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Canada has officially designated Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, a move announced by Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc. This decision comes after years of pressure from opposition legislators and segments of the Iranian diaspora. LeBlanc described the designation as a “significant tool in fighting global terrorism,” highlighting that it will bar thousands of senior Iranian government officials, including top IRGC members, from entering Canada. The IRGC is a significant military, political, and economic force in Iran, closely linked to the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. With over 190,000 active personnel, the IRGC operates its own ground forces, navy, and air force, overseeing Iran’s strategic weapons. The IRGC also influences other parts of the Middle East by providing money, weapons, technology, training, and advice to allied governments and armed groups through its Quds (Jerusalem) Force, which was already designated as a terrorist group by Canada. Wednesday’s announcement extends this designation to the entire IRGC. LeBlanc emphasized that the action "sends a strong message that Canada will use all of the tools at its disposal to combat the terrorist entity of the IRGC," citing the Iranian regime's consistent disregard for human rights and its destabilizing actions. Following this designation, current and former senior Iranian government officials in Canada may be investigated and potentially removed. Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly warned Canadians in Iran of the risk of arbitrary detention, urging them to return home and advising against travel to Iran. In response, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Nasser Kanaani, condemned the move as "an unwise and unconventional politically-motivated step," asserting that it would not affect the Revolutionary Guards' power. This designation marks a significant shift for Canada, especially after the shooting down of Flight PS752 by the IRGC in January 2020, which killed all 175 passengers on board, including 55 Canadian citizens and 30 permanent residents. The Canadian government, under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, had previously hesitated to extend the terrorism designation to the IRGC due to concerns about unfairly targeting Iranians in Canada who opposed the regime but had served in the IRGC in the past. LeBlanc explained that the decision was a “deliberative process” based on advice from security services and foreign policy considerations. With this move, Canada becomes the second country in North America, after the United States, to label the IRGC as a terrorist organization, following the US's designation in 2019. The UK had indicated its intent to take a similar step as recently as 2023 but has not yet done so. Credit: BBC 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Louisiana has enacted a controversial new law mandating that every public school classroom, from elementary through university level, display a poster of the Ten Commandments. Governor Jeff Landry signed the Republican-backed measure into law on Wednesday, characterizing the commandments as "the foundational documents of our state and national government." This legislation positions Louisiana as the first state in the United States to impose such a requirement. The law specifies that the Ten Commandments must be displayed prominently in each classroom in a "large, easily readable font" on an 11-inch by 14-inch poster. Additionally, the poster must include a four-paragraph context statement that outlines the historical role of the commandments in American public education over nearly three centuries. The state law stipulates that these posters must be in place by 2025 in all classrooms that receive state funding, although it does not provide state funds to cover the cost of the posters themselves. This measure is likely to face legal challenges from civil rights organizations, which argue that it violates the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Specifically, they point to the Establishment Clause, which states, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." Critics argue that the requirement infringes upon the constitutional principle of the separation of church and state. The new law is part of a broader trend among Republican-led states, including Texas, Oklahoma, and Utah, which have proposed similar legislation. However, the constitutionality of such measures has been consistently questioned. In 1980, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a similar law in Kentucky that required the display of the Ten Commandments in elementary and high schools. In a narrow 5-4 decision, the court ruled that the Kentucky law lacked a secular legislative purpose and was "plainly religious in nature." The court's decision highlighted that the commandments included directives on religious observance, such as worshiping God and keeping the Sabbath day holy, in addition to prohibitions against criminal activities like killing and stealing. Governor Landry and supporters of the law argue that the Ten Commandments have played a significant role in shaping American values and legal principles. However, opponents contend that mandating their display in public classrooms crosses a constitutional line, promoting a specific religious viewpoint in a setting that should remain secular and inclusive. As this law takes effect, the anticipated legal challenges will likely focus on whether the state’s actions can be reconciled with the Supreme Court's previous rulings on similar issues. The outcome of these challenges could have significant implications for the interpretation of the Establishment Clause and the ongoing debate over the role of religion in public spaces and institutions in the United States. Credit: BBC 2024-06-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

A recent Fox News poll reveals that President Biden has taken a slight lead over former President Trump in the national presidential race, with Biden securing 50 percent of the vote compared to Trump's 48 percent. This marks a significant moment for Biden, as it is the first time he has led Trump in a Fox News poll since October 2023 and the first time he has achieved 50 percent support in this election cycle. The poll shows a three-point improvement for Biden from the previous month, where Trump held a one-point lead. When third-party candidates are considered, Biden's lead narrows to one point, with 43 percent of the vote compared to Trump's 42 percent. Independent candidates Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Cornel West garnered 10 percent and 2 percent support, respectively, while Green Party candidate Jill Stein also received 2 percent. This shift in polling could be influenced by Trump's recent felony conviction, as various polls have indicated a gain for Biden following the legal development. Notably, Biden holds a significant nine-point lead among independent voters, a crucial demographic in the election. This marks an 11-point shift from May when independents favored Trump by two points. Republican pollster Daron Shaw, who conducted the survey, noted that while Biden has made gains with women and senior voters, he has seen a decrease in support from younger voters and African Americans compared to 2020. Despite this, these gains have helped keep Biden competitive in the race. The poll also reflects a slight improvement in public perception of the economy under Biden's administration. Thirty-two percent of respondents reported having an excellent or good feeling about the economy, the highest positive rating during Biden's presidency. However, a majority of 56 percent still view the economy negatively. Biden's overall job approval rating stands at 45 percent, according to the poll. The survey included approximately 1,100 registered voters nationwide and has a margin of error of about 3 percent. Credit: Hill 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Ahead of the European Championship match between England and Denmark, Scottish fans have been filmed mocking the late Queen Elizabeth II in a chant. The footage shows a small group of fans in Düsseldorf singing "Lizzie’s in a box," referring to the Queen, who passed away in September 2022. This incident occurred just before Prince William, the late Queen’s grandson, is set to attend the England-Denmark clash. In Frankfurt, where the match will take place, another group of Scottish fans sang the same offensive chant in the city’s main square. The chant has previously been used at Dundee United matches and has been condemned by various fan groups. This behavior has sparked frustration among the broader Tartan Army, who pride themselves on their reputation for good behavior. Additionally, fans from Dundee in Frankfurt sang an offensive song about England captain Harry Kane, with lyrics mocking him for "licking windows on the bus" and "eating spaghetti with his hands." This particular chant had already been criticized by fellow supporters during a visit to Belgium in 2019. Dundee, known for its nationalist sentiments, was one of the few areas that voted for Scottish independence in the 2014 referendum. Dundee United has had previous issues with fan behavior, including disrupting a minute’s silence for the late Queen in 2022 before a match against Rangers. Simultaneously, English fans have also been engaging in offensive behavior by chanting songs related to World War II. Despite repeated warnings from police, English fans have continued to sing "10 German Bombers," a song that mocks German casualties during the war. Police in Frankfurt have appealed for fans to behave and avoid such provocative songs. The offensive behaviors from both Scottish and English fans have highlighted tensions and have drawn criticism from authorities and fellow supporters alike. As police continue to appeal for respectful conduct, the incidents underscore the ongoing challenges in maintaining decorum among rival fans during major sporting events. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

In recent months, a widely accepted narrative has emerged claiming that Palestinians in Gaza are suffering from severe hunger. This narrative has been propagated by various entities, including the United Nations, the Biden administration, and major media outlets. In May, the head of the U.N. World Food Program declared a “full-blown famine” in northern Gaza, a claim echoed by reports in The New York Times and The Washington Post. These assertions have influenced significant actions, such as President Joe Biden's order for the U.S. Armed Forces to construct a floating pier to facilitate the flow of vital supplies to Gaza. Additionally, these allegations have led the International Criminal Court to request warrants for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, accusing them of war crimes for allegedly starving Palestinians. However, evidence has emerged that casts serious doubt on the existence of a famine in Gaza. The U.N.’s own Famine Review Committee admitted in a report that the claims about insufficient food being sent to Gaza were unfounded. The narrative appears to be based on a misleading interpretation of data, specifically the undercounting of private-sector food trucks and other deliveries. It is crucial to note that prior to October 7, daily supplies of food, fuel, and other materials were regularly trucked into Gaza from Israel, debunking the widely circulated accusation that Israel blockaded the Strip. Meanwhile, Egypt has maintained a closure of its border with Gaza. Despite these revelations, the truth about the situation in Gaza has not been widely reported. Seth Mandel, writing in Commentary, highlighted the findings of the U.N. report and other analyses that debunk the famine claims. Similarly, Seth Frantzman in The Jerusalem Post cited the work of two Columbia University professors who analyzed the data and refuted the idea that Israel is starving Palestinians. These studies show that food is indeed flowing into Gaza. While there are undoubtedly food distribution problems in Gaza due to the ongoing military conflict initiated by Hamas on October 7, these issues are not caused by a shortage of food. The quantity of supplies being shipped into Gaza from Israel is sufficient to feed its population. Israel's efforts to maintain the flow of aid into Gaza are unprecedented in the history of armed conflict. Traditionally, warring powers are not responsible for feeding their enemies, particularly those living under hostile combatants, as is the case with Palestinians under Hamas control. The U.S. has acknowledged that much of the aid entering Gaza via the floating pier has not reached its intended recipients, with Hamas operatives hijacking the supplies. This diversion