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The Inhumanity of Hamas and the Global Silence
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Garbage Republicans Slither Out To Endorse Harris
Two weeks ago this ago this got a lot of attention in political circles: James Carville Names 'Only Way' Republicans Can Get Their 'Party Back' In November I like Carville and his whole style of political commentary but I don't always agree with him. I disagree here because the 1964 presidential race was tainted by the JFK assassination, and the following 1968 race was colored by the incumbent dropping out and the assassination of the front-runner, which left the Dems in a mess. 1976 was about the Nixon skullduggery. Maybe some GOP members are taking this to heart -- after all, this is the guy who got Bill Clinton elected in 1992. They know they've already lost this year, but looking ahead to 2027 (when the 2028 race begins) they are probably already planning how they can beat her then. So yeah, the thinking in that camp might be "let's elect somebody we know we can beat next time around." -
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Watch: Melania Trump Condemns FBI Mar-a-Lago Raid: ‘A Warning to All Americans’
Former First Lady Melania Trump has sharply criticized the FBI’s 2022 raid on Mar-a-Lago, expressing deep concern over what she described as an invasion of privacy and a threat to the freedoms of all Americans. In a video posted on social media Saturday morning, promoting her forthcoming memoir, Melania warned that the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution must be "respected." However, in July, U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon dismissed the case, ruling that special counsel Jack Smith had not been lawfully appointed. Smith has since appealed that decision, and the legal battle continues. Donald Trump previously shared how deeply Melania was affected by the search, revealing in late 2022 that she felt “very violated” by the FBI’s actions. “She felt very violated. I mean, this is a terrible thing,” he remarked. "They go into her closet, they go through her dresses, and who knows what else, and it wasn’t left the way it—they found it." With her new memoir on the horizon, Melania Trump’s critique of the Mar-a-Lago raid reflects her ongoing concerns about personal privacy and the balance between security and individual rights in America. Her remarks also signal that, for the Trumps, the incident remains a contentious and deeply personal chapter in their post-White House lives. Credit: The Hill 2024-09-16 -
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Freed Early From Prison Arrested for Sexual Assualt Same Day. UK Government Defends Scheme
The government has come under scrutiny after defending its early release scheme following the alleged sexual assault by a former inmate on the same day he was freed. The accused, Amari Ward, 31, was released under the policy aimed at alleviating prison overcrowding but is now facing serious charges. Ward appeared in Croydon Magistrates' Court on Thursday, accused of sexually assaulting a woman in Sittingbourne, Kent. Court documents, seen by the BBC, indicate that Ward allegedly "intentionally touched" a woman without her consent. The incident reportedly occurred just hours after his release on Tuesday. Ward was subsequently arrested in south London and has been denied bail, with a court hearing set for next month at Maidstone Crown Court. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) defended the early release policy, emphasizing its necessity to prevent a potential collapse of the prison system. “The government inherited prisons in crisis and on the brink of collapse,” said an MoJ spokesperson. They further explained that a collapse would have serious repercussions for the legal system, hindering the ability of courts to conduct trials and police to make arrests. The spokesperson assured that anyone who breached license conditions or reoffended would face consequences. Ward’s release was part of a larger program in which around 1,750 inmates across England and Wales were freed early. Inmates included in the scheme had served 40% of their sentences instead of the standard 50%. The scheme, while a response to the overcrowded prison system, has sparked concern over public safety and the risk of reoffending. Some inmates celebrated their release with family and friends, while others expressed fear of homelessness after their unexpected early release. The early release policy was reintroduced after the general election in July, although a similar initiative had been implemented by the previous Conservative government. It allows for the early release of prisoners serving sentences of less than four years for violent offenses. However, the policy excludes certain categories of offenders, such as those convicted of domestic abuse, terrorists, and sex offenders. Rioters involved in recent unrest may only remain incarcerated if they are serving sentences longer than four years for violent crimes. Prison overcrowding has been a growing concern, with the prison population recently reaching a record high of over 88,500 inmates. Officials have warned that some released prisoners are likely to reoffend. Martin Jones, HM Chief Inspector of Probation, acknowledged earlier this month that while the risk of serious reoffenses remains rare, it cannot be entirely eliminated. "There is a certainty that some will reoffend," he stated, expressing concern over the challenges of managing these risks. Prison unions and victims' advocates have raised further concerns about the policy. The probation union Napo cautioned that the scheme may simply be “moving the problem from one place to another without properly assessing the risks.” Victims’ Commissioner Baroness Newlove criticized the scheme after learning that some victims had not been notified about the early release of the individuals responsible for crimes against them. Government data released earlier this week revealed that the prison population had fallen by 2%, or roughly 2,000 inmates, since the early release scheme was implemented, leaving 86,333 people in prisons across England and Wales as of Friday. Despite these reductions, the debate continues over whether the policy is truly addressing the root problems of overcrowding or creating new risks for the public. Credit: BBC 2024-09-16 -
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Gun Violence: The Leading Cause of Child and Teen Deaths for the Third Year
For the third consecutive year, gun violence was the leading cause of death for children and teenagers across the United States, according to a recent analysis by Johns Hopkins University. The study revealed that guns claimed the lives of 2,526 youths between the ages of 1 and 17 in 2022. On average, this grim statistic amounts to seven children being killed each day. The burden of this violence is disproportionately borne by children of color, particularly Black teenagers. More than half of Black teens aged 15 to 17 who died in 2022 were killed by guns. Overall, Black children and teens faced a gun homicide rate that was 18 times higher than that of their white peers. Hispanic and Latino youths were also affected by gun violence, with suicide rates involving firearms significantly higher than among white children. The data paints a troubling picture. Between 2013 and 2022, the youth gun violence rate doubled. In response, the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions has called for comprehensive measures that include secure gun storage, stricter licensing requirements for private gun sellers, and the removal of firearms from individuals deemed at risk. The report also emphasized the importance of community investments and regulations concerning the public carrying of firearms. "The ongoing crisis of gun violence is preventable," researchers from Johns Hopkins stressed in their report. "We must address this crisis through a public health approach, pushing for equitable, evidence-based gun violence solutions." Despite the alarming findings in the Johns Hopkins analysis, there has been little progress. Shortly after the 2022 data was published, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released statistics for 2023, showing only a slight decline in gun deaths—about three percent lower than the previous year. Even with this reduction, the number of gun-related deaths remained tragically high at 46,728, the third-highest ever recorded in the United States. For children and teens aged 1 to 17, gun-related fatalities remained the leading cause of death, with a slight increase to 2,566 deaths in 2023. These numbers were published amid the aftermath of yet another school shooting in the U.S. Earlier this month, a tragic incident occurred in Georgia when 14-year-old Colt Gray allegedly brought an assault-style rifle to school and killed two students and two teachers. Shockingly, the weapon, which his father Colin reportedly purchased as a Christmas gift, was a military-style AR rifle—one of the high-powered firearms used in some of the country’s deadliest mass shootings since 2012. According to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, Georgia law does not set a minimum age for possessing a rifle, though federal law requires individuals to be 18 or older to purchase one. The devastating impact of gun violence on children and teens remains an urgent national crisis, with policymakers and experts calling for stronger preventive measures to protect the most vulnerable in society. Credit: The Independent 2024-09-16 -
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Watch: Jurors Assist in Detaining Convicted Child Assaulter After Courthouse Escape Attempt
A dramatic scene unfolded in Skowhegan, Maine, when Nicholas Carter, 31, attempted to flee the courthouse immediately after being convicted of aggravated assault on a 14-month-old child. Despite being handcuffed, Carter made a bold escape, but his flight was quickly thwarted by two jurors and a detective who intervened. Once outside, Carter raced across the parking lot, followed closely by several individuals. The footage shows the convicted assaulter running into a yard before tripping and falling, where he was apprehended by the two jurors and a detective. Their quick action ended the escape attempt within moments. Carter had just been convicted following a three-day trial for assaulting a young child. His sentencing for the aggravated assault charge is expected to take place in the coming weeks. This dramatic courthouse scene is a rare example of jurors playing an active role in law enforcement after their duty of deliberation was complete. Their swift response, along with the efforts of the detective, ensured that Carter did not remain at large. Credit: NBC 2024-09-16 -
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US Sanctions Russian State Media RT Amid Accusations of Covert Influence
The United States has introduced new sanctions targeting Russian state media, specifically the channel RT, as tensions between Washington and Moscow escalate over the latter’s influence operations. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the measures, stating that RT operates as a "de facto arm of Russia's intelligence apparatus" and is part of a broader network of Russian-backed media outlets accused of undermining democracy in the US. Speaking to reporters, Blinken emphasized that the Russian government has embedded cyber operatives within RT who are linked to Russian intelligence. "RT is not simply a media outlet; it has connections to a unit with cyber operational capabilities," Blinken remarked, underscoring the gravity of the situation. In response, RT livestreamed his speech on the platform X (formerly Twitter), dismissing the claims as part of the "US’s latest conspiracy theory." Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova reacted with sarcasm, suggesting there should be a "new profession" in the US dedicated to managing the numerous sanctions imposed on Russia. These comments come amid RT’s continued defiance of accusations that it played a role in influencing elections. Margarita Simonyan, RT’s editor-in-chief, who was herself sanctioned by the US in the previous week, quipped, "We are excellent teachers," noting that many of RT’s staff were educated in the US, often with American funding. The State Department has leveled serious accusations against RT, claiming the broadcaster engages in activities far beyond journalism. According to the Department, RT has been involved in "information operations, covert influence, and military procurement" across various regions, including Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Blinken went further, alleging that RT has run online fundraisers to purchase military gear, such as body armor, sniper rifles, and drones, for Russian troops engaged in the conflict in Ukraine. In addition to RT’s alleged activities in Ukraine, Blinken claimed that the network has been trying to interfere with Moldova’s political landscape in collaboration with Russian intelligence, particularly ahead of the country's October 2024 presidential elections. US officials pointed out that two RT employees have already been indicted for attempting to interfere in the US presidential election earlier this year, but now argue that RT plays a much broader role in Russia’s campaign to destabilize democracies. RT has responded to these accusations with characteristic derision. In a statement to the BBC, the state broadcaster mockingly referenced past allegations, saying, "2016 called and it wants its clichés back," alluding to accusations from the US that Russian interference impacted the 2016 presidential election. The statement added, "Three things are certain in life: death, taxes, and RT's interference in US elections." In addressing the sanctions during a press conference, Blinken stated, "Our most powerful antidote to Russia's lies is the truth. It's shining a bright light on what the Kremlin is trying to do under the cover of darkness." He also clarified that the sanctions are not intended as a response to RT's content, but rather to its alleged covert influence operations. "Covert influence activities are not journalism," Blinken asserted, reiterating the US government's support for independent media. These sanctions are part of a broader set of measures taken by the US in response to the ongoing influence efforts by Russian state media, particularly as the 2024 US presidential election approaches. The State Department has also officially designated RT as a foreign mission, further highlighting the serious concerns surrounding its operations. Credit: BBC 2024-09-16 -
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Teacher Barred After Smuggling Teenager to the UK as a "Slave"
A primary school teacher in the UK has been banned from the classroom after it was revealed she smuggled a 14-year-old girl from Africa into Britain to serve as her "slave." Ernestina Quainoo, 53, who had been teaching children aged five to seven at Cherry Lane Primary School in West Drayton, London, from 2019 until December 2022, had hidden her conviction from her employer. Her criminal past only came to light when a colleague received an old newspaper article detailing the crime she committed in 2008. Ms. Quainoo was convicted for her involvement in human trafficking in 2008, but she failed to disclose this when she was hired by the school. The incident prompted an investigation by the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA), which concluded with a decision to permanently ban her from teaching. The TRA found that her actions were in direct contradiction to her responsibilities as a teacher, calling it a breach of "the very core of her practice." Originally from Ghana, Quainoo and her husband Samuel moved to the UK in 2004. The couple had promised the 14-year-old girl an education and a job, only to subject her to 18 months of forced labor. During this time, the girl was made to cook, clean, and babysit the couple’s children without pay. She was also isolated, prevented from attending school, and given a T-shirt with the phrase "my other name is bitch" printed on it. The teenager’s situation became so dire that she contemplated suicide. The girl ultimately escaped after falling ill and seeking medical assistance. She later reported the abuse to the police and social workers. When questioned by the authorities, Mr. Quainoo claimed that the girl had cast a "voodoo" spell on the couple. In 2008, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison, while Ernestina Quainoo received a two-year suspended sentence for her role in facilitating the girl’s illegal entry into the UK. Despite this, Ms. Quainoo went on to secure a teaching position at Cherry Lane Primary School, where she worked until late 2022. Her conviction went undiscovered until a colleague unearthed the past newspaper report, leading to her resignation in February 2023. The school referred the matter to the TRA, which found that her failure to disclose the conviction violated employment policies. While the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act allows individuals with spent convictions to withhold this information for most job applications, the TRA panel noted that Ms. Quainoo’s conviction was not protected under the act. Initially, she denied having any prior convictions, later disclosing that she had committed an "immigration offence." In her statement, Ms. Quainoo explained that she was charged because she could not prove the girl was a member of her family, saying, "I completely misunderstood the cultural differences that exist between the two [countries]." During the TRA hearing, chairperson Sue Davies concluded that although Ms. Quainoo had incorrectly answered "no" when asked about prior convictions on her application, there was insufficient evidence to prove she had deliberately lied. However, the panel criticized the school for failing to conduct a more thorough investigation when they first employed her, calling their lack of diligence "regrettable." In addition to being barred from teaching, the TRA’s head of investigation, Sarah Buxcey, emphasized that Ms. Quainoo’s past actions contradicted her duty of care towards children, stating, "A prohibition order would therefore prevent such a risk from being present in the future." The ban will remain in place for two years, ensuring that Ms. Quainoo will not be able to return to the teaching profession. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-09-16 -
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Netherlands Introducing Toughest Asylum Policy in EU
The Dutch government has revealed plans for what is being called the most stringent asylum policy in the European Union. Announced on Friday, this initiative is part of the ruling coalition's agenda and includes strict border controls, punishment for "troublemakers," and significant limitations on family reunification. Under the proposed regulations, adult children would no longer be allowed to join their parents, and forced deportations would become a major focus. The new Dutch government, led by the far-right Freedom Party of Geert Wilders, marks a significant shift in the country's approach to immigration. Wilders' party won nearly 25% of the seats in the Dutch parliament in November, positioning it to have a strong influence on policy. The party’s influence extends to the appointment of Marjolein Faber as the migration and asylum minister. “I’m aiming for the strictest asylum policy ever,” Faber said in a video message, explaining that bottlenecks in housing, health care, and education were the primary motivations for these measures. Faber went on to explain that her plan includes “legally declaring an asylum crisis,” a move that would allow the government to bypass parliamentary approval for certain measures. This emergency law would give the government the authority to enact policies quickly in response to what it perceives as an overwhelming asylum situation. “The Netherlands should belong to the category of member states with the strictest admission rules in the EU,” reads the government’s official program. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof confirmed that the government plans to request an opt-out from the European Union's current asylum and migration policies, with the request set to be delivered to Brussels next week. Defending the government's approach, Schoof stated, “We cannot continue to bear the large influx of migrants to our country. People are experiencing an asylum crisis.” However, Schoof avoided setting a target for how much the government hopes to reduce migration. Instead, he suggested that the country’s asylum situation would be monitored closely to determine when the emergency law might be needed. Faber expressed her determination to overhaul the asylum process, saying she plans to end indefinite permits, shorten the application process, drastically limit family reunification, and speed up deportations of “criminal asylum seekers.” Housing laws are also expected to change under the new program, which aims to prevent asylum seekers who have received residence permits from automatically getting priority access to social housing. This measure is intended to reduce pressure on the housing market. Opposition to the proposed policies has been swift. Critics, including members of the opposition and civil society, have called the emergency law undemocratic. The Dutch Council for Refugees voiced concerns that “refugees would pay a high price” under the new rules. The organization contended that the country’s current asylum problems are the result of political decisions rather than an actual crisis. “There is no unexpectedly large number of asylum seekers in The Netherlands. No force majeure, but political unwillingness,” said the refugee council. Credit: Politico 2024-09-16 -
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Survey Reveals More Americans Plan to Get Flu Shot, Fewer Opt for COVID-19 Booster
A recent survey suggests that while a majority of Americans are planning to get vaccinated against the flu this year, less than half are inclined to receive the new COVID-19 booster. The poll, conducted by Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and released on Thursday, shows a divide in public sentiment toward the two vaccines, with 56 percent of respondents saying they either have already gotten or plan to get the flu shot, compared to just 43 percent expressing the same intent for the COVID-19 booster. The survey, which involved 1,006 participants, highlights a continuing reluctance among some Americans to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Thirty-seven percent of respondents stated that, despite having received vaccines in the past, they do not plan to get them again. This hesitation is concerning to health officials as the U.S. enters a season that poses significant risks due to multiple respiratory viruses, including the flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Dr. Nora Colburn, the medical director of clinical epidemiology at Ohio State’s Richard M. Ross Heart Hospital, warned about the dangers of the upcoming virus season. "We’re at the start of respiratory virus season when you have the triple threat of flu, COVID-19, and RSV," she said in a statement. "Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation about vaccinations, but the reality is that they are safe and highly effective in preventing serious illness and death." Colburn emphasized the importance of vaccines, particularly for vulnerable groups such as older adults, people with chronic medical conditions, and pregnant individuals. These groups, she noted, face an elevated risk during respiratory virus season and should take precautions to protect themselves. Doctors are advising that nearly everyone, except infants younger than six months, receive the updated COVID-19 vaccines. Similarly, annual flu shots are recommended for children over six years old and adults, to safeguard against seasonal strains of the influenza virus. According to Colburn, vaccinations not only protect individuals but also contribute to community-wide health. "Vaccinations play a critical role in helping keep individuals and communities healthy," she said. Colburn also encouraged other preventive measures, such as staying home when sick, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and wearing a mask when feeling unwell to reduce the risk of spreading illness. The survey, conducted between August 16 and 18 by SSRS on behalf of Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, carries a margin of error of plus or minus 3.8 percentage points. As the respiratory virus season begins, health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and consider the benefits of vaccination to mitigate the spread of illness and protect those most at risk. Credit: Hill 2024-09-16 -
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Russia's Secret Nuclear Collaboration with Iran Raises Global Alarms
The growing ties between Russia and Iran have sparked significant concern in the international community, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. Recent reports suggest that Moscow is sharing classified nuclear technology with Tehran, raising fears that Iran may be inching closer to developing nuclear weapons. This alarming development comes as Iran continues to supply ballistic missiles to Russia, which have been used in the ongoing war in Ukraine. According to Western officials, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the information, the Kremlin has increased its cooperation with Iran in recent months. The officials believe that Moscow is providing Iran with the expertise needed to advance its nuclear capabilities in exchange for Tehran's continued support of Russia's military efforts. While Tehran has long claimed that its nuclear ambitions are solely for peaceful purposes, the new intelligence is causing serious doubt. The concerns about this collaboration were a central topic of discussion during high-level meetings in Washington this week. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and U.S. President Joe Biden met at the White House, where they reportedly addressed the growing military partnership between Russia and Iran. Both nations view this development as a dangerous escalation, one that could have far-reaching consequences for global security. During a press conference in London, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken hinted at the disturbing exchange of nuclear knowledge between Russia and Iran. "For its part, Russia is sharing technology that Iran seeks — this is a two-way street — including on nuclear issues, as well as some space information," Blinken stated. His remarks followed the confirmation that Russia had received a shipment of Iran’s Fath-360 ballistic missiles, further solidifying the countries' increasingly tight-knit military cooperation. Iran continues to deny that it is seeking to build nuclear weapons, but there has been growing suspicion that the country could shift its stance in response to regional threats. In April, a senior Iranian general suggested that the Islamic Republic might reconsider its nuclear strategy if Israel were to target its nuclear facilities. This statement was widely interpreted as a veiled threat, hinting that Iran could develop a nuclear warhead if provoked, despite its longstanding assertion that its nuclear program is strictly for civilian purposes. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, has also voiced concerns. Between June and August, the IAEA reported that Iran had increased its nuclear fuel stockpile to levels that could potentially be used to produce a small number of warheads, should the country make the political decision to pursue weapons development. This rise in nuclear fuel levels has only added to the unease, as the world watches for any sign that Iran is moving closer to weaponization. At a recent conference in London, U.S. Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns further emphasized the strengthening military relationship between Russia and Iran. Burns expressed concerns over how this growing alliance could destabilize the region and potentially lead to new nuclear threats. Despite these mounting anxieties, neither Russia's foreign ministry nor Iran’s embassy at the IAEA has issued any public statements on the matter. The U.S. National Security Council has also remained silent, declining to respond to requests for comment. The lack of official communication only adds to the uncertainty surrounding the issue, leaving the world to wonder just how deep this cooperation goes. As the situation unfolds, it is becoming increasingly clear that the relationship between Russia and Iran represents a significant shift in global power dynamics, one that could have profound implications for international security. While both Moscow and Tehran may benefit from their collaboration in the short term, the long-term consequences — particularly in terms of nuclear proliferation — could be devastating for the world at large. Credit: Bloomberg 2024-09-16 -
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Jeremy Bowen Defends BBC Amid Allegations of Bias Over Israel-Hamas Coverage
Jeremy Bowen has firmly dismissed the findings of a report that accused the BBC of breaching its editorial guidelines over 1,500 times during its coverage of the Israel-Hamas war. The report, led by British lawyer Trevor Asserson, suggested that Bowen, among other BBC figures, had displayed bias against Israel, comparing its actions to those of Russia under Putin and appearing to excuse Hamas terror activities. However, Bowen rejected these claims during a BBC Masterclass event on impartial war reporting, calling the report “deeply flawed.” In a recording obtained by *The Telegraph*, Bowen stated, “We’re in the truth business. If we cannot tell the truth, something has gone very badly wrong, and we have failed in our objectives." He continued, arguing that truth in reporting can sometimes be complicated and that it’s wrong to seek “spurious balance” when the facts overwhelmingly point in one direction. David Jordan, the BBC’s director of editorial policy, who clarified that the Asserson report mainly accused the broadcaster of bias against Israel. “This is going through the BBC’s complaints process at the moment, so we’re probably best not to say anything about it.” The allegations have not only sparked debates within the BBC but have also attracted criticism from MPs and pro-Israel groups. Greg Smith, the Conservative MP for Buckingham, described Bowen’s response as “outrageous” and suggested the BBC was exacerbating the issue. Meanwhile, figures such as Lord Polak, honorary president of the Conservative Friends of Israel, have intensified calls for the release of an internal report known as the Balen Report, conducted nearly two decades ago after similar accusations of bias in the BBC’s Middle East coverage. The Balen Report, commissioned in 2004, has been withheld from publication, leading to criticism and demands for transparency. Lord Polak argued that the lack of disclosure only fuels speculation that the BBC is hiding something. Gary Mond, chairman of the National Jewish Assembly, echoed this sentiment, saying the refusal to publish the report “begged the question” of what the broadcaster might be concealing. The controversy comes at a time when the BBC faces mounting pressure over its Middle Eastern reporting. Danny Cohen, a former BBC executive, recently warned of an “institutional crisis” at the broadcaster, advocating for an independent review into the corporation’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Meanwhile, the BBC has rejected the more extreme accusations in the Asserson report, such as the claim that its staff “celebrated acts of terror.” Despite these denials, critics argue that the BBC’s longstanding issues with its Middle Eastern coverage need to be addressed, with some calling for director-general Tim Davie to launch a systematic review. Lord Austin, a crossbench peer, pointed to Bowen’s perceived bias as a key concern, saying it should be at the forefront of any review into the BBC’s reporting on Israel. As the debate continues, Bowen remains defiant, standing by the BBC’s commitment to truth in journalism. For many, however, the questions surrounding the BBC’s impartiality and the lingering mystery of the unpublished Balen Report only add to the broadcaster’s challenges in an increasingly polarized media landscape. Credit: Daily Telegraph 2024-09-16 -
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Iran Launches Satellite Amid Western Concerns Over Missile Development
Iran successfully launched a satellite into space on Saturday using a rocket built by the country's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, according to state-run media. This marks the latest development in a program that Western nations fear could advance Tehran's ballistic missile capabilities. The launch was reported as successful by Iranian authorities, making it the second time the satellite has been put into orbit with the same type of rocket, though independent confirmation is yet to be provided. Footage aired by Iranian media showed the rocket launching from a mobile platform. Analysis of the video suggested that the launch occurred at the Guard's facility near Shahroud, a city roughly 215 miles east of Tehran. This event comes amid growing tensions in the Middle East, particularly with the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, during which Iran launched an unprecedented missile-and-drone attack on Israel. At the same time, Iran continues to enrich uranium close to weapons-grade levels, raising alarm among nonproliferation experts about its nuclear ambitions. The satellite was carried into space by the Qaem-100 rocket, the same model that was successfully used in January. The rocket, a solid-fuel, three-stage device, delivered the Chamran-1 satellite, weighing 60 kilograms (132 pounds), into a 550-kilometer (340-mile) orbit. The rocket bore a Quranic verse, symbolizing the spiritual and political dimensions of Iran’s space endeavors. General Hossein Salami, head of the Revolutionary Guard, praised the scientists involved in the launch, lauding their ability to overcome the "extensive and oppressive international sanctions" imposed on Iran. The satellite itself was developed by experts at Iran’s Aerospace Research Institute, in collaboration with a subsidiary of the Defense Ministry. While Iranian media did not go into detail, it was noted that the satellite is intended to test hardware and software systems for orbital maneuver technology. The U.S. State Department and military did not respond immediately to the launch. However, the U.S. has long been critical of Iran's satellite program, asserting that it defies a U.N. Security Council resolution. The U.S. has also voiced concerns that such launches could help Iran develop ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons, particularly since the expiration of U.N. sanctions related to Iran's missile program in October. The U.S. intelligence community’s 2023 threat assessment warned that satellite launch technology could accelerate Iran's ability to develop intercontinental ballistic missiles. Iran has consistently denied that its space program or nuclear activities have military aims, asserting that these endeavors are purely for civilian purposes. However, U.S. intelligence and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) maintain that Iran had an organized military nuclear program until 2003. The IAEA has repeatedly warned that Iran now possesses enough enriched uranium for several nuclear weapons, should it decide to move in that direction. This launch also coincided with the upcoming second anniversary of Mahsa Amini’s death, a 22-year-old woman whose passing sparked nationwide protests against Iran’s mandatory hijab laws and the broader authority of the country's Shiite theocracy. As tensions simmer both domestically and internationally, Iran's satellite launch underscores the growing complexity of its geopolitical standing. Credit: NPR 2024-09-16 -
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Climate Activists Face Harshest Sentences in UK Courts For Non-Violent Protest
As right-wing rioters carried out violent attacks on communities across the UK, climate activist Cressie Gethin, aged 22, found herself confined to a prison cell. Her crime was organizing a disruptive protest against new government licenses to drill for oil in the North Sea, a move that contributes to the continued use of planet-warming fossil fuels. In July, Gethin and four other members of the Just Stop Oil activist group were convicted by a London court for "conspiring intentionally to cause a public nuisance." Their protest, which involved recruiting others to block traffic by climbing structures along the M25 motorway, caused widespread disruption across four days in November 2022. Prosecutors claimed that more than 700,000 drivers were impacted, with economic damages exceeding £760,000 ($980,000) and £1 million ($1.3 million) in police costs. Now, Gethin, alongside co-organizers Louise Lancaster, Daniel Shaw, and Lucia Whittaker-De-Abreu, is serving a four-year prison term, while Just Stop Oil co-founder Roger Hallam was handed a five-year sentence. All are appealing their convictions. These sentences are considered the harshest in the UK for non-violent protest, and they were delivered under two controversial new laws that increase police power to clamp down on disruptive protests, even when peaceful. The punishment for planning a "public nuisance" event now rivals that of serious crimes such as robbery, which carries sentences ranging from community service to 12 years in prison, or rape, with penalties of four to 19 years. The court justified the severe sentences by pointing out that all five activists had prior convictions for direct-action protests. The judge labeled them as "extremists" and noted that their actions had caused people to miss critical appointments, including medical visits and funerals. Yet, activists like Gethin argue that such protests are necessary given the existential threat posed by climate change. "A very harsh sentence like this doesn’t make sense morally or legally — but it does make sense politically," Gethin wrote from HMP Bronzefield, a women’s prison near Heathrow Airport. These new policing laws have faced heavy criticism. Michael Forst, the UN's special rapporteur on environmental defenders, argued that the laws not only criminalize peaceful protest but are also applied in "punitive and repressive" ways. The laws were designed to target groups like Just Stop Oil, with the UK government explicitly referencing disruption from Extinction Rebellion in its reasoning for enacting the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022. The Public Order Act of 2023 introduced further criminal offenses and higher fines for protest tactics like "locking-on" and "disruptive slow marching." Civil society groups, including Amnesty International, have warned that these laws mark a "dark new era for protest rights" in the UK. The influence of Big Oil on these laws has also come under scrutiny. Fossil fuel companies have poured money into think tanks and charities that helped shape these policies. For instance, Policy Exchange, a right-wing think tank funded in part by ExxonMobil, produced a report that served as the blueprint for the 2022 policing law. Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak thanked Policy Exchange for its contribution to the anti-protest legislation, calling Just Stop Oil's activists "slow-walking eco-extremists." Despite the changing political landscape with the election of a center-left Labour government, the tough policing laws remain. "It is a pretty clear message, isn’t it?" Gethin remarked. "‘You’re demanding change that puts our power and profit at risk, so you must be stopped.’" Activists like Gethin face significant legal challenges. During her trial, the judge barred the defense from discussing the climate emergency, dismissing it as "political grandstanding." This trend is troubling for environmental activists, as it limits their ability to justify disruptive protests in court. For Gethin, however, the struggle is far from over. Reflecting on her imprisonment, she remains committed to the cause. "Being a good person standing up for what is right — that is something I can work for, whatever the future brings," she said. Credit: CNN 2024-09-16 -
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Illegal Migrant Accused of Horrific Murder of New York Family
An illegal migrant from the Dominican Republic, wanted for murder in his home country, has been accused of the brutal killing of a family of four in upstate New York. Julio Cesar Pimentel-Soriano, 34, allegedly stabbed Fraime Ubaldo, 30, Marangely Moreno-Santiago, 26, and their two children, Evangeline, 4, and Sebastian, 2, to death inside their Irondequoit home on August 31. According to a felony complaint, each victim was stabbed multiple times in the neck and chest with a sharp object. The gruesome discovery was made by firefighters who responded to multiple fires at the residence around 5:23 a.m. that day. Upon arrival, they found the bodies of the four family members, and investigators quickly determined that their deaths were the result of homicide, not the fire. “This was a horrific scene,” Irondequoit Police Chief Scott Peters said, holding back tears during a press conference. “In almost 32 years of doing this job, I’ve never seen anything like it.” Pimentel-Soriano was apprehended by police on September 7, a week after the alleged murders. Authorities revealed that he had illegally entered Puerto Rico, where he obtained a fraudulent New York identification. With this fake ID, he was able to travel freely from Puerto Rico to the U.S. mainland. The Dominican Republic National Police had issued an arrest warrant for Pimentel-Soriano on September 6 for a 2019 homicide in his home country. He has been charged with second-degree murder and is currently being held without bail at the Monroe County Jail. His case has been moved to a grand jury. Investigators believe there may be at least "one other actor" involved in the killings, and the police are actively pursuing this lead. Pimentel-Soriano is also suspected of using the alias Rafael Jose Vargas and had connections within the Rochester area. In the wake of the tragedy, a makeshift vigil was set up on the front porch of the Moreno family’s home, with stuffed animals and photos of the victims. Irondequoit Town Supervisor Andrae Evans offered condolences, saying, “I’m so sorry this has happened, but I want you to know that the Town Board and I will authorize anything that’s needed to our police department to collaborate and to use any and all resources to bring these people to justice.” He assured the community that authorities would work tirelessly with federal, state, and local agencies to ensure justice is served. "No one deserves this. And whoever you are who did this, you will be brought to justice," Evans declared days before Pimentel-Soriano's arrest. Credit: NYP 2024-09-16 -
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AGODA (again)
Was it a refundable booking? If so you should get a refund without any problem. If it's not I expect you to struggle if indeed the money has actually left your bank and been received by Agoda.
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