racist slurs, he added, "ALL YOU PLEEEEEASE COME AT ME THATS HOW WE SPOT THE KS LET THESE WHITE PEOPLE AND JEWISH PEOPLE TELL YOU WHAT TO DO AND SAY FK DIAGEO AND F**K ALL YALL N***S IN ADVANCE." West also suggested launching a clothing collaboration between his Yeezy brand and Diddy's Sean John label, claiming they would "split the profits 50/50." He argued that Diddy's legal troubles were a racial issue, stating, "JUST FOR CLARITY THEY TYRING TO MAKE AN EXAMPLE OUT OF PUFF ME AND MY BROTHER HAD OUR ISSUES BUT THESE WHITE PEOPLE TRYING TO USE PUFF TO SCARE N****S IM NEITHER SCARED NOR BRAVE THIS JUST ME." In addition to his Twitter rant, West took to Instagram to demand Trump intervene on Diddy’s behalf, tagging the former president with the message, "FREE DIDDY." From behind bars, Diddy responded by reposting West’s messages, writing, "Thank you to my brother @Ye," and linking to Yeezy. West’s actions have led to widespread condemnation, recalling his previous fall from grace in 2022 when major brands such as Adidas, GAP, and Universal severed ties with him following similar anti-Semitic outbursts. Despite losing lucrative deals, West remains defiant, writing, "WHAT YALL GONE DO CANCEL MY SNEAKER DEAL CANCEL MY RECORD DEAL FREEZE MY ACCOUNTS FK ALL YALL N****S SLAVERY IS A CHOICE IM SPEAKING MY MIND NOW I AINT EDITING ST AGAIN EVER." West’s latest tirade has once again drawn intense backlash, with many calling for further consequences over his incendiary statements. Based on a report by The Daily Mail 2025-02-08

Topic has been edited according to the forum rules. A re write cannot be accepted. 27. You will not post any copyrighted material except as fair use laws apply (as in the case of news articles). Only post a link, the headline and three sentences from the article. Content in the public domain is limited to the same restrictions.

An offensive hate speech slur has been removed @NativeBob

A number of posts making unsubstaniated claims of evictions have been removed along with responses.

@CFIAM a number of posts have been removed for pure trolling and personal attacks. Stop now or I will stop you.

@MalcolmB a number of your trolling and misinformation posts have been removed.

posts advocating for no Israel, a call that echo's Hamas have been removed. @OneMoreFarang

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order sanctioning the International Criminal Court, accusing it of "illegitimate and baseless actions targeting America and our close ally Israel". The sanctions target individuals assisting the ICC in its probes into American citizens or allied nations, affecting them financially and restricting their visas, as well as extending to their family members. A White House fact sheet circulated earlier on Thursday accused the Hague-based ICC of creating a "shameful moral equivalency" between Hamas and Israel by issuing the warrants at the same time. Trump's executive order said the ICC's recent actions "set a dangerous precedent" that endangered Americans by exposing them to "harassment, abuse and possible arrest". "This malign conduct in turn threatens to infringe upon the sovereignty of the United States and undermines the critical national security and foreign policy work of the United States government and our allies, including Israel," the order said. It adds that "both nations [the US and Israel] are thriving democracies with militaries that strictly adhere to the laws of war". The US is not a member of the ICC and has repeatedly rejected any jurisdiction by the body over American officials or citizens. This action follows the ICC’s decision last year to issue arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with other Israeli and Hamas officials. In an effort to counter the court’s actions, Senate Republicans recently introduced a bill to sanction the ICC, but it was blocked by Senate Democrats. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the legislation, describing it as "poorly drafted" and "deeply problematic." This is not the first time Trump has taken measures against the ICC. During his first presidency, in June 2020, he imposed sanctions on senior officials of the court as it investigated allegations of war crimes committed by U.S. forces in Afghanistan. The Trump administration accused the ICC of undermining U.S. national sovereignty, with Trump warning that any individuals supporting the investigation would "risk exposure to sanctions" themselves. The order granted the U.S. authority to freeze the assets of ICC employees and deny them entry into the country. The ICC denounced the move, calling it an attack on international justice and the rule of law. These sanctions remained in place until April 2021, when they were lifted by the Biden administration. Former U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the time criticized the sanctions, calling them "inappropriate and ineffective," and advocated for greater cooperation with the ICC. Based on a report by BBC 2025-02-08

Posts using derogatory and toxic nicknames or intentional misspelling of people’s names will be removed. If you don’t want your post to be removed, spell people’s names correctly, this applies to both sides of the political debate.