of aid, intended for civilians, underscores the primary obstacle to the smooth flow of humanitarian assistance: the actions of Hamas. Additionally, smuggling activities have exacerbated the situation. Gangs affiliated with various terrorist movements have impeded efforts to distribute aid, with reports indicating that cigarette smuggling is a significant factor contributing to shortages. Trucks meant for transporting food and fuel are being used to carry contraband tobacco, further complicating the delivery of essential supplies. Given these facts, why do media outlets, international organizations, and the Biden administration continue to discuss starvation and blame Israel for this largely fictional catastrophe? The answer lies in the broader context of the conflict. Many of these entities have accepted the narrative that Israel is a “settler/colonial” and “apartheid” state, justifying almost any tactic used by its enemies. The inflated claims of a Gaza famine are part of a long list of falsehoods aimed at vilifying Israel since October 7. This conflict has seen media outlets amplify Hamas propaganda, including falsehoods about specific attacks and exaggerated casualty figures. These same outlets have been quick to report every accusation against Israel while downplaying or ignoring evidence to the contrary. For instance, even The New York Times, which has contributed to the famine narrative, admitted in a buried report that there is no food shortage in northern Gaza. The portrayal of Israel as committing genocide against Palestinians is a gross misrepresentation. The reality is that Hamas terrorists are responsible for the suffering of their own people, as they prioritize their military objectives over the welfare of civilians. Every death and hardship faced by Palestinians since October 7 is a direct result of Hamas's actions, including their practice of using civilians as human shields and diverting humanitarian aid for their own use. The mythical Gaza famine is a clear example of how the Palestinians, supported by certain international actors, are manipulating the narrative to cast Israel in a negative light. This propaganda campaign relies on age-old antisemitic tropes, accusing Jews of conspiring to harm others. It is essential for discerning individuals to recognize this for what it is: a 21st-century blood libel. By stripping away the emotionalism and partisan bias that color so much of contemporary journalism, the claim that Israel is starving the Palestinians is exposed as a baseless accusation. The ongoing conflict, marked by Hamas's relentless aggression and Israel's defensive measures, must be understood in its true context, free from the distortions of propaganda. Credit: JNS 2024-06-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

A post with conspiracy nonsense has been removed @BangkokHank

Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un have formalized a significant agreement in Pyongyang, pledging mutual assistance in the event of "aggression" against either Russia or North Korea. This development was announced by Putin following his first visit to North Korea since 2000, marking a critical moment in the burgeoning alliance between the two nations. Kim Jong Un emphasized that the pact elevated their relationship to "a new, high level of alliance." The agreement, which has raised concerns in the West, signifies a deepening partnership that could have considerable global ramifications. Observers suggest that a mutual defense treaty could see Russia supporting North Korea in future Korean Peninsula conflicts, while North Korea could openly assist Russia in its ongoing war in Ukraine. Kim is already accused of supplying Russia with weapons, while Putin is believed to be providing North Korea with space technology that could enhance its missile program. This alliance, strengthened by their recent comprehensive partnership agreement, includes a clause for mutual assistance against aggression, though Putin did not specify what would constitute such aggression. Facing battlefield difficulties in Ukraine, particularly with dwindling weapon supplies, Putin's meeting with Kim in September likely included discussions on military cooperation and potential arms deals. Evidence suggests Russia has been using North Korean missiles in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Western nations, including the U.S. and NATO allies, have permitted Ukraine to use Western weapons on Russian soil, a move that Kyiv hopes will shift the conflict in its favor. Putin has warned of consequences and suggested arming adversaries of the West with long-range weapons, a capability North Korea has been developing. He criticized the West's decisions as violations of international obligations and condemned sanctions on Russia and North Korea, asserting that both nations reject "the language of blackmail and diktat." Kim praised the treaty as a historic milestone in their relations and expressed unwavering support for Russia in its war on Ukraine. The pact is likely to provoke Seoul, which had previously cautioned Russia against exceeding certain limits in its alliance with North Korea. South Korean National Security Adviser Chang Ho-jin emphasized that Russia should consider which country would be more important to it post-Ukraine war. Experts, such as Rachel Lee from the Stimson Center, warn that this treaty could significantly impact the region and the world. Continued North Korean weapons supplies to Russia, combined with Russian military technology support to North Korea, could exacerbate global weapons proliferation issues. Chad O’Carroll of NK News highlighted the possibility of North Korean soldiers assisting Russia in Ukraine. Putin's visit to Pyongyang was marked by elaborate ceremonies, including a red-carpet welcome and choreographed displays of North Korean propaganda. He was greeted by Kim with an embrace upon arrival and was ferried through the capital, which was brightly lit despite the country's chronic electricity shortages. The spectacle featured massive crowds, military parades, and grand portraits of the two leaders, reflecting North Korea's traditional display of fervent devotion. During his stay, Putin attended a gala concert and state banquet, where he received a second luxury Aurus car from Kim, along with other ceremonial gifts. Kim, in turn, received a ceremonial admiral's dagger and a tea set from Putin. This visit underscored the historical significance of their alliance, with Putin last visiting Pyongyang in 2000 to meet Kim's father, Kim Jong Il. North Korea's economy has deteriorated under international sanctions, prompting Kim to seek crucial aid from Russia, including food, fuel, foreign currency, and technology. Russia played a pivotal role in supporting the Kim regime during Soviet times. Putin had promised to assist North Korea in developing its satellites, which the U.S. believes are intended to bolster its ballistic missile capabilities. This alliance not only strengthens their mutual support but also aims to counterbalance international sanctions by creating alternative networks of cooperation. Jeffrey Lewis from the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies notes that this partnership is part of a broader effort to establish a multipolar world order, challenging the current international system led by the U.S. and its allies. A wary Beijing is watching China, the dominant power in the region, remains a critical factor in this equation. Despite the apparent camaraderie between Putin and Kim, their alliance must navigate China's influence. Reports suggest Beijing discouraged Putin from visiting Pyongyang immediately after meeting Xi Jinping, reflecting China's strategic considerations. Xi faces pressure from the U.S. and Europe to reduce support for Moscow and curb the sale of components fueling Russia's war in Ukraine. China's relationship with North Korea is also complex. While providing political cover for Kim's nuclear ambitions, Beijing is wary of an emboldened North Korea. Kim's weapons tests have led to increased U.S. military presence in the region, heightening China's concerns about an "East Asian NATO." Russia might reconsider extensive military technology transfers to North Korea to avoid straining its relationship with China, a vital ally providing essential economic support. Similarly, North Korea's reliance on China for trade and resources underscores the limits of its partnership with Russia. Despite their declarations against the "imperialist West," the alliance between Russia and North Korea appears transactional and strategically limited compared to their ties with China. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Russia and North Korea does not guarantee sustained ammunition supplies, as North Korea must also maintain its own defenses against South Korea. Analysts point out the potential technical and logistical challenges in aligning the two nations' military systems, as well as the long-standing priority differences in their relations. Ultimately, while the Russia-North Korea alliance signals a significant geopolitical shift, both nations remain heavily dependent on China. Their relationship with Beijing is crucial, balancing their wartime partnership with the broader strategic imperatives shaped by China's global ambitions and economic interdependencies. Credit: BBC 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sir Rod Stewart, the iconic British rock star, encountered an unexpected reaction during his One Last Time tour performance in Leipzig, Germany, on June 14. As he performed his 1991 hit "Rhythm of My Heart," which he has long described as an anti-war anthem, the crowd's response was notably divided. The performance took a poignant turn when the Ukrainian flag was projected on the screen behind him, followed by images of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This tribute to Ukraine, amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia, led to loud boos, shouts, and whistles from a segment of the audience. Videos circulating on social media captured the moment when Sir Rod saluted the Ukrainian president, only to be met with jeers. The reasons behind the crowd's reaction remain speculative, but some suggest it may be related to the controversial EU sanctions on Russia's natural gas, which have had significant economic implications for Germany. Despite the mixed response, Sir Rod's stance on the Ukraine-Russia conflict has been clear and consistent. In 2022, he dedicated an anti-war song to Ukraine during his tour, expressing his deep concern over the war. "I dedicate that to the Ukrainians, and we bring up a Ukrainian flag and Zelensky [on the big screen]," he explained. The shocking scenes of the war deeply moved him and his wife, Penny Lancaster. "When the war started, in this household we were shocked beyond shock. Because I was born just after the war and so my family came through the Second World War, and to see another ground war with tanks, I never thought we’d see the day, it was just shocking and it’s just beyond belief now," Sir Rod remarked. Further demonstrating his support, Sir Rod revealed that he had rented and furnished a home for a family of seven Ukrainian refugees. Recounting his feelings during the early days of the war, he said, "Words couldn't describe what we were watching. The bombing of innocent children, the bombing of hospitals and playgrounds. Like everyone else, we were completely beside ourselves. I don't wish that on anyone. This is evil, pure evil." The legendary singer’s strong condemnation of Russia's actions in Ukraine and his support for the Ukrainian people have been a significant part of his public stance over the past few years. His decision to highlight these issues during his tour performances underscores his commitment to raising awareness about the conflict, despite the mixed reactions it might provoke. As Sir Rod continues his tour with a performance in Hamburg’s Barclays Arena, it remains to be seen whether he will alter his show in response to the Leipzig audience’s reaction. Regardless of the response, his dedication to supporting Ukraine is unwavering. Credit: Daily Express 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Britain's wealthiest family, the Hinduja family, has come under intense scrutiny as allegations of severe exploitation of their domestic staff have surfaced in a Geneva court. Prosecutors revealed shocking disparities in their spending, highlighting that the family spent more on their pet dog than on the wages of a servant. This revelation comes amidst accusations of trafficking and exploitation involving four family members. The servant in question was reportedly paid a mere seven Swiss francs (£6.19) to work up to 18 hours a day, seven days a week. In stark contrast, a budget document labeled “Pets” indicated that the family spent 8,584 Swiss francs in a year on their dog. The Hinduja family, with an estimated net worth of £37 billion, is facing serious legal consequences. Prosecutor Yves Bertossa has called for prison sentences of up to five-and-a-half years for the accused family members and demanded that they pay 3.5 million Swiss francs to a compensation fund for staff, along with 1 million Swiss francs in court costs. The allegations against the family include claims that staff contracts did not specify working hours or days off, and that employee passports were confiscated, restricting their ability to leave the house without permission. The lawsuit targets four family members: Prakash Hinduja, 78, his wife Kamal, their son Ajay, and his wife Namrata. Defense lawyers for the Hinduja family have dismissed the accusations, citing testimonies from workers who claimed they were treated with dignity and respect. Ajay Hinduja's lawyer, Yael Hayat, argued that the overall compensation for staff included board and lodging, and that cash salaries alone did not fully represent the value of their pay. Hayat also contested the claim of 18-hour workdays, suggesting that time spent watching movies with the children, for example, should not be considered work. Ajay Hinduja testified that he was not fully aware of the employees' working conditions, as recruitment was managed by the Hinduja Group in India. He stated that the family has since reformed their hiring practices, now employing staff locally through third-party agencies and ensuring formal payment structures. The Hinduja family, renowned for their vast wealth and influence, were ranked as Britain’s richest family by the Sunday Times Rich List, with a net worth of £37.2 billion. The family's patriarch, Srichand Hinduja, who passed away in 2023, was instrumental in building the family’s business empire. This empire includes a range of companies in India across sectors such as banking, commercial vehicle sales, and chemicals. In the UK, the family owns several high-value properties, including a historic 18th-century home near Buckingham Palace and the Old War Office building in Whitehall. They also hold interests in parts of the defunct British motoring giant British Leyland. The Hinduja family's business origins date back to 1914 when Parmanand Hinduja, the family’s founder, began trading spices, carpets, and tea in British India, in what is now Pakistan. The family expanded internationally, opening a branch in Iran in 1919. However, they were forced to relocate their operations to London following the Iranian Revolution in 1979. Srichand and Gopichand co-chaired the group from London, while Prakash managed operations in Switzerland, and Ashok handled the Indian branch. Their wealth primarily stems from exports of oil and telecommunications equipment, as well as their business of dubbing Hindi films into Persian for the Iranian market. The legal proceedings in Geneva have cast a shadow over the family's reputation, drawing attention to the stark contrasts in their lavish lifestyle and the alleged mistreatment of their employees. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the Hinduja family and their vast business empire. Credit: Independent | Daily Beast 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Suspects alleged to have attacked victim and beat her while hurling antisemitic insults before gang-raping her in park near her home. French prosecutors have opened an investigation into three teenage boys suspected of raping a 12-year-old girl in an attack motivated by antisemitism, French media reported Tuesday. An investigation was opened on Saturday night after the girl and her parents filed a police complaint in Courbevoie, near Paris, alleging that she had been attacked in a park near her home by three teenagers, who hurled antisemitic insults at her before dragging her to a shed and gang-raping her, Le Monde reported. The three attackers, aged 12, 13 and 14 years old, beat the girl and “forcibly penetrated” her while “making death threats and antisemitic remarks,” the report said, citing an unnamed police source. in Ifs, near Caen, northwestern France, on May 14, 2024. (Lou Benoist/AFP) The three attackers, aged 12, 13 and 14 years old, beat the girl and “forcibly penetrated” her while “making death threats and antisemitic remarks,” the report said, citing an unnamed police source. Two of the three attackers were identified by the girl’s friend, who had been in the park with her at the time of the attack, and all three were arrested on Monday. According to Le Parisien, one of the suspects was the girl’s former boyfriend, who confessed to the attack and said he had acted out of revenge after she hid her religious identity from him. French media outlets reported that investigators uncovered antisemitic content on the suspect’s phone, although that was not confirmed. Following the attack, the girl was taken to a local hospital, where she underwent a gynecological examination that confirmed she had been raped. The Nanterre public prosecutor’s office confirmed to local news outlets that the teenagers were being investigated on suspicion of “aggravated rape, aggravated sexual assault, attempted extortion, invasion of privacy, death threats,” for the attack. They were also being investigated for violence and hate speech due to the antisemitic nature of the attack. One of the three suspects was placed in detention and the other two were in police custody, due to their age. They were scheduled to appear before a judge on Tuesday and prosecutors requested that they remain in detention until they are charged and tried. Antisemitism has surged in France in the wake of the October 7 Hamas terror assault in southern Israel and subsequent war in Gaza. Of the 1,676 antisemitic incidents reported in France in 2023 — up from 436 the year prior — 74 percent occurred after October 7. Credit: TOI 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

In a candid appearance on CBS’s "The Late Show" with Stephen Colbert, former chief White House medical adviser Anthony Fauci offered a stark diagnosis of the current state of the United States, likening it to a patient suffering from "a degree of schizophrenia." When prompted by Colbert to diagnose America as if it were a patient, Fauci suggested the nation needed a psychologist rather than a surgeon or an internist. Fauci elaborated, describing the extreme divisions within the country and emphasizing that while people seem drastically different, they often forget how much they have in common. Fauci, who was instrumental in the country’s COVID-19 pandemic response under both the Trump and Biden administrations, has become a polarizing figure. His encouragement for people to get vaccinated and his public health measures have made him a target for the right. Reflecting on his relationship with former President Donald Trump, Fauci revealed it was initially positive. However, tensions rose when Trump began to downplay the severity of the virus and spread misinformation. Fauci felt compelled to publicly contradict the former president, a move he knew would be uncomfortable but necessary to correct the public narrative. Fauci’s forthcoming book will delve into his experiences working with Trump and the various challenges encountered during the pandemic. He recounted the personal toll his public health advocacy has taken, including harassment and death threats directed at him and his family. Despite the backlash, Fauci maintained that his public contradictions of Trump were not intended to undermine the presidency but to rectify misinformation. He expressed a deep respect for the office of the president, acknowledging the difficult balance he had to maintain between public health messaging and political sensitivities. Fauci also lamented the increasing politicization of science, describing it as a disturbing and relatively new phenomenon. Recalling his early days as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease in 1984, Fauci noted that while political ideologies were always present, the current climate of hostility and vitriol is unprecedented. This shift, he suggested, reflects a broader societal divide that mirrors the schizophrenia he perceives in the nation today. The conversation with Colbert highlighted the profound impact of the pandemic on American society and the complex interplay between science, politics, and public perception. Fauci’s reflections underscored the challenges of navigating these turbulent waters while striving to maintain public trust and promote accurate health information. As the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of the pandemic, Fauci’s insights offer a sobering reminder of the importance of unity and the need to bridge the divides that have grown so pronounced in recent years. Credit: Hill 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

The Return of Peace Through Strength The ancient Latin phrase "si vis pacem, para bellum," meaning "If you want peace, prepare for war," encapsulates a concept that has influenced leaders from the Roman Emperor Hadrian to modern U.S. Presidents. This idea of achieving peace through strength—or the threat of strength—was echoed by George Washington, who told Congress in 1793 that securing peace required being perpetually ready for war. Theodore Roosevelt’s famous dictum, “Speak softly, and carry a big stick,” similarly reflects this principle, as did Ronald Reagan’s promise to achieve “peace through strength,” which he fulfilled during his presidency. In 2017, President Donald Trump resurrected this ethos in the White House, marking a departure from the preceding Obama administration, which Trump criticized for weakening U.S. military power and apologizing for American foreign policy. Trump asserted this renewed stance at the UN General Assembly in September 2020, declaring that the United States was fulfilling its destiny as a peacemaker through strength. Contrary to the often negative portrayals of Trump, his administration’s record shows significant peacemaking achievements. Within the final 16 months of his term, the U.S. facilitated the Abraham Accords, fostering peace between Israel and three neighboring countries plus Sudan, brokered economic normalization between Serbia and Kosovo, and helped resolve the rift between Egypt and key Gulf states with Qatar. Additionally, the U.S. agreement with the Taliban prevented American combat deaths in Afghanistan for nearly a year. Trump’s presidency was marked by a determination to avoid new wars and protracted counterinsurgency operations, making it the first since Jimmy Carter’s term without the U.S. entering new conflicts or expanding existing ones. Under Trump, the U.S. also claimed victory over the Islamic State (ISIS), eliminating its leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and dismantling it as a military force. Despite these successes, Trump’s tenure saw adversaries exercising caution rather than aggression. Russia refrained from further incursions following its 2014 invasion of Ukraine, Iran did not directly attack Israel, and North Korea ceased nuclear weapon testing after diplomatic efforts combined with a show of U.S. military strength. While China maintained an aggressive stance, Trump’s decisive actions, such as the 2017 airstrike on Syria following Assad’s use of chemical weapons, underscored his commitment to enforcing red lines. Today, the call for a restoration of Trump’s peace-through-strength policy is more urgent than ever, especially in the face of China’s rising challenge. President Biden’s administration has sent mixed signals about the threat posed by Beijing, retaining Trump-era tariffs and export controls but also attempting to revive pre-Trump cooperation with China. This approach has been criticized as more performative than substantive, with high-level visits to Beijing delivering firm warnings alongside promises of restored cooperation. Such mixed messages risk undermining U.S. strategic clarity. China’s ambitions to surpass the U.S. in technological and economic domains through state subsidies, intellectual property theft, and unfair trade practices necessitate a robust American response. Trump began a de facto policy of economic decoupling by imposing tariffs on Chinese exports, a strategy that needs intensification. A proposed 60 percent tariff on Chinese goods and stricter export controls on technology beneficial to China’s military would further this agenda. While maintaining open communication lines with Beijing, the U.S. should prioritize strengthening alliances in the Pacific with nations like Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and South Korea, and fostering emerging partnerships with Indonesia and Vietnam. Contrary to concerns, regional officials have welcomed Trump’s forthright discussions about mutual defense responsibilities, viewing his approach as enhancing regional security. Joint military exercises and strategic deployments, such as the disinvitation of China from the annual Rim of the Pacific war games in 2018, exemplify this strategy. Enhancing Taiwan’s defense spending and capabilities is crucial. Despite Taiwan’s considerable defense budget, increased investment and clarity in U.S. arms supply and defense commitments are necessary. Congressional support for military grants, loans, and weapons transfers to nations like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam would bolster their defenses against Chinese aggression. Moreover, the U.S. Navy should reposition its resources, including moving an aircraft carrier to the Pacific and deploying the entire Marine Corps to the region, prioritizing missile defenses and fighter jet protection at Pacific bases. This strategic reallocation from other global missions would address current deficiencies and reinforce U.S. military presence in the Pacific. In summary, the principle of peace through strength remains a vital framework for U.S. foreign policy. Trump’s approach demonstrated the effectiveness of this strategy, achieving significant peacemaking successes and maintaining deterrence against adversaries. As the U.S. navigates ongoing geopolitical challenges, particularly with China, a renewed commitment to this policy could ensure continued peace and stability. Credit: Foreign Affairs 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

