THREAD: Latest News

AUSTIN’S Final Ukraine Visit: What It Means for America’S Future

22 October 2024 — Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin made his fourth and likely final trip to Ukraine before the upcoming U.S. election. He praised Ukraine’s resilience against Russian President Vladimir Putin’s prolonged assault but cautioned that there is “no silver bullet” to end the conflict. Austin emphasized the importance of Ukraine’s strategic military efforts and international support in repelling Russian aggression.

Austin highlighted the significance of U.S. and allied support, stating that Ukraine’s security impacts both European and American interests. Concerns are rising as the U.S. presidential election approaches, with uncertainty over future American support if Donald Trump returns to office.

In a demonstration of continued commitment, Austin announced a new $400 million arms package for Ukraine. He argued that supporting Kyiv is more cost-effective than allowing it to fall under Putin’s control, reinforcing America’s stance on international security cooperation.

DRONE STRIKE Threatens Israel: Netanyahu’s Defiant Response

20 October 2024 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hezbollah after an alleged assassination attempt on him and his wife. He called it a “grave mistake” and vowed that it would not deter Israel from its objectives. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel will continue its fight against enemies to secure its future.

Netanyahu issued a stern warning to Iran and the “Axis of Resistance,” including Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. He stated that anyone attempting to harm Israeli citizens would face severe consequences. The prime minister reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to achieving its war goals following the Oct. 7 attack, aiming for long-term regional security changes.

He declared that Israel will eliminate terrorists and those who support them while ensuring hostages’ return from Gaza. Netanyahu also promised safety for citizens living on the northern border with Lebanon. “Together, we will fight, and with God’s help – together, we will win,” he concluded in his statement.

NEW FIGHTER JET Program Aims to Counter China and Russia Threats

20 October 2024 — Japan, the U.K., and Italy are teaming up to create a new combat aircraft by 2035 under the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP). This project aims to strengthen defense against threats from China, Russia, and North Korea. The advanced stealth fighter will replace Japan’s F-2s and Eurofighter Typhoons.

Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani announced the creation of the GCAP International Government Organization (GIGO) by year’s end. GIGO will manage aircraft development from its base in the U.K., led by a Japanese official. This announcement came after a meeting with his U.K. and Italian counterparts at the Group of Seven defense ministers meeting in Naples, Italy.

Private companies like Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Britain’s BAE Systems PLC, and Italy’s Leonardo are part of this effort. Nakatani confirmed that GIGO is on track to sign its first contract next year despite leadership changes in Japan and the U.K. This partnership highlights a commitment to boosting military capabilities amid global security concerns.

GERMANY FOILS Isis Plot: Arrest Sparks Security Alert

20 October 2024 — German authorities have arrested a Libyan man suspected of planning an attack on the Israeli embassy in Berlin. The arrest happened in the Bernau suburb, stopping a potential terror act. The suspect intended to flee to Sankt Augustin and eventually leave Germany after carrying out the attack.

Israel’s ambassador to Germany, Ron Prosor, praised German authorities for keeping the embassy safe. He emphasized that “Muslim anti-Semitism” fuels global terrorism and endangers embassy staff. Local Interior Minister Herbert Reul warned those threatening Jewish life in Germany: "We are on your trail!

This arrest follows a recent shooting by an 18-year-old Austrian citizen of Bosnian descent at the Israeli consulate in Munich. The attack also targeted a nearby museum dedicated to National Socialism documentation. These events highlight ongoing threats against Jewish institutions in Europe.

ISRAEL STRIKES Back: Hezbollah’s Financial Stronghold Targeted

20 October 2024 — Israel’s military is set to target Hezbollah’s financial operations in Lebanon. The focus will be on al-Qard al-Hassan, a unit that funds the Iran-backed group. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari stated that evacuation warnings will be issued for certain areas in Beirut and beyond.

The Israeli military plans to hit many targets linked to Hezbollah’s financial activities. Al-Qard al-Hassan, sanctioned by the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, provides services used by both Hezbollah operatives and ordinary Lebanese citizens. The scope of these evacuation warnings remains unclear at this time.