Vice President Vance has expressed his approval following the announcement that Andreessen Horowitz, a well-known venture capital firm, has hired Daniel Penny. Penny, a Marine veteran, was acquitted just two months ago of a negligent homicide charge in New York City. “Incredible news,” Vance wrote in a post on X, reacting to the report, which was initially published by Bari Weiss’s The Free Press. Penny, who had previously studied architecture, was found not guilty in December 2024 by a jury on a criminally negligent homicide charge. The case stemmed from an incident in May 2023, in which Penny placed 30-year-old Jordan Neely, a homeless man who had been shouting at passengers on a New York subway, in a chokehold for several minutes. Originally charged with manslaughter, Penny’s trial ended in an acquittal. Speaking after the verdict, Penny told Fox Nation host Jeanine Pirro that he had acted out of fear for his safety and that of others. “He was just threatening to kill people. He was threatening to go to jail forever, go to jail for the rest of his life,” Penny said in the December interview. “And now, where I’m on the ground with him, I’m on my back in a very vulnerable position if I would have just let go.” The high-profile case captured significant media attention and became a divisive topic in New York City and beyond. David Ulevitch, a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, addressed Penny’s actions in an internal memo announcing the hire. According to The Free Press, Ulevitch acknowledged Penny’s controversial past but emphasized the firm’s broader perspective on individuals. “I believe, as I know many of you do, that Daniel acted with courage in a tough situation,” Ulevitch reportedly wrote. “He was acquitted of all charges. Beyond that, it has always been our policy to evaluate the entire person and not judge them for the worst moment in their entire life.” He went on to state, “We believe in Daniel and are excited to have him as part of our team.” Penny has joined the firm’s “American Dynamism” team, which the company describes as a network of civic-minded entrepreneurs tackling America’s biggest challenges. The firm’s website lists Penny as a “Deal Partner” on the team. In his memo, Ulevitch elaborated on Penny’s role at the firm, stating that he would “learn the business of investing” and support portfolio companies. He also suggested that Penny’s experience and background could help foster relationships with the Department of Defense and the public safety sector, The Free Press reported. Based on a report by The Hill 2025-02-07

"I have so much money now that I could hire someone to kill you, and nobody would know. No-one would miss you. No-one would know anything." Former music executive Daniel Evans vividly recalls hearing these chilling words from Sean "Diddy" Combs—then known as Puff Daddy—directed at a colleague in 1997. It happened inside the New York office of Bad Boy Records, Combs’s Grammy Award-winning music label. Nearly 30 years later, Combs’s empire is in tatters as he awaits trial on sex trafficking and racketeering charges, while also facing numerous lawsuits accusing him of drugging and assaulting individuals at lavish parties, upscale hotels, and even in his recording studio. He denies all allegations. In an exclusive investigation, the BBC has spoken with over 20 individuals who worked at Bad Boy Records during its meteoric rise in the 1990s—including former executives, assistants, and producers. They have come forward to share troubling incidents they claim to have witnessed. Among them is a former client who alleges that Combs raped her on the bathroom floor at a promotional party for The Notorious B.I.G. in 1995. In her lawsuit, she claims that after the assault, Combs warned her not to speak of it, saying, “You will disappear.” Jimmy Maynes, who worked closely with Combs, recalls his volatile temperament in the office. He describes moments when Combs would slam his hands against the desk like a "bratty kid" and erupt in anger if things did not go his way. Combs’s career took off after he was fired from Uptown Records at just 23 years old. He then founded Bad Boy Records, where he quickly became known for his relentless work ethic. "He's the hardest working man that I've ever met and always wanted people to match his energy," says Daniel Evans, who managed Bad Boy’s recording budgets and artists' contracts from 1994 to 1997. Combs often compared himself to "The Great Gatsby" and built a reputation for throwing extravagant parties—whether at exclusive New York nightclubs, on the beaches of Cancun, or at his infamous "White Parties" in the Hamptons, where guests were required to wear all white. "Bad Boy Records was a crazy house with a lot of young people who wanted to touch the King's robes," recalls one former employee. According to former staff, the label was predominantly run by young executives and a large group of interns, some of whom were still in school. They also allege that sexual relationships between employees and interns were common. Additionally, Evans claims that artists and staff would arrange for women to be flown in to have sex at the studio. "If they had a [sexual] specialty in something, they would be flown in," he says, adding that he knew about it because he controlled the budgets. The cost of these flights, he alleges, was recorded under travel expenses. Many former staff members struggle to reconcile these allegations with the man they once knew. "These accusations are a surprise to me, as I am sure it is to many of our circle," says Jeffery Walker, a close friend of Combs and a member of Bad Boy’s original production team. "I've been to White Parties and of course studio sessions, and none of what he is accused of went down in my sight." Evans, too, was initially skeptical—until he saw footage of Combs’s ex-partner, Casandra Ventura, being brutally beaten by him in a Los Angeles hotel in 2016. Ventura was the first to sue Combs in November 2023, alleging he had subjected her to a cycle of abuse, violence, and sex trafficking throughout their 10-year relationship. Combs settled the lawsuit the following day for an undisclosed sum. "It's not the first time I've seen that temper," Evans says, recalling the 1997 death threat he claims to have witnessed. "It's hard to see. The guy in the video with Cassie is almost identical to the guy who threatened the employee. So, you wonder, has anything changed?" Over the years, Combs has continuously reinvented himself—from Puff Daddy to P. Diddy and, more recently, to "Love." In a 2015 interview, he explained his different personas: "If I'm acting crazy, like 'ahhh!' that's Diddy. If I'm dancing real smooth with a girl, that's Puff Daddy. And if I'm looking like I'm nervous or scared or shy, that's Sean." With his trial set for May, those who were once closest to him are questioning whether they ever truly knew Sean Combs. "One could think that he's just a disgusting human being, but that's not my memory of Puff," says Maynes. After a long pause, he adds: "Or maybe money just gives people the freedom to be exactly who they really are, and he was that guy all along." Based on a report by BBC 2025-02-07