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USA MAGA Bots Clash Over Trump-Epstein Scandal
File photo A massive network of AI-driven accounts on X is splintering over contrasting messages about the Trump administration and its connection to Jeffrey Epstein. Researchers have identified over 400 fake accounts praising key Trump figures on X, which now display conflicting narratives post-Epstein files controversy. The bot network, discovered by social media analytics firm Alethea and Clemson University researchers, usually spreads positive messages about Trump officials like Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Despite possessing only a few followers each, these accounts contribute to an echo chamber effect, subtly influencing perceptions through sheer volume, according to Darren Linvill from Clemson University's Media Forensics Hub. While certainty about who runs the network remains elusive, it's clear these accounts formed in batches last year and follow distinct patterns: irrelevant hashtags and repetitious replies, often mimicking the posts of others. Now, the Epstein files issue has fractured their usual narrative cohesion. Initially, Trump's supporters believed he would reveal a supposed list of Epstein's influential clients. But when Attorney General Pam Bondi refused to release further Epstein files, bot messaging became erratic. Simultaneously, some accounts defended Bondi, while others vehemently criticised her and Trump’s administration. For instance, on a recent Saturday morning, one account advised a MAGA supporter to be lenient towards Bondi, while another account simultaneously presented an opposing viewpoint. Such contradictory posts highlight the AI-driven nature of these accounts, indicating they might be influenced by real socials, as suggested by C. Shawn Eib, Alethea’s head of investigations. Fake accounts that promote various agendas, whether commercial or political, have long plagued social media ecosystems. The advent of AI chatbots has amplified these efforts by creating convincing narratives that require minimal human involvement. Meanwhile, social media companies have decreased their moderation efforts, further complicating the situation. The White House, the Department of Health and Human Services, and X have all remained silent on the issue, offering no comments despite the growing bot prevalence. Alethea and Clemson’s findings underscore X’s ongoing battle with these inauthentic accounts, a challenge exacerbated by Elon Musk’s 2022 acquisition of X, which resulted in significant cuts to the site's trust and safety team, restricting researcher access. In conclusion, while the bot network accounts for only a portion of inauthentic activity on X, it represents a new breed of AI-driven propaganda tools operating within an environment less capable of policing them. This situation risks the integrity of online discourse and presents an important problem for future digital spaces. Adapted by ASEAN Now from NBC NEWS 2025-07-21 -
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Report Ellen DeGeneres Ditches the US for UK Bliss Amid Trump’s Reign
File photo Ellen DeGeneres, famed US TV star, recently made headlines at her first public appearance since relocating to the UK. In a candid chat at Cheltenham’s Everyman Theatre, the comedian revealed she opted for English life following Donald Trump’s re-election. DeGeneres expressed to the audience that the current climate in America pales in comparison to life in Britain. DeGeneres, joined by wife Portia de Rossi, discussed plans to wed again in the UK. Concerns over the potential reversal of same-sex marriage rights in the US have prompted their decision. The fear that America remains a challenging place for LGBTQ+ individuals to express their true selves is real, she stated. Once one of the most recognisable faces on US television, Ellen acknowledged the toxic workplace allegations that ended her long-running chat show in 2022. Though known for being "very blunt," she brushed off such stories as mere "clickbait." The couple initially intended to spend only part of the year in the UK. However, the day they arrived, news of Trump’s re-election changed their plans. Amid a flurry of messages filled with crying emojis, they decided that their stay would be permanent. Ellen now enjoys a picturesque life in the Cotswolds, where she shares snippets of her rural adventures on social media. The comedian has embraced village life, finding joy in the charm, beauty, and simplicity it offers. “Everything here is just better,” she remarked, appreciating the cleanliness, courtesy, and humane treatment of animals. The move came just after her final US stand-up tour in 2024. A house was bought in the Cotswolds, though the timing wasn’t ideal as it coincided with November's chilly weather. However, she expressed joy at witnessing snow for the first time. Portia has also flown her horses over, embracing their new countryside lifestyle. Reflecting on Hollywood’s challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals, Ellen recalled that she came out as gay in 1997. This brave step resulted in the abrupt end of her sitcom due to dwindling advertising and network support. When questioned about others following in her footsteps, she humorously compared the situation to meerkats cautiously peeking out, wary of the dangers. Despite some progress, Ellen expressed that coming out remains a formidable choice for many. Highlighting an increasing openness among the younger generation, she remains hopeful about future societal acceptance. Ellen also touched upon recent moves by the Southern Baptist Convention to challenge same-sex marriage rights. Discussing the implications, she and Portia are considering a marriage ceremony in the UK should US laws change unfavourably. Amidst the final season of her show, Ellen addressed allegations of workplace misconduct. The departure of three producers implicated in the scandal was marked by Ellen’s on-air apology. During her 2024 tour and Netflix special, she candidly confronted the “mean” label assigned to her by media amidst the allegations. By character, Ellen is “direct” and “blunt,” but she questioned the fairness of equating this with being “mean.” She sought to balance addressing the issues without appearing as a victim or indulging in self-pity. In this new British chapter, Ellen and Portia appear to have found solace and a promising future away from political turmoil. The couple continues their commitment to living authentically, hopeful for broader acceptance and understanding in their American homeland. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-07-21 -
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Middle East 67 Killed Near UN Aid Convoy in Gaza; Israel Denies Full Toll
Picture courtesy of HIran Media Center In a harrowing incident, Israeli forces allegedly killed 67 Palestinians as they waited for UN aid in northern Gaza, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry. Reports suggest that gunfire caught the victims shortly after a 25-truck convoy from the UN World Food Programme crossed from Israel. The IDF claims they fired "warning shots" to address an "immediate threat," while disputing the number of casualties. Hunger and exhaustion exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The ministry issued warnings of severe malnutrition, citing reports of civilians arriving in dire states at facilities. The UN echoed these sentiments, declaring that civilians face starvation and urgently require essential goods. In the past day alone, 18 deaths have been attributed to famine. Elsewhere in Gaza, six additional fatalities occurred while people waited for aid, alongside over 150 injuries. There have now been 88 confirmed deaths as a result of Israeli actions on Sunday. The overcrowded Shifa hospital in Gaza City has received many victims. Dr. Hassan al-Shaer described the situation as critical, with field hospitals taking on overflow cases. Personal accounts from the area present a dire picture. A woman conveyed the extreme hardship, stating that children rely solely on water and salt for survival. Growing reports reveal Palestinians being killed while seeking food, reminiscent of past operations where 32 people died near aid distribution points under Israeli fire. Often embroiled in controversy, the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation has come under scrutiny for its operations, which involve using private security to distribute aid in military zones. Despite this, tragedies also occur near UN-led aid efforts. The IDF's evacuation orders for Deir al-Balah have sparked panic, raising the possibility of military advances. Residents face the fear of an imminent ground offensive, with tens of thousands urged to move towards al-Mawasi. Leaflets demanding evacuations create uncertainty, particularly for those fearing loved ones' safety, including hostages possibly held in the area. Currently, efforts remain limited to air strikes, with ground troops yet to engage. Israeli sources suggest hostages could be among the motivations for measured military presence in certain districts. With speculation mounting, the IDF maintains its operations aimed at dismantling terrorist capabilities without ground incursions in specific neighbourhoods. The conflict’s toll is enormous, with over two million people displaced and ongoing relocations becoming a cruel norm. Pope Leo XIV's recent comments, advocating for an "immediate end to the barbarity", underscore the global call for peace as the international community anxiously awaits developments. The Pope's statements followed a devastating strike on Gaza's sole Catholic Church, an act deeply regretted by Israeli leadership. The conflict, ignited by Hamas's attacks on 7 October 2023, continues to claim lives, with more than 58,895 deaths reported in Gaza since its inception. Resolution remains elusive, as world leaders and organisations call for decisive humanitarian interventions. The situation demands urgent diplomatic efforts to mitigate further loss of life and halt the cycle of violence devastating both communities. Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-07-21 -
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Monday 21 July 2025
Two Karen Men Arrested for Illegal Gold Mining in Protected Forest in Kanchanaburi Picture courtesy of Daily News. Authorities in Kanchanaburi have arrested two ethnic Karen men for illegally mining gold in a forest watershed area within Thong Pha Phum National Park, causing environmental damage estimated at nearly two million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367319-two-karen-men-arrested-for-illegal-gold-mining-in-protected-forest-in-kanchanaburi/ -
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Israel Hamas War the Widening Middle East Conflict
Gaza's civil defence agency said Israeli forces opened fire on Sunday on a crowd of Palestinians waiting to collect humanitarian aid, providing a preliminary toll of at least 44 people killed. The latest deaths came as Pope Leo XIV slammed the "barbarity" of the war in Gaza in his traditional Sunday blessing. Gaza's civil defence agency on Sunday said at least 44 people were killed when Israeli forces opened fire on a crowd of Palestinians waiting to collect humanitarian aid, in the latest killing of Palestinians seeking desperately needed food handouts. "As of this moment, 44 people have been killed and dozens injured after Israeli forces opened fire on civilians waiting for aid," civil defence spokesman Mahmud Bassal told AFP, adding that the shooting took place near Gaza City in the territory's north. Pope Leo slams 'barbarity' of Gaza war as civil defence says Israeli gunfire kills 44
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