This move follows rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah over the war in Gaza, which escalated into full-scale conflict last month with Israeli ground troops entering Lebanon earlier this month.

The announcement comes amid calls from U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin for Israel to reduce civilian casualties, particularly around Beirut, labeling them "far too high.

COLD-BLOODED Killer Still Roams Free: 16 Years of Heartbreak in Tinley Park

20 October 2024 — On February 2, 2008, a man pretending to be a delivery driver entered a Lane Bryant store in Tinley Park, Illinois. Armed with a .40-caliber semiautomatic handgun, he forced six women into a back room. After tying their hands with duct tape and assaulting one woman, he shot all six victims.

Amazingly, one woman survived and gave police a description of the suspect. Despite thousands of leads over the past 16 years, authorities have yet to catch him. The suspect is described as a Black man between 25 and 35 years old at the time of the crime, standing just over six feet tall with corn-rowed hair and green beads on one braid.

Grainy surveillance footage showed two dark vehicles near the scene during the murders. However, it is unclear if either vehicle was used by the attacker. The tragic event claimed five lives: Jennifer Bishop, Carrie Chiuso, Rhoda McFarland, Sarah Szafranski, and Connie Woolfolk.

The Tinley Park Police continue to seek justice for these victims while urging anyone with information to come forward. This cold-blooded case remains unsolved despite extensive efforts by law enforcement agencies for more than a decade.

HAMAS LEADER Sinwar: A Legacy of Brutality

19 October 2024 — Yahya Sinwar, a key Hamas figure, has left a legacy of brutality affecting both Israelis and Palestinians. Born in a Gaza refugee camp in 1962, Sinwar joined Hamas soon after its founding in 1987. His radical views were shaped by Sheikh Ahmed Yassin, who mixed Islamic supremacy with Palestinian grievances.

Sinwar led Majd, Hamas’s feared internal security force known for torturing and killing Palestinians suspected of collaborating with Israel. Dubbed the “Butcher of Khan Younis,” he was behind many savage murders within his own community. In one notorious case, he strangled a suspect with a keffiyeh scarf and buried him alive.

Captured by Israeli forces in 1988, Sinwar confessed to killing 12 suspected collaborators and two Israeli soldiers, resulting in four life sentences. While jailed, he learned Hebrew and studied Israeli society but remained unrepentant about his actions against Israel. Despite receiving life-saving treatment from Israeli doctors for brain cancer in 2008, Sinwar showed no gratitude toward them or their country.

Hamas later kidnapped the nephew of one of the doctors who saved Sinwar’s life — an appeal for release ended tragically when the nephew was murdered by Hamas militants. This act highlights Sinwar’s enduring cruelty and lack of remorse.

METROPOLITAN POLICE Scandal: Officer’s Alleged Extremist Links Exposed

19 October 2024 — Ruby Begum, a 29-year-old police officer of Bangladeshi heritage, is facing a misconduct hearing for allegedly breaking professional standards. The hearing will examine claims that Begum posted “discriminatory and/or offensive comments” on Twitter and possibly misled the vetting process when joining the Metropolitan Police in 2016.

The allegations suggest she failed to disclose ties with a female Jihadi in Syria and showed an interest in extremist teachings. Once praised as a role model during anti-lockdown protests, Begum was put on restricted duties in 2021 and fully suspended by 2022.

Begum’s controversial tweets include remarks about Israel, non-Muslims, and historical events like the September 11th attacks. While some messages were posted before her police service, others continued until at least 2019.

This case is embarrassing for London’s Metropolitan Police as it exposes potential failures in their recruitment process amid other recent scandals involving officers within their ranks.

US DEMANDS TOUGH Sanctions on China for Fentanyl Crisis

19 October 2024 — A group has filed a petition with the U.S. Trade Representative, urging action against China under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. This section allows the U.S. to impose sanctions on countries that violate trade agreements or harm American commerce. Attorney Nazak Nikakhtar emphasized that sanctions are within legal rights and necessary to pressure China economically.

