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Survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki Awarded Nobel Peace Prize for Nuclear Disarmament
Nihon Hidankyo, a Japanese organization representing atomic bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, has been awarded the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize. The Norwegian Nobel Committee recognized the group’s persistent efforts "to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons" and commended their powerful role in advocating for nuclear disarmament. The survivors, known as Hibakusha, have spent decades sharing their personal stories and campaigning against the use of nuclear weapons, serving as living reminders of the devastating effects of these weapons. The Nobel Peace Prize has a rich history of honoring individuals and groups that have made significant contributions to peace and humanity. Past laureates include anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela, former U.S. President Barack Obama for his efforts in strengthening global diplomacy, and Pakistani education activist Malala Yousafzai, who has advocated for girls' right to education worldwide. The Nobel Prize itself was established by Alfred Nobel, the Swedish inventor and industrialist, who in his will directed his wealth to be used for awards benefiting humankind in various fields, including peace, chemistry, and literature. This year, Sir Demis Hassabis, a British computer scientist, was among the winners of the Nobel Prize in chemistry. He, along with John Jumper and David Baker, was recognized for pioneering work in predicting and creating protein structures using artificial intelligence. The awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to Nihon Hidankyo underscores the global commitment to the pursuit of peace and the urgent need to continue working toward a world free from the threat of nuclear warfare. The Hibakusha’s enduring legacy reminds the world of the catastrophic consequences of nuclear weapons, and their voices serve as a powerful call for disarmament and global cooperation in the name of peace. Based on a report from Sky News 2024-10-12 -
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Controversy Surrounds Guardian Review of Oct 7 Documentary on Hamas Massacre
The Guardian has found itself at the center of an online controversy following the publication of a review of *One Day in October*, a documentary by Channel 4 covering the events and aftermath of the Hamas massacre on October 7. Written by feature writer Stuart Jeffries, the review sparked outrage, particularly over the suggestion that the film "demonises Gazans" as “Hamas killers.” Jeffries’s review noted that, despite the documentary's portrayal of "evident evil," it followed a narrative structure that encouraged viewers to identify with the Israeli victims, while casting Hamas as a faceless and generalized threat. This perspective, according to the Campaign Against Antisemitism, was "disgraceful," and many agreed that it trivialized the severity of the massacre. In response to the backlash, Guardian News & Media reaffirmed that the article had been taken down because it did not meet their editorial standards. Readers are awaiting further clarification from the publication regarding how such content made it to print in the first place. Based on a report from The Daily Telegraph | X 2024-10-12 -
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Unlikely Justice for Victims of Novichok Poisoning, Says Former PM Theresa May
Former Prime Minister Theresa May expressed doubts that justice will ever be achieved for those affected by the Salisbury Novichok attack. Speaking about the 2018 poisoning that claimed the life of Wiltshire resident Dawn Sturgess, she admitted that it is “highly unlikely” that those responsible will face trial. Instead, May hopes that Sturgess’ family will find solace in the forthcoming independent inquiry into her death. “I would hope by the end of it the family and friends of Dawn Sturgess feel it has got to the truth,” she stated during an interview for a new BBC podcast on the Salisbury Poisonings, which covers the inquiry. Ms. Sturgess, a 44-year-old mother of three, tragically died in July 2018 after coming into contact with Novichok, a deadly Russian nerve agent. It is believed that the chemical weapon had been carelessly discarded by Russian agents who were targeting former Russian spy Sergei Skripal in March 2018. In addition to Skripal, his daughter Yulia Skripal and Wiltshire Police officer Det Sgt Nick Bailey were also exposed to the toxin, though they later recovered. Charlie Rowley, Sturgess’s partner, unwittingly gave her the poison after finding the perfume bottle containing the Novichok, unaware of its deadly contents. May, who was the prime minister at the time, expressed deep sadness over the incident. "I felt huge sadness about Ms. Sturgess' death," she said, while also pointing out that the number of potential victims could have been much higher, given the quantity of the nerve agent discovered. She described the Russian agents’ actions as "utter recklessness." Within a week of the Skripal attack, the UK government, led by May, publicly accused the Russian government of involvement. This swift response led to the expulsion of Russian intelligence officers by the UK and numerous other countries. “We had to be certain of our ground,” May explained, recalling the tense moment she stood in the House of Commons to formally accuse Russia. "It's why we took our time" to gather the facts and avoid “rash declarations.” She acknowledged the challenge of balancing the public’s desire for immediate information with the need for caution. Reflecting on the broader context of Russian-linked poisonings, May also expressed regret that the UK had not responded more forcefully to the 2006 murder of Alexander Litvinenko, another former Russian spy, who was killed in London using radioactive polonium-210. A public inquiry concluded that Russian President Vladimir Putin had likely approved Litvinenko's assassination. “I think we probably should have taken a stronger response to that at the time and given a clearer message to Russia," she admitted. The public inquiry into Dawn Sturgess’s death, which was converted from an inquest in 2021 to allow for classified evidence, is set to begin on October 14, more than six years after the incident. The inquiry aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding her death but cannot assign guilt or lead to a trial. While UK counter-terrorism police identified two Russian nationals, Alexander Petrov and Ruslan Boshirov, as suspects in September 2018, and later named a third suspect, Sergey Fedotov, all three remain in Russia. Despite the international arrest warrants issued against them, they are unlikely to face justice, as Russia’s constitution prevents the extradition of its citizens. Russia has continuously denied involvement, with its foreign ministry dismissing the inquiry as a “circus.” As the inquiry proceeds, May’s hope is that while justice may remain out of reach, the truth surrounding Ms. Sturgess’s tragic death will provide some measure of closure to her loved ones. Based on a report from BBC 2024-10-12 -
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The Growing Influence of the US Far Right on Ireland's Extremist Movements
The influence of far-right figures from the United States is increasingly seeping into Ireland’s political and social landscape. American extremists, including former members of the Ku Klux Klan, antisemitic conspiracy theorists, and QAnon promoters, are now advising Ireland’s far-right groups, helping to shape their narratives and tactics. These claims mirror the rhetoric seen on far-right platforms in the US, suggesting a concerning cross-Atlantic connection. A striking example is a fabricated report from a website called *The Irish Channel*, which falsely suggested that Irish lawmakers were transporting refugees to polling stations to sway elections. This conspiracy is nearly identical to claims in the US that undocumented immigrants are being brought in to manipulate voting results. Researchers from the Institute for Strategic Dialogue recently revealed that such false narratives are created using generative AI, drawing heavily from US election denial efforts. In addition to election fraud claims, Irish far-right circles are recycling other American conspiracies, such as accusations that teachers and librarians are "groomers" for promoting discussions on gender and sexual health. One of the most outlandish false claims to emerge recently is that Irish schoolchildren will be forced to watch pornography as part of a new curriculum—another entirely fabricated story. This flow of conspiracies from the US to Ireland highlights a growing relationship between the two far-right communities. According to Mark Malone from the Hope and Courage Collective, this connection underscores the Irish far right’s lack of domestic support, forcing them to turn to American extremists for guidance. "Irish neo-Nazis are looking for friends and intellectual leadership," says Malone. While he doubts their influence will translate into electoral success, he warns that the violent tendencies of these groups are a serious threat. Despite Ireland’s progress in recent years—legalizing same-sex marriage, easing abortion restrictions, and electing an openly gay, mixed-race leader—the country has become an attractive target for the US far right. They view Ireland as one of the last bastions of white Christian values in the West, even though the Catholic Church no longer dominates Irish society. Agitators within Ireland’s far-right movement have been using national issues, such as the housing crisis and rising immigration, to stoke fear and provoke action. These groups have organized violent protests, often targeting locations designated to house asylum seekers, leading to the destruction of property and several arson attacks. The situation escalated in November 2023, when riots broke out in Dublin following a stabbing that left three children and one adult injured. The alleged attacker, a naturalized Irish citizen from Algeria, became a symbol for the far right’s anti-immigrant narrative. In the aftermath, police cars were set on fire, and widespread looting ensued. Among those amplifying the situation was UFC fighter Conor McGregor, who tweeted: "Ireland, we are at war," just before the violence began. His comments helped elevate the riots to a global stage, drawing attention from prominent US figures like former Trump adviser Steve Bannon and white supremacist Nick Fuentes, who suggested Ireland was on the brink of civil war. US extremists aren’t just offering rhetorical support; they’re actively advising Ireland’s far-right agitators. Frank Silva, a former Ku Klux Klan member and neo-Nazi, has joined multiple online calls with Irish extremists, offering strategic advice on how to make anti-immigrant protests go viral. Similarly, Jon Minadeo II, founder of the antisemitic Goyim Defense League, has provided Irish activists with posters and flyers filled with hate speech, encouraging them to plaster their neighborhoods with these materials. American QAnon promoter Jeffrey Pedersen also recently joined an Irish extremist platform to spread antisemitic conspiracy theories. Pedersen framed the global political struggle in religious terms, claiming that the people in power are not loyal to any faith but are instead Satanists. He emphasized the importance of Donald Trump’s re-election in the US, arguing that if America falls, "the whole world falls." The financial connections between the US and Ireland’s far-right movements are also strengthening. Justin Barrett, a notorious Irish far-right figure, recently launched a fundraiser on the Christian crowdfunding platform GiveSendGo, soliciting funds for his political party’s "protection unit." While his efforts have raised only a fraction of his goal, many donations have come from American supporters, with messages of encouragement like "Much love from America" and warnings to "fight the invasion." This growing relationship between the US and Irish far-right groups marks a troubling shift. Ireland, while lacking the same access to firearms that characterizes American extremism, is beginning to adopt similar organizational tactics. Localized groups, like the Irish Freedom Party's newly established "watchdog" initiative, aim to mobilize men to respond to supposed illegal immigrant threats in their neighborhoods. The group's name, *Sinne na Daoine*—translated as "we the people"—echoes the rhetoric used by American far-right movements for the past decade. Based on a report from Wired 2024-10-12 -
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Boris Johnson Hints at Potential Return to Front-Line Politics
Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has teased the possibility of returning to front-line politics, suggesting that his political career may not be over. Johnson, who was forced out of office in 2022 and resigned as a Member of Parliament a year later, revealed his ongoing desire to serve in public life. Referring to his own resilience, Johnson said that all effective politicians must possess a "cockroach-like" determination to survive. In a recent interview with *Times Radio*, Johnson downplayed his chances of leading the Conservative Party again, humorously comparing the odds to “being blinded by a champagne cork or decapitated by a frisbee.” However, when pressed on whether he still harbored political ambitions, Johnson didn’t rule out a return, instead quoting the late Queen Elizabeth II: “You should only do things if you think you can be useful.” When asked if he believed he could still be of use to the public, Johnson responded cryptically, saying, "I’m not saying that." He elaborated, stating that politicians, to be effective, must have a survival instinct akin to "wasps in a jam jar" or "cockroaches" and that this persistence is not necessarily a negative quality. "We all need people who really, really want to do their best for us," Johnson added, defending the tenacity required to navigate public life. Though Johnson refrained from weighing in too heavily on the current Conservative leadership race, he did acknowledge the competence of the candidates, including Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenoch. “You haven’t asked me about the current Tory leaders because you think I’m not going to say anything,” he said with a smile. “But I will say, actually, the candidates are very good, and they’re having some excellent conversations about where we go next.” Johnson also addressed the controversy surrounding the "Partygate" scandal, which significantly contributed to his political downfall. Fined for attending a birthday party in the Cabinet Room during lockdown in 2020, Johnson faced a vote of no confidence in June 2022, which he narrowly survived. However, the scandal continued to haunt him, and the Chris Pincher affair ultimately led to his resignation from Parliament in July 2023. Reflecting on the inquiry led by Sue Gray into Partygate, Johnson expressed frustration, accusing Gray of bias. "She cherry-picked stuff… She had hundreds of young officials, not all of whom were favourably disposed towards me," he claimed, suggesting the report was slanted against him. When asked if Gray had "screwed him over," Johnson replied, "I think to some extent yeah, probably." Johnson went further, claiming that Gray was "about as responsible as I was" for the breaches of lockdown rules within Whitehall during the pandemic, a statement likely to reignite debates about his role in the scandal. Shifting his attention to international affairs, Johnson defended former U.S. President Donald Trump. Despite disagreeing with Trump’s actions during the January 6 Capitol riots, Johnson maintained that Trump did not intend to "overthrow the constitution." He emphasized the importance of the peaceful transfer of power, which ultimately occurred after the riots. Regarding Trump’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Johnson suggested that concerns over the former president’s position were "overdone." He pointed to Trump’s support for Ukraine during his presidency, citing the provision of Javelin missiles and the expulsion of Russian spies from the U.S. during Johnson’s tenure as foreign secretary. “So he can surprise very much on the upside,” Johnson remarked. Reflecting on his own time as Prime Minister, Johnson also admitted responsibility for the high levels of net migration during his leadership, explaining that inflation and labor shortages drove his decisions. "We faced a huge problem... we didn’t have anyone to stack the shelves, we didn’t have any fuel drivers,” Johnson said, acknowledging that in 2022, his government "opened the doors too wide" in an attempt to manage the economic crisis. Based on a report from The Daily Telegraph 2024-10-12 -
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Pro-Palestinian ‘mob-rule tactics’ Force Postponement of Braverman’s Cambridge Speech
Suella Braverman, the former Home Secretary, was compelled to postpone her scheduled speech at the University of Cambridge due to security concerns amid protests led by a pro-Palestinian group. Braverman, who was set to speak on Thursday to the Cambridge University Conservative Association (CUCA), an organization she once led as a student 20 years ago, faced opposition from the group Cambridge for Palestine. She further emphasized her resolve, stating: “I refuse to be intimidated by the pro-Palestinian mob. I was resolute in my intention to speak to the Cambridge University Conservative Association, and whilst the event has been delayed for now, it will proceed at a future date. Conservatives will not back down. I will not be silenced and neither will the millions of British people and defenders of free speech who stand proud, firm and unyielding against radical mob rule.” The event, which was set to take place at Corpus Christi College, was deemed too costly for CUCA to ensure adequate security, estimated at £1,500. Although an alternative venue at the Cambridge Union was considered, the timing clashed with another event involving MPs, and it is believed the police advised against adding CUCA’s event to the schedule. CUCA’s chairman, Szymon Sawicki, expressed disappointment over the postponement but pledged that the event would take place at a later date. He emphasized CUCA’s commitment to pluralism and open debate, stating, “It is a huge shame that a speaker who has contributed so much to the UK political environment is unable to talk about her record.” The protests against Braverman come amid heightened tensions over the university’s stance on issues related to Palestine. King’s College Cambridge was the site of a 100-day protest encampment earlier this year, driven by concerns over the university’s investments in the defence and arms industry. The university has since stated that it is committed to reviewing its approach to responsible investment. Additionally, the University of Cambridge has announced new rules aimed at protecting free speech on campus, set to come into effect in August 2024, reaffirming its commitment to promoting freedom of speech for staff and students. Braverman’s postponed speech also follows the shelving of a new law by the Labour Government, which had been aimed at tackling cancel culture on university campuses. The law would have required universities, colleges, and student unions to promote academic freedom and protect visiting speakers, offering more robust protections against disruptions like those faced by Braverman. However, Labour has argued that the legislation is not fit for purpose, citing concerns that it could expose Jewish students to anti-Semitic abuse. Based on a report from The Daily Telegraph 2024-10-12 -
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Taylor Swift Donates $5 Million to Hurricane Relief Efforts
Taylor Swift has once again demonstrated her commitment to philanthropy by making a substantial donation to support relief efforts in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The pop superstar contributed $5 million to Feeding America, a national food bank organization, as the southeastern United States continues to grapple with the devastating aftermath of the storms. The donation is aimed at providing immediate aid to communities affected by the hurricanes, which have left widespread damage and disrupted the lives of countless individuals. Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America, expressed the organization's deep gratitude for Swift’s generosity. "We're incredibly grateful to Taylor Swift for her generous $5 million donation to Hurricanes Helene and Milton relief efforts," she said in a statement shared on Instagram. "This contribution will help communities rebuild and recover, providing essential food, clean water, and supplies to people affected by these devastating storms. Together, we can make a real impact in supporting families as they navigate the challenges ahead." Babineaux-Fontenot emphasized the importance of Swift’s contribution in addressing the immediate needs of those affected and highlighted the singer’s long-standing dedication to making a difference. "Thank you, Taylor, for standing with us in the movement to end hunger and for helping communities in need," she added. Taylor Swift, who hails from Pennsylvania and is now 34 years old, is well-known not only for her music but also for her charitable work. This recent donation is part of a broader pattern of giving that has seen her support numerous causes over the years. Previously, she made significant donations to a Tennessee tornado relief fund and a food bank in Kansas City, showcasing her commitment to helping communities in times of crisis. Swift’s latest act of generosity reinforces her reputation as a celebrity who uses her platform to drive positive change, offering both financial support and hope to those in need. Based on a report from USA Today 2024-10-12 -
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Honeymoon Period Over for Kamala Harris Polls Show Tight Race
With the 2024 presidential election fast approaching, the political landscape has shifted dramatically in the past few weeks. Vice President Kamala Harris, once riding high after a post-primary "honeymoon" period, is now in a razor-thin battle against former President Donald Trump. Polls from key battleground states like Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Michigan show a tight race, with no clear front-runner emerging as November draws nearer. A new Quinnipiac poll released this week highlights Trump’s resurgence. He leads Harris in Wisconsin and Michigan, states that were crucial to his victory in 2016 and swung back to Democratic control in 2020. RealClearPolitics’s polling average now shows Trump ahead in Michigan for the first time in months, signaling potential trouble for the Harris campaign. These tight margins underscore a larger trend: the race is too close to call in most of the crucial swing states. In many of these, the lead for either candidate is in the low single digits, meaning a small shift in voter sentiment could alter the outcome dramatically. Both parties recognize that the election could hinge on a single state or even a few thousand votes. Pennsylvania, with its large electorate and history of flipping between parties, remains a particular focus. A small shift of one or two percentage points in states like Michigan or Pennsylvania could change the entire dynamic of the race. As things stand, no one has a clear path to victory in the Electoral College, leaving the outcome uncertain. While the presidential race is in a deadlock, the Senate races tell a different story. Democrats are facing an increasingly steep climb to maintain control of the upper chamber. Vulnerable Republican incumbents like Rick Scott in Florida and Ted Cruz in Texas are holding on by thin margins, according to a recent Marist poll. However, these races are still competitive, with both candidates at risk of losing. Meanwhile, in Montana, GOP candidate Tim Sheehy appears to be pulling ahead, jeopardizing the seat held by Democrat Jon Tester, one of the Senate’s few remaining moderates. With the likely loss of Tester’s seat and the expected defeat of West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, Republican control of the Senate seems almost inevitable. Democratic candidates are still leading in several important Senate races, including Maryland, Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Nevada, and Arizona. But even if these races break in favor of the Democrats, they could still be left facing a slim 51-49 GOP majority in the Senate come January. The narrowing gap between Harris and Trump in the presidential race has left Democrats frustrated. Despite a significant advantage in fundraising and grassroots support, Harris’s campaign has struggled to translate these strengths into a clear polling lead. This is particularly concerning as the campaign heads into its final stretch with few opportunities left to change the polls in a big way. With the debates behind them, Harris and Trump must rely on last-minute campaign efforts and strategies to sway undecided voters. Trump has already unveiled one such effort—a large rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. While billed as a bold play to flip the traditionally Democratic state, the rally is likely more about energizing his base and generating media attention. His running mate, JD Vance, has already confirmed his attendance, signaling the importance of the event for their campaign. Harris, meanwhile, is sending Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to Wisconsin for a series of campaign events in hopes of solidifying her support in that key battleground state. Walz’s reappearance on the campaign trail after weeks out of the spotlight suggests the Harris campaign is making a renewed push in areas where Trump is gaining momentum. With October already more than a third over, both campaigns are running out of time to sway undecided voters. The race remains a toss-up, with neither candidate able to claim a decisive lead. In the final weeks, every rally, ad, and event could tip the scales. Both Harris and Trump are likely feeling the pressure as they make their final pitches to the American people in this unpredictable and fiercely competitive election. Based on a report from The Independent 2024-10-12 -
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DeSantis Pushes Back on Climate Change’s Role in Stronger Storms
As Florida deals with the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, Governor Ron DeSantis is facing growing pressure from environmental activists and scientists who claim climate change is fueling stronger hurricanes. However, DeSantis has pushed back against these claims, stating during a media briefing in Port St. Lucie that hurricanes are a historical part of Florida's weather pattern, especially during hurricane season. "There is precedent for all this in history," he said. "It is hurricane season. You are going to have tropical weather." Scientists have repeatedly stated that the warming planet, caused by fossil fuel emissions, is directly linked to rising ocean temperatures, which in turn strengthens hurricanes. Jeff Chanton, a professor of environmental science and oceanography at Florida State University, pointed out that the connection between warmer waters and more intense hurricanes is well-documented in scientific literature. "He is assuming that this is all cyclical, whereas many scientists believe there is a trend towards stronger hurricanes and increased intensification," Chanton remarked, referencing five scientific papers that support his view. Despite DeSantis's statements, Chanton is unsure where the governor is sourcing his historical hurricane data. When asked for further information, the governor’s office did not provide the requested details. Hurricane Milton, which hit Siesta Key as a Category 3 storm, has reignited debates over climate change, particularly as it comes just two weeks after Hurricane Helene struck northern Florida. Environmentalists are seizing the moment to bring climate change to the forefront of political discussions, especially with the upcoming elections. Some are calling for candidates to take more decisive action on the issue. DeSantis, however, has long been skeptical of climate change. Earlier this year, he signed legislation removing climate goals from Florida’s state statutes. He remains firm in his belief that the current storms are part of a natural weather cycle, emphasizing, "There is nothing new under the sun." The debate has even extended to the Florida Senate race between Republican Senator Rick Scott and Democrat Debbie Mucarsel-Powell. Scott acknowledged in a recent CNN interview that "the climate is clearly changing," though his past comments suggest skepticism about the left’s approach to climate policy. His spokesperson, Chris Hartline, pointed out that Scott's stance has remained consistent, referencing a 2019 op-ed in which Scott described climate change as “real and requiring real solutions,” but criticized the left for making it "a religion." In the broader political landscape, Vice President Kamala Harris has also criticized former President Donald Trump for spreading misinformation about the recent storms. Trump has blamed the federal response to Hurricane Milton as a failure, despite some members of his own party disputing his claims. Hurricane Milton developed quickly off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, becoming a Category 5 storm before weakening upon its Florida landfall. DeSantis cited the 1930s Labor Day hurricane, stating it was "head and shoulders above any powerful hurricane we’ve had in the state of Florida." He urged people to consider the historical context of hurricanes rather than view each storm as evidence of climate change. As the governor dismissed claims that the government could control the weather, joking that he would opt for “78 and sunny year round” if he had such power, Chanton offered a different perspective. "As the oceans become warmer, we can expect that hurricanes will respond to distribute that heat," he explained. “And one of their responses is to be stronger.” The clash between those focused on long-term climate trends and leaders like DeSantis who prioritize historical weather patterns is likely to continue as hurricanes increase in intensity and political divisions over climate change grow sharper. Based on a report from Politico 2024-10-12 -
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German Politician Calls for Ban on Greta Thunberg Over Pro-Palestinian Protest Involvement
Greta Thunberg is facing calls for her to be banned from entering Germany amid a decision by local police to classify her as a “violent participant” in political demonstrations. Thunberg had accepted an invitation to a pro-Palestinian protest camp organized at the University of Dortmund. However, the event was swiftly canceled after authorities expressed concerns that her presence would attract a larger crowd than initially expected. German police ordered the event to be dismantled, prompting Thunberg to respond with a video on Instagram, where she criticized the German authorities for "silencing activists." Wearing a traditional Palestinian keffiyeh, she stated, "Germany threatens them (activists) when they speak out against the genocide and occupation in Palestine." The event organizers took to social media to condemn the cancellation, claiming it was unjust and announcing their intention to file an appeal. According to them, they were given little time to disassemble the protest camp after the police intervened. Earlier in the week, Thunberg attended another pro-Palestinian protest in Berlin, marking the anniversary of the October 7 attacks. The protest saw tensions rise, with four demonstrators being detained after they set off pyrotechnics and burned car tires. Thunberg expressed her disapproval of the police's actions on social media, stating that she "didn't have words" to describe how the German police handled what she referred to as "peaceful protesters." Thunberg’s involvement in pro-Palestinian protests has led to several confrontations with law enforcement. In early September, she was forcibly removed by police during a demonstration in Stockholm. More recently, Thunberg was detained by Belgian authorities after participating in a protest against European Union subsidies for fossil fuels. As the debate surrounding Thunberg’s activism continues, the call for her to be banned from Germany adds to the growing tension over her participation in politically charged demonstrations. Based on a report from Euro News | X 2024-10-12 -
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U.S. Seeks to Weaken Hezbollah’s Grip on Lebanon Amid Israeli Offensive
The Biden administration is taking advantage of the current Israeli offensive against Hezbollah to push for a new Lebanese president, hoping to curb the militant group’s long-standing political dominance. According to U.S. and Arab officials, this move marks an opportunity to address Lebanon’s political stalemate, which has left the country without a president since Michel Aoun’s term ended in 2022. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has reached out to leaders in Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, urging their support for electing a new Lebanese president. The push is part of a broader U.S. initiative to weaken Hezbollah's influence in Lebanon, a group that has entrenched itself not only as a militant organization but also as a powerful political party. Amos Hochstein, a senior White House official, has emphasized to Arab officials that the Israeli strikes on Hezbollah provide a chance to potentially resolve Lebanon's political deadlock. “We want to see Lebanon break the grip that Hezbollah has had on the country—more than a grip, break the stranglehold that Hezbollah has had on the country and remove Hezbollah veto over a president,” State Department spokesman Matt Miller said. The U.S. effort to sideline Hezbollah comes after years of frustration over Lebanon's ineffective government, where political reforms have been stymied by entrenched elites. Lebanon’s power-sharing system, established during the French occupation after World War I, divides power among its major religious groups—Sunni Muslims, Shia Muslims, Christians, and Druze. Despite previous U.S.-backed efforts, the country's fractured political landscape has hindered meaningful change. Saudi Arabia, which historically played a significant role in Lebanon’s political and economic affairs, has backed the U.S. initiative. The plan’s success, however, depends on key Lebanese figures, including Prime Minister Najib Mikati and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri. Both have voiced support for electing a new president but remain closely tied to Hezbollah, especially in the context of cease-fire negotiations. While the U.S. sees a new president as essential to forming a stable and empowered government, Hezbollah’s leadership opposes any political shift amid ongoing conflict. Naim Qassem, Hezbollah’s Deputy Secretary-General, rejected calls for a political rearrangement while the war with Israel continues. Electing a new president is a complex process in Lebanon, where the president is chosen by a 128-member parliament. Without Hezbollah’s support, it remains unclear how political factions can unite to elect a leader. Several Arab nations, including Egypt and Qatar, have expressed skepticism about the U.S. approach. They argue that attempting to sideline Hezbollah, particularly during a time of crisis, could reignite sectarian violence in a country still scarred by its civil war, which ended in 1990. Egypt, in particular, has voiced concern that intervening in Lebanon’s political affairs now could lead to the kind of internecine fighting that devastated the country during the civil war. Lebanese political analysts warn that any leader seen as rising to power due to Israeli and U.S. actions risks being discredited. Robert Ford, a former U.S. ambassador to Syria and Algeria, noted, “The more a new Lebanese president is seen to have come to office on the coattails of Israeli military actions with American support, the more discredited I think he will be among many Lebanese.” The absence of a president has worsened Lebanon's economic crisis, which the World Bank describes as one of the worst globally in the past 150 years. Since 2019, Lebanon's currency has plummeted by 97% against the U.S. dollar, leaving public sector salaries nearly worthless and hollowing out government institutions. Parliament hasn’t convened since May, and the caretaker government has been unable to address the country’s economic collapse, which has plunged millions into poverty. In the midst of the current war, Lebanon remains in a political and economic vacuum, with Hezbollah maintaining greater strength than the national army despite limited U.S. military aid. Based on a report from WSJ 2024-10-12 -
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YouTuber and BBC Star Yung Filly Arrested in Australia Over Alleged Hotel Rape
British YouTuber and BBC personality Yung Filly, born Andres Felipe Valencia Barrientos, has been arrested in Australia on suspicion of sexually assaulting a woman. The 29-year-old internet star was detained in Brisbane and subsequently extradited to Perth. He is accused of raping a woman in her 20s at a hotel following his performance at Bar1 Nightclub in Hillarys, Perth, on September 28. This arrest comes after Barrientos performed two days earlier at Havana Nightclub on the Gold Coast. The track amassed over 2.5 million views on YouTube and 10 million streams on Spotify. In addition to his online fame, Yung Filly has hosted several BBC shows, including *Hot Property* and *Yung Filly's Celeb Lock-In*, and made appearances on popular programs like *The Great Celebrity Bake Off* and *Would I Lie to You?* Beyond his YouTube success, Barrientos has worked with prominent brands such as ASOS, Primark, McDonald's, and Heinz. He has also played in the high-profile charity football match Soccer Aid and took part in a star-studded game in Qatar alongside football legends like Didier Drogba and David Villa. As a result of his diverse endeavors, Yung Filly has amassed a substantial following, with over 3 million Instagram followers and 1.84 million YouTube subscribers. Since joining YouTube in 2013, his videos have been watched nearly 120 million times. Despite his professional achievements, Yung Filly’s arrest in Australia has shocked his fans and colleagues. Barrientos, who was born in Colombia and moved to the UK as a refugee when he was a child, has often spoken about his humble beginnings and the pride he takes in his background. He once expressed his gratitude for his experiences as a refugee, stating, “I'm most proud of the fact that I was a refugee, I'm proud that I had to struggle. It makes you appreciate all the little stuff a lot more.” He recalled how his family lived above a fried chicken shop in Lewisham, South London, and how those hardships shaped his perspective on success. As Barrientos's case proceeds, his future in the entertainment world remains uncertain. His representatives have yet to comment on the allegations. The arrest marks a significant turning point for the social media star, whose popularity skyrocketed over the past decade. Based on a report from The Daily Mail | X 2024-10-12 -
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Bangkok Suffers Severe Smog as PM2.5 Levels Soar Amidst Heat Wave
It's rainy season, so it's not from burning. -
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I've been denied entry to Thailand - Now What ! ?
Any reports yet of people getting denied on a DTV? -
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Saturday 12 October 2024
Overdrawn: Bungling burglar caught cracking into bank in Phuket by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thalang Police Police yesterday apprehended a man after he attempted to break into a bank branch and managed to forcibly open a passbook updating machine in Baan Lipon, Srisoonthorn, Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340475-overdrawn-bungling-burglar-caught-cracking-into-bank-in-phuket/
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Second hand car import / lift of ban
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