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Jurors in the historic case involving Hunter Biden, the son of U.S. President Joe Biden, have begun their deliberations. The 54-year-old faces charges of lying about his drug use on a federal form when purchasing a firearm in 2018 and illegally possessing the firearm while allegedly being a drug user. The outcome of this case could have significant implications, not just for Hunter Biden but also for the broader political landscape. For several days, prosecutors laid out their case, presenting evidence to suggest that Biden was deep into addiction at the time he bought the gun in Delaware. The prosecution's strategy was to establish that Biden was an active drug user and knowingly lied on the federal form. In contrast, Biden's defense team argued that he was in recovery and therefore truthful when he indicated he was not a drug user on the purchase form. Hunter Biden has denied all three charges and did not take the stand during the trial. If convicted, Hunter Biden could face up to 25 years in prison. The trial has garnered significant public and media attention, not only due to the defendant’s high-profile status but also because of the broader political implications. In his closing argument, prosecutor Leo Wise emphasized that the case should be viewed objectively, stating, "No one is above the law, and this case is no more important or less important because of who the defendant is." Wise asserted that the central issue was whether Hunter Biden was an addict at the time of the purchase and knew it. He pointed to witness testimonies from Biden's former partners and excerpts from Biden's memoir to support the claim that Biden was using drugs around the time he bought the gun. Wise described the evidence as "personal, ugly, and overwhelming." However, the defense team, led by attorney Abbe Lowell, countered that there was no direct evidence of drug use at the specific time of the gun purchase. Lowell argued that the prosecution's case relied heavily on "suspicion" and "conjecture" rather than concrete evidence. He pointed out that none of the text messages or witness testimonies referenced actual drug use at the time of the purchase. Lowell criticized the prosecution for using evidence of drug use spanning many years to make their case. For instance, he highlighted testimony from Biden's ex-girlfriend Zoe Kestan, who reported seeing "no pipes, no scales, no drugs, not even alcohol" during the period in question. Hunter Biden's family, including First Lady Jill Biden, his stepmother, and other close relatives, were present in the Delaware federal court, showing visible reactions to the prosecution's claims. Several family members shook their heads when the prosecution described Biden's alleged "four years of active addiction." During the closing arguments, Hunter Biden often stared intently at the jurors, occasionally taking notes and consulting with his legal team. During breaks, his wife Melissa Cohen Biden provided support, embracing him and offering words of comfort. A key point of contention during the trial was a legal technicality regarding jury instructions. Biden's lawyers requested that jurors be informed that Biden filled out the federal form "in good faith," a point the prosecution contested. This discrepancy centers on whether Biden "knowingly" lied on the form. Last week, prosecutors bolstered their case by playing excerpts from Biden's audiobook, where he discusses his four-year addiction to crack cocaine, a period that overlapped with his gun purchase. Additionally, the court heard from Biden's ex-romantic partners, including Hallie Biden, the widow of Biden's late brother. Hallie testified that she found "remnants" of crack cocaine in Biden's car alongside the firearm, but she also confirmed during cross-examination that she had not seen him using drugs at the time of the gun purchase. Throughout the trial, the defense has worked to undermine the prosecution's witnesses, questioning their recollections and the reliability of their testimonies. The jurors now face the task of weighing this complex and high-stakes evidence to reach a verdict. Credit: BBC 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Important new UN Security Council Resolution just passed. The world waits on Hamas. New Topics: UN Security Council Approves US-Led Ceasefire Plan for Israel-Gaza Conflict https://aseannow.com/topic/1329442-un-security-council-approves-us-led-ceasefire-plan-for-israel-gaza-conflict/ Genocidal Hamas is Making Peace Impossible https://aseannow.com/topic/1329423-genocidal-hamas-is-making-peace-impossible/ Israeli Forces Rescue Hostages, Held By Al Jazeera & Palestine Chronicle Journalist https://aseannow.com/topic/1329372-israeli-forces-rescue-hostages-held-by-al-jazeera-palestine-chronicle-journalist/

The United Nations Security Council has given its strong backing to a US-proposed ceasefire plan for the Israel-Gaza conflict, voting 14-1 in favor of the resolution. This comprehensive plan sets forth a detailed roadmap designed to bring an end to the hostilities that have ravaged the region and to establish conditions for long-term peace and reconstruction. The resolution, which aims to establish a "full and complete ceasefire," includes several critical components. These encompass the release of hostages held by Hamas, the return of the remains of deceased hostages, and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners. The plan is structured in three phases, each building towards a sustainable peace and a multi-year reconstruction effort for Gaza. The first phase emphasizes a hostage-prisoner swap and a short-term ceasefire. This initial step is seen as crucial for building trust between the conflicting parties and setting the stage for more comprehensive peace measures. The second phase is focused on achieving a permanent end to hostilities. This includes a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, which is considered essential for lasting peace in the region. The text of the US draft resolution clearly outlines this goal, marking a significant step towards de-escalation. The third phase of the plan looks towards the future of Gaza, proposing a multi-year reconstruction plan. This phase is designed to address the extensive destruction that Gaza has endured due to ongoing conflicts, aiming to rebuild the region and improve living conditions for its residents. President Joe Biden had earlier indicated that Israel agreed to the three-phase plan, which aims to bring about a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Following the Security Council's approval, US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, expressed her approval, stating, "Today we voted for peace." UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward highlighted the dire situation in Gaza, describing it as "catastrophic" and urging the conflicting parties to take this opportunity to move towards lasting peace. "The suffering has gone on for far too long," Woodward remarked. "We call upon the parties to seize this opportunity and move towards lasting peace which guarantees security and stability for both the Israeli and Palestinian people." The passage of this resolution comes weeks after a similar call for a ceasefire and the immediate release of hostages by the UN Security Council in March. The current resolution builds on these efforts, providing a structured and phased approach to resolving the conflict and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. President Joe Biden said the Israelis agreed to a three-phase plan that would result in a permanent cease-fire in Gaza. Russia's decision to abstain from the vote was notable, leaving the resolution with 14 votes in favor and no outright opposition. This abstention reflects the complex international dynamics at play, yet it did not hinder the overall support for the plan. The endorsement of this plan by the Security Council marks a significant diplomatic achievement. It represents a concerted effort by the international community to address one of the most protracted and devastating conflicts in the Middle East. The multi-phase approach is designed not only to cease current hostilities but also to lay the groundwork for a sustainable and peaceful future for Gaza and its people. In essence, this resolution is a call to action for both sides of the conflict. It emphasizes the importance of immediate humanitarian relief and sets a framework for long-term peace and reconstruction. The international community, through this resolution, is urging both Israel and Hamas to commit to this plan, release hostages, exchange prisoners, and ultimately work towards a peaceful coexistence. As the implementation of this plan begins, all eyes will be on the region to see how the involved parties respond. The success of this initiative depends on the willingness of both sides to adhere to the outlined steps and the continued support and pressure from the international community. The resolution's passage is a hopeful sign for many who have long awaited peace in the region. It brings a structured approach to ending the violence and provides a clear path towards rebuilding and recovery. The international community, through the UN Security Council, has made a strong statement in favor of peace, security, and the protection of human rights in Gaza and Israel. Credit: BBC 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Over the weekend, Israeli special forces conducted a daring rescue operation in the central Gaza Strip, successfully freeing four hostages. Three of the hostages—Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv—were being held in the home of Abdallah Aljamal, a Palestinian journalist and member of the Hamas terrorist group, according to the Israeli military. The raid took place in Nuseirat, where soldiers stormed the Aljamal household. Rumors had circulated on social media about the operation, fueled by a post from Ramy Abdu, head of the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor. Abdu’s post included an image purportedly from the Aljamal home but did not mention the presence of hostages. The Israeli military later confirmed that Aljamal, who had been killed in the raid, was holding the hostages alongside his family. Source Aljamal, a former spokesman for the Hamas-run labor ministry in Gaza, had contributed to various news outlets, including the Palestine Chronicle. During the ongoing war in Gaza, numerous articles by Aljamal were published, even as he allegedly held the hostages. His father, Dr. Ahmed Aljamal, was also killed during the raid. The operation highlighted the complex and dangerous conditions faced by both the hostages and the rescuing forces. Many of Aljamal’s recent stories for the Palestinian Chronicle focused on the ongoing IDF operation in Nuseirat, where his own home was located and where Israeli intelligence had figured out he was holding three of the four hostages rescued on Saturday near a refugee camp. The organization confirmed on Sunday that Aljamal was a contributor reporting on the ground in Gaza, but made no mention that he was holding three hostages. The rescue mission, named "Operation Arnon" in honor of Yamam commander Ch. Insp. Arnon Zmora, who was fatally wounded by Hamas gunfire during the raid, involved simultaneous raids on two buildings in Nuseirat. The fourth hostage, Noa Argamani, was rescued from a nearby building. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet security agency confirmed the presence of hostages in Aljamal's home, denouncing Hamas for using civilian populations as human shields. "This is further proof that the Hamas terrorist organization uses the civilian population as a human shield," the military stated. The IDF acknowledged civilian casualties during the operation but attributed the blame to Hamas for holding hostages in densely populated civilian areas. Source Hamas’s government media office claimed that 274 people were killed during the operation, though this figure remains unverified and does not distinguish between combatants and civilians. IDF Spokesman Daniel Hagari reported fewer than 100 Palestinian casualties, noting uncertainty about the proportion of terrorists among them. Aljamal’s involvement with Hamas and his dual role as a journalist had previously sparked controversy. He had written a column for Al Jazeera in 2019, leading to rumors that he was a correspondent for the Qatari news outlet—a claim that Al Jazeera denied. The hostages had been abducted from the Supernova music festival near the community of Re’im on October 7, when a massive attack by Hamas terrorists resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of 251 hostages. The rescue of Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, Shlomi Ziv, and Noa Argamani marks a significant achievement for Israeli forces amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Related Topic: Al Jazeera journalist reportedly moonlights as Hamas commander claims IDF Credit: TOS - NYP - X - 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

In the 1980s and 1990s, I came of age within a Democratic Party and social environment that was unabashedly patriotic. Political liberals of that era often critiqued America's past and present, yet most saw the nation as an imperfect entity striving to meet its high ideals, despite often falling short. The political right, in contrast, seemed dangerously nativist and insufficiently self-reflective. President Bill Clinton, on whose 1992 campaign I worked, famously declared in his first inaugural speech, "There is nothing wrong with America that cannot be cured by what is right with America." This sentiment encapsulated the spirit of young liberals at the time, who embraced a form of American exceptionalism that celebrated pluralism. In my twenties, I proudly wore a T-shirt emblazoned with the American motto e pluribus unum—"out of many, one." This epitomized liberal patriotism. However, this center-left, optimistic narrative of the American experiment has increasingly given way to a harsh critique of American life, a perspective that is rapidly becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy. Today's liberals rarely express patriotic sentiment in public, effectively ceding their civic voice to a far left that holds America in contempt. This shift has led to a politics that is both defeatist in tone and alienating to ordinary Americans. A nation that thinks less of itself will inevitably become less. Mainstream liberals urgently need to rediscover their patriotic spirit. When beloved actress Betty White passed away at 99, my wife began rewatching episodes of The Golden Girls, a mid-1980s sitcom about four aging women navigating their golden years. In one episode, the strong-willed Dorothy lectures her Italian-born mother, Sophia, on the meaning of America. Dorothy reminisces, "When I was a little girl, you told me how much it meant to you when you came here to America for the first time. Do you remember what you thought of when you first saw the Statue of Liberty holding up her torch of freedom? ... Ma, you taught me to love this country. ... You were the first one who put an American flag in my hand." I was struck by how quaint this monologue seemed in today’s cultural context, especially from a show that was at the forefront of social issues like gay rights and sexual harassment. Unfortunately, such overt patriotic sentiment would be considered cringe-worthy in today’s liberal circles. A 2023 Gallup poll found that national pride among Democrats has plummeted over the past two decades. In 2003, 65 percent of Democrats felt "extreme pride" in their country; by 2023, this figure had dropped to 29 percent. Among those aged 18 to 34, only 18 percent expressed extreme patriotism, a steep decline from 85 percent in 2013. Gallup noted, "Party identification remains the greatest demographic differentiator in expressions of national pride, and Republicans have been consistently more likely than Democrats and independents to express pride in being American." On a recent drive through West Virginia, I noticed American flags displayed outside many homes, even in economically depressed coal-mining towns where people could justifiably feel abandoned by their country. Conversely, in my politically blue, economically thriving neighborhood in North Potomac, Maryland, I counted just one American flag in four blocks, unsurprisingly mounted on the doorway of an Eastern European refugee who had fled a repressive Soviet republic. So accustomed had I become to the absence of patriotic sentiment in my area that I found it inspiring when fraternity brothers at UNC Chapel Hill rehoisted the American flag on the campus quad after radical activists had replaced it with a Palestinian flag. The young men locked arms and refused to budge as protestors reportedly hurled bottles, rocks, and insults. Why have liberals become less patriotic? Some blame the election of Donald Trump and persistent economic inequality. Others point to social media echo chambers that, for example, extol a letter from Osama Bin Laden justifying terrorism against the U.S. Additionally, the rise of an oppressed-oppressor ideology portrays America as inherently racist. Indeed, when universities classify statements like "America is the land of opportunity" and "Everyone can succeed in this society" as microaggressions, it is unsurprising that many students develop negative attitudes toward their country. A few Democrats understand that a politics of self-loathing is unsustainable. Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, both elected in 2022, successfully campaigned on liberal policies that emphasized freedom and American exceptionalism. While President Biden may still embody the old flag-waving sensibility, the larger progressive political class that rose to power with him exudes little passion for the country, and Biden's recent demoralizing speech at Morehouse College suggests he has been influenced by this sentiment. In the upcoming elections, it wouldn't be surprising if many ordinary citizens choose churlish nativism over a politics devoid of national pride. Liberals desperately need to reclaim their patriotic spirit. Without it, they risk alienating themselves from the very people they aim to serve and represent. Reaffirming a love for America, despite its flaws, is crucial for fostering a political environment where constructive criticism and national pride coexist. Only then can the Democratic Party hope to inspire and unite the diverse populace it seeks to champion. Hill Opinion Piece Inspired By: The Hill 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Donald Trump, once a prominent supporter of the COVID-19 vaccine, has transformed into one of the nation's most high-profile critics of immunization mandates. This new anti-vaccine stance could have far-reaching consequences if he wins a second term as president, wielding significant administrative powers. On the campaign trail, Trump has vowed to strip funding from schools with vaccine requirements and has criticized independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a “fake” anti-vaxxer. This shift, coupled with Trump's previous efforts to expedite the COVID-19 vaccine development during his presidency, presents a complex picture of his evolving views on vaccination. Public health experts warn that a Trump administration opposed to immunization mandates could lead to increased cases of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles and polio, and could undermine efforts to combat future pandemics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) might reduce or eliminate its vaccine recommendations for children, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) could impose more stringent safety testing requirements for new vaccines. These actions could severely impact public health infrastructure and policies. Trump's anti-vaccine rhetoric has coincided with an increasing skepticism about vaccines among his supporters. A POLITICO | Morning Consult poll last fall indicated that Republican voters are less likely than Democrats or independents to believe vaccines are safe for children. Trump supporters, in particular, were twice as likely as other Republicans to express doubts about vaccine safety. While Trump's campaign asserts that his threat to defund schools applies only to COVID-19 vaccine mandates, public health experts remain concerned about his broader vaccine policies. Despite Trump and his wife Melania receiving the COVID-19 vaccine and encouraging others to do the same in 2021, the possibility of appointing vaccine-skeptical individuals to key positions remains a significant worry. The CDC and FDA, under a Trump administration, could undergo substantial changes. The CDC might alter the paperwork provided to parents, potentially making vaccines seem less safe, and the FDA could extend the required years of safety testing for new vaccines, thereby delaying their approval. Moreover, Trump might appoint figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. or Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo to top health positions. Both have expressed skepticism about vaccines, with Ladapo even calling for a pause in the use of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and not encouraging parents to vaccinate their children during a recent measles outbreak. Georges Benjamin, executive director at the American Public Health Association, noted that appointing unqualified individuals to lead health organizations could create significant disruption. "If you want to see an organization not function, put somebody that’s not qualified to be there, or who may have credentials on paper but is not motivated to really do the job in a way that enhances the public’s health," he said. The potential policy changes extend beyond personnel appointments. Trump could influence the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the FDA’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee by appointing vaccine skeptics or dismantling these committees altogether. Such actions would have immediate effects on state laws, many of which follow CDC and ACIP recommendations. A future Trump administration could also leverage financial power to influence vaccine policies. It could withhold funding for programs like the federal Vaccines for Children Program or reduce funding for the CDC's vaccine promotion efforts. Additionally, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) might remove vaccination as a quality measure, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) could choose not to fund certain types of vaccine research. Trump's rhetoric has already influenced some state and local decisions. For instance, West Virginia's GOP-controlled Legislature voted to remove vaccine requirements for private and parochial school students, though the bill was vetoed by Republican Governor Jim Justice. A school board in the Houston area recently voted to remove vaccine-related sections from science textbooks. Public health experts warn that even if Trump does not implement drastic changes, his rhetoric alone could embolden state and local officials to alter their vaccine policies. "Even if it’s your state legislators who are making the decisions that count, if they see a president elected who holds strong anti-vaccine views, or who appoints anti-vaccine administrators, that tells elected officials at the state and local level, ‘Hey, this president was elected on this platform, this must be something that my constituents also care about,’” said Allison Winnike, director of the Western region for the Network for Public Health Law. This could lead to significant and lasting harm to public health efforts across the country. In summary, Trump's evolving stance on vaccines could have profound implications if he returns to the White House. From altering federal health recommendations to appointing vaccine skeptics to key positions, the potential changes could undermine public trust in vaccines and disrupt efforts to manage vaccine-preventable diseases. As public health experts continue to raise concerns, the political and health landscape remains uncertain, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the far-reaching consequences of such policies. Credit: Politico 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

In a significant development amidst the ongoing conflict, Ukraine's military announced on Sunday that it had successfully destroyed one of Russia’s most advanced fighter jets, the Sukhoi Su-57, in a drone strike. This strike targeted a military base deep inside Russia, marking a strategic blow to Russia's aerial capabilities. The Sukhoi Su-57, referred to as the "Felon" by NATO, was reportedly struck while on the tarmac of an airbase located in the Astrakhan region, approximately 600 kilometers (372 miles) behind the front lines of the conflict. Ukraine’s defense intelligence agency (GUR) provided satellite images as evidence to support their claim. These images, shared on GUR’s Telegram channel, showed that the Su-57 was intact on June 7, but by June 8, craters and fire damage were evident near the jet, suggesting the aftermath of the drone strike. The Su-57 is a supersonic, twin-engine, fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, developed by Russia as a counterpart to Western stealth jets such as the US Air Force’s F-22 Raptor. Despite its advanced design, the development of the Su-57 has faced numerous setbacks since it began in 2002. The jet experienced a high-profile crash during a 2019 test flight, and the Russian military only started receiving these aircraft in 2020. Before this, the Su-57 was tested in combat conditions in Syria in 2018. One of the notable features of the Su-57 is its ability to carry Kh-59 and Kh-69 cruise missiles, which allow it to launch attacks from within Russian airspace, posing a significant threat to Ukraine. However, the jet's effectiveness and capabilities have been a subject of debate among experts. While some have cast doubt on its performance compared to Western stealth fighters like the F-22, Russian officials have been vocal in praising the Su-57’s role in their military operations, particularly in Ukraine. Former Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu lauded the aircraft in 2022, stating that it had shown exceptional performance and possessed powerful weaponry. Despite these claims, the exact number of operational Su-57s in the Russian fleet remains unclear. According to Flight Global’s “World Air Forces 2024” directory, there are 14 active Su-57s, with another 62 on order. TASS, a state-run news agency, reported in 2022 that Russian forces were expected to have a total of 22 Su-57s by the end of 2023. The GUR Telegram post emphasized that the Russian Aerospace Forces currently have a limited number of these aircraft in service. The reported destruction of the Su-57 by a Ukrainian drone represents a notable achievement for Kyiv, demonstrating the effectiveness of low-cost drones in neutralizing high-value Russian military assets. The estimated cost of an Su-57 ranges from $35 million to $54 million, making its loss a significant financial blow to Russia. Ukrainian drones have increasingly proven their worth, having previously been used to sink or severely damage Russian warships in the Black Sea and to target tanks and armored vehicles on the battlefield. This incident also underscores a growing concern for Russia regarding the security of its military bases, even those far removed from the front lines. CNN contributor Jill Dougherty noted that this trend of Ukrainian attacks deep inside Russian territory is becoming a significant worry for Moscow. She highlighted that the Ukrainians are effectively taking the battle into Russian territory, which poses a new strategic challenge for Russian defenses. In the wake of the strike, Russian military bloggers have criticized the military’s lack of protective measures for their advanced aircraft. They argued that constructing hangars to shield the Su-57s could have been a cost-effective measure, especially when considering that the price of building protective hangars at every airbase could be equivalent to the cost of a single Su-57. This criticism reflects broader concerns about the Russian military's preparedness and infrastructure. If verified, the destruction of the Su-57 by a Ukrainian drone not only represents a tactical victory for Ukraine but also a strategic challenge for Russia. It highlights the vulnerability of even the most advanced military assets to innovative and low-cost warfare tactics, reshaping the dynamics of the ongoing conflict. Credit: CNN 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Terrorist leader Yahya Sinwar will continue attacking Israel regardless of the fate of Palestinians. While there was great joy in Israel this weekend at the rescue of four hostages after months in captivity, the whereabouts of a further 116 Jews kidnapped on October 7 remain shrouded in darkness. We do not know how many are alive, nor do we know their condition. Given the way Hamas terrorists raped and tortured Jews when they invaded Israel, it is harrowing to imagine what is happening to these men, women, and children still held against their will. Hamas does not see Jewish people as fully human. Like other violent anti-Semites of the past, this dehumanization permits them to treat Israelis with an animalistic brutality that is painfully hard to comprehend. This was evidenced when a Hamas terrorist excitedly called his family during the October 7 pogrom to share his news: “Hello Dad, I’m talking to you from Mefalsim [a kibbutz in Israel]. Open WhatsApp and see. I killed ten Jews with my own hands. Your son killed Jews! I’m talking to you from a Jewish woman’s phone. I killed her and her husband, their blood on my hands... Hold your head high with pride, Dad.” This mass murderer is one of thousands of Hamas fighters who share a racist and psychopathic mentality. Another terrorist, Amar Abu-Awsha, said during his interrogation after capture: “Our mission was only to kill. We weren’t supposed to capture, just kill. To kill whoever we see and then return. Killing without distinguishing between men, women, and children...Kill anyone you see.” At the heart of this dark vision is Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who has been planning these attacks for a decade. He is a genocidal ideologue who believes that Palestinians will eventually annihilate Israel and that everything and anything is justified in the name of Palestinian liberation. Yet the horrible truth is that Sinwar cares nothing for Palestinian lives either. Any amount of sacrifice is acceptable to achieve his goals. Those demonstrating on Britain’s streets and university campuses should ask themselves why Hamas has not used its hundreds of miles of tunnels under Gaza over the last eight months to protect its people from Israeli bombs. The answer is simple: Sinwar does not care if Palestinian men, women, and children die. Indeed, Sinwar welcomes this. He wants his own people to be killed. He can see that many in the West are under the spell of his narrative: that Israel is the oppressor and deserves condemnation. The deaths of Palestinians are an easy price for him to pay to achieve this outcome. It is remarkable how many people in the West have chosen to ignore these brutal dynamics. They do not ask themselves why Hamas terrorists continue to hide in schools, hospitals, and UN facilities. They do not seem to notice that Hamas has done nothing to protect its own people. As they raise their Palestinian flags and spread toxic anti-Semitic hate on social media, they utterly fail to recognize that Hamas, as the government of Gaza, enjoyed widespread popular support and has a history of summarily executing opponents, subjugating women, and hunting down gay people. The obvious but often overlooked truth is that the pressure to end the war should be focused firmly on Hamas. By returning the hostages and giving up their terrorist arsenal, they could end the war tomorrow and bring long-term respite to innocent Palestinian civilians. But talking to experts over the last few days, it has become clear to me that Sinwar is in no rush for a ceasefire. He does not care if more buildings in Gaza are destroyed. He is quite content for more Palestinians to die. Sinwar is somewhere in the tunnels of Gaza, surrounded by Jewish hostages being used as human shields, watching as the world condemns Israel and fails to see that Hamas began this war and could quickly end it. The UK Government, EU leaders, and President Biden must urgently adjust their focus, both publicly and diplomatically. They must understand that Yahya Sinwar is in no hurry to agree to ceasefire terms and end the war. They must ramp up the pressure on Hamas in the strongest terms via leaders in Qatar and Egypt who have a direct link to Sinwar. They must shut down this genocidal monster’s options and provide no rewards for the terrorist massacres of October 7. Only then will this war end and people on both sides begin to heal. Opinion - Danny Cohen was the director of BBC Television from 2013 - 2015 Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former President Donald Trump is set to virtually attend a pre-sentencing probation interview following his conviction in the New York hush-money trial. The interview, which will be conducted by a female New York probation officer, is expected to take place from Trump's Mar-a-Lago home in Palm Beach, Florida, using a specially secured virtual network instead of the more common Zoom platform. This arrangement is unusual as pre-sentencing interviews are typically conducted in person, though the virtual format in this case has been adopted for security reasons. The purpose of pre-sentencing interviews is to provide the judge with additional insight and information before determining the sentence. Although these interviews are routine for those convicted of state and federal crimes, it is highly irregular for them to be conducted via video conference. Additionally, Judge Juan Merchan, who is overseeing the case, signed an order permitting Trump’s defense attorney, Todd Blanche, to be present during the interview. This too is an anomaly, as these interviews are usually conducted without the presence of the defendant's lawyers. Judge Merchan will review the interview before sentencing Trump on July 11. This date falls just days before the Republican National Convention, where Trump is expected to be officially named as the GOP candidate to run against Democratic President Joe Biden in the upcoming general election. Despite facing a potential sentence of up to four years in prison, most legal experts predict that Trump will receive probation, considering his lack of previous criminal records and other mitigating factors such as his age. In the lead-up to his sentencing, Trump has maintained a defiant stance, vowing to appeal the conviction and calling for intervention by the U.S. Supreme Court. Steven Cheung, Trump’s campaign spokesman, reiterated this determination in a statement, asserting that Trump and his legal team are taking necessary steps to challenge the Manhattan district attorney's case. Last month, a Manhattan jury found Trump guilty on 34 counts of falsifying business records. The charges stem from efforts to cover up hush-money payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during the 2016 election campaign. The payments were intended to suppress allegations that could have harmed Trump's chances of winning the presidency. Credit: UPI 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Activists Smash Windows and Throw Red Paint Over Bank Branches Pro-Palestine protesters have launched coordinated attacks on Barclays branches across the UK, vandalizing the bank's properties in cities including London, Bristol, and Manchester. Activists smashed windows and threw red paint over the bank branches, aiming to draw attention to Barclays' alleged links to Israel's weapons trade and fossil fuels. Photos from Bristol show extensive damage to a central branch where all windows were shattered and graffiti was sprayed across the premises. Similar incidents occurred at other Barclays branches from Glasgow to Brighton, reflecting a widespread campaign organized by the activist group Palestine Action. The group claims that their actions successfully shut down operations at 20 Barclays branches across England and Scotland. The City of London Police reported that three men, aged between 34 and 45, were arrested in connection with the vandalism at the Barclays branch on Moorgate. The police stated that the suspects were identified via CCTV, and following a brief foot chase, were taken into custody. A spokesperson for Palestine Action explained the motives behind the attacks, accusing Barclays of funding activities that contribute to climate collapse and genocide in Palestine. They criticized traditional forms of protest, such as campaigning, petitions, and lobbying, as ineffective, and pledged to continue their disruptive actions until Barclays ceases its alleged support for the defense industry and fossil fuel sector. In addition to the physical damage, activists sprayed the names of Palestinians killed in recent Israeli military actions in Gaza on the walls of the vandalized Barclays branches. Barclays responded to the attacks with a statement highlighting its role in providing financial services to public companies in the US, UK, and Europe that supply defense products to NATO and its allies. The bank emphasized that it does not directly invest in these companies. Barclays underscored the importance of the defense sector to national security and noted that supporting defense companies aligns with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations as per the UK government's guidelines. The bank also reiterated its support for the right to protest but urged campaigners to respect their customers, colleagues, and property. Credit: The Daily Mail 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Couple of off topics posts removed, please read the title of the topic being discussed here. IDF Rescue Four Israeli Hostages in Central Gaza Raid

Off topic and unapproved video source that publishes misleading reports has been removed.

New Topics: Discrepancies in Gaza Casualty Figures: An Analysis of Hamas Data By Associated Press https://aseannow.com/topic/1329322-discrepancies-in-gaza-casualty-figures-an-analysis-of-hamas-data-by-associated-press/ Biden's Forgotten the Atrocities of October 7—But Israelis Can't https://aseannow.com/topic/1329320-bidens-forgotten-the-atrocities-of-october-7—but-israelis-cant/

French, President Emmanuel Macron made a startling announcement following the European election results, which saw Marine Le Pen's National Rally achieve a historic victory over Macron’s party. In a televised address, Macron revealed his decision to dissolve the French Parliament and call for snap parliamentary elections. "This is a serious, heavy decision, but above all it is an act of trust," he said, emphasizing his faith in the French people's ability to make the best choice for their future. Macron underscored the need for a clear majority to work with serenity and harmony, acknowledging the concerns of the French electorate. "I won't leave them without an answer," he added. The French parliamentary elections are set for 30 June and 7 July. This move by Macron came as exit polls indicated a significant shift in voter sentiment, with Le Pen's National Rally poised to secure a historic win. Within the French political landscape, this development is seen as a major upheaval. Marine Le Pen, in her victory speech, stated, "This historic vote shows that when people vote, people win. We are ready to take over power if the French give us their trust in the upcoming national elections." She promised to exercise power to end mass migration, prioritize purchasing power, and revive France's prosperity. The impact of the elections was not confined to France. Far-right parties made substantial gains in both Germany and Austria, according to exit polls. These results underscore a broader trend of rising right-wing populism across Europe, reflecting deep-seated voter dissatisfaction with the current political establishments. In Spain, the conservative People’s Party (PP) emerged victorious with 34.2% of the votes, surpassing Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE), which garnered 30.2%. The far-right Vox party received 9.6% of the votes, securing three new seats, while a new radical right party, Se Acabó La Fiesta (The Party’s Over), won its first MEPs with 4.6%. Meanwhile, the left-wing Sumar alliance and Podemos had a less successful night, with the latter securing only two seats. These results point to a significant realignment in Spanish politics, with conservative and far-right parties gaining ground at the expense of the traditional left. In Italy, the election results were somewhat more predictable. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, leading a right-wing coalition government since 2022, saw her party, Brothers of Italy (FdI), secure a commanding position with 27-31% of the vote. This translates into more than 20 seats at the European Parliament, a remarkable achievement that more than doubles the party's previous count. Meloni's continued dominance signifies a stable political landscape in Italy, with the opposition centre-left Democratic Party (PD) also performing better than expected with 21.5-25.5% of the vote. The Five Star Movement (M5S) and Forza Italia followed, with Matteo Salvini's League party suffering a notable decline. These developments have positioned Italy as one of Europe’s most politically stable countries, a stark contrast to the political turmoil seen in other major European nations. Meloni’s strong grip on Italian politics is further solidified by her party’s consistent performance. Meanwhile, in Portugal, exit polls indicated a close contest between the governing right-of-centre Democratic Alliance (AD) and the main opposition Socialist Party (PS), each vying for six to eight seats in the European Parliament. The far-right Chega party is set to secure its first MEP, reflecting the broader European trend of rising far-right influence. Other parties, including the Liberal Initiative and the Portuguese Communist Party, also saw varied performances, with some facing the prospect of losing seats. Across Europe, the centre-right European People’s Party (EPP) remains the strongest grouping in the European Parliament despite the rise of far-right parties. However, the liberal Renew group and the Greens faced significant losses. Emmanuel Macron’s French Renaissance party, a major component of Renew, lost ground but is set to remain the third-largest group in the Parliament. Iskra Mihaylova, Renew's vice-president, assured that Macron’s announcement to dissolve parliament would not affect Renew’s work in Brussels. "No pro-European majority will be possible without Renew group, we will be in the centre of this majority," she stated. Mihaylova vowed that despite the rise of the far right, her group would maintain its values and continue to fight for the democracy and security of Europeans. Philippe Lamberts of the Greens appealed to other mainstream groups to avoid aligning with far-right policies. "If we want our planet to be inhabitable, the Green Deal must expand," he said, urging other parties not to reverse climate change plans. These statements highlight the challenges faced by pro-European and progressive groups in maintaining their influence amid a shifting political landscape. Voter turnout in the European elections was estimated at 51%, slightly higher than the 2019 turnout. This increase indicates a sustained or growing public interest in European parliamentary politics despite the complex and often contentious issues at stake. The recent election results have sent ripples across Europe, reflecting a significant shift towards conservative and far-right parties. These developments could lead to profound changes in national policies and the broader direction of the European Union. The upcoming snap elections in France will be particularly critical, potentially setting the stage for a new political era in the country. As European nations grapple with these changes, the political landscape of the continent is poised for significant transformation. Credit: BBC 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

A recent analysis by the Associated Press (AP) has exposed significant discrepancies in the casualty figures reported by the Gaza Health Ministry during the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. This revelation raises critical questions about the accuracy and reliability of the data that has been widely disseminated and referenced in international discussions and criticisms. According to the AP's findings, the proportion of Gazan women and children killed during the conflict has been steadily declining, even as the overall death toll has increased. In October, the Ministry reported that 64 percent of the 6,745 people killed were women and children. By April, this figure had dropped to 38 percent. This decline contradicts the consistent narrative presented by the Gaza Health Ministry and has significant implications for understanding the impact of the conflict on civilians. The AP's analysis was based on data shared by the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilian and combatant deaths. This lack of differentiation has been a point of contention, as it complicates the ability to accurately assess the true civilian impact. The daily death toll reported by the Ministry—34,622 at the end of April and 36,379 at the end of May—is not accompanied by detailed underlying data, leading to questions about its validity. The AP found that the figures publicized by the Ministry are significantly higher than those found in the detailed data, which only includes about 23,000 fully identified individuals. These identified individuals come with names, ages, genders, and Israeli-issued IDs. The Ministry stated that 9,940 of the dead—29 percent of its April total—were not listed in the data because they remain "unidentified." This category includes bodies that were not claimed by families, decomposed beyond recognition, or whose records were lost during Israeli raids on hospitals. Moreover, the AP discovered that some of the identified bodies were listed twice, with 531 individuals counted twice in March and 11 in April. This duplication further undermines the reliability of the reported figures. The discrepancies extend to public statements made by Gazan officials. In February, they claimed that 75 percent of those killed were women and children, a figure that was never verified in a detailed data breakdown. In March, the Ministry's daily reports claimed that women and children constituted 72 percent of the dead, even though underlying data reviewed by the AP showed a much lower percentage. This analysis comes at a time when Israel faces mounting international criticism over the number of civilian casualties in Gaza. The Israeli government has repeatedly asserted that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are taking unprecedented measures to reduce civilian casualties. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in an interview last month, stated, "We use leaflets, we use millions of text messages, phone calls. We actually call the people, give up the benefit of surprise, tell them: 'Get out of the way. Get out of the war zone so that we can accomplish our military objectives while you’re in a safe place.'" The Gaza Health Ministry is currently the only official source for Gazan casualties. The AP's analysis corroborates the findings of statisticians and researchers over the past several months, who have pointed to the "statistical impossibility" of the Health Ministry's widely quoted casualty data. This discrepancy highlights a critical issue: the need for independent verification and a more nuanced examination of official data from conflict zones. The United Nations and other international bodies, which rely heavily on this data, may need to reassess how they interpret and respond to casualty figures. The discrepancies identified by the AP not only challenge the credibility of the Gaza Health Ministry's reports but also call into question the narratives that have shaped international perceptions and responses to the conflict. Related Topics: UN Cuts Death of Women and Children in Gaza by Half Hamas admits one-third of its data on Gazan deaths is ‘incomplete’ Scrutiny Over Gaza Death Toll Figures: UK Statistics Watchdog Investigates Hamas's Data How the Gaza Ministry of Health Fakes Casualty Numbers Credit: The JC 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Supreme Court justices have collectively received nearly $5 million in gifts since the early 2000s, with Justice Clarence Thomas being the primary beneficiary. This revelation comes from data released by the watchdog group Fix the Court, ahead of the justices' financial disclosure reports expected on Friday. According to Fix the Court, Justice Thomas has accepted gifts totaling $4,042,286 since 2004, accounting for 193 gifts. The group also reported an additional 126 "likely but not confirmed gifts" for Thomas, highlighting the extensive nature of his acceptance of gifts. Despite this, Thomas reported only 27 of these gifts on his financial disclosures. The data encompasses current and former justices dating back to 2004, tallying their total gift amounts to approximately $4.7 million. This includes Thomas’s significant portion, which makes up almost the entire sum. Fix the Court’s Gabe Roth emphasized the ethical implications of such gift acceptance. "Supreme Court justices should not be accepting gifts, let alone the hundreds of freebies worth millions of dollars they’ve received over the years," Roth said. He argued that public servants, who earn significantly more than the median local salary and can make substantial income from writing books, should be able to afford their own vacations, vehicles, hunting excursions, and club memberships without relying on gifts from wealthy benefactors. Roth also pointed out the potential influence of gift-givers, stating, "The ethics crisis at the court won’t begin to abate until justices adopt stricter gift acceptance rules." The watchdog group's data might even underestimate the true extent of the gifts, as some could not be verified, such as a hunting lodge stay by Justice Antonin Scalia. Scalia, along with Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and William Rehnquist, passed away while in office, which could mean their reported gift totals are undercounts. Scalia received the second-highest total in gifts, amounting to $210,164 from January 2004 until his death in 2016. Justice Samuel Alito, who recently faced calls to recuse himself from cases related to January 6 and former President Trump due to reports of a "Stop the Steal" flag flown outside his house, received the third-most gifts, totaling $170,095 from January 31, 2006, to the present. The disclosure of these gifts highlights the need for greater transparency and stricter ethical guidelines for Supreme Court justices, especially given their significant influence on American law and society. As the public and lawmakers continue to scrutinize the ethical standards of the court, the pressure mounts for reforms that ensure justices remain impartial and free from undue influence. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas has recently amended his financial disclosure forms to include previously unreported trips paid for by billionaire Harlan Crow. These amendments reflect trips taken in 2019 to an Indonesian island and an exclusive, secretive club in Northern California. This update follows increased scrutiny and criticism of the ethical standards and financial transparency of the Supreme Court justices. The amended disclosure, made public on Friday, reveals two significant trips from 2019. The first trip, funded by Crow and his wife Cathy, was to Bali, Indonesia. During this trip, Thomas and his wife Ginni spent over a week island-hopping on Crow's superyacht, a journey estimated by ProPublica to exceed $500,000 if the Thomases had covered the expenses themselves. The second trip was to Monte Rio, California, where Thomas stayed at a private club. This location is likely the Bohemian Grove, a highly exclusive, all-male retreat that both Thomas and Crow have reportedly attended. These amendments come after ProPublica initially exposed these trips, marking the first time Justice Thomas has included them in his financial disclosures. His updated filing states that the trips were "inadvertently omitted" from the original disclosure and were corrected following guidance from his accountant and ethics counsel. The latest financial disclosures of the Supreme Court justices provide a rare glimpse into their activities outside the courtroom. These annual reports have garnered heightened interest, particularly regarding the justices' connections with wealthy donors. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, for example, reported receiving four concert tickets valued at about $3,700 from Beyoncé and $10,000 worth of artwork for her chambers from Alabama artist and musician Lonnie Holley. Books continue to be a significant source of outside income for the justices. Justice Jackson reported an advance of $893,750 for her upcoming memoir. Justice Neil M. Gorsuch received a $250,000 book advance, while Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh disclosed a $340,000 advance for his legal memoir. Justice Sonia Sotomayor earned about $87,000 in royalties for her books and reported $1,900 for voicing a character on an animated children's show. Justice Thomas's financial activities have drawn particular scrutiny due to his acceptance of lavish gifts and travel from affluent friends. The 2019 trips, now included in his financial disclosure, reflect this pattern. The Indonesian trip, as reported by ProPublica, involved luxury accommodations and travel aboard a private jet and superyacht provided by Crow. In his latest disclosure, Thomas did not report any gifts or private jet travel for 2023, except for a pair of photo albums valued at $2,000 from Terrence and Barbara Giroux. Mr. Giroux is the departing executive director of the Horatio Alger Association of Distinguished Americans, an exclusive group in which Thomas is a member. Thomas has allowed the association significant access to the Supreme Court, including presiding over an annual ceremony and mentoring scholarship recipients. Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. was granted an extension for his financial disclosure this year, consistent with his typical practice. Over the past decade, Alito has frequently delayed filing his disclosures. Last year, both Thomas and Alito requested and received extensions, with Thomas including an unusual addendum defending his acceptance of gifts from Crow. This statement sought to justify his decision to fly on private jets, citing advice to avoid commercial travel following the leak of the draft opinion overturning Roe v. Wade. However, he did not list any private plane travel for 2023. In response to mounting pressure and intense public scrutiny, the Supreme Court adopted its first ethics code in November. This nine-page code, while not binding in the same way as codes for lower federal courts, advises justices to avoid activities that could detract from the dignity of their position, interfere with their duties, or reflect adversely on their impartiality. However, the absence of specific restrictions on gifts, travel, or real estate deals and the lack of an enforcement mechanism have drawn criticism. Justice Thomas's updated financial disclosure underscores the ongoing debate over the ethical standards and transparency of the Supreme Court justices. The revelations about his trips funded by Crow highlight the intricate ties between justices and wealthy benefactors, raising questions about potential influences on their judicial decisions. Credit: New York Times 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Recent revelations have cast a shadow over George Galloway's Workers Party of Britain as multiple candidates have been accused of Holocaust denial and anti-Semitism. The Telegraph reported that Julie Lowe, a candidate standing in Chesterfield, has made several controversial comments on social media. Lowe disputed the historical fact that six million Jews were killed in the Holocaust, stating, "It can't possibly be 6m," in response to a post questioning the death toll. She also made derogatory comments about Jewish television presenter Rachel Riley and shared a misattributed photo falsely linking Bill Gates to child traffickers. Another candidate, Kamran Khan, standing in Poplar and Limehouse, east London, reposted a tweet that belittled Holocaust Remembrance Day, calling it a "galactic load of victimhood." The post included a mock pie chart minimizing Jewish casualties in comparison to other World War II casualties. These revelations follow a pattern of anti-Semitic behavior among candidates from the Workers Party of Britain. Last month, The Telegraph revealed that a party candidate was deselected for sharing a video that accused Jews of being punished throughout history for "killing Jesus Christ." The Campaign Against Anti-Semitism has expressed outrage over these incidents. A spokeswoman for the organization stated, "The rhetoric from these candidates is utterly shocking. But every day we seem to uncover new horrors from candidates for the Workers Party of Britain." In response to these allegations, the Workers Party of Britain has been forced to drop some candidates. However, the party and the individuals involved have yet to provide an official comment on the latest accusations. George Galloway, who returned to Parliament by winning the Rochdale by-election in February, has pledged to field hundreds of candidates across the country, but these incidents have raised serious concerns about the party's vetting process and stance on anti-Semitism. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Stephen K. Bannon, former advisor to ex-President Donald J. Trump, is making the most of his final days of freedom by rallying fervent supporters of the MAGA movement. Despite being sentenced to a four-month prison term for defying a congressional subpoena, Bannon remains unapologetic and resolute, portraying his imprisonment as an act of patriotism and a testament to his dedication to the cause. On a pleasant Friday evening in Powhatan, Virginia, Bannon arrived to headline a rally for Representative Bob Good, the chairman of the hard-right House Freedom Caucus. This rally, attended by a crowd carrying lawn chairs and blankets, exemplified the kind of grassroots support that Bannon thrives on. With his influential podcast "War Room" serving as a critical platform for his views, Bannon insisted that his impending imprisonment would only bolster his standing within the movement. "This is ‘War Room,’" Bannon proclaimed with pride as he observed the rallygoers. He emphasized that the podcast, which he streams from his Capitol Hill basement for four hours each weekday, would continue to operate even during his absence. "I’m going to need to find some guest hosts to keep it all going in my absence," he admitted. However, Bannon was confident that his imprisonment would only enhance his influence. "There’s no downside," he said. "I served on a Navy destroyer in my 20s in the North Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf. I’m serving in prison in my 70s. Not a bad bookend." Bannon's defiance was palpable as he framed his imprisonment as the ultimate act of patriotism by a dedicated MAGA warrior. "It’s not like I’m out every night; it’s not like it’s going to cramp my social agenda," he remarked. When pressed on whether he should have cooperated with the subpoena, Bannon was unequivocal. "What are you talking about? I’m proud of what I did. I’m proud of the fact that I stood up to Nancy Pelosi." Bannon's primary concern now is the future of the movement he has helped foster. His listeners, whom he refers to as "the posse," rely on his podcast for discussions on various issues, including the alleged theft of the 2020 presidential election, the situation at the southern border, the federal budget, aid to Ukraine, and what he calls the "uniparty" Republicans in Congress. "'War Room' is not a podcast," Bannon declared. "It’s a military command center for the information war, and it will continue to be that." Despite the looming prison term, Bannon remains unfazed. He explained that years of mental preparation through meditation have fortified him for the challenges ahead. "I have a very strict regimen in my life," he said. "Prison will have a routine and tasks, and I’m nothing special, so I will do whatever is required. But there is zero chance I don’t keep ‘War Room’ focused on the only thing that matters: Total victory." The rally in Powhatan, a quiet conservative community surrounded by rolling farmland, was a significant event for Representative Bob Good. Bannon’s presence was particularly notable as Good faces a contentious Republican primary, with Trump endorsing Good's opponent. It was rare for Bannon to campaign for a candidate opposed by Trump, making his support crucial for Good. As Bannon took the stage, he received a standing ovation, greeted as a martyr for the MAGA cause. "Steve Bannon bears in his body, figuratively speaking, the marks of patriotism, freedom," Good said. "He’s literally put it all on the line for the country." Bannon reassured the crowd that his imprisonment was not a setback. "Prison is not going to be that bad," he told them. "It’s just serving my country in a different way! I’m proud of it." Bannon faces additional legal troubles, including accusations by state prosecutors in Manhattan of misusing funds raised for a group supporting Trump’s border wall. His fraud trial is scheduled for later this year. Nevertheless, Bannon remains optimistic, seeing his legal battles as further proof of his importance to the movement. "They’ve made me much bigger than I am," he said of his opponents. "They can’t help themselves. I trigger these guys to a level that other people don’t. President Trump triggers them, but they think he’s too big a target. They can’t get to Lenin, so they want Trotsky." He pointed out the strategic timing of his sentence, suggesting it was intended to silence him ahead of the presidential election. "The timing is to take me off," he asserted. "100 percent." Bannon drew historical parallels, comparing the conservative movement's current challenges to the Allied troops landing on the beaches of Normandy. "My message to people is, ‘Next man up,’" he said. "This happened on 6th of June in Normandy. It’s next man up. They’re going to sentence Trump to prison on the 11th. It’s got to be next man up." He emphasized the importance of self-reliance within the movement, urging his followers to rise to the occasion. "You got to get the training wheels off," he said. As his surrender date approaches, Bannon plans to continue hosting "War Room" and supporting MAGA candidates. He is determined to see his imprisonment as an opportunity for growth for both himself and his followers. "Do ‘War Room’ four hours a day," he said of his plans. "Do more things like this to help people. If July 1 comes and the appeals haven’t come, then I’ll do what I’m ordered to do. I understand how the system works." Bannon remains confident that his podcast will thrive in his absence. "‘War Room’ will be even better," he declared, "while I’m in prison." Credit: New York Times 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

On Tuesday, a disturbing spectacle unfolded in Sar-e-Pul, northern Afghanistan, where the Taliban conducted a mass flogging event in a sports stadium. The event saw 48 men and 15 women lashed between 15 and 39 times for a range of offenses, from "fleeing from home" to "disrespect." This mass punishment, the largest known public flogging since the Taliban regained power in 2021, was accompanied by prison sentences for some victims, lasting from six months to five years. According to local media and Voice of America, the lashings were shockingly met with approval by some residents. One local resident told Tolo News, "Young people will learn a lesson from the crimes they committed, and this will result in a decrease in crime and criminal activities." The Taliban officials in Sar-e-Pul stated that the individuals subjected to these brutal punishments were arrested for various crimes, including "fleeing from home, armed robbery, adultery, sodomy, and disrespect." The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights (OHCHR) swiftly condemned the event. "We are deeply disturbed by the widespread, continued use of corporal punishment in Afghanistan," said Jeremy Laurence, UN Human Rights spokesperson, in a statement. "Corporal punishment is a clear violation of international human rights law. Afghanistan is party to both the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Under international law, all people have the right to be treated with respect for their inherent human dignity and equality. We again urge the de facto authorities to immediately cease all forms of corporal punishment. Furthermore, we call on the de facto authorities [the Taliban] to ensure full respect for due process and fair trial rights, in particular access to legal representation, for anyone facing criminal charges." The use of a sports stadium for such a chilling event is not unprecedented for the Taliban. Earlier in February, the organization convicted a man of murder and allowed the brother of the alleged victim to execute the convicted man in front of a stadium full of spectators. "The man was shot five times with a rifle by the victim's brother, according to an anonymous witness," reported Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL). In another incident a month prior, nine men were publicly flogged up to 39 times each by the Taliban in the Ahmad Shahi Stadium in Kandahar. The brutal punishments were carried out in front of officials, religious clerics, elders, and locals, with hundreds of people gathering to watch, some even climbing trees for a better view. The recent flogging event comes just three months after the Taliban announced plans to begin stoning women to death in public. In a voice message broadcast on state TV, Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, the Taliban's Supreme Leader, made harsh comments directed at Western human rights defenders, whom he called "representatives of the devil." "You say it's a violation of women's rights when we stone them to death. But we will soon implement the punishment for adultery," Akhundzada said. "We will flog women in public. We will stone them to death in public. These are all against your democracy but we will continue doing it. We both say we defend human rights – we do it as God's representative and you as the devil's." Since regaining power in August 2021, following the collapse of the internationally supported Afghan government and the withdrawal of US and UK-led Western troops after nearly 20 years of war, the Taliban have resumed severe public punishments reminiscent of their previous rule in the late 1990s. Despite initial promises of a more moderate approach, the Taliban's actions have demonstrated a return to their harsh interpretation of Sharia law, drawing widespread condemnation from international human rights organizations and governments worldwide. Credit: The Daily Mail - X - 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

The gold market in Sudan has become a nightmarish landscape of rubble and dog-eaten corpses. The state television station, once a symbol of national pride, has been transformed into a grim torture chamber. Meanwhile, the national film archive, a treasure trove of Sudanese heritage, lies blown open and neglected under the harsh sun. Artillery shells rain over the Nile, indiscriminately targeting hospitals and homes. Residents are forced to bury their dead at their doorsteps, while others march in formation, joining civilian militias in a desperate bid for survival. In the famine wards, starving babies cling to life, though every few days, another one dies. Khartoum, once the bustling capital of Sudan and one of Africa's largest cities, has been reduced to a charred battleground. A power struggle between two generals has plunged the country into a brutal civil war, turning the city into the epicenter of one of the world's most dire humanitarian crises. Since the conflict erupted last year, as many as 150,000 people have died, according to American estimates. Another nine million have been forced from their homes, creating the largest displacement crisis on earth, according to the United Nations. A looming famine threatens to kill hundreds of thousands of children in the coming months, potentially rivaling the catastrophic Ethiopian famine of the 1980s. Foreign powers, including the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Russia, and even Ukrainian special forces, have turned Sudan into a battleground for their interests, pouring weapons and fighters into the conflict. These players are eyeing Sudan's rich resources, such as gold and its strategic location on the Red Sea. Samawal Ahmed, surveying the wreckage of a once-famous market, expressed the widespread sentiment: “I lost everything,” he said, clutching a batch of documents salvaged from his destroyed home. “It makes my stomach churn. All this could have been avoided.” The war began unexpectedly in April 2023 when a standoff between Sudan’s military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a powerful paramilitary group, erupted into violence on the streets of Khartoum. Few Sudanese anticipated a prolonged conflict, as previous coups in the country’s history had often been brief and relatively bloodless. However, the fighting quickly escalated, spreading beyond Khartoum in waves that consumed much of Africa’s third-largest country. Now, neither side appears capable of achieving a decisive victory, and the war is spiraling into a devastating free-for-all. In Darfur, a region infamous for war crimes two decades ago, another genocide looms. The fields of Sudan’s breadbasket have turned into battlegrounds, and the health system is collapsing under the strain. A multitude of armed groups, including hard-line Islamists, foreign mercenaries, and even former pro-democracy protesters, have joined the fray. With American-led peace talks stalled, Sudan is on the brink of collapse, threatening to destabilize the entire region. Experts warn that it is only a matter of time before one of Sudan’s neighbors, such as Chad, Eritrea, or South Sudan, gets drawn into the conflict. Though often overshadowed by the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, the conflict in Sudan has global implications. Iran, already backing the Houthis in Yemen, is now supporting military forces on both sides of the Red Sea. Europeans fear a surge of Sudanese migrants heading for their shores. A recent U.S. intelligence assessment warned that a lawless Sudan could become a haven for “terrorist and criminal networks.” Approaching the capital, the sounds of artillery and warplanes are constant, and an oily plume of smoke rises from Sudan’s largest refinery, another flashpoint in the sprawling urban battle. Amid the chaos, residents sleep in abandoned houses, where neighbors share stories of loss and survival. One man recounts how a bomb killed his sister in their kitchen. The Nile River, long a defining feature of Khartoum, now divides the city militarily. Snipers hide along the riverbank, drones hunt for targets, and an island in the river has become an RSF-controlled prison. Dr. Manahil Mohamed, leading a tour of the Aliaa Specialist Hospital overlooking the Nile, points out the stark panorama: a deserted street lined with burned-out vehicles and a skyline of gutted buildings. Among the ruins stands the old Republican Palace, a historical symbol now in flames. For over half a century, Sudan’s military waged wars in the country’s peripheries, leaving Khartoum untouched. Now, the RSF, a successor to the Janjaweed militias notorious for their atrocities in Darfur, has brought their brutal tactics to the capital. Half of Khartoum’s nine million residents have fled, and the city’s infrastructure is in shambles. Banks have been looted, cars stolen, and the international airport closed. “A city of this size, this wealth, and nothing remains?” lamented Mohamed Eldaw, a banker. “It must be the biggest episode of looting in history.” At Aliaa hospital, the sound of outgoing artillery interrupts the calm. Shells have repeatedly hit the hospital, which mainly treats soldiers, often puncturing its walls. Surgeons perform operations by the light of mobile phones due to the lack of electricity. Relief came in February when the military, armed with Iranian drones, recaptured part of the city, allowing hundreds of wounded troops to be evacuated to Port Sudan. Colonel Osman Taha, a wounded officer in the Sudanese military, recounted a harrowing escape across the Nile under fire. Despite losing his leg, he sees no end to the conflict. “Guns can’t solve this problem,” he said. “We need to talk peace.” For many Sudanese, war means hunger. Amna Amin, a mother of five, lost her job and her husband disappeared, leaving her unable to feed her children. Her twins, born in September, began showing signs of malnutrition. Desperate, she crossed the front lines to reach a children’s hospital. The United Nations has not yet declared a famine, but experts believe one is already underway in parts of Darfur and Khartoum. More than 220,000 children could die in the coming months, the U.N. warns, as both sides use hunger as a weapon of war. Hospitals like Al Nau in Omdurman are overwhelmed, with patients sleeping two to a bed. Many have been displaced multiple times, running a gauntlet of checkpoints and violence. Huda Adil, paralyzed from the waist down after being shot by RSF fighters, and others like her face immense challenges just to receive medical care. Among the displaced is Mujahid Abdulaziz, a 20-year-old engineering student who was shot at an RSF checkpoint. His journey to get the bullet removed took him on a 100-mile detour through the conflict-ridden city. Before the war, he had dreams of a brighter future, participating in protests that toppled President Omar Hassan al-Bashir in 2019. Now, those hopes are shattered. “We were just dreaming,” he said. “Those hopes are gone.” Despite the devastation, some residents remain defiant. Mudassir Ibrahim, showing scars from a week of RSF detention, described the horrors he endured. “It felt like death a thousand times over,” he said. Evidence of torture was visible at the national radio and television station, where ropes and restraints hung in barred rooms. Filthy walls were scrawled with names, pleas, and poetry. In Omdurman, some residents refuse to leave despite the danger. “We were born here, we grew up here, and we will die here,” said Edward Fahmy, an Orthodox Christian who stayed even as bombs fell. The war threatens to erase Sudan’s rich cultural and religious diversity. At Marmina Coptic Orthodox church, bullet holes in a rooftop fresco of Jesus symbolize the destruction. Sheikh Elamin, a Sufi Muslim leader, runs a soup kitchen and other relief efforts, bringing hope to many. “In this time of war, he’s become the most popular figure in the country — period,” said Suliman Baldo, a Sudan analyst. As the war drags on, militias proliferate. Young people who once protested for democracy now join armed groups, further complicating the conflict. Even some military leaders are concerned. Lt. Gen. Shams al-Din al-Kabbashi warned that the militias could become a new threat, but was rebuked by other commanders. Foreign powers continue to fuel the war, smuggling weapons and supporting various factions. The United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Iran, and Russia all have stakes in the conflict. Russia’s Wagner mercenaries and Ukrainian special forces add to the complexity. Sudan’s military has recently turned to Iran for weapons, alarming Washington. The conflict risks drawing in neighboring countries, including Ethiopia and Eritrea. Amid the chaos, some Sudanese in exile call for international intervention. “It’s sheer madness,” said Ibrahim Elbadawi, a former economy minister. “The people of Sudan demand it. Enough is enough.” As Sudan spirals deeper into conflict, the devastation in Khartoum is a bitter reckoning for a nation that once seemed full of promise. The consequences of this war, if unchecked, could be felt far beyond its borders. Credit: New York Times 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Nigel Farage, often a polarizing figure in British politics, is sometimes likened to a vaudevillian act, complete with his theatrical grins and pantomime gestures. Recently, he announced his intention to run for parliament again, a move met with enthusiasm from his supporters and curiosity from the media. This event in Clacton, a seaside town with a history of theatrical performances, highlighted Farage’s unique ability to draw attention and stir emotions. Journalists, camera crews, and podcasters, including well-known figures like Emily Maitlis and Jon Sopel, gathered to witness and dissect Farage's appeal. For many centrists, the explanation for his success is straightforward: he taps into the bigotry, racism, and gullibility of certain segments of society. Alastair Campbell has labeled him a “dangerous demagogue,” and a former adviser to David Cameron criticized Farage’s superficiality in contrast to his former boss’s statesmanship. The Times’ Daniel Finkelstein noted that Farage promises chaos, unlike the pragmatic Sunak. However, this analysis might be overly simplistic. Farage’s influence, despite never winning a seat, is undeniable. He has been a key figure in British politics for two decades and is poised to play a significant role in the future of the Tory party. His power stems not primarily from racism or gullibility, but from deceit—the deceit of those who have held power and now denounce him. This deceit is evident in the promises made about immigration by successive governments, from Tony Blair to David Cameron. Blair, for instance, pledged in 1997 to ensure “firm control” over immigration, yet presided over a significant increase in immigrant numbers. He later promised to restrict long-term settlement to skilled workers and end chain migration, but net migration continued to rise, partly due to movement from new EU member states. The government’s projection of 13,000 new migrants annually was exceeded by 1,500 percent. The deceit did not stop with Blair. The Conservative Party, in its 2010, 2015, and 2017 manifestos, promised to reduce immigration to the tens of thousands. Instead, immigration rose to an average of 300,000 a year, totaling over 1.4 million for 2022-23. This period included the end of free movement, yet saw high numbers of low-wage workers from non-European nations. This discrepancy between promises and reality has significantly eroded public trust. Trust, a cornerstone of a healthy and prosperous society, has plummeted to unprecedented lows. This decline in trust is not a minor issue; it is crucial to the functioning of democracy and the health of society. Social scientists argue that trust was a key factor in the rise of the West, and its erosion poses a serious threat. Farage’s rise is a symptom of this erosion of trust. Like populists before him, he draws power from the failures of the political establishment. The duplicity surrounding immigration policy has debased the political discourse, creating a fertile ground for figures like Farage and Donald Trump. These leaders thrive on the distrust created by broken promises and political deceit. Critics of Farage, such as Campbell and former Tory advisers, often fail to acknowledge their role in creating the conditions for his rise. The lies about immigration were not minor political evasions but premeditated falsehoods about a central issue of our time. This lack of self-awareness among the political elite is a profound dereliction of responsibility. The ongoing crisis of honesty in politics ensures that populist figures will continue to emerge. This dynamic pushes centre-right parties to the fringes and fuels polarization, which benefits authoritarian regimes like China’s. The failure to control borders is central to the appeal of populists across the Western world, from Marine Le Pen in France to Geert Wilders in the Netherlands and Trump in the United States. This issue will also challenge Keir Starmer if he comes to power. A rational immigration policy, as suggested by Tory backbencher Neil O’Brien and left-leaning academic Michael Muthukrishna, would involve ending the reliance on low-wage labor. This strategy would entail short-term pain for long-term gain, focusing on high-skilled immigrants who integrate well and contribute significantly to the economy and society. Such a policy would not only boost GDP but also help restore trust in the political system. As I left Clacton, the dominant thought was that Farage, while dangerous, is a product of the failures of the so-called “liberal” consensus. The greater menace lies with those who created the conditions for his rise and continue to lack self-awareness. Future historians may view them not as liberals but as arsonists who destroyed the trust essential for a functioning democracy and never acknowledged their role in the resulting chaos. Sunday Times Opinion Credit: The Times 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

On October 7, a tragic series of events unfolded that left an indelible mark on the people of Israel. However, according to former United Nations ambassador and GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley, President Joe Biden and many Western politicians seem to have forgotten the gravity of that day. Haley recently visited Israel and spoke with survivors of the Hamas attack. One of them, Tali, was at the Nova music festival when terrorists struck. By sheer luck, she found a place to hide and escaped immediate detection. Yet, she could not escape the horrors around her. Tali heard the desperate screams, the pleas for mercy, and the gunshots that silenced them. When the attackers left, she emerged to a scene of unimaginable carnage: friends and fellow attendees were butchered, many women had been raped, and some had their genitals mutilated. As a nurse, Tali tried to help the survivors, offering what care and comfort she could in the aftermath. Haley also visited Nir Oz, a kibbutz now in ruins, where terrorists had tortured and burned alive its residents. These attackers have vowed to strike again, making it crucial, Haley argues, for Israel to finish its mission in Gaza, defeat Hamas, and secure the release of hostages, including eight Americans, five of whom are confirmed alive. Despite these harrowing realities, Haley criticizes President Biden and some Congress members for withholding weapons from Israel and imposing diplomatic and economic punishments. She is particularly incensed by calls for a cease-fire, which she equates with defeat. Such a pause, she argues, would allow Hamas to regroup and continue its mission of destroying Israel. For Haley, the memories of October 7 are visceral. She recalls the devastation: burned houses, the smell of ash and death, and the testimonies of survivors. This firsthand experience solidifies her belief that supporting Israel is vital to preventing further atrocities both in Israel and potentially in the United States. Haley's visit to Israel and her interactions with survivors like Tali reinforce her conviction that Israel's victory is essential for justice and security. She draws parallels between the events of October 7 and the September 11 attacks in the U.S., emphasizing that the memories of those atrocities should compel leaders to act decisively. Credit: The New York Post - X - 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Last week, a 25-year-old Afghan man went on a stabbing spree in Mannheim, southwestern Germany, resulting in the death of a police officer and injuries to five others. Captured on video, the attack showed the assailant repeatedly stabbing several people, including the officer, who was attacked in the head and neck. The officer, Rouven L., aged 29, was trying to protect Michael Stürzenberger, a blogger known for his critical views on Islam, who was wounded but survived. Despite the clear indications of an Islamist motive, it took four days for authorities to acknowledge the connection. Justice Minister Marco Buschmann tweeted, “Islam belongs to Germany, but Islamism does not. It is a deadly form of fanaticism. There is now clear evidence of an Islamist motive for the crime in #Mannheim.” This incident is part of a growing trend of Islamist stabbings, riots, and violent demonstrations across the West, particularly in Europe. These violent episodes are increasing in frequency and severity. In April, a bishop and a priest were stabbed during services in a Sydney suburb by a 16-year-old attacker who shouted “Allahu Akbar.” In March, four individuals linked to “violent Islamist extremism” were arrested in Stockholm. UK Member of Parliament Mike Freer resigned in January due to threats from Islamists, underscored by the murder of his colleague David Amess in October 2021 by Ali Harbi Ali, who targeted officials supporting airstrikes against Syria. France and Belgium have witnessed numerous attacks since the October 7 Hamas attack in Israel. A Chechen killed a teacher in Arras, France, a Tunisian national fatally shot two Swedes in Brussels, and a Muslim man killed a German tourist in Paris. Another incident involved a mass stabbing at a party in Crépol, southern France, where Muslim teenagers reportedly declared, “We’re here to kill whites.” In April 2022, two gay men in Sligo, Ireland, were tortured and decapitated by an Iraqi immigrant who cited religious reasons, yet officials and LGBTQ activists framed the murders strictly as homophobic. In Oslo, a mass shooting in June 2022 left two dead and 21 wounded, which police described as an “act of Islamist terrorism.” German authorities arrested five teenagers in April on allegations of plotting an “Islamist-motivated terror attack.” The near-fatal stabbing of novelist Salman Rushdie in upstate New York in August 2022 was carried out by a radicalized New Jersey man whose parents emigrated from Lebanon. These violent acts have raised concerns about the upcoming Olympic Summer Games in Paris. French authorities have scaled back plans for the opening ceremony, citing Islamist terrorism as the main threat. Additionally, there has been a surge in violent pro-Hamas demonstrations across Europe. These protests, which have often celebrated the killing and raping of Jews as a form of liberation, have contributed to a sense of resignation in the West. The shock and outrage that once accompanied such attacks have diminished, replaced by a troubling acceptance. When attacks occur, the response from media and officials follows a predictable pattern: calls for restraint in judgment, followed by a shift in focus to fears of far-right retaliation once Islamist motives are confirmed. This deflection often leads to the victimization of the attacked rather than the attackers. For instance, blogger Michael Stürzenberger in Mannheim and the staffers of Charlie Hebdo, murdered in Paris in 2015, have been scrutinized for their views rather than focusing on their attackers. This reluctance to confront Islamist violence head-on or the immediate deflection to far-right threats creates a cognitive dissonance. Many people worry about the increasing violence but feel powerless to address it. Europe's postwar stupor and reluctance to defend national and Western interests exacerbate the issue. Salwan Momika, an Iraqi refugee in Sweden known for publicly burning Qurans, articulated a stark perspective: “As an atheist, I must be realistic and believe that the West must return to its Christian roots so that it can fight the project of Islamizing the West.” He argued that Islam cannot be fought with liberal naivety or democratic laws because it exploits democracy to further its aims. The question remains: Can the West combat the Islamist threat without abandoning the democratic and liberal values that define it? Without addressing this issue, the far right may gain ground, proposing extreme measures like mass deportations, which are gaining popularity, as evidenced by the rise of the Alternative for Germany party. Addressing Islamist violence directly and honestly is essential to prevent the far right from filling the void. It is a difficult conversation but necessary to protect the values and safety of Western societies. Credit: The Free Press 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

In 2021, a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, oncologist Kashyap Patel began noticing an unsettling trend. During a routine Friday lunch with his team at Carolina Blood and Cancer Care Associates, he shared a case of a patient in his 40s diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, a rare and lethal cancer of the bile ducts usually seen in much older individuals. The revelation sparked a wave of similar stories from his colleagues, who had also encountered unusually aggressive and rare cancers. Within a year, Patel's office had recorded seven such cases. "I've been in practice 23 years and have never seen anything like this," Patel later reflected. His colleague, Asutosh Gor, shared his concern: "We were all shaken." These observations were not isolated. Across the country, doctors were noting a rise in aggressive, late-stage cancers since the pandemic began. Early national data and reports from major cancer institutions confirmed this trend. While many experts attribute this to disruptions in healthcare during the pandemic, others, like Patel, are exploring a more direct link between COVID-19 and cancer. The idea that viruses can cause or accelerate cancer is not new. Since the 1960s, scientists have identified various infectious agents, such as HPV, Epstein-Barr, and hepatitis B, as contributing to 15 to 20 percent of all cancers worldwide. However, establishing a connection between COVID-19 and cancer will likely take years of research. "We are completely under-investigating this virus," stated Douglas C. Wallace, a geneticist and evolutionary biologist from the University of Pennsylvania. He warned that the long-term effects of repeated COVID-19 infections might be more significant than currently understood. Yet, skepticism remains. John T. Schiller, a researcher at the National Institutes of Health, pointed out that respiratory viruses like influenza and RSV, which include coronaviruses, typically do not linger in the body long enough to cause cancer. David Tuveson, director of the Cancer Center at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, acknowledged that while there is no evidence of COVID-19 directly transforming cells into cancerous ones, the virus could act as an environmental stressor. He compared its potential impact to that of tobacco, alcohol, asbestos, or microplastics. "Covid wrecks the body, and that’s where cancers can start," Tuveson explained, noting that autopsy studies of COVID-19 victims showed signs of prematurely aged tissue. As the pandemic unfolded, public health officials anticipated a surge in cancer cases due to delayed screenings and treatment interruptions. Studies, such as a paper in Lancet Oncology, confirmed increases in Stage 4 cancers across various types by late 2020. Institutions like Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute and UC San Diego Health reported continued rises in late-stage cancers. Xuesong Han, a scientific director at the American Cancer Society, cited multiple reasons for this trend, including healthcare disruptions, economic factors, and societal barriers. However, Han also acknowledged the need to explore biological mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 that could influence cancer development. Afshin Beheshti, president of the COVID-19 International Research Team, shared similar concerns. His group of scientists, initially formed to tackle the virus, began investigating its potential links to cancer. Beheshti, with a background in cancer biology, found the widespread inflammation and vascular impacts of COVID-19 particularly troubling. "It kept nagging on my mind," he said. About a year ago, Beheshti contacted Patel, who had been documenting unusual cancer patterns. Together, they hosted a symposium with other scientists, concluding that there was compelling evidence to suggest links between the coronavirus and cancer. "Hopefully, we’re wrong," Beheshti remarked, "but everything is, unfortunately, pushing toward that being the case." Various research efforts are now underway to investigate these potential links. Wallace is studying how COVID-19 affects cellular energy production, which might influence cancer susceptibility. Biodata experts are sequencing gene profiles from COVID-19 victims' organs, and a University of Colorado team is exploring whether COVID-19 can reawaken dormant cancer cells in mice. Their preliminary findings, published in April, indicated that SARS-CoV-2 could indeed trigger cancer cell proliferation in the lungs of cancer-surviving mice. Ashani Weeraratna, a professor at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, emphasized the importance of these findings, though she cautioned that mouse studies do not always translate to human experiences. She also noted that the research focused on acute infection or long COVID, not on the coronavirus vaccine, countering misinformation spread by some anti-vaccine groups. "Mitigating risk of infection may be of particular importance for cancer patients," Weeraratna advised, underscoring the need for protective measures like masks, avoiding crowded places, and vaccination. Further studies have hinted at potential mechanisms linking COVID-19 to cancer. Research from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences showed that SARS-CoV-2 proteins could fuel the replication of a herpesvirus linked to cancer. Other studies suggested that the coronavirus might disrupt the body's tumor suppression abilities, although direct evidence is still lacking. Wallace argued that the lack of data on COVID-19 and cancer is more a result of policy decisions than scientific challenges. "Most governments don’t want to think about long COVID and much less long COVID and cancer," he said, criticizing the lack of funding for long-term effects of the virus. "I don’t think that’s a wise choice." Patel, driven by his firsthand observations, is conducting his own research into what he calls "an unusual pattern" of cancers. He is examining potential correlations between long-COVID markers and unusual cancers, collecting data from nearly 300 patients, and advocating for a national registry to analyze trends. His office has recorded numerous cases of patients with multiple cancers, rare cancers, and even couples diagnosed with new cancers since the pandemic began. Patel theorizes that multiple COVID-19 infections could have cumulative effects, and that pandemic-related stress might exacerbate inflammation, increasing cancer risk. If a link is established, it could lead to earlier screenings and preventive measures for at-risk patients. One of Patel’s patients, a 78-year-old diagnosed with three cancers within a year, exemplifies the urgency of this research. Another case involves Bob and Bonnie Krall, a couple who faced three types of cancer between them in just over a year. Despite lacking a family history of cancer, both had high levels of coronavirus antibodies, suggesting a possible connection. "It’s like a cold. It seems like everyone has it," remarked Bob Krall, a 73-year-old flight instructor, reflecting on the prevalence of cancer among his acquaintances. Even before Patel mentioned his research, Bonnie Krall had wondered if their cancers were related to COVID-19, as she was infected shortly before her diagnosis. "Maybe if we didn’t get covid…" she speculated, though her husband, Bob, remained uncertain about the possible outcomes. The emerging evidence and ongoing research underscore the need for a deeper understanding of COVID-19’s long-term impacts. While definitive answers may take years, the potential link between the virus and cancer is a critical area of investigation that could shape public health strategies and patient care for years to come. Credit: Washington Post 2024-06-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

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