The Maldives government is grappling with a contentious decision to ban Israeli tourists, reflecting the complexities of national sentiment and economic reliance on tourism. The initial announcement on June 10, followed by a swift move in Parliament to amend immigration laws, aimed to bar entry to Israeli passport holders and those with dual citizenship. However, this policy has encountered significant pushback and reconsideration. Attorney General Ahmed Usham indicated on June 13 that the proposed ban would likely not be a "blanket" prohibition on all Israeli citizens. The government decided to amend the bill to address concerns particularly affecting Arab Muslim or Palestinian citizens of Israel. Usham noted the complications of a complete ban, emphasizing, “There are a lot of Palestinian citizens who hold the Israeli passport, counting in the millions. So what would happen if we do a blanket ban like that, these are matters we should think about a little.” The bill, originally proposed by opposition MP Meekail Naseem from the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), followed President Mohamed Muizzu’s earlier resolution to impose a ban on Israeli passports. With the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) pushing forward, the measure quickly became a legislative priority. The Maldives Parliament unanimously accepted the bill and sent it for committee review, illustrating the depth of support for this action among lawmakers. However, the government’s stance has shifted amid concerns over potential legal issues and the broader implications for the country. Usham denied that the government had reversed its position but acknowledged the need to carefully consider the ramifications of a blanket ban, particularly regarding Israelis with dual citizenship or diplomatic passports. The proposed ban resonates with the popular will of the Maldivian people, who are predominantly Sunni Muslim and have historically sympathized with Palestinian refugees. This sentiment was further fueled by recent events in Gaza, where the rising civilian death toll sparked public outrage. In mid-November, demonstrators gathered outside Parliament, demanding the ban on Israeli tourists. The following day, the foreign relations committee advised the president to proceed with the prohibition, and a non-binding resolution to that effect was unanimously passed in early January. Despite these strong sentiments, the Muizzu administration initially maintained that the president could not unilaterally enforce such a ban, leaving it to the opposition-controlled Parliament to pass the necessary legal changes. The pressure intensified after the PNC won a supermajority in April’s parliamentary election, culminating in the announcement amid a growing public outcry. While there is a consensus in favor of the ban, concerns have arisen about its potential impact on the Maldives’ tourism-dependent economy. Resort operators fear that the ban could undermine the country's reputation as a welcoming destination that offers on-arrival visas to tourists from all nations. An industry veteran, speaking anonymously to local outlet Dhauru, highlighted the risks, stating, “The Maldives is famous as a very hospitable country where everyone can spend their holiday very peacefully and safely. But such actions [as banning nationals of certain countries] are diametrically opposed to that. So travel agents will be hesitant and we are getting questions about what’s happening.” An unnamed source echoed these sentiments in an interview with Sun, warning that the Maldives’ brand as a safe haven for people of all faiths and nationalities could suffer. The source cautioned that the ban could foster a perception of antisemitism or religious extremism, potentially deterring foreign tourists. While some voices on social media, including a state minister and a local tour operator, have criticized the blanket ban and suggested targeting Israeli leaders instead, supporters argue that Palestinians with Israeli citizenship could still visit the Maldives using other travel documents. Israeli tourists, mainly surfers, began visiting the Maldives after a previous ban was lifted in the early 1990s. Despite not being a significant market, Israeli tourists represented 0.58 percent of arrivals last year. Official figures show that 10,966 Israelis visited the Maldives in 2023, down from a peak of 15,748 tourists in 2022. In the first four months of 2024, just over 500 Israeli tourists visited the Maldives. Following the government’s announcement, Israel’s Foreign Ministry advised Israeli tourists to leave the Maldives and urged its citizens to avoid traveling there, stating, “Because if they find themselves in distress for any reason, it will be difficult for us to assist.” The imminent ban received extensive international media coverage, earning both praise and criticism. The announcement prompted a U.S. member of Congress to propose legislation to cut off American aid to the Maldives. In response, local protests have continued outside outlets of Western franchises such as Pizza Hut and KFC as part of a broader boycott campaign. Despite the intense debate, President Muizzu launched a fundraising telethon on Wednesday dedicated to aid for Palestinians, appealing for Maldivians to “display an abundance of generosity.” The 15-hour telethon organized by state media raised nearly $650,000. The government is also planning a nationwide rally under the slogan “Maldivians in Solidarity with Palestine.” During Monday’s parliamentary debate on the immigration bill, Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim from the ruling PNC advised the reviewing committee to carefully assess the potential economic and national security consequences. Parliamentarian Qasim Ibrahim, owner of the Villa resorts, opposed the ban on the grounds that a Muslim nation should not bar entry to Jews, referring to their status in Islam as followers of a previous revelation of Allah. Ibrahim urged MPs to “think deeply” before approving the ban, noting, “There are lots of Islamic countries in the world aside from the Maldives. But this might be the first Parliament where taking such a step has been proposed.” Credit: The Diplomat 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Robert Redfield, former Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), has issued a stark warning about the likelihood of a bird flu pandemic. According to Redfield, the question is not if, but when this pandemic will occur. His alarming prediction comes amidst the backdrop of avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, wreaking havoc on bird populations globally. Over the past two years, bird flu has decimated millions of wild and domestic birds worldwide, yet human cases have remained relatively rare. Redfield, however, is convinced that this will change. In an interview with NewsNation's Brian Entin, he stated, "I really do think it’s very likely that we will, at some time, it’s not a question of if, it’s more of a question of when we will have a bird flu pandemic." He emphasized the potential severity of such an outbreak, noting that bird flu could have a significant mortality rate in humans, potentially between 25% and 50%, compared to COVID-19’s death rate of 0.6%. Bird flu, an infection caused by influenza viruses that typically spread in birds and other animals, can infect humans who come into contact with an infected animal’s body fluids, such as spit, respiratory droplets, or feces. It can also spread if a person inhales dust particles in animal habitats or comes into contact with the fluids through the eyes, nose, or mouth. People working with poultry, waterfowl, and livestock are particularly vulnerable. The Cleveland Clinic describes avian influenza as an infection primarily affecting birds, with human cases being extremely rare. However, Redfield, drawing on his extensive experience and research, outlined the conditions necessary for the virus to spread between humans. He explained that for bird flu to become transmissible among humans, five specific amino acids in the virus’s key receptor must mutate to allow it to bind to human receptors. Once this occurs, human-to-human transmission would become possible, potentially triggering a pandemic. Redfield’s concern is heightened by recent developments. The virus has been detected in dozens of cattle across the United States, and the World Health Organization reported the first human death from bird flu in Mexico. He highlighted that while it remains unclear how long it will take for the necessary mutations to occur, the presence of the virus in cattle herds is troubling. Research by Jenna Guthmiller, an assistant professor of immunology and microbiology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, sheds light on how bird flu might have spread to cattle. Guthmiller suggested that milking machines could be carrying the virus, as high levels have been found in the cows’ udders. This unusual outbreak in cattle, which are not natural hosts for influenza A viruses, has shocked the scientific community. Despite these alarming signs, the CDC maintains that the general public’s current risk of contracting bird flu remains low. However, the agency is taking precautions, such as tracking wastewater treatment sites to monitor the virus’s presence. Nirav Shah, the CDC’s principal deputy director, noted that while the virus has not yet shown signs of spreading from person to person, the risk increases if infected individuals exhibit respiratory symptoms. Shah explained, “Simply put, someone who’s coughing may be more likely to transmit the virus than someone who has an eye infection like conjunctivitis.” There have been three confirmed human cases of bird flu this year, all involving farmworkers directly exposed to infected dairy cattle. The first two cases in Texas and Michigan reported mild symptoms, including eye inflammation, while the third case in Michigan exhibited upper respiratory problems, sore throat, cough, and congestion. The CDC is monitoring 350 people exposed to infected dairy cows and has tested 39 individuals for the virus. As the situation develops, the CDC stresses that bird flu remains primarily an animal health issue but is preparing for the possibility of a greater human health risk. The agency outlined symptoms of bird flu in humans, which range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe respiratory issues and even neurological problems. In rare cases, symptoms can include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or seizures. To combat a potential outbreak, researchers are developing new vaccines. Traditional influenza vaccines are made using fertilized eggs, which poses risks if wild birds carrying the virus contaminate vaccine production. However, a new experimental mRNA vaccine, developed by the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Medicine, could offer a solution. Unlike conventional vaccines, mRNA vaccines do not require eggs and could be more effective in managing outbreaks of the H5N1 virus in birds and cattle, as well as preventing human infections. In conclusion, while the general public’s immediate risk remains low, the potential for a bird flu pandemic looms on the horizon. Former CDC Director Robert Redfield’s warnings underscore the need for vigilance and preparedness as scientists and health officials work to mitigate the threat of this deadly virus. Related Topics: Travellers Urged to Monitor for Bird Flu Symptoms After Trips Abroad U.S. to Invest Millions in mRNA Bird Flu Vaccine Amid H5N1 Threat Bird Flu in Cattle Should You Be Concerned? First Human Case of Bird Flu Reported in Australia Amid New Farm Outbreak Credit: Hill 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

The Texas pastor had been on Trump's "spiritual advisory committee." Pastor Robert Morris, a prominent figure in the evangelical community and the senior pastor of Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, has resigned following a grave admission of child sex abuse. Morris's resignation came three days after he confessed to engaging in "sexual behavior" with a child during the 1980s. The board of elders at Gateway Church announced Morris’s resignation on Tuesday in a statement to NBC News. They revealed that Morris had admitted to the inappropriate sexual behavior with a young girl, a revelation that has shocked the church community and beyond. "The elders’ prior understanding was that Morris’s extramarital relationship, which he had discussed many times throughout his ministry, was with 'a young lady' and not abuse of a 12-year-old child," the church leaders stated. They emphasized that they were unaware of the victim's age or the prolonged nature of the abuse until recently. "Even though it occurred many years before Gateway was established, as leaders of the church, we regret that we did not have the information that we now have." To ensure a thorough understanding of the allegations, Gateway Church has enlisted the law firm Haynes & Boone to conduct an independent review. This step aims to provide a complete and transparent account of the events surrounding the abuse allegations. Morris, who previously served on President Donald Trump’s spiritual advisory committee, has long spoken to his congregation about a "moral failure" involving sexual sin during his early years as a minister. However, the full extent of his actions was not known until now. Cindy Clemishire, now 54, disclosed in a post on the church watchdog site The Wartburg Watch that she was 12 when Morris first sexually abused her in 1982. According to Clemishire, the abuse continued for more than four years. She told NBC News on Monday that the abuse began when she was a child, casting a new and disturbing light on Morris's past confessions of moral failure. In response to Clemishire's allegations, Gateway Church and Morris issued statements on Friday and Saturday acknowledging that Morris had engaged in "sexual behavior with a young lady." They claimed the "sin was dealt with correctly by confession and repentance," but this response has not satisfied all parties involved. Clemishire expressed mixed feelings about Morris's resignation in a statement released on Tuesday. "Though I am grateful that he is no longer a pastor at Gateway, I am disappointed that the Board of Elders allowed him to resign," she said. "He should have been terminated." Clemishire added that she had repeatedly disclosed the abuse to church leaders and pastors, including those at Gateway, but it was only after she spoke out publicly that any action was taken. The revelation has not only rocked Gateway Church but has also prompted broader discussions about accountability and transparency within religious institutions. The independent review by Haynes & Boone is expected to shed more light on the extent of the abuse and the church's handling of the situation. Credit: NBC 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Labour has suspended one of its candidates, Andy Brown, who is standing in Aberdeenshire North and Moray East, after reports surfaced that he shared "pro-Russian" material online. The Press and Journal first reported that Brown also shared a post downplaying allegations of antisemitism within the Labour Party. A Labour spokesperson confirmed that Brown had been suspended pending an investigation. The suspension comes in light of a social media post Brown shared in April 2018, weeks after the Salisbury poisonings, from the Russian state media outlet RT. The article claimed that the toxin used in the Salisbury incident was "never produced in Russia, but was in service in the US, UK, and other NATO states." In a separate instance in April 2018, Brown shared a quote from a Jewish historian stating, "the real issue... is that right-wing Jews in the Labour Party and outside the party object to the fact that Jeremy Corbyn is a consistent supporter of Palestinian rights." A Scottish Labour spokesperson emphasized the party's commitment to high standards, stating, "Andy Brown has been administratively suspended from the Labour Party pending investigation. We have taken the decision to withdraw support from a parliamentary candidate during a General Election. Anas Sarwar and Keir Starmer have changed the Labour Party and said that every candidate and MP would operate to the highest standards. This action shows that they meant it." Due to the timing of the suspension, after the political nominations deadline, Brown's name will still appear next to the Labour logo on the ballot paper for the election on July 4th. However, if elected, he will stand as an independent. In the Aberdeenshire North and Moray East constituency, the Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross and SNP's Seamus Logan are also running as candidates. Credit: BBC 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

At least 550 pilgrims have died during this year's Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, highlighting the severe challenges posed by extreme heat. The temperatures during the pilgrimage soared past 50°C, leading to a significant number of heat-related deaths and illnesses. Among the deceased, 323 were Egyptians, most of whom succumbed to heat-related illnesses, according to two Arab diplomats coordinating their countries' responses. "All of them [the Egyptians] died because of heat," except for one individual who sustained fatal injuries during a minor crowd crush, one diplomat stated, noting that the figures were sourced from the hospital morgue in the Al-Muaisem neighborhood of Mecca. In addition to the Egyptians, at least 60 Jordanians have died, an increase from an earlier official tally of 41 provided by Amman. The overall death toll reported by multiple countries now stands at 577, based on an AFP tally. The diplomats noted that the total count at the Al-Muaisem morgue was 550. Egypt’s foreign ministry reported collaborating with Saudi authorities to locate Egyptians who had gone missing during the Hajj. While the ministry acknowledged a certain number of deaths, it did not specify if Egyptians were among them. Saudi authorities have treated more than 2,000 pilgrims for heat stress, although they have not updated this figure since Sunday and have not provided details on fatalities. Last year, 240 pilgrims were reported dead, most of them Indonesians. The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, must be completed at least once by all Muslims with the means to do so. The pilgrimage has increasingly been affected by climate change. A Saudi study published last month indicated that temperatures in the areas where Hajj rituals are performed have been rising by 0.4°C (0.72°F) each decade. On Monday, temperatures at the Grand Mosque in Mecca reached 51.8°C, according to the Saudi national meteorology center. AFP journalists in Mina, near Mecca, observed pilgrims pouring bottles of water over their heads as volunteers distributed cold drinks and quickly melting chocolate ice cream to help them stay cool. Saudi officials had advised pilgrims to use umbrellas, drink plenty of water, and avoid sun exposure during the hottest parts of the day. However, many Hajj rituals, including the prayers on Mount Arafat, require being outdoors for extended periods during the daytime. Some pilgrims reported seeing motionless bodies on the roadside and described overwhelmed ambulance services. Approximately 1.8 million pilgrims participated in this year's Hajj, with 1.6 million coming from abroad, according to Saudi authorities. Each year, tens of thousands of pilgrims attempt to perform the Hajj without securing official visas to save money. These unregistered pilgrims face greater risks as they lack access to air-conditioned facilities provided by Saudi authorities. One diplomat noted that the Egyptian death toll was likely increased by a large number of unregistered Egyptian pilgrims. Earlier this month, Saudi officials removed hundreds of thousands of unregistered pilgrims from Mecca before the Hajj began. Other countries, including Indonesia, Iran, and Senegal, have also reported deaths during this year's pilgrimage. However, most countries have not specified how many deaths were due to heat. Hosting the Hajj is a significant source of prestige for the Saudi royal family, with King Salman holding the title "Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques" in Mecca and Medina. Saudi Health Minister Fahd bin Abdul Rahman Al-Jalajel stated on Tuesday that health plans for the Hajj had been successfully implemented, preventing major disease outbreaks and other public health threats, according to the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA). A virtual hospital provided over 5,800 virtual consultations to pilgrims, primarily for heat-related illnesses, enabling prompt intervention and mitigating the potential for a surge in cases, the SPA reported. Credit: The Guardian 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Israel has issued a stark warning to Hezbollah, suggesting the prospect of an "all-out war" after the Lebanese militant group released a provocative nine-minute video. This video, purportedly shot by a drone, showcased Israeli military and civilian sites in several cities, escalating already high tensions between the two entities. Foreign Minister Israel Katz emphasized the gravity of the situation on social media, stating, “We are getting very close to the moment of deciding to change the rules of the game against Hezbollah and Lebanon. In an all-out war, Hezbollah will be destroyed, and Lebanon severely beaten.” Katz’s statement underscores Israel's growing impatience and readiness to take severe action if provoked further. The Hezbollah footage, filmed during the day, claimed to capture various locations in Krayot, a cluster of residential cities north of Haifa, as well as military and industrial sites including those belonging to Israeli weapons manufacturer Rafael, Iron Dome batteries, missile storage, radar sites, military boats, and oil storage depots in the port of Haifa. This video comes amid escalating cross-border attacks between Hezbollah and Israel following the October 7 Hamas attacks and the subsequent Israeli military campaign in Gaza. Katz highlighted the potential global repercussions of attacks on Haifa, noting the involvement of international companies from China and India in the port operations. The U.S. and its allies have long warned Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group with a formidable paramilitary force, against escalating the conflict in Israel. Despite these warnings, tensions have continued to rise. CNN’s analysis confirmed the authenticity of the footage, pinpointing sensitive locations in Haifa, including military installations and critical infrastructure like oil tanks and Haifa airport. Analysis of the footage suggested that the drone mission lasted several hours or spanned multiple days, with parts of the video being sped up for effect. Weapons expert Wim Zwijnenburg identified the drone in the footage as an Iranian-origin Qasaf-2k model, likely manufactured locally, highlighting the advanced capabilities Hezbollah might possess. The mayor of Haifa, Yona Yahav, termed the video "psychological terror" and demanded a robust protection plan for the city, criticizing IDF commanders for not visiting Haifa since the recent Hamas attack. Hezbollah has signaled that this video is just the beginning, suggesting more footage might be released. Ibrahim Mousawi, a Hezbollah lawmaker, hinted at more significant threats, referencing a phrase by Hezbollah’s Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah from the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war about attacking "Haifa and beyond." In response to the escalating threats, Israel’s military has increased its readiness, with validated operational plans for an offensive in Lebanon, indicating a serious preparation for potential conflict. These plans, though not indicative of an imminent war, show Israel's intent to be prepared for any scenario. Hezbollah’s actions since October 7 have included firing over 5,000 rockets, missiles, and drones at northern Israel, claiming solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Hezbollah has indicated that it will cease attacks only if Israel halts its military operations in Gaza. Israel has conducted hundreds of strikes in Lebanon and evacuated around 60,000 residents from its northern border area. Similarly, over 90,000 Lebanese have fled their homes in response to the rising hostilities. The U.S. has been actively seeking a diplomatic solution to prevent a broader regional conflict, sending special envoy Amos Hochstein to Israel and Lebanon in an effort to de-escalate tensions. Credit: CNN 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