The opioid crisis cost the U.S. nearly $1.5 trillion in 2020, according to a House Joint Economic Committee report from September 2022. An investigation by Reuters revealed that Chinese companies openly sell fentanyl ingredients online and ship them easily to the U.S., contributing significantly to this crisis. These suppliers often send shipments to Mexican cartels, which then manufacture synthetic opioids like fentanyl, worsening the problem further.

In May 2023, the CDC reported that synthetic opioids caused over 81,000 American deaths in one year, mainly due to fentanyl overdoses. The ongoing crisis highlights an urgent need for effective measures against foreign suppliers fueling this epidemic affecting countless American families daily.;

HARRIS FACES Backlash: Losing Catholic Voters Could Be Her Downfall

19 October 2024 — Vice President Kamala Harris is under fire for alienating Catholic voters. Alex Marlow argues that her recent actions are not only ineffective but also harmful to her political standing.

Marlow claims that Harris’s attempts to mock Catholics have backfired, costing her a key group of voters that President Biden once secured. He points to her Senate behavior, especially during Brett Kavanaugh’s hearings, as proof of her ongoing struggles.

In contrast, Marlow commends former President Trump for his strong public presence despite political disagreements. He suggests Harris’s strategies are failing while Trump’s appeal remains strong among conservatives.

IDF’S POWERFUL Blow: Hezbollah’s Command Shattered in Southern Lebanon

18 October 2024 — The IDF Chief of General Staff, LTG Herzi Halevi, recently visited southern Lebanon with key military leaders. He assessed the situation with commanders from various divisions. The focus remains on striking Hezbollah decisively.

Halevi emphasized the significant damage inflicted on Hezbollah’s command structure. “We’ve taken out their entire senior command level,” he stated, noting that around 1,500 Hezbollah operatives have been eliminated. This has reportedly led to a decline in morale among enemy forces.

In a separate operation, the IDF announced the killing of Mahmoud Hamdan (Tom), a Hamas commander previously thought dead. He was responsible for guarding Yahya Sinwar and overseeing hostages in Gaza. His elimination marks another strategic victory for Israel’s defense forces.

Joel B. Pollak of Breitbart News reported these developments while also promoting his books on Trump’s presidency and agenda. Pollak is known for his conservative commentary and analysis across various platforms including Sirius XM Patriot radio show on Sunday evenings.

ISRAEL’S Relentless Pursuit: Is Infamous Hamas Chief Sinwar Finally Dead?

17 October 2024 — The Israel Defense Forces and Shin Bet are investigating if Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar was killed in Gaza. They confirmed the elimination of three terrorists during recent operations. Authorities are checking if Sinwar was among them.

Known as the Butcher of Khan Younis, Sinwar is infamous for his brutal tactics against both Israelis and Palestinians. He is believed to have orchestrated the October 7 massacre by Hamas militants. His potential death would be a major blow to Hamas leadership in Gaza.

IDF spokesman Lt. Col. Richard Hecht previously labeled Sinwar a “dead man walking.” Hecht emphasized that Israeli forces remain determined to eliminate him, no matter how long it takes.

Ongoing operations continue with caution, ensuring no hostages are present in targeted areas as Israeli forces persist in their mission against terror leaders like Sinwar.

VENEZUELAN GANG’S Chaos: US Communities Under Threat

17 October 2024 — In New York City, kids as young as 11 are reportedly involved in violent robberies linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren De Aragua (TdA). Surveillance footage from Aurora, Colorado shows a brutal attack on a worker by men refusing to accept a bribe. In Texas, two foreign nationals were arrested for allegedly planning to transport firearms for criminal use.

These incidents highlight the growing influence of TdA across the United States. The gang has gained notoriety through violent crimes that have alarmed law enforcement and policymakers. Representative Tony Gonzales of Texas has been vocal about the threat posed by TdA, especially in border communities unprepared for such brutality.

Gonzales and other GOP lawmakers have urged President Biden to designate TdA as a Transnational Criminal Organization. They warn that if unchecked, the gang could unleash terror similar to its impact in Central and South America. The gang’s activities include drug trafficking and human trafficking, leaving devastation across multiple countries.

Authorities caution that Tren De Aragua’s criminal operations pose an increasing danger to American communities nationwide. With its roots in Venezuela’s prisons, this “thug-for-hire” organization is spreading chaos from major cities like New York City down to small towns along border states like Texas.

ISRAEL STRIKES Back: Possible Death of Hamas Chief Yahya Sinwar

17 October 2024 — The Israel Defense Forces and Shin Bet are investigating if Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar was killed in Gaza. A joint statement confirmed the elimination of three terrorists during IDF operations. Authorities are checking if one of them was Sinwar.

Sinwar, known as the Butcher of Khan Younis, is infamous for his brutal tactics against both Israelis and Palestinians. He is believed to have orchestrated the October 7 massacre of Israeli civilians by Hamas militants. His potential death could mark a significant blow to Hamas leadership.

An Israel Army Radio report indicated that Sinwar might have been killed in a clash with Israeli soldiers. The soldiers fired at suspected terrorists who fled into a building, which was then destroyed by a tank shell. No hostages were found in the area, and operations continue with caution.

MIRACLE at SEA: Russian Survivor Rescued After Two Months Adrift

16 October 2024 — Emergency crews in Russia have saved Mikhail Pichugin, who drifted at sea for over two months in an inflatable boat. His brother and nephew tragically died during the ordeal, officials confirmed on Tuesday. The rescue happened after a fishing vessel spotted him near the Kamchatka Peninsula in the Sea of Okhotsk.

Pichugin, 46, went on a whale-watching trip with his 49-year-old brother and 15-year-old nephew in early August. They traveled to the Shantar Islands but disappeared after leaving for Sakhalin Island from Cape Perovsky on August 9. Despite initial rescue efforts, they stayed lost until Pichugin’s recent discovery by the Angel fishing vessel.

Reports say their boat’s engine failed, leaving them adrift with minimal supplies — only a small food ration and about 5 gallons of water. The fishing crew first mistook their radar blip for debris or a buoy before finding Pichugin using their spotlight. Shocked to find a starving man instead of junk, they quickly rescued him from his dire situation.

SUSPECT HIDES in Couch: UK Police’s Shocking Discovery Goes Viral

16 October 2024 — In a shocking twist, UK police found a suspect hiding inside a couch base. The Bedfordshire Police shared bodycam footage on Facebook, which has attracted over 138,000 views. Officers were executing a search warrant in Potton when they uncovered the man in his undergarments.

The Biggleswade Community Policing Team thought the property was clear except for a friendly dog. However, lifting the couch revealed the suspect’s unusual hideout. “We’ve seen some things in our time, but this is a first!” exclaimed an officer in the video.

The amusing situation continued with Bedfordshire Police joking about offering more comfort to the suspect by placing him in custody rather than his cramped hideout. Social media users reacted with amusement, with one comment noting he must have been great at hide-and-seek as a child.

Bedfordshire Police did not respond to requests for further comments from Fox News Digital regarding this peculiar incident. The story highlights both effective policing and unexpected humor during law enforcement operations.

TRUMP And HARRIS Neck-And-Neck: What’s Behind the Poll Shocker?

15 October 2024 — Recent polls show a tight race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, with both candidates nearly tied. Just last month, Harris was ahead in election and favorability ratings. Now, her lead is gone, sparking questions about why voters are changing their minds.

NBC’s Savannah Guthrie talked with analyst Steve Kornacki about this shift. He explained how Harris’s favorability ratings have reversed. Last month, she had a 48% positive rating compared to Trump’s steady numbers. Now her positive rating has fallen to 43%, while her negative rating jumped to 49%.

Kornacki noted that this change brings Harris’s ratings closer to Trump’s figures. He also mentioned an interesting twist about public views on Trump’s presidency. Recent polling shows that 44% of voters think Trump’s policies helped their families more than during his time in office.

US THAAD DEPLOYMENT to Israel Sparks Concerns Over Army Readiness

15 October 2024 — The U.S. has sent a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery to Israel, along with 100 soldiers. This move, ordered by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and approved by President Joe Biden, puts extra pressure on the Army’s air defense forces. These forces are already stretched thin due to global conflicts. The deployment raises concerns about the military’s ability to upgrade missile defense systems amid rising demands from Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East.

Army Secretary Christine Wormuth expressed worries over the high operational pace of air defense forces, calling them “the most stressed” part of the Army. She highlighted the need for careful consideration when planning future deployments but admitted that unstable global situations sometimes require quick action. The Pentagon stated it would take several days for both equipment and personnel to reach Israel from their current U.S.-based location.

The decision highlights ongoing tensions within the Defense Department about resource allocation for international conflicts and its effect on U.S. military readiness at home. Gen. Randy George, Army chief of staff, noted that U.S. Army air defense forces are in high demand worldwide, describing them as “our most deployed formation.” This situation raises questions about America’s ability to balance international commitments with national security needs effectively.;

HARRIS’S FUNDING Frenzy: Can Trump’s Campaign Catch UP?

10 October 2024 — Vice President Kamala Harris has surged ahead of former President Donald Trump in campaign fundraising. On the day she announced her candidacy, Harris raised $25 million and reached $500 million within a month. This financial boost gives her a strong edge as the 2024 presidential race intensifies.

Trump’s campaign, however, had collected $309 million by the end of August. To close this gap, Republican super PACs are stepping up, spending over $80 million on TV ads nationwide in September alone. They’ve also set aside more than $100 million for advertising during the campaign’s final weeks.

Despite this fundraising difference, Republicans remain determined. They’re investing heavily in online, mail, and door-to-door campaigns to counter Harris’s financial lead. The race for the White House is becoming fiercely competitive as both sides strategically deploy their resources to win voters over.

RUSSIA’S Military Losses Soar Amid Ukraine Conflict

10 October 2024 — Britain’s Ministry of Defence reports a sharp rise in Russian military casualties, averaging 1,271 per day in September. This marks the highest daily losses since the conflict began. The increase is linked to Ukraine’s counter-invasion efforts and Russia’s aggressive tactics.

The analysis shows Russia’s casualty rate has more than doubled compared to last year’s peaks. Despite harsh winter conditions, there’s no sign of reduced conflict intensity. Over 648,000 Russian casualties are estimated since the war started, based on Ukrainian figures.

Ukraine claims it inflicted over 38,000 casualties on Russian forces in September alone and destroyed thousands of vehicles like tanks and armored units. However, Western sources often highlight Russian losses without comprehensive data on Ukrainian casualties due to limited transparency from Kyiv.

While Ukraine’s reported figures for Russian losses exceed those from Britain’s Ministry of Defence, accurate assessments are tough due to wartime secrecy. President Zelensky dismissed Kremlin claims about Ukrainian casualties as exaggerated lies earlier this year but didn’t disclose specific numbers for his own forces’ losses.

RED SEA Shipping Under Attack: Houthi Rebels Escalate Danger

10 October 2024 — A series of suspected attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeted a ship in the Red Sea on Thursday, authorities report. This incident highlights ongoing threats to maritime traffic in this crucial waterway amid Middle Eastern conflicts. The British military stated that a projectile damaged the vessel but caused no fire or injuries.

At least two more projectiles fell near the ship, which was far from Hodeida, a port controlled by the Houthis. Although the rebels did not immediately claim responsibility, they have previously targeted over 80 merchant vessels since October’s Gaza conflict escalation. These attacks have resulted in seized ships and casualties among sailors.

The Houthis argue their targets are linked to Israel, the U.S., or the U.K., aiming to pressure an end to Israel’s actions against Hamas in Gaza. However, many affected ