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A baiting post making light of the incident explanation has been removed @Jeff the Chef

@SMIAI please use the quote button when replying to another member instead of pinging them with their user name. It creates confusion and a disjointed reply that can lead to bickering in addition to not quoting their full in context post which is against forum rules. Comment on moderation from the same poster also removed. This topic is not about the West Bank.

A way off topic post with oversize font and a comments on moderation have been removed.

Title: Submerged Secrets: Could Japan’s Yonaguni Monument Rewrite Human History? Off the southern coast of Japan, beneath the waters surrounding the Ryukyu Islands, lies a mysterious stone formation that has reignited global fascination with ancient civilizations. The Yonaguni Monument, sitting 82 feet underwater and rising nearly 90 feet in height, may be far more than just a natural rock formation. If proven to be man-made, it could predate Egypt’s pyramids and England’s Stonehenge by thousands of years, suggesting the existence of a sophisticated civilization long before the dawn of agriculture. Discovered in 1986, the Yonaguni Monument features wide terraces, angular steps, and formations that appear carved with purpose. The precision and scale of the site have led some researchers and enthusiasts to call it “Japan’s Atlantis.” Many now speculate that it could be the oldest known human-made structure on Earth — potentially over 10,000 years old. If true, such a revelation would challenge everything we currently believe about the capabilities of ancient humans and the timeline of civilization. Supporters of the theory argue that Yonaguni shows clear signs of intelligent design. Author Graham Hancock, known for his controversial work on lost civilizations, recently debated the monument’s origins on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast with archaeologist Flint Dibble. “To me, Flint, it’s stunning that you see that as a totally natural thing, but I guess we’ve just got very different eyes,” Hancock said. He pointed to what he believes are carved steps, megaliths, arches, and even a face-like engraving etched into the rock. “If this really was built by a mysterious civilization more than 10,000 years ago, it would place Yonaguni in the same league as Göbekli Tepe in Turkey — one of the oldest known man-made structures, dated to around 9500 BC.” Dibble, however, remains unconvinced. “I’ve seen a lot of crazy natural stuff and I see nothing here that to me reminds me of human architecture,” he said during their discussion. That skepticism is shared by other scientists, including Boston University’s Robert Schoch, who has argued the structure is the result of natural geological processes. “The sandstones tend to break along planes and give you these very straight edges, particularly in an area with lots of faults and tectonic activity,” Schoch explained in a past interview with National Geographic. Yet not all experts dismiss the possibility of human involvement. Japanese geologist Masaaki Kimura has long supported the theory that Yonaguni is a man-made structure and has even linked it to the mythical lost continent of Lemuria. Kimura once suggested the monument could have been constructed 2,000 to 3,000 years ago, when sea levels were lower and the site was potentially above water. Whether a submerged city lost to time or simply a remarkable geological oddity, the Yonaguni Monument continues to provoke curiosity and controversy. For now, the mystery remains unresolved — resting quietly beneath the sea as divers and scientists continue to search for answers. Based on a report by NYP 2025-04-09

Famed paranormalist and former CIA collaborator Uri Geller has sounded an alarming warning of impending global catastrophe, issuing a plea to former President Donald Trump to take decisive action against Iran's nuclear ambitions. Geller, known for his decades of work with intelligence agencies and his alleged psychic abilities, claims to have seen a terrifying vision of Armageddon—one that he insists is not rooted in imagination but in genuine premonition. “I have seen Armageddon and it is real — with walls of fire, US bases in flames and Middle Eastern cities in ruins. Even the sea boils,” Geller revealed. “This is not mere imagination. I have had premonitions all my life. I see things before they happen. But the vision that has been haunting me for the past few days is the most terrifying yet.” According to Geller, his vision began with a nuclear bomb being launched by Iran. He described seeing Iranian military personnel turning keys and hearing the Farsi language. He is convinced this marks the beginning of a global disaster unless urgent action is taken. “There is only one nation on Earth that has the firepower to prevent this nightmare from becoming reality: the United States of America,” he stated. Geller’s plea is direct: do not strike a new nuclear agreement with Iran. “The US must not sign any deal with Iran that gives it time to keep developing its nuclear weapons. The only safe course of action is to halt Tehran's bomb-making right now.” He refers to recent testimony by General Anthony Cotton, head of US Strategic Command, who told the Senate that Iran could produce enough enriched uranium for a nuclear bomb in under a week. “Gen. Cotton last month told the US Senate that Iran's 'breakout time' — the period needed to enrich enough uranium for one bomb — is now a matter of days.” The paranormalist fears that if Iran cannot yet launch a nuclear missile, they may smuggle a bomb into Israel, Europe, or even a major US city like Philadelphia, New York, or Miami. “It would not require any sophisticated type of delivery system, just an overwhelming hatred of the West and everything we stand for,” Geller said. “Iran's Quds Force, which operates overseas, could be ordered to make this happen.” Geller paints a chilling picture of a regime that might view the destruction of a Western city as divine justice, saying, “Iran's leaders, who speak of the US as 'the Great Satan', might see the obliteration of an American city as God's will — even though it could lead to a worldwide nuclear holocaust and the end of human civilization.” His confidence in these visions comes from a lifetime of experiences, including a notorious moment in 1970 when, during a demonstration in Tel Aviv, he spontaneously declared that Egypt’s President Nasser had died—just moments after the heart attack that took his life. “Later, I discovered that my premonition came within a few minutes of Nasser's death, perhaps even at the moment he died.” Following this, both the Israeli military and the CIA took Geller’s abilities seriously, enlisting him in the top-secret Stargate program, which used psychic “remote viewing” to spy on foreign threats during the Cold War. He claims that such programs likely continue today in hidden rooms across the United States. “My role was to absorb whatever I felt as we flashed overhead,” he said of missions conducted at high speed over suspected nuclear sites. He even participated in surveillance over tunnels from North Korea into South Korea, an experience he says makes him certain Iran’s program is not peaceful. “I can even feel the existence of the tunnels, spiraling out like a subterranean spider's web.” He believes that the ayatollahs of Iran will do whatever it takes to achieve nuclear capability and that they view it as essential for their survival. “The regime knows it cannot survive without the ultimate deterrent. But it is not there yet. President Trump must prevent this – and do so now.” Geller warns that any deal with Iran will be used as a smokescreen. “The ayatollahs will lie their way to a bomb and use a deal with the US as the perfect cover. President Trump can go down in history as the savior of the world... or as the leader who let Iran destroy it.” In his closing plea, he states with unwavering urgency, “Dear Mr President, do not let my warning go unheeded.” Based on a report by The Daily Mail 2025-04-07

BBC Faces Backlash Over Use of Term ‘Revert’ in Islam Coverage The BBC has come under fire for using the term “reverts” to describe Muslim converts in a recent news article, sparking accusations that the national broadcaster was echoing “Islamist propaganda.” The contentious term appeared throughout a piece published on BBC News about Eid, the Muslim festival marking the end of Ramadan, before the article was later edited in response to growing criticism. The term “revert” is rooted in the belief held by some Muslims that every human is born into Islam and that conversion later in life is, in fact, a return to that original faith. This notion is not universally accepted within the Muslim community and is often associated with more hardline or fundamentalist interpretations of the religion. Tom Tugendhat, a Conservative MP and former security minister, condemned the language used, stating, “Calling converts ‘reverts’ is ideology, not fact. It’s claiming we’re all ‘originally’ Muslim and those who convert are rediscovering their faith. That’s Islamist propaganda and has no place on the BBC.” Tugendhat, who holds a master’s degree in Islamic studies from the University of Cambridge, further argued that, “Mainstream Islam is clear on conversion as a route to salvation in keeping with other faiths. This is not the same. I don’t object to theological language, I object to the BBC claiming it is the appropriate term.” Following the backlash, the article was edited on Saturday to remove most instances of the word “revert.” Initially, it remained in the headline and in quotes, but a second round of edits later replaced “reverts” with “converts” in the headline as well. An explanatory note was also added to clarify the context: “Some Muslims refer to ‘revert’ when talking about people who have converted to the Muslim faith. This is based on the belief that everyone is born as a Muslim and those who embrace Islam are returning to their ‘natural state’.” The original article had focused on the experience of new Muslims during Eid, emphasizing the sense of isolation some converts may feel during a holiday typically spent with family. It also highlighted the work of New Muslim Circle, a charity in Peterborough that supports people who have embraced Islam by teaching them how to pray and organizing community gatherings. However, criticism of the terminology continued from various experts and public figures. Dr Taj Hargey of the Oxford Institute for British Islam was especially blunt in his assessment. “It is used by Islamic fundamentalists in their propaganda that everyone is born Muslim,” he said. “It is utter tosh and the correct term to use is ‘convert’. It is concerning that the BBC has chosen to use this divisive term that most Muslims would not use, only extremists and supremacists.” Dr Paul Stott, head of security and extremism at the Policy Exchange think tank, questioned the editorial judgment behind the original wording. “Why is the national broadcaster using such a loaded term without quote, qualification or detailed explanation?” he asked. “The position that Islam is the natural state of all humans, and that converts to the faith are reverting to it, may be something some or even most Muslims accept. But believers in other faiths do not think that. Nor do atheists. So why is the BBC giving it currency?” Steve Baker, the former Conservative MP, also weighed in, expressing concern over the implications. “This kind of excess does Muslims a grave disservice and surely is among the reasons a worrying anti-Muslim hatred is rising. Moderation is the key. This from the BBC is not it.” In response to the criticism, a spokesperson for the BBC said: “This piece has been edited, and the headline changed, to make it clearer for readers.” According to internal sources, BBC editors later concluded that the use of the term “revert” should have been clearly attributed to interviewees and explained in full in the original publication. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-04-07

Beneath the Surface: The Silent Battle for Britain's Waters Russian surveillance sensors designed to track the UK’s nuclear submarines have been uncovered in British waters, revealing a hidden front in what military officials describe as an escalating campaign of “greyzone” warfare. These covert devices, discovered by the British military, include several that washed ashore and others found by the Royal Navy. While the exact locations have not been disclosed, the sensors are believed to be the work of Moscow, deployed to monitor the Vanguard-class submarines that carry the UK’s nuclear deterrent. The revelation, which has not been made public until now, points to a serious threat to national security. One of the four Vanguard submarines is always at sea under the UK’s continuous at-sea deterrent, a defence strategy that depends on stealth. The aim of these hidden Russian devices, officials believe, is to detect and track these submarines as they vanish from their base at Faslane, Scotland, for months-long patrols in unknown locations. A three-month investigation by The Sunday Times has shed light on this underwater espionage through interviews with more than a dozen former defence ministers, senior military officials and experts. It also included rare access to the RFA Proteus, a newly commissioned deep-sea surveillance ship at the heart of Britain's response to these undersea threats. Military commanders have compared the growing technological struggle beneath the waves to the Cold War space race. With Russia decades into its investment in seabed warfare, Britain is now scrambling to catch up. On March 21, a speedboat carried journalists and senior naval officers to the RFA Proteus anchored off Scotland’s west coast. Towering above the waters near the Isle of Arran, the ship is a floating fortress outfitted with a helipad, deep-sea cranes, and a moon pool the size of eight snooker tables for launching underwater vehicles. The crew includes members of the navy’s diving and mine-hunting squadrons—experts trained to locate and neutralise threats on the ocean floor. Their mission has become more urgent amid fears that Russia is using its formidable underwater capabilities to map and sabotage Britain’s critical infrastructure. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, Russia’s conventional forces diminished, but it never stopped pouring resources into its submarine fleet. Unlike any other country, Russia maintains a fleet dedicated to seabed warfare and espionage. These submarines are not only highly advanced but also capable of deep-sea operations beyond the reach of many NATO vessels. Russia’s undersea strategy intensified even before its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. According to military sources, the Kremlin’s focus expanded to surveillance and sabotage of underwater internet cables, pipelines, and military lines—critical arteries for the West. The Nord Stream gas pipeline explosion in 2022 was widely believed to be a greyzone attack orchestrated by Moscow. Since then, at least 11 internet cables in the Baltic Sea have suffered damage—some by ships dragging their anchors across the seabed in suspiciously calculated patterns. “You really need to keep the [engine] power on to drag, so it is a deliberate act,” said one defence insider. British military sources also suspect that oligarch-owned superyachts may have been used to support Russia’s underwater reconnaissance. These luxury vessels often feature moon pools—hidden underwater openings—capable of deploying deep-sea equipment covertly. The Russian program is coordinated by the Main Directorate for Deep-Sea Research, or Gugi, and features vessels such as the Yantar, a spy ship capable of deploying mini-subs with manipulator arms that can cut or tap cables and lay explosive devices. These minisubs are supported by larger “mother” submarines, allowing them to operate globally with near-total secrecy. “There should be no doubt, there is a war raging in the Atlantic,” said a senior British military official. “This is a game of cat and mouse that has continued since the ending of the Cold War, and is now heating up again. We are seeing phenomenal amounts of Russian activity.” As British forces work to locate and counter these threats, the question now is not just how to respond—but how to stay ahead in a silent war already underway beneath the waves. Based on a report by The Times 2025-04-07

George Santos Faces Seven-Year Prison Term in Federal Fraud Case as Prosecutors Cite ‘Unparalleled Crimes’ Federal prosecutors are calling for a prison sentence of more than seven years for former U.S. Representative George Santos, citing what they describe as “unparalleled crimes” that exploited the American electoral system and left a trail of deceit, fraud, and public mistrust. In a court filing submitted Friday, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York urged the court to impose an 87-month sentence, the higher end of federal sentencing guidelines, arguing Santos’ conduct had “made a mockery” of the democratic process. “From his creation of a wholly fictitious biography to his callous theft of money from elderly and impaired donors, Santos’s unrestrained greed and voracious appetite for fame enabled him to exploit the very system by which we select our representatives,” prosecutors wrote in the filing. They described him as “unrepentant and defiant,” pointing to his long-standing denials and characterization of the prosecution as a “witch hunt” even as damning evidence emerged and calls for his resignation mounted. Santos ultimately pleaded guilty to federal fraud and identity theft charges in August 2023, admitting he deceived donors, stole the identities of nearly a dozen individuals—including family members—and falsified financial documents to secure campaign donations and federal matching funds. The once-promising Republican from New York, who served barely a year in Congress before his expulsion in December, now awaits sentencing on April 25. Despite his guilty plea, prosecutors say Santos has not shown genuine remorse. They argue his post-plea apologies “ring hollow,” noting that he has neither forfeited the financial gains nor made restitution to his victims. They also raised concerns about the potential for reoffending, citing his continued attempts to profit from his notoriety, including through the video platform Cameo and a new documentary, which they say earned him over $800,000 since his ouster from Congress. Santos’ attorneys, however, have called the sentencing recommendation “absurd and unfounded.” In their own memo submitted Friday, they urged the judge to impose the mandatory minimum two-year sentence for aggravated identity theft, claiming such a term would be consistent with those handed down in similar political scandals, including the case of former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. They also highlighted Santos’ lack of prior criminal history and his role in supporting his sister and her young daughter, arguing these are mitigating factors the court should weigh. “This sentence, coupled with the significant collateral consequences Mr. Santos has already suffered—including the loss of his congressional seat and public humiliation — would send a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated,” his legal team wrote. Santos’ fall from grace has been as swift as it was stunning. Once hailed as a Republican newcomer representing parts of Queens and Long Island, he was exposed for having fabricated nearly every aspect of his resume. He falsely claimed to be a wealthy financier with degrees from elite universities and a thriving real estate portfolio. In reality, he was facing eviction and financial hardship. His lies and financial misconduct prompted a historic response from the House of Representatives, which voted to expel him—the sixth time in U.S. history a member has been removed by their peers. Santos’ criminal case has also ensnared two of his former aides. Sam Miele, a top campaign fundraiser, was sentenced last month to just over a year in prison after admitting he impersonated a senior congressional aide to solicit donations and charged credit cards without consent. Nancy Marks, the campaign’s treasurer, has pleaded guilty to filing fake financial reports, including a fictitious $500,000 personal loan from Santos, to meet fundraising targets that unlocked national party support. She is scheduled to be sentenced in May. Santos’ own sentencing was originally scheduled for February but was delayed to give him time to come up with more than $500,000 in court fines. As part of his plea deal, he agreed to pay nearly $375,000 in restitution and forfeit $205,000. At the time, his lawyers stated he had just over $1,000 in liquid assets and needed additional time to generate income from his newly launched podcast “Pants on Fire.” Whether that effort will satisfy the court remains to be seen. For now, George Santos stands as a cautionary tale about the vulnerabilities of the political system and the severe consequences of exploiting them. Based on a report by NBC News 2025-04-07

A sweeping rise in National Insurance (NI) contributions introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves is prompting almost half of UK companies to pull back on recruitment, according to new research. The move, which increases the rate of employer contributions from 13.8 per cent to 15 per cent, officially comes into effect this Sunday and is already reshaping hiring plans across the country. In a survey conducted by recruitment firm Reed, 46 per cent of the 254 companies surveyed—representing over 260,000 employees—indicated they would cut recruitment due to the NI increase. The tax change, first announced in last October's Budget, is projected to bring in an additional £25 billion in employer taxes, but many firms say it could be the final straw in an already hostile economic environment. The added burden arrives as businesses are also contending with higher minimum wages, rising business rates, and the cost of complying with updated workers' rights legislation. Many companies reported they had already postponed or cancelled hiring plans even before the rise officially began. Concerns over the increase were widespread, with nearly two-thirds of firms voicing worries about the higher NI payments. On average, respondents estimated their annual profits would fall by 29 per cent due to the change. The NI hike isn’t just freezing recruitment—it’s also triggering job losses. Sixteen per cent of the surveyed businesses said they had already begun making redundancies. Meanwhile, 19 per cent have delayed or scrapped planned salary reviews, and 22 per cent reported they were slashing departmental budgets to cope with the rising costs. London appears to be bearing the brunt of the policy shift. Sixty per cent of firms in the capital reported that the NI increase was affecting their hiring decisions, compared to 38 per cent outside the city. Furthermore, 24 per cent of London businesses said they were already making redundancies, double the 12 per cent seen in other regions. The recent rise in the national minimum wage, from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour for workers aged 21 and over, is compounding the situation. Twenty-six per cent of businesses said they had paused hiring because of the higher wage floor, while 35 per cent said it had significantly hampered their ability to recruit. James Reed, chairman and CEO of the Reed Group, voiced concern about the direction of government policy. “Everyone understands there are difficult decisions to be made given the state of the public finances, but we warned when the increase in employers' National Insurance was announced it was a tax on jobs and so it has proved,” he said. “The findings of our survey clearly demonstrate the impact and suggest the jobs market will remain under pressure. The hole this tax increase has made in a million company balance sheets is regrettable. These are tough times for companies that want to hire and expand and this will feed through into weaker economic growth.” Based on a report by The Daily Mail 2025-04-07

The Shadow War: When Vigilantism Crosses a Dangerous Line Over the past decade, self-proclaimed "paedophile hunters" have taken to the streets and screens of the UK in a mission they claim is driven by justice. Operating independently of law enforcement, these online vigilantes pose as children on social media platforms, lure suspected predators into meetings, and livestream dramatic confrontations in an effort to expose alleged offenders. But beneath the surface of this modern crusade lies a murky, dangerous undercurrent that has destroyed innocent lives, led to criminal convictions of the hunters themselves, and in some cases, pushed uncharged men to take their own lives. These groups often rely on tips from the public or online rumours to identify supposed predators. Once a suspect engages in what the hunters deem to be inappropriate communication, a meeting is arranged—only instead of a child, it’s members of the group who appear, cameras rolling, ready to shame the individual publicly. Supporters applaud their efforts, pointing to cases where police acted on the information and courts secured convictions. But the cost of these unsanctioned actions has proven devastating. One of the most tragic consequences of this vigilantism is the suicide of individuals accused before any legal process has taken place. In February, 48-year-old father of four Adrian Smith died hours after being arrested, following a confrontation filmed and streamed by hunters who accused him of sending explicit messages to someone posing as a 14-year-old girl. Though released on bail and not charged with a crime, Smith jumped from a motorway bridge later that same day. The group who had posted the video made no apology. "We exposed a paedophile and handed him to the police," they said. "We have no control over the choices made by him." The online response was horrifying. Users cheered his death, with comments such as “One down, one million to go,” and “Fantastic.” Others suggested his suicide saved taxpayers’ money. Similar circumstances surrounded the death of David Baker in 2017, who was accused of arranging to meet a boy for sex. Confronted by hunters and then released under police investigation, Baker took a fatal overdose just days later. A coroner ruled that social media posts after his arrest directly contributed to his death. Steven Dure, who led the sting, expressed no remorse: “The only tragedy here is that justice could not be done before he took his life.” These outcomes are not isolated. Numerous individuals, later found to be innocent, have had their lives shattered. Darrell Edmondson lost his job and was ostracised by friends and family after being falsely accused by a group who mistook his identity. The group later admitted their error, but the damage was done. Similarly, Shiz Hussain was livestreamed being assaulted and publicly accused after a false tip-off rooted in personal revenge. The mental toll left him hiding in his shop's toilet for days. And the hunters themselves are far from infallible. Several have been arrested and convicted for crimes ranging from false imprisonment and assault to impersonating police officers. Sam Miller was jailed after violently confronting an innocent man, and Tim Heron, once a prominent hunter in Northern Ireland, was convicted for possessing indecent images of children. The behaviour of some groups has even resulted in charges against actual suspects being dropped due to the illegality of their methods. The line between justice and harassment has blurred dangerously. In one case, a Hull city council worker passed confidential data to hunters, sparking a mob attack on a registered sex offender’s home. The court found that the leak had “whipped up a frenzy” and placed public safety at risk. There’s also the troubling revelation that some individuals posing as hunters are predators themselves. Lee Philip Rees, for example, ran a blackmail operation while pretending to be a teenage girl, extorting money from men by threatening to expose them. He was later convicted of 31 offences, including computer misuse and blackmail. While their mission might claim moral righteousness, the reality is far more complex and, at times, deeply sinister. With tragic consequences for both the guilty and the innocent, the actions of these vigilante groups raise a sobering question: in trying to protect society from harm, how much damage are they doing themselves? Based on a report by Daily Mail 2025-04-07

The Anglicisation of France: A Language Under Siege by Its Own People France is witnessing a striking transformation, not at the hands of external forces, but by its own institutions and citizens. The recent renaming of the national lottery from FDJ to FDJ United has stirred controversy, renewing longstanding debates about the increasing dominance of English in French life. While critics decry this anglicisation as grotesque and idiotic, many believe the root cause lies not in foreign influence, but in a French inferiority complex towards Anglo-American culture. Paul Rondin, director of the Cité Internationale de la Langue Française, a center dedicated to celebrating the French language, doesn’t mince words. “My hypothesis is that it’s an inferiority complex. Not so much towards the English language, but towards Anglo-American culture,” he says. Rondin describes this linguistic shift as a form of cultural submission. “I think we need collective group psychotherapy,” he adds. “Why is it that all these French people, who are supposed to be so arrogant, so sure of their culture and their history, are spending their time transforming words into an anglicised name? What does that mean? I don’t have any hypotheses or answers to give you at this time, but there’s something deeply troubling going on here.” Senator Mickaël Vallet echoes the frustration but directs his ire at those within French business and branding circles. “These are people who were paid to come up with a new name, and are lazy and, in general, just idiots,” he states bluntly. “They’re people with no inventiveness whatsoever. They’re paid a lot of money not to think.” For him, FDJ United’s new name is “totally ridiculous.” The rationale behind the rebranding, according to FDJ CEO Stéphane Pallez, was to reflect the lottery group’s growing international footprint, particularly after acquisitions in Ireland and Sweden. “Today, our group is beginning a new chapter in its history, more diversified and more international,” Pallez explained. Despite French being the fifth-most spoken language globally, its influence is shrinking. In Africa, once a bastion of francophone culture, countries like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have distanced themselves from the French language amidst political tensions. In Europe, hopes that French might reassert itself post-Brexit were dashed, as English retained its dominance across EU institutions, particularly among officials from the Baltic and Scandinavian regions. What truly alarms French language advocates is not just the presence of English, but the widespread use of "Globish"—a simplified form of English with a narrow vocabulary. “Globish is a code. It’s not a language,” says Vallet. “And when I speak to someone, I want to speak to them with a language, not with a code.” He argues that this creates a chasm between elites and the public, fueling far-Right populism. “The far-Right thrives on rifts between the elites and the people… when those in power no longer speak a language that can be understood by those they represent.” The Académie Française has similarly condemned what it calls the “invasive anglicisation” across French institutions, warning in a 30-page report that such trends risk “a proportional impoverishment of the French lexicon” and could increase societal divisions. Even President Emmanuel Macron isn’t exempt from criticism. Louis Maisonneuve, co-founder of the collective Dare to Speak French, points to Macron’s frequent use of English in his speeches and at major events like “Choose France” and “One Planet Summit.” Maisonneuve sees this not as a benign embrace of internationalism but as a form of cultural surrender. “It’s the French who are bowing down in front of everything that comes from the Americans. We’re rolling out the red carpet for the Anglo-American language.” Maisonneuve’s group has taken action, filing legal complaints to ensure multilingual signage includes languages beyond English, like Spanish. “It’s not a criticism of English expression. It’s a criticism of those who only use English,” he says. Linguist Bernard Cerquiglini goes further, highlighting that many English words are, in fact, derived from French. “My book is part of that reaction. I say to the French, ‘You’re stupid. You want to abandon French in favour of American English, without realising that English comes from French.’” With his book The English Language Doesn’t Exist – It’s Just Badly Pronounced French, Cerquiglini underscores the irony of France abandoning a language that has, in many ways, shaped English itself. “Anglomania has existed for a long time,” Cerquiglini notes, “but at the moment, it’s taking on an astonishing aspect. With [Donald] Trump right now, I don’t feel like being American.” Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-04-07

Trump Bets the White House — and GOP Control of Congress — on Tariffs In a dramatic and risky move, President Trump has thrown his political future — and that of the Republican Party — behind a sweeping new global tariff regime that has already sent shockwaves through the economy. Dubbed “Liberation Day” by the administration, the rollout of massive new tariffs has triggered a market meltdown, wiped out trillions in value, and rattled both allies and adversaries. The numbers are stark. Last Thursday and Friday alone, $6.4 trillion in stock market value evaporated, with many Americans watching helplessly as their retirement accounts and investment portfolios took a 10% hit. The economic pain is compounded by a sense of confusion. Many wonder why, at a moment when Trump was riding high on a string of policy wins and enjoying record approval ratings, he would take such a bold gamble. Indeed, Trump’s second term had been coasting on notable victories: a crackdown on illegal immigration, a government waste audit that vindicated long-standing claims of bureaucratic fraud, and a high-profile campaign to penalize universities accused of tolerating antisemitic behavior. His firm grip on swing states and a strong economy had given Republicans a solid majority in Congress. That momentum has now been put at risk. According to a Wall Street Journal poll conducted before the market crash, voters disapproved of Trump’s economic leadership by 8 points. His handling of inflation was underwater by 15. And as prices begin to climb due to import taxes, and growth forecasts dim, the situation could worsen. JPMorgan now predicts a sharp slowdown in U.S. GDP, warning of a 60% chance of a global recession if tariffs persist. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell added fuel to the fire, cautioning that tariffs could trigger both higher inflation and reduced growth. Senator Ted Cruz didn’t mince words: “If the tariff war pushes the US into a recession, particularly a bad recession, 2026 in all likelihood politically would be a bloodbath. You would face a Democrat House, and you might even face a Democrat Senate.” Yet despite the backlash, Trump remains undeterred. For him, tariffs are not a detour but the destination — a cornerstone of his America First doctrine. The goal is to revive U.S. manufacturing, shrink the trade deficit, and force global competitors to open their markets to American goods. At a post-election celebration at Mar-a-Lago, Trump hosted CEOs, including SoftBank’s chief, who pledged a $100 billion investment in the U.S. The administration claims the tariffs will generate as much as $700 billion in federal revenue this year — enough, it argues, to help fund tax cuts and other domestic priorities. More importantly, Trump insists the tariffs are about fairness. “Why is that if you go to Tokyo, there’s no American cars, if you go to Berlin, there’s no American cars, but on our streets, we have every foreign car there is?” said White House adviser Stephen Miller. “They’ve blocked their markets from our cars. President Trump is saying that has to end.” Critics accuse the White House of weaponizing tariffs too aggressively and too quickly. Rather than a phased, targeted approach, Trump has opted for a full-scale blitz across virtually all sectors and countries. Some argue this leaves no room for adjustment and threatens to alienate not just adversaries like China but allies in Europe as well. Still, there are signs the strategy might be working. Trump revealed that Vietnam’s leadership, in a call with him Friday, expressed interest in cutting their tariffs to zero in exchange for a broader trade deal. That statement appeared to confirm what many suspected: the tariffs are a bargaining tool as much as a policy in themselves. The reaction from China was swift and furious. Beijing retaliated with its own 34% levy on U.S. goods and accused Washington of “bullying.” But even Trump’s critics admit China’s trade practices — including IP theft, forced tech transfers, and state subsidies — are longstanding and egregious. Europe, while less openly abusive, has its own trade barriers, including agricultural subsidies and high VAT taxes that hit American imports hard. In other words, Trump’s argument about unfair global trade has merit. But whether his methods will achieve the desired outcome — and whether the American economy and political system can withstand the initial blow — is another question entirely. With 19 months until the midterm elections, Trump is betting big. If the gamble pays off, he could solidify his legacy as a transformational economic nationalist. If not, the political and economic fallout could be immense — and swift. Based on a report by The NYP 2025-04-07

Labour MP Dan Norris has been arrested on suspicion of rape and child sex offences, prompting his immediate suspension from the Labour Party and the removal of the party whip. The 65-year-old politician, who represents the newly formed constituency of North East Somerset and Hanham, is also being investigated for child abduction and misconduct in a public office. A Labour Party spokesperson stated, “Dan Norris MP was immediately suspended by the Labour Party upon being informed of his arrest. We cannot comment further while the police investigation is ongoing.” The party’s action followed confirmation from Avon and Somerset Police that a man in his 60s had been arrested on Friday, April 4, in connection with non-recent sexual offences against a girl. The force added that the man had been released on conditional bail while enquiries continue. In their official statement, Avon and Somerset Police said, “In December 2024, we received a referral from another police force relating to alleged non-recent child sex offences having been committed against a girl. Most of the offences are alleged to have occurred in the 2000s, but we're also investigating an alleged offence of rape from the 2020s.” The investigation is being led by officers under Operation Bluestone, a unit dedicated to rape and serious sexual assault cases. “The victim is being supported and given access to any specialist help or support she needs,” the force added. They further noted, “A man, aged in his 60s, was arrested on Friday (April 4) on suspicion of sexual offences against a girl (under the Sexual Offences Act 1956), rape (under the Sexual Offences Act 2003), child abduction and misconduct in a public office. He’s been released on conditional bail for enquiries to continue.” In light of the sensitivity of the case, the police urged the public to avoid speculation: “This is an active and sensitive investigation, so we'd respectfully ask people not to speculate on the circumstances so our enquiries can continue unhindered.” Mr Norris, who gained national attention in July 2024 when he defeated prominent Conservative MP Jacob Rees-Mogg in the general election, has not commented publicly on the arrest. In addition to losing the party whip in Parliament, Norris has also stepped down from his position as chair of the League Against Cruel Sports. A spokesperson for the charity confirmed his resignation, stating, “The charity cannot comment further while an investigation is ongoing.” Dan Norris first entered Parliament in 1997 during Tony Blair’s Labour landslide, representing the former Wansdyke constituency. He served in government roles, including a position as assistant whip and later as a junior minister under Prime Minister Gordon Brown. After losing his seat in 2010, Norris remained active in public life and became mayor of the West of England in 2021. He was due to step down from that role ahead of local elections in May. Sky News has contacted Mr Norris for comment, but he has yet to respond. As the investigation continues, political and public reaction remains cautious, with many awaiting further details from the authorities. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-04-06

Title: Iran Withdraws Support from Houthis Amid Intensified US Airstrikes Iran has begun withdrawing its military personnel from Yemen, signaling a sharp shift in strategy as the United States increases its airstrikes against the Houthi rebel group. The move marks a significant turning point in Iran’s longstanding support for regional proxy groups, driven by Tehran’s desire to avoid a direct military clash with the United States. A senior Iranian official revealed that the decision was primarily motivated by concerns over the possibility of Iranian soldiers being killed during US attacks. “Every meeting is dominated by discussions about [Trump], and none of the regional groups we previously supported are being discussed,” the source said. Iran is reportedly narrowing its focus to deal directly with what it perceives as the more pressing threat from Washington, especially in light of the growing assertiveness of former US President Donald Trump. Since leaked group chat messages from Trump’s inner circle exposed the planning of the strikes, the US military has launched near-daily attacks targeting the Houthis. These airstrikes, described by Trump as “unbelievably successful,” have decimated key military infrastructure and eliminated several Houthi commanders. The Pentagon has remained tight-lipped about specific operations but confirmed that additional aircraft are being deployed to the region. The 124th Fighter Wing recently announced the dispatch of multiple A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft and 300 personnel to bolster operations in the Middle East. Meanwhile, a Russian military advisor based in Sanaa is reportedly assisting the Houthis in refining their offensive tactics while steering them away from targeting Saudi Arabia. Riyadh, which has been engaged in the Yemeni civil war since 2015, continues to host US-Russian talks aimed at resolving the war in Ukraine. In the Red Sea, the Houthis claim to have launched attacks on US naval vessels, including the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. While no hits have been confirmed, the US Navy characterized the intensity of Houthi fire as the most severe since World War II. The USS Carl Vinson, another carrier currently stationed in Asia, is en route to the region to support these operations. Donald Trump on X: These Houthis gathered for instructions on an attack. Oops, there will be no attack by these Houthis! They will never sink our ships again! The Iranian regime appears to be re-evaluating its regional priorities. “The view here is that the Houthis will not be able to survive and are living their final months or even days, so there is no point in keeping them on our list,” the Iranian source added. “They were part of a chain that relied on Nasrallah and Assad, and keeping only one part of that chain for the future makes no sense.” Trump’s administration has made no secret of its intent to pressure Iran back to the negotiating table over its nuclear program. The recent deployment of B-2 stealth bombers to the Diego Garcia base underscores Washington’s more aggressive stance. “The strikes are connected to the maximum pressure campaign that he has endorsed,” said Sanam Vakil, director of the Middle East and North Africa program at Chatham House. “He wants to simultaneously send a message to Iran and to the axis of resistance that his administration is going to take a bolder approach to destabilising regional activities.” Mahmoud Shehrah, a former Yemeni diplomat now with Chatham House, observed a dramatic shift from the Biden-era “defensive strategy” toward more assertive US military action. Speaking from Amman, he said: “The previous miscalculation about the Houthis in the US had made Trump carry heavier strikes against them now and [the US] have started to target individuals and key actors of them.” Shehrah also noted that the Houthis now possess advanced weaponry, surpassing other Iranian-backed groups in capability. “After the collapse of Hezbollah and Assad’s regime, the Houthis are now on the front line,” he said. “They get missiles and drones from Iran and rebrand them with Houthi names because they don’t want to show they have links with Iran because of domestic propaganda.” Israel’s successes against Hezbollah and Hamas have further eroded Iran’s regional influence. Analysts believe Tehran’s failed missile response to Israel last year weakened its deterrence credibility and demoralized its allies. In Syria, Bashar al-Assad’s fall to rebel forces in December dealt another major blow to Iran’s proxy network. With Hezbollah’s reach diminished, the Houthis have stepped up as Iran’s most active remaining proxy. Since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, the Houthis have expanded their missile and drone capabilities and taken a more prominent public role. They exert control over Sanaa, manage finances, smuggle contraband, and disrupt global shipping routes. Yemen’s rugged terrain allows them to hide their weapon stockpiles in caves, much like fighters in Afghanistan. “They are not experienced like Hezbollah but are more aggressive and more dangerous at the same time,” said Shehrah. “Abdul Malik al-Houthi has an ambition of leading the axis of resistance. Yemeni streets are full of anger – the Houthis are not paying salaries and have absolute taxation with zero representation, so the social base for the Houthis is not very strong, that’s why they rely on the Gaza war.” With Iran stepping back and the US stepping up, the future of the Houthis looks increasingly uncertain. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-04-05 Related Topic: US deploys “overwhelming lethal force” against Houthis in Yemen

Westminster Council’s “Privilege Test” Sparks Backlash over Race-Based Hiring Practices Westminster City Council, one of the UK’s most prominent Labour-run local authorities, has ignited a national debate after instructing its staff to undertake a “privilege” test and adhere to new hiring protocols prioritising “global majority” candidates over equally qualified white applicants. The controversial initiative is part of a broader effort to address unconscious bias and align council staff demographics with Westminster’s population, where 45 per cent of residents identify as part of the global majority—a term used to describe black, Asian and multiple ethnic groups that make up the majority of the world’s population. As part of the council’s diversity and inclusion strategy, managers must now complete mandatory unconscious bias and inclusive recruitment training. If a hiring manager fails to shortlist a global majority candidate, even when such a candidate is available but deemed unqualified, they are required to consult directly with Stuart Love, the council’s chief executive. According to documents seen by The Telegraph, hiring managers are also advised to seek further guidance if no global majority applicants come forward, before they can proceed with the recruitment process. Employees are offered a virtual “privilege walk” quiz to assess their level of social advantage. This interactive assessment assigns or deducts points based on indicators such as whether a participant’s parents read to them as a child, whether they own a new car, or if they have never been stopped by police. Being a white male scores +15, while deductions occur for those with disabilities, illnesses, or those living in rented housing. Staff are asked to reflect on their privilege scores and anonymously share their insights at the end of the exercise. The diversity strategy has been spearheaded by Mr Love, who has led Westminster City Council since 2018. He has attributed his dedication to equality to his personal experiences growing up in apartheid-era South Africa. “We should all be woke, but particularly in local government where we are delivering services to communities,” Mr Love told Management Today. He added, “When things have gone wrong here, I’ve heard people say it’s because I’m too ‘woke’ or I’m focusing on the ‘woke agenda’. But all this has done is double down on my efforts.” Critics have argued that the council's approach prioritises identity over merit and potentially contravenes anti-discrimination laws. Conservative MP Neil O’Brien denounced the policies as “racist hiring policies on an industrial scale.” He wrote in The Telegraph, “If all this is not breaking the law, it certainly should be. It shows how far the public sector has drifted from the idea of meritocracy.” O’Brien further criticised the requirement for managers to consult with the chief executive if they do not shortlist a global majority candidate, even when qualifications may not be met. “This is a deliberately opaque part of the process, presumably intended to lead to the production of such a candidate,” he said. In defence of its policies, Westminster Council maintains that all appointments are based on merit. A council spokesman said, “Westminster City Council’s recruitment policies are industry standard, entirely consistent with UK employment law and have been in place for a number of years. We are committed to ensuring all candidates can compete for a range of roles and we actively promote ourselves as an inclusive employer.” The council also distanced itself from the virtual privilege walk, describing it as a PowerPoint presentation from 2021 that does not form any formal part of policy, training, or recruitment. Nonetheless, critics argue the council’s practices reveal an inconsistent and politically motivated approach to representation. O’Brien pointed out that while black residents make up 8 per cent of Westminster’s population, they represent over 20 per cent of council staff, whereas Arabs—8 per cent of the population—comprise only 1 per cent of employees. “In reality, there is no attempt to really be ‘representative’ of their local population. Some groups are regarded as more equal than others,” he said. He concluded that Britain is drifting from principles of equal treatment, asserting, “Instead of your ability or the content of your character, in Britain your ability to get funding or a job increasingly depends on your skin colour. This is the opposite of the vision of Martin Luther King. Ironically, it resembles the naked racism of the old South Africa.” Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-04-05

UK Police Arrest Two Men Suspected of Links to Hezbollah Cell In a significant counter-terrorism operation, London’s Counter Terrorism Command has arrested two men believed to be connected to the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. One of the individuals, a 39-year-old man from North London, is suspected of preparing acts of terrorism and being involved in funding terrorist activities. Authorities allege that he was also a member of a proscribed organization, a designation that includes Hezbollah under UK law. The arrest took place on April 1, as part of a broader investigation focused on the activities of Hezbollah both in the UK and abroad. A second suspect, a 35-year-old man, was detained in west London on suspicion of membership in the same banned group. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the investigation is centered on Hezbollah, one of the most heavily armed non-state actors globally. Aligned with Iran, Hezbollah has been actively engaged in hostilities against Israel, particularly alongside the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Over the past year, the group has sustained considerable losses. Searches related to the case were conducted at five different locations across northwest, southwest, and west London, as well as in Essex. Despite the nature of the investigation, authorities have stated that there is no indication of an imminent threat to the public. Commander Dominic Murphy, who leads the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, emphasized the importance of addressing terrorist activity regardless of where it is focused. “Terrorism and terrorists have a global reach and impact and the activities of terrorist groups overseas can harm communities here in the UK as well as causing devastation to those abroad,” he said. “Our investigation remains ongoing, but I hope that these arrests show we will take robust action against anyone here whom we suspect as being involved in terrorist activity regardless of whether their activity is focused here in the UK or elsewhere.” The two suspects have been released on bail until mid-July, pending further investigation. Based on a report by Sky News 2025-04-05

Texas Children Suffer Vitamin A Poisoning Amid Measles Outbreak Following RFK Jr's Claims Texas hospitals are treating children for vitamin A poisoning after Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. health secretary, promoted the supplement as a measles treatment. Covenant Children’s Hospital in Lubbock, Texas, has reported a small number of cases in which children, initially treated for measles, also displayed signs of vitamin A toxicity affecting liver function, Texas Public Radio reported. Similar cases have also been noted in neighboring New Mexico. Both Texas and New Mexico have been among the hardest-hit states in what experts warn is the worst U.S. measles outbreak in years, despite the disease being declared eliminated in the country decades ago. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed almost 500 measles cases across 21 states as of March 28—a staggering 360 percent increase from the previous week. Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House coronavirus response coordinator and current dean of Brown University’s School of Public Health, told ABC News on Monday that the country is “on track to have the worst measles outbreak of this century.” The majority of those infected—97 percent—were unvaccinated, and two individuals have died, marking the first measles-related deaths in the U.S. in a decade. Kennedy, who has long been associated with vaccine skepticism, recently claimed in a Fox News article that vitamin A “can dramatically reduce measles mortality.” He further stated that the U.S. government is “delivering vitamin A” to West Texas to combat the outbreak and that doctors are seeing “very, very good results.” While Kennedy has expressed support for vaccines in general, he insists that immunization remains a “personal decision.” However, experts warn that his promotion of alternative treatments risks creating confusion among parents about how best to protect their children. Dr. Peter Hotez, co-director of the Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, cautioned that such messaging could lead to dangerous consequences. “If people have the mistaken impression that you have an either-or choice of MMR vaccine or vitamin A, you’re going to get a lot of kids unnecessarily infected with measles,” he told CNN. “That’s a problem, especially during an epidemic. And second, you have this unregulated medicine in terms of doses being given and potential toxicities.” There has been a reported surge in demand for cod liver oil in Texas, which is naturally rich in vitamin A, indicating that parents may be administering the supplement at home as a measles treatment. However, excessive intake can result in toxicity, leading to headaches, nausea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, liver damage. In pregnant women, excess vitamin A can also cause birth defects. Although vitamin A can play a role in managing measles symptoms, experts stress that it should only be used in a controlled hospital setting. “Like much of what RFK says, there’s always a kernel of truth, which he sort of manipulates to legitimize the things he’s saying,” said Dr. Anita Patel, a pediatric critical care doctor in Washington, D.C. She explained to the Huffington Post that while vitamin A has been shown to reduce measles mortality, “high doses that you would never administer by yourself at home” are required, and only under medical supervision. A recent CDC advisory acknowledged that vitamin A supplements could be a therapeutic aid for measles but reaffirmed that vaccination remains the most effective prevention. The MMR vaccine, available in the U.S. as a two-dose regimen, has a 97 percent efficacy rate in preventing measles, according to the CDC. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-04-05

Labour Under Fire as Foreign Secretary David Lammy Spends Over £1 Million on Private Jets in Three Months David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, has come under scrutiny after revelations that he spent more than £1 million on private jet travel in a single quarter, despite Labour’s earlier promises to crack down on the use of expensive ministerial flights. The significant expenditure, totalling £1.2 million between October and December 2024, places the spotlight on the party’s commitment to frugality and transparency while raising questions about potential hypocrisy. According to a report by the Guido Fawkes political blog, the bulk of Lammy’s travel expenses—around £1.1 million—were for private jet usage. This equates to more than £14,000 per day over the three-month period, a figure that has prompted criticism given Labour’s prior stance on the use of such aircraft by government officials. Although there is no indication that Mr. Lammy’s use of private jets deviates from the practices of previous foreign secretaries, the revelation comes at a politically sensitive moment. Labour ministers, including some of Lammy’s most senior colleagues, have previously condemned the Conservative Party for similar spending. Rachel Reeves, now serving as Chancellor, stated in October 2023 that a Labour government would “crack down on Tory ministers’ private jet habit.” At the time, she pledged that her party would “enforce the ministerial code on the use of private planes and save millions of pounds for taxpayers in the process.” Similarly, Angela Rayner, now Deputy Prime Minister, criticised former foreign secretary Liz Truss for relying on private jets, claiming such travel habits revealed “exactly quite how little respect this Conservative government has for taxpayers’ money.” The current situation has left Labour open to accusations of double standards. The Conservative Party faced similar scrutiny when former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak used private jets and helicopters during his general election campaign. At the time, Labour lambasted Sunak as being “out of touch” with the public. Following the recent revelations, Andrew Murrison, a former Conservative minister, described the actions of “newly-minted ministers” like Lammy as “jaw-dropping” and accused them of hypocrisy for “hopping on and off” private jets shortly after taking office. Mr. Lammy was reportedly under fire for his use of a private plane to travel to New Delhi within weeks of his appointment. In response to mounting criticism, Lucy Powell, Leader of the Commons, remarked: “I’m glad he raises that point because we’re actually having a debate this afternoon on trust in politicians and politics, as this Government brings forward its manifesto commitment to take action on the sleaze and scandal and cronyism we saw in the last Parliament.” A spokesperson for the Foreign Office defended Lammy’s travel expenses, stating, “At a time of significant global upheaval, it is vital that the Foreign Secretary can travel abroad – often at very short notice – to defend and champion the UK’s interests. Ministerial travel plans are decided with consideration of the best use of a minister’s time and overhead costs, in line with established practice by successive governments. These costs are consistent with his predecessors in the previous government. This Foreign Secretary remains committed to ensuring the most cost-effective way of travel, delivering best value for money for the taxpayer.” The controversy underscores the challenges facing Labour as it navigates the responsibilities of government while holding on to promises made in opposition. Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-04-05

ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan Faces Retaliation Allegations Amid Misconduct Probe International Criminal Court (ICC) Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan is under increased scrutiny as United Nations investigators expand their inquiry into allegations of sexual misconduct to include accusations of retaliation against whistleblowers within his office. According to five sources briefed on the investigation, the UN’s Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) is examining whether Khan demoted or otherwise punished staff who either reported the original allegations or expressed concern over how the situation was handled. Three sources with direct knowledge of the probe revealed that at least four staff members were demoted by Khan following their involvement in the internal reporting of misconduct or criticism of his response. All five sources requested anonymity, citing fears of reprisals. The original allegations emerged last October, involving accusations of sexual misconduct against a female lawyer who reported directly to Khan. While the investigation into the alleged misconduct continues, the new focus on potential retaliatory behavior significantly raises the stakes for the prosecutor, who is at the center of some of the most politically sensitive legal cases in the world today. Khan’s legal team, Carter-Ruck, firmly rejected the accusations in a written statement. “We refer you to what our client has said previously in this regard, including his firm denials. You will appreciate that our client cannot be expected to provide a running commentary on these matters,” the law firm said. “He has not engaged in sexual misconduct of any kind and nor, to be clear, has he engaged in any ‘retaliatory behavior’ as alleged.” Despite the ongoing investigation, Khan has vowed to remain in his role and continue his work. He has previously described the timing of the original complaint as coinciding with a disinformation campaign aimed at undermining the ICC. Under his leadership, the court has launched or advanced high-profile investigations into global figures including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The ICC has issued an arrest warrant for Putin over the alleged deportation of Ukrainian children during the war in Ukraine. A separate warrant for Netanyahu accuses him of war crimes in Gaza. Both Russia and Israel deny the charges and reject the legitimacy of the ICC’s jurisdiction, as neither country is a member of the court. The ICC’s investigation into Israel has provoked international backlash, particularly from the United States, which has imposed sanctions on Khan. The court’s president has warned that such actions threaten the very independence and functionality of the ICC. Meanwhile, Hungary announced its withdrawal from the court just as it welcomed Netanyahu for a state visit, signaling broader geopolitical consequences tied to Khan’s prosecutions. Although the UN investigation has not yet resulted in Khan being formally questioned, the ongoing inquiry by the OIOS is expected to delve deeper into both the misconduct and retaliation claims. The ICC and OIOS declined to comment on the matter, and the court’s governing body stated it would not release further information until the investigation concludes. Based on a report by Reuters 2025-04-05 Related topic: UN to Lead Investigation into Sexual Misconduct Allegations Against ICC Prosecutor

Fencer Disqualified After Protesting Match Against Transgender Opponent Stephanie Turner, a fencer representing the Fencing Academy of Philadelphia, was disqualified from competition after she refused to face transgender athlete Redmond Sullivan during a Division 1A Women’s Foil event at the Cherry Blossom tournament held at the University of Maryland. Turner took a knee in protest before the match, resulting in her receiving a black card — a sanction typically reserved for severe breaches of conduct or unsportsmanlike behavior. Having completed four matches that day, Turner found herself set to face Sullivan in the next round. Turner later explained her decision to protest rather than compete, stating, “I saw that I was going to be in a pool with Redmond, and from there I said, ‘OK, let’s do it. I’m going to take the knee.’” She added, “I knew what I had to do because USA Fencing had not been listening to women’s objections. I took a knee immediately at that point.” Turner recounted that Sullivan was unaware of her intentions and initially believed something was wrong. “Redmond was under the impression that I was going to start fencing. So when I took the knee, I looked at the ref and I said: ‘I’m sorry, I cannot do this. I am a woman, and this is a man, and this is a women’s tournament. And I will not fence this individual.’” She continued, “Redmond didn’t hear me, and he comes up to me, and he thinks that I may be hurt, or he doesn’t understand what’s happening. He asks: ‘Are you OK?’ And I said: ‘I’m sorry. I have much love and respect for you, but I will not fence you.’” Sullivan, who had previously competed in the men’s division, had transitioned and joined Wagner College’s women’s fencing team. Following the incident, USA Fencing publicly supported Sullivan, reaffirming its commitment to its transgender athlete policy introduced in 2023. In a statement, USA Fencing said, “USA Fencing enacted our current transgender and non-binary athlete policy in 2023. The policy was designed to expand access to the sport of fencing and create inclusive, safe spaces. The policy is based on the principle that everyone should have the ability to participate in sports and was based upon the research available of the day.” The organization acknowledged the ongoing debate, stating, “We understand that the conversation on equity and inclusion pertaining to transgender participation in sport is evolving. USA Fencing will always err on the side of inclusion, and we’re committed to amending the policy as more relevant evidence-based research emerges, or as policy changes take effect in the wider Olympic and Paralympic movement.” USA Fencing clarified that Turner’s disqualification was not based on her personal views but on the violation of competition rules. “In the case of Stephanie Turner, her disqualification was not related to any personal statement but was merely the direct result of her decision to decline to fence an eligible opponent, which the FIE [International Fencing Federation] rules clearly prohibit.” The statement concluded, “USA Fencing is obligated to follow the letter of those rules and ensure that participants respect the standards set at the international level. We remain committed to inclusivity within our sport while also upholding every requirement dictated by our governing body.” The incident drew sharp criticism from tennis legend Martina Navratilova, who took to social media to denounce USA Fencing’s actions. “This is what happens when female athletes protest! Anyone here still thinks this is fair??? I am fuming... and shame on @USAFencing, shame on you for doing this. How dare you throw women under the gender bulls--- bus!!!” Based on a report by The Telegraph 2025-04-05

Tony Blair Cautions Starmer Against Retaliation Over Trump Tariffs Former Prime Minister Tony Blair has advised Labour leader and current Prime Minister Keir Starmer not to retaliate against newly imposed U.S. tariffs, warning that a tit-for-tat response would not be in Britain’s best interest. Speaking to students at King's College London, Blair commended Starmer for maintaining a calm and measured approach after President Donald Trump announced a 10 percent tariff on all British exports to the United States. “I don’t think it is in the U.K.’s best interest to retaliate,” Blair said, as first reported by The Independent. He applauded what he described as Starmer’s “cool heads” strategy, suggesting that avoiding escalation would better serve the long-term health of U.K.-U.S. relations. The British government has confirmed it is working to secure an economic agreement with Washington that could lead to the removal of the tariffs. Treasury Minister James Murray acknowledged on Sky News that discussions with businesses were ongoing to identify areas where the tariffs would cause the least damage to British firms. “We want to involve businesses in that decision, and we need to be clear that we keep all options on the table,” Murray said. “We reserve the right to retaliate, but we want a deal, and our full focus is on that.” In remarks made Thursday, President Trump claimed that Starmer had responded positively to the U.K.'s exemption from a harsher 20 percent tariff, which was instead applied to goods from the European Union. “We have a very good dialogue,” Trump said. “I think he was very happy about how we treated them with tariffs.” Blair, who led Britain from 1997 to 2007 and maintained a close relationship with Republican President George W. Bush, also expressed unease over Trump’s apparent wavering support for NATO. Reflecting on the 1990s conflict in Kosovo, Blair recalled the pivotal role of American military power and emphasized the importance of transatlantic cooperation. “It became clear to me that we could never have done it without the Americans,” he said. “I thought, ‘This is crazy — what happens if the Americans decide they don’t want to be part of it?’” According to Blair, efforts to encourage greater European defense contributions were quickly entangled in political debates around Euroskepticism, hindering long-term progress. Blair’s comments appear aimed at preserving the so-called "special relationship" between London and Washington—a diplomatic priority throughout his premiership—and come at a moment of economic tension and political recalibration. As Starmer navigates a delicate balancing act between defending British economic interests and maintaining transatlantic goodwill, Blair’s message is clear: confrontation may feel justified, but diplomacy is likely the wiser path. Based on a report by Politico 2025-04-05

Russell Brand Faces Multiple Charges Amid Historical Sexual Assault Allegations Comedian and actor Russell Brand has been formally charged with a series of serious sexual offences, including rape and sexual assault, following a long-running investigation sparked by media reports. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Brand, 50, is due to appear before Westminster magistrates’ court on Friday, May 2, where he will face charges including rape, oral rape, indecent assault, and two counts of sexual assault. These charges stem from alleged incidents involving four separate women between 1999 and 2005, with the offences said to have taken place in both Bournemouth and London. According to Scotland Yard, the specific allegations include the rape of a woman in 1999 in the Bournemouth area, as well as the oral rape and sexual assault of another woman in 2004 in Westminster. Brand is also charged with indecently assaulting a woman in 2001, and sexually assaulting a fourth woman between 2004 and 2005, both of which also allegedly occurred in Westminster. In response to the charges, Brand issued a public denial through a video posted on X, stating, “I’ve never engaged in non-consensual activity. I pray that you can see that by looking in my eyes.” He added, “I want to thank all of you for your continuing support. Of course I am now going to have the opportunity to defend these charges in court and I’m incredibly grateful for that.” Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police, who is overseeing the investigation, emphasized the importance of ongoing support for the women involved. “The women who have made reports continue to receive support from specially trained officers,” he said. “The Met’s investigation remains open and detectives ask anyone who has been affected by this case, or anyone who has any information, to come forward and speak with police.” He provided details of a dedicated team available via email and highlighted the availability of support services through Rape Crisis and its 24/7 helpline. The charges follow a major joint investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches, which brought to light a number of allegations about Brand’s conduct towards women. Brand has previously denied all accusations, asserting that his past relationships were consensual. In September 2023, the Metropolitan Police acknowledged receiving contact from potential victims across the UK, launching an inquiry that resulted in Brand being interviewed under caution on three occasions. The investigation has involved cooperation between the Met and a special police unit established after the Jimmy Savile scandal, dedicated to investigating historical sexual offences. Following a 13-month inquiry, a file of evidence was submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in November. Jaswant Narwal of the CPS said, “We have today authorised the Metropolitan Police to charge Russell Brand with a number of sexual offences. We carefully reviewed the evidence after a police investigation into allegations made following the broadcast of a Channel 4, Sunday Times and Times investigation in September 2023. We have concluded that Russell Brand should be charged with offences including rape, sexual assault and indecent assault. These relate to reported non-recent offences between 1999 and 2005, involving four women.” She added a reminder that criminal proceedings are ongoing and that Brand is entitled to a fair trial, urging the public to refrain from online commentary that could prejudice the case. Russell Brand, originally from Essex, rose to fame in the early 2000s as a television personality before making a successful leap to Hollywood. Known for his turbulent past, including struggles with addiction in his youth, Brand later became a vocal advocate for recovery and mental health. His media career includes roles on MTV, BBC radio, and appearances in films such as Get Him to the Greek and Arthur. His personal life has often been in the spotlight, from his short-lived marriage to pop star Katy Perry to his current role as a father and husband to Laura Gallagher. In recent years, Brand has reinvented himself as a digital influencer and wellness advocate, producing online content that includes spiritual teachings, yoga, and commentary on social and political issues. Last year, he publicly embraced Christianity, describing his baptism in the River Thames as a chance “to die and be reborn.” Based on a report by The Times 2025-04-05 Related Topics: Russell Brand Duped by Hoax Claiming British Sitcom Star Killed JFK BBC Apologizes Amid Review Into Russell Brand Allegations Russell Brand and why the allegations took so long to surface Russell Brand: BBC and Channel 4 investigate allegations Russell Brand posts new video claiming government wants to censor him

U.S.-Russia relations are on a political rollercoaster, with President Donald Trump navigating between flashes of frustration and flashes of familiarity when it comes to dealing with Vladimir Putin. Recent developments have thrown the relationship into sharp focus once again, particularly after Putin proposed replacing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s administration with a United Nations-led “external governance” body. Trump made clear that he was not pleased with Putin’s comments. “I was disappointed in a certain way, some of the things that were said over the last day or two having to do with Zelensky,” Trump said on March 30. “Because when [Putin] considers Zelensky not credible, he's supposed to be making a deal with him. Whether you like him or you don't like him.” Following a day of golf with Trump, Finnish President Alexander Stubb told The Guardian, “I think America, and my sense is also the president of the United States, is running out of patience with Russia.” In line with that tone, Trump issued a warning that secondary tariffs of up to 50% on Russian oil exports could be on the table if Moscow continued to stall peace negotiations with Ukraine. Yet Trump’s warning paled in comparison to the hard line taken by a bipartisan group of U.S. senators, who drafted legislation that would impose a staggering 500% secondary tariff on nations that continue to buy Russian oil, gas, and other resources. These sharp responses came as a surprise to many in Russia, where state media had recently been celebrating what they saw as warming ties between Washington and Moscow. Just last month, Nezavisimaya Gazeta claimed that U.S. and Russian officials had “started speaking the same language.” That optimism did not last. On Wednesday, Moskovsky Komsomolets lashed out at the Trump administration, accusing it of “administrative insanity… inexperience… immaturity.” The paper derided the administration’s “bragging and arrogance” and mocked its eagerness to claim “huge breakthroughs” when barely a first step had been made. Meanwhile, Komsomolskaya Pravda noted, “On Ukraine talks, Donald's mood changes as often as the wind.” Despite these criticisms and signs of cooling relations, there were still gestures suggesting some diplomatic openness. Notably, Russia was excluded from Trump’s latest list of countries hit by sweeping new tariffs. Instead, the U.S. granted a sanctions waiver for Putin’s foreign investment envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, who then traveled to Washington for direct talks with Trump officials. This momentary reprieve suggested that behind the harsh rhetoric, backchannels of cooperation remain intact. However, any hope for a detente was short-lived. By Friday, another stern message came from Washington. During a meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Brussels, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made clear that the Trump administration was growing impatient. “President Trump's not going to fall into the trap of endless negotiations about negotiations,” Rubio said. “We will know soon enough, in a matter of weeks, not months, whether Russia is serious about peace or not.” He added, “If they're not, then we'll have to re-evaluate where we stand and what we do moving forward about it.” This sentiment was echoed by America’s NATO allies. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy said, “Putin continues to obfuscate, continues to drag his feet. He could accept a ceasefire now, he continues to bombard Ukraine… We see you, Vladimir Putin, we know what you are doing.” Speculation that Trump and Putin were set to speak by phone on Friday was met with yet more confusion. While initial reports hinted at a call, the White House appeared to change course, and the Kremlin announced that no conversation was planned. Still, reports surfaced that American companies are planning to attend the upcoming St. Petersburg Economic Forum, leaving the nature of U.S.-Russia ties as murky as ever. The chaos leaves observers dizzy. It’s hard to keep pace with the constant shifts in tone, threats, and overtures. As the columnist put it bluntly: “Okay. Stop the ride. I need to get off.” The bigger picture, though, remains troubling. For months, Trump’s team avoided openly criticizing Putin and his full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Key figures like special envoy Steve Witkoff have been accused of parroting Kremlin talking points. While Washington now claims to be growing impatient and is threatening sanctions, nothing concrete has yet been enforced. Based on a report by BBC 2025-04-05

Title: Trade Turmoil Deepens as U.S. and China Lock Horns Over Tariffs Tensions between the United States and China are intensifying, with both sides showing no signs of backing down in a spiraling trade war that has left American exporters reeling. The latest move by Beijing to impose a 34% tariff on all U.S. goods entering China has come as a crushing blow, especially for American companies counting on access to the world’s second-largest market. For U.S. agricultural producers, the impact is particularly severe. Already burdened with existing tariffs of 10 to 15% following earlier trade disputes during the Trump administration, the new tariff hike is pushing many of them out of the Chinese market entirely. "Now, if you add 34% on top of that, it is probably pricing most of them out," one industry observer noted. China, meanwhile, seems unphased by the prospect of sourcing products like chicken, pork, and sorghum from elsewhere. At the same time, it's no secret that the latest wave of tariffs is aimed squarely at the U.S. president’s political base in America’s heartland. Analysts worldwide are growing increasingly anxious as the economic standoff escalates. Global supply chains have become so interconnected that parts for a single product might come from multiple continents. That complexity makes the current trade tensions more dangerous, with economic ripples threatening to spread far beyond the U.S. and China. "The world's two greatest economies are now at each other's throats with no indication that either is preparing to back down," one analyst remarked. In a symbolic display of defiance and environmental focus, President Xi Jinping and the six other members of China’s powerful Politburo Standing Committee appeared in public planting trees. It was a calculated image of calm, subtly suggesting that China is unfazed by Washington’s actions. “Do your best Washington, this is China and we're not interested in your nonsense,” the gesture seemed to imply. While there remains a possibility of a deal between the two nations, the rhetoric on both sides offers little hope. An alternative path for China could involve strengthening trade ties with other countries, even traditional U.S. allies, effectively bypassing the American market. Such a shift would further damage U.S. companies and consumers, who are already dealing with price increases as a result of the tariff policies. Markets have reacted swiftly and brutally. All three major U.S. stock indexes plunged by more than 5%, with the S&P 500 suffering a near 6% drop, marking the worst trading week since 2020. Across the Atlantic, the UK's FTSE 100 fell almost 5%, its largest decline in five years. Markets in Asia, Germany, and France followed suit with steep losses of their own. President Trump, undeterred by the global market reaction, continues to promote his trade agenda. “Hang tough,” he wrote to supporters on social media. “We can’t lose.” Citing the strength of the U.S. labor market, he dismissed concerns about the dramatic market declines. The broader economic toll, however, is undeniable. Since Trump announced sweeping new 10% import tariffs on goods from every country, global markets have lost trillions in value. These tariffs have affected products from dozens of nations, including major trading partners such as China, the European Union, and Vietnam. China’s countermeasures, including the new 34% tariff, export curbs on key minerals, and blacklisting of U.S. firms, came with a sharp rebuke. Describing Trump’s actions as “bullying” and a violation of international trade rules, Beijing made it clear it would not be intimidated. Amid the chaos, other countries are trying to assess their options. Some are holding out hope that they can negotiate favorable terms, though the unpredictable signals coming from the White House have left many uncertain about the future of global trade. Based on a report by BBC 2025-04-05

Off topic diversion post about Palestinian women has been removed along with replies.