“Hamas should give us a map of the safe zones we can stay in, because if we knew there were hostages in the neighborhood, we would have looked for another place,” To the outside world, Ahmad Al-Jamal was a respected 73-year-old general practitioner and imam in the Gaza Strip refugee camp of Nuseirat. He was a community fixture, working mornings at a public clinic and afternoons at his small private clinic, performing procedures such as circumcisions. At the local mosque, he was known for his beautiful voice reciting the Quran. However, behind the facade of his normal life lay a dark secret: for several months, Al-Jamal's apartment was a prison for three Israeli hostages hidden there for Hamas. It was widely known in Nuseirat that the Al-Jamal family had close ties to Hamas, but few in the densely populated central Gaza area were aware of the secret held within the walls of their small, darkened apartment. According to the hostages and Israeli security forces, their captors included Al-Jamal’s son, 37-year-old Palestinian journalist Abdullah Al-Jamal. From their locked and guarded room, the hostages could hear Abdullah, his wife Fatma, a phlebotomist, and their children living their daily lives in the same apartment. This hidden captivity came to a violent end when Israeli commandos, acting on intelligence, raided the apartment, extracted the hostages, and destroyed the building with an airstrike. Local residents confirmed that Ahmad, Abdullah, and Fatma were killed in the operation. The Al-Jamal children survived the raid, according to a next-door neighbor. Just a few blocks away, another family with Hamas connections, the Abu Nar family, was holding Noa Argamani, a well-known hostage taken during the Nova festival on October 7. Her kidnapping was widely seen on video. The Abu Nar family was also killed in an Israeli operation, and their building was destroyed. Local residents mentioned that this family was less prominent in the neighborhood compared to the Al-Jamals. Surviving members of the Al-Jamal family either declined to comment or couldn’t be reached. The Israeli military’s operation in Nuseirat on June 8, aimed at rescuing the hostages, led to heavy casualties among Palestinians due to intense fighting. Israeli military sources stated that the special forces eliminated armed Hamas militants guarding the hostages but did not specify whether family members encountered were also killed. The military did not comment on the destruction of the buildings. The site where the Al-Jamal family once lived has since become a place of morbid curiosity, attracting locals eager to see where the hostages had been held. The rescue operation, marked by fierce combat and heavy airstrikes, has sparked discussions among local residents about the wisdom of Hamas holding hostages in residential areas. Some were surprised, given the difficulty of keeping secrets in the densely built neighborhood where even a cough can be heard through the concrete walls. Others expressed anger at Hamas for putting civilians in danger, with some suggesting that hostages should have been held in tunnels or returned to Israel to negotiate a ceasefire. Mustafa Muhammad, a 36-year-old who fled from Gaza City to Nuseirat with his family, criticized Hamas for endangering civilians. "Hamas should give us a map of the safe zones we can stay in, because if we knew there were hostages in the neighborhood, we would have looked for another place," he said. Muhammad and his family found themselves trapped with nowhere safe to go during the raid. While some hostages have been kept in tunnels, many have been held in apartments, likely reflecting the difficulty of moving so many captives in an active war zone. Ahmad and Abdullah Al-Jamal belonged to an extended family with several ties to Hamas. Ahmad’s brother, Abdelrahman Al-Jamal, is a Hamas lawmaker in Gaza’s legislative council. Abdullah, a freelance contributor to the Palestine Chronicle, also worked for the Hamas-run news agency Palestine Now and served as a spokesman for Gaza’s Hamas-run Ministry of Labor. He openly supported the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, which killed nearly 1,200 people, mostly civilians. "Praise be to God…Oh God, guide us…Oh God, grant us the victory you promised," Abdullah posted on Facebook that day. The Palestine Chronicle expressed sadness over Abdullah’s death and denied his involvement in holding Israeli hostages. The Al-Jamal family was well-regarded in Nuseirat, a refugee camp that has grown into a dense urban area since its establishment after the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. Ahmad was seen frequently during the war, continuing his routine between his clinic, the mosque, and buying groceries. Abdullah, however, was rarely seen, according to neighbors. Ali Bkhit, a social-media consultant from the neighborhood, recalled Ahmad Al-Jamal’s role in his community. "Dr. Ahmad was the one who circumcised my three boys," Bkhit said. "When I dealt with him, he was a nice character; his smile never left his face." Bkhit also remembered Ahmad’s voice reciting the Quran at the local Al-Farouk Mosque, describing it as beautiful and admired by many. He was shocked to learn about the hostages, not expecting the family to be so involved in Hamas’s conflict with Israel. Israeli intelligence discovered the hostages' location in May, leading special forces to practice the rescue mission on models of the two apartment blocks for weeks. The return of the hostages to Israel was a moment of rare joy amidst a grim war that continues with the goal of destroying Hamas and rescuing the remaining hostages. The rescue operation in Nuseirat led to severe bombardment and intense ground combat, causing significant casualties. Palestinian health authorities reported 274 deaths and nearly 700 injuries, while Israeli military figures cited around 100 casualties, including militants and civilians. These numbers have not been independently verified. Rescue team leader Arnon Zamora was wounded in the operation and later died. A video released by Israel’s military showed commandos entering a room to find the three male hostages. In another building 200 yards away, Noa Argamani was also rescued. Abdullah Al-Jamal’s recent articles for the Palestine Chronicle accused Israel of massacres and genocide in Gaza. Just days before his death, he wrote about Gaza families taking in displaced people, with an article titled “My House Will Always Be Open.” The contrast between his public advocacy and the hidden reality of his involvement in holding hostages underscores the complex and tragic dimensions of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Related Topics Israeli Forces Rescue Hostages, Held By Al Jazeera & Palestine Chronicle Journalist Exposing What Others Prefer to Hide The Dismal State of Hamas Propoganda by Media Al Jazeera journalist reportedly moonlights as Hamas commander claims IDF Credit: Wall Street Journal 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Link to an off topic unapproved activist website has been removed. The topic here is: Israeli Forces Rescue Hostages, Held By Al Jazeera & Palestine Chronicle Journalist

New topic: Exposing What Others Prefer to Hide The Dismal State of Hamas Propoganda by Media https://aseannow.com/topic/1330043-exposing-what-others-prefer-to-hide-the-dismal-state-of-hamas-propoganda-by-media/

In a forceful critique, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg condemned China on Monday for its duplicity in publicly supporting Ukraine while secretly aiding Russia with military supplies. Speaking at the Wilson Center in Washington, DC, Stoltenberg accused China of exacerbating the most significant conflict in Europe since World War II, stating, “China is fueling the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II. At the same time, it wants to maintain good relations with the West. Well, Beijing cannot have it both ways.” Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, China has maintained a publicly neutral stance, advocating for peace and claiming to uphold a strategic partnership with Ukraine. On June 3, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated Beijing’s commitment to Ukraine, highlighting that China remains Ukraine’s largest trading partner and maintains normal embassy operations in Kyiv. “Since the full escalation of the Ukraine crisis, China has maintained communication and cooperation with Ukraine,” Mao Ning stated. Despite these public declarations, China has simultaneously solidified its position as Russia’s largest trading partner, especially significant as many countries have imposed sanctions on Russia. While Beijing insists it has not supplied Russia with weapons for use in Ukraine, US officials argue that this claim is misleading. Stoltenberg pointed out that China has been providing Russia with critical technological components essential for its war efforts, including materials for producing missiles, tanks, and aircraft. “Beijing is sharing high-end technologies, like semiconductors or dual-use items. Last year, Russia imported 90% of its microelectronics from China,” Stoltenberg noted. The NATO chief emphasized that these contributions have significantly bolstered Russia’s defense capabilities, enabling continued aggression in Ukraine and undermining the impact of international sanctions. “All of this enables much death and destruction on Ukraine, bolsters Russia’s defense industrial base, and evades the impact of sanctions and export controls,” he asserted. In response to these actions, the US recently sanctioned seven Chinese companies for shipping materials to Russia that could be used in weapons systems. This move underscores the US position that security threats from Russia and China are intertwined. Stoltenberg dismissed the notion that threats in Europe posed by Russia and those in the Asia-Pacific posed by China could be separated. “Our security is global, not regional, and that’s very clearly demonstrated in Ukraine,” he said. China has often invoked respect for territorial integrity in its international rhetoric, a principle it uses to justify its claims in the South China Sea and over Taiwan. However, this stance has not extended to urging Russia to return Crimea to Ukraine or the Donbas region to Kyiv. Instead, China has taken steps perceived as pro-Moscow, such as proposing a controversial peace plan last year that was criticized for being heavily skewed in favor of Russian demands. The US dismissed the plan, with National Security Council spokesman John Kirby describing it as potentially “one-sided and reflect only the Russian perspective.” Recently, China declined an invitation to a peace summit in Lucerne, Switzerland, attended by representatives from over 100 nations and international organizations. Beijing’s refusal was reportedly due to Moscow's absence from the meeting. Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning explained, “China has repeatedly stressed that the international peace conference needs to meet the three important elements – namely, recognition from both Russia and Ukraine, equal participation of all parties, and fair discussion of all peace plans. As far as China is concerned, the meeting does not yet seem to meet these three elements, and that is exactly why China would not be able to take part in the meeting.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, addressing the summit, expressed hope that Russia and, by extension, China, would participate in future iterations of the event. The absence of China at such peace initiatives underscores the complex and often contradictory role Beijing plays in the ongoing conflict, as it attempts to balance its international relationships while supporting its strategic ally, Russia. Stoltenberg's critique highlights the growing frustration within NATO and Western nations over China’s actions, which, despite its claims of neutrality and peace advocacy, have significantly contributed to the prolongation and escalation of the conflict in Ukraine. The situation exemplifies the broader geopolitical struggle and the intricate web of alliances and enmities that define current international relations. Credit: NYP 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

A Philippine sailor has sustained severe injuries after Chinese forces obstructed an Armed Forces of the Philippines resupply mission in the South China Sea. This mission aimed to deliver supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre (LT-57) outpost at Second Thomas Shoal. The incident also caused damage to several Philippine vessels, as confirmed by Pentagon officials to USNI News. The sailor was injured due to what has been described as the “PRC vessels’ dangerous and deliberate use of water cannons, ramming, and blocking maneuvers,” according to a statement from U.S. Army Maj Pete Nguyen, a spokesperson for the Office of the Secretary of Defense. This incident marks the third time Philippine personnel have been injured during resupply missions to the Marine outpost at Second Thomas Shoal, an area frequently contested by China and the Philippines. The South China Sea, particularly Second Thomas Shoal, has been a hotspot for numerous confrontations between China and the Philippines, with recent incidents escalating in severity. Earlier instances of such conflicts have resulted in injuries to Philippine sailors, with the first reported case occurring in March, where four sailors were hurt. Although the Pentagon did not specify which Philippine vessels were involved, Ray Powell, director of the SeaLight Project at Stanford University's Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation, observed the Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Bacagay (MRRV-4110) operating near Second Thomas Shoal. The vessel was reportedly surrounded by Chinese ships at the time of the incident. Despite the Pentagon’s referral of further inquiries to the Philippine government, Manila has not released any images or a detailed timeline of events, a departure from their usual practice of promptly sharing visual evidence following Chinese blockades. Jay Tarriela, spokesperson for the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea, refrained from commenting on the incident, citing it as an Armed Forces of the Philippines operation. Tarriela has previously been swift in issuing statements regarding Chinese blockades. Chinese state media was the first to report the incident, justifying the actions of the China Coast Guard as lawful “control measures” against the Philippine vessels. According to the Chinese report, the Philippine resupply vessel violated International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, placing the blame for the collision entirely on the Philippines. “The responsibility for the incident lies entirely with the Philippine side,” the China Coast Guard asserted in their release. Conversely, a statement from the National Task Force on the West Philippine Sea accused ships from the People’s Liberation Army Navy, China Coast Guard, and Chinese Maritime Militia of performing “dangerous maneuvers.” However, this statement did not mention any injuries to Philippine personnel. It also claimed that Chinese forces rammed and towed Philippine vessels, though the extent of these actions remains unclear. This is reportedly the first instance of China towing Philippine vessels in their South China Sea disputes, an action defined as pulling, pushing, or hauling. The Pentagon has expressed strong support for the Philippines, condemning China’s actions. “We stand with our Philippine allies and condemn the escalatory and irresponsible actions by the PRC to deny the Philippines from executing a lawful maritime operation in the South China Sea,” reads the Pentagon statement. The U.S. and the Philippines have a mutual defense pact that could be invoked if Chinese forces attack Philippine military or coast guard personnel. This was reiterated by a March U.S. State Department statement, affirming that the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty covers armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft in the South China Sea. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos has previously warned that the death of any Filipino in South China Sea operations would cross a significant threshold. “If a Filipino citizen was killed by a willful act, that is very close to what we define as an act of war,” Marcos stated in May during the Shangri-La Dialogue. “We would have crossed the Rubicon. Is that a red line? Almost certainly.” The ongoing confrontations in the South China Sea highlight the volatile nature of the region and the complexities of the geopolitical landscape. The latest incident underscores the escalating risks and the potential for conflict between the involved nations, with significant implications for regional security and international relations. This incident is not just a clash of vessels at sea but a manifestation of the broader geopolitical struggle between China and its neighbors, backed by their respective allies. The South China Sea is a critical waterway, rich in resources and strategic importance, making it a focal point of territorial disputes. The Philippines, backed by the United States, has been asserting its claims against China’s expansive territorial assertions, which include building and militarizing artificial islands. The international community watches closely as these incidents unfold, understanding that the South China Sea’s stability affects global trade routes and regional security dynamics. The aggressive maneuvers by Chinese vessels and the resulting injuries to Philippine sailors have further strained relations and could potentially lead to more significant confrontations if not addressed through diplomatic channels. The United States has reiterated its commitment to the defense of the Philippines, emphasizing that any attack on Philippine forces would trigger mutual defense obligations under existing treaties. This commitment underscores the strategic importance of the Philippines to U.S. interests in the region and serves as a warning to China about the potential consequences of its actions. The situation remains tense, with the possibility of further incidents as both nations continue to assert their claims in the contested waters. The international community, particularly ASEAN and other regional stakeholders, may need to intervene to de-escalate tensions and promote a peaceful resolution to the disputes. The South China Sea’s future remains uncertain, with each incident bringing the region closer to a potential flashpoint. UPDATE: U.S. Condemns China Over Aggressive Actions in South China Sea Incident The United States has strongly condemned China following a collision between a Chinese vessel and a Philippine supply ship in the disputed South China Sea. This incident, which occurred near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands, is the latest in a series of confrontations that have heightened tensions and raised the risk of a larger conflict in this strategically important waterway. The collision took place early Monday, according to statements from both nations, each blaming the other for the incident. The United States has voiced its support for the Philippines, condemning China's actions as "aggressive" and "dangerous." MaryKay Carlson, the U.S. ambassador to Manila, took to social media platform X to criticize China's maneuvers, which she said "caused bodily injury" and "damaged Philippine vessels." Credit: US Naval Institute | CNN 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

“There will be consequences.” It was the warning a fuming Joe Biden hurled at Saudi Arabia during a CNN interview in the autumn of 2022, a week after the kingdom announced deep cuts to its oil production. The US president feared the move risked pushing up crude prices amid the turmoil triggered by Russia’s war in Ukraine. American officials, blindsided by the Saudi decision, considered it a slap in the face to an administration concerned about domestic gasoline prices in the run-up to midterm elections. For Biden, it was personal. The production cut announced by Opec+, the Saudi-led oil cartel, came just three months after he had expended significant political capital by traveling to the kingdom for talks with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whom the president had previously refused to engage with. Behind the scenes, harsh words were exchanged. Some in the administration thought the Saudis, who insisted their decision had been based on market dynamics, had deliberately screwed them. It became a make-or-break moment after months of efforts to repair ties between the two. Biden threatened another “review” of the relationship. Yet the “consequences” Biden threatened never materialized and what could have been a rupture instead became merely a setback in attempts by both sides to rebuild the relationship. In the months since, relations between the US and Saudi Arabia have blossomed, with the kingdom transitioning from pariah to what administration officials describe as one of Washington’s most important global partners. US officials note with irony that today it is Israel, not Saudi Arabia, that is standing in the way of a historic deal that would reshape the Middle East: the normalization of diplomatic relations between the kingdom and the Jewish state. Such a rapprochement — while impossible as the Israel-Hamas war continues — would deliver Biden a signature foreign policy achievement and Prince Mohammed his long-cherished US-Saudi defense pact. US officials believe it could be a key part of a sustainable resolution to the crisis in Gaza. “One thing that is sure to keep a pathway to [a two-state solution] alive is the influence of Saudi Arabia,” says a senior Biden administration official. “It is the one thing that really, truly moves the Israelis.” In part, the dramatic shift in tone is a reflection of how Biden’s foreign policy has been driven by events rather than ideology, just as Barack Obama’s was before him. The volatile Middle East perennially sucks in US presidents even as they seek to pivot away from the region, a factor brought into sharper focus after Hamas’s October 7 attack ignited the group’s war with Israel. It also underlines the importance to American domestic politics of energy from the Gulf; although the US has reduced its dependence on oil imports, what happens in the Middle East still affects global prices. But at its core was a realpolitik realization in Washington that in the game of great-power competition, Saudi Arabia was too important to ignore, with concerns that if the administration did not engage with Riyadh, a traditional US ally would fall deeper into the orbit of China and Russia. “How do you keep Russia from aligning with Saudi Arabia? You have to have a relationship [with the Saudis]; how do you keep China from aligning with Saudi Arabia? You have a relationship,” says Jon Alterman at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. “Part of the argument, [for the rapprochement], is they couldn’t abandon the Middle East to China, and the Saudis reminded the administration of the Chinese option at every opportunity they got.” The US-Saudi relationship has been through highs and lows over the decades, but improved significantly after President Donald Trump succeeded Obama and pursued a transactional relationship with Riyadh. The Republican president made his first overseas trip to the kingdom and inked billions in arms deals. “They have been a great ally in our very important fight against Iran,” Trump said in 2018, only weeks after the brutal murder in Turkey of the US-based Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents. But Biden did a 180-degree turn. He had vowed on the campaign trail to reassess ties with the world’s top oil exporter and promised to make Riyadh “pay the price” for the killing of Khashoggi. Biden also accused the kingdom of “murdering children’‘ in an apparent reference to Saudi Arabia’s war in Yemen. Once in office, he began to act on his threats. A week after his inauguration, he suspended offensive arms sales to the kingdom. A month later, Biden released a classified intelligence report that concluded that Prince Mohammed, the kingdom’s de facto leader, approved a mission to “capture or kill” Khashoggi. (Riyadh blamed the murder on a “rogue operation”). In the background, however, lines of communication were kept open. Brett McGurk, the White House’s top Middle East adviser and veteran of previous administrations, made an early trip to the kingdom in a bid to quietly reassure the Saudis that things would improve after a few months. Riyadh also made moves viewed in Washington as overtures to the new president. Shortly before Biden’s inauguration, Saudi Arabia lifted a more than three-year regional embargo on Qatar, another key US ally, that helped foster a region-wide mood shift towards de-escalation between rival Middle East powers. In February 2021, Riyadh released Loujain al-Hathloul, a prominent Saudi activist. But relations were still strained when Biden dispatched his national security adviser Jake Sullivan to the kingdom in September that year. US officials tentatively discussed the possibility of a meeting between Biden and Prince Mohammed at a G20 gathering in Rome the following month, but those plans were scuppered when the crown prince chose not to attend the summit in person. In the end, it was Vladimir Putin who delivered the key turning point. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 sent energy prices to multiyear highs and US officials feared that Riyadh, which had been cooperating with Moscow on oil production since 2016, might side with the Russian president. “Great power competition with China and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine understandably changed the Biden administration’s views of Saudi Arabia from a problematic partner to a coveted swing state,” says Karim Sadjadpour, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment. Many in the administration, including in the State Department, were still resistant to stepping up engagement with Prince Mohammed. But those who argued that pragmatism trumped moral outrage won the day. Biden dispatched McGurk and Amos Hochstein, the White House’s chief energy adviser and one of the few administration figures with a background in the oil and gas industry, to the kingdom in January 2022, weeks before Russian tanks rolled into Ukraine. The pair have visited frequently ever since. As relations tentatively improved, the Biden administration floated the idea of a grand deal for Saudi Arabia to normalize ties with Israel. The carrot for Riyadh, long irked by what it regards as US unpredictability and a perceived lack of commitment to the Gulf’s security, was a defense treaty similar to the one the US shares with Japan, and cooperation with its nascent civilian nuclear program. Discussions also began on a potential Biden trip to the kingdom, despite continued consternation across sections of the administration. The case for supporters of the outreach was helped by Riyadh agreeing in April 2022 to a UN-brokered truce with the Iran-backed Houthi rebels they had been fighting in Yemen. Biden’s trip to Jeddah eventually took place in July, weeks after Opec+ agreed to a modest increase in crude output, something Washington had pushed for in the hope of containing oil prices. The optics of the meeting in the Saudi port appeared frosty, with an awkward fist-bump greeting between the aging president and the millennial prince. But US officials insist it went well, clearing the air on differences and laying the foundations for areas of cooperation. “The point of the Jeddah visit was to break the ice and allow bureaucracies to engage. Once they started talking there was the sense of possibility,” says Alterman. But then the furore over Opec+’s October decision to cut output ahead of November midterms erupted, causing some irate members of the administration to suspect that elements within Saudi Arabia wanted the Democrats to lose at the polls. For months there was negligible contact. Riyadh cold-shouldered Washington and hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping for a summit in December, underlining its burgeoning ties to a country that over the past two decades has become the kingdom’s biggest buyer of oil and its largest trading partner. But as tempers cooled and oil prices remained relatively stable, vindicating the Saudis and persuading US officials that the decision to cut was based on market dynamics rather than politics, the channels of communication were eventually reopened. “It was a tense moment, heading into an election,” says the senior administration official. “I think it’s fair to say there was a misunderstanding of what [the Saudis] were trying to do.” Now, says a Saudi official, the relationship is “a hundred times better than it was when this administration came in.” The point US officials make is that the relationship today is about much more than just oil. The Biden administration realized that in addition to keeping Saudi Arabia from slipping further into China’s orbit, it needed Riyadh’s cooperation on other objectives, such as ending the war in Yemen and de-escalating tensions with Iran. Petrodollars have also influenced attitudes; Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund invested more than $100bn in the US between 2017 and 2023. “The fundamentals are not just the historic defense relationship . . . [Saudi Arabia] is a G20 country that wants to work with us on a huge [range of issues],” says another senior US official. The Saudis, like others in the Gulf, have hedged their relationships with a range of countries over the past decade as the US was perceived to be disengaging from the region. But there is a recognition that neither China nor Russia could replicate the US’s security or diplomatic role. Credit: Times 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Unveiling the Media's Role in Hamas' Manipulation of the Gaza Conflict The interplay between media coverage and the activities of Hamas in Gaza presents a disturbing picture of manipulation, misinformation, and propaganda. The death of Abdallah Aljamal, a journalist affiliated with Hamas, during an Israeli raid aimed at rescuing hostages, brings to light the dismal state of press coverage from Gaza. Aljamal, far from being an innocent journalist, was directly involved in holding Israeli civilians captive, a fact that has been largely overlooked by international media. This incident exposes a broader issue: the systematic weaponization of the press by Hamas and the unwitting complicity of journalists who operate within Gaza. Israeli officials have long warned about Hamas' manipulation of the media. Maj. Nir Dinar, an Israeli military spokesman, stated, "Hamas sees press, and especially press that is stationed inside Gaza, as a tool in its war. The only goal is to survive, and [Hamas leader Yahya] Sinwar knows that the only way in which he can survive is creating international pressure on Israel." This statement underscores the tactical use of media by Hamas to generate sympathy and international condemnation of Israel's actions, regardless of the underlying realities of the conflict. The Palestine Chronicle, a U.S.-based media outlet registered as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, exemplifies how pro-Hamas sentiment can masquerade as independent journalism. The outlet claims to consist of "professional journalists and respected writers and authors who don’t speak on behalf of any political party or champion any specific political agenda." However, a closer examination of the contributors' digital footprints reveals clear pro-Hamas sympathies. Aljamal, who was identified by the freed Israeli hostages as one of their captors, regularly posted content on social media expressing support for Hamas. In one instance, he shared an image of a funeral procession with a Hamas flag and fighters, and in another, he posted photos of a young boy in Hamas garb at a training camp. His support for the October 7 attack, in which nearly 1,200 Israelis were killed, further underscores his alignment with Hamas. Following the Israeli operation that resulted in Aljamal's death, the Palestine Chronicle attempted to distance itself from him, first describing him as a "correspondent" and later as a "contributor." This shift in language highlights the outlet's attempt to manage its public image amidst growing scrutiny. In his obituary, the Chronicle claimed, "Aljamal’s relationship with the Palestine Chronicle was that of a freelance contributor. He was neither a staff writer nor a contractor." This denial, however, does little to address the broader issue of the outlet's apparent pro-Hamas bias. Ramzy Baroud, the Chronicle’s editor-in-chief, further exemplifies this bias. In a live chat on X (formerly known as Twitter), Baroud praised the October 7 perpetrators and spread misinformation about their victims. He incorrectly claimed that the attack targeted Israeli settlements on occupied Gazan territory and falsely stated that the abductees were "mostly soldiers" when the majority were civilians. Baroud's statement, "We cannot or should not apologize for the resistance. Resisting is a human right," underscores his ideological alignment with Hamas. The Chronicle's contributors have also been linked to Iranian state-run media, revealing a troubling nexus between U.S.-based pro-Hamas outlets and Iranian propaganda efforts. Stories published by the Chronicle have lauded figures like Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and praised Iran's support for the Palestinian cause. These connections raise serious questions about the Chronicle's objectivity and its role in spreading anti-Israel sentiment. In light of these revelations, a group of Republican senators has called on the Biden administration to revoke the Palestine Chronicle's tax-exempt status, citing its apparent ties to a U.S.-designated terrorist group. Sen. Ted Budd of North Carolina stated, "The potential link between this publication and Hamas terrorists should be more than enough justification for the IRS to open an investigation into their tax-exempt status in the United States. If the terrorism links are proven and substantiated, this status should be immediately revoked." Despite the gravity of these allegations, the Chronicle’s potential ties to terrorist organizations have received limited attention from major U.S. media outlets. The coverage of the recent Israeli hostage rescue operation serves as a microcosm of the media's approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Major Western media outlets, including the Associated Press, have largely focused on the unsubstantiated civilian death toll provided by the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. This reliance on Hamas' figures often leads to a skewed portrayal of the conflict, with Israeli military actions framed as disproportionately violent. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, spokesman for the Israel Defense Forces, estimated that the operation killed "under 100," including Hamas operatives and civilians caught in the crossfire. Yet, the headline from the Associated Press read: "How an Israeli raid freed 4 hostages and killed at least 274 Palestinians in Gaza." This pattern of coverage reflects what author and journalist Matti Friedman describes as the media's "predictable" role in every major conflict since 2008. According to Friedman, "Hamas attacks, Israel has some legitimacy to respond, the legitimacy runs low as the number of civilian casualties—real or manufactured—increases, and, at some point, Israel has to stop fighting and Hamas has time to regroup and attack again. This is predicated on the Western press playing ball [with Hamas]." Hamas' exploitation of the media involves inflating death tolls, conflating civilian and combatant deaths, and falsely attributing destruction caused by Palestinian rockets to Israeli airstrikes. Hamas embeds its fighters and weapons in civilian buildings, including mosques, schools, and hospitals, to either deter Israeli strikes or provoke international condemnation when strikes occur. A prime example is Hamas' extensive tunnel network beneath densely populated areas of Gaza, designed to protect its fighters while leaving civilians vulnerable. Despite the presence of major Western news organizations in Gaza, these military tunnels receive minimal coverage because, as Friedman asserts, "That’s the story you’re not supposed to cover. It would subvert the political goal of the coverage, so the press has been more or less happy, as far as I can tell, to look where Hamas tells them to look." The media's role in the Gaza conflict is not merely about reporting the news; it is about the selective presentation of facts and the framing of narratives that can profoundly influence international opinion and policy. The failure to critically examine sources like the Gaza Health Ministry or the Palestine Chronicle, and the tendency to overlook the complexities of Hamas' tactics, contribute to a distorted understanding of the conflict. This distortion serves Hamas' strategic interests, enabling it to perpetuate a cycle of violence under the guise of resistance and victimhood. The international community and media must recognize and address the ways in which they are manipulated by Hamas. A more rigorous, skeptical approach to sources and narratives is essential for providing an accurate depiction of the conflict. Only through such scrutiny can the media fulfill its duty to inform the public truthfully and prevent itself from becoming an unwitting accomplice in the perpetuation of violence and terror. Related Topics: Israeli Forces Rescue Hostages, Held By Al Jazeera & Palestine Chronicle Journalist Al Jazeera journalist reportedly moonlights as Hamas commander claims IDF Credit: The Dispatch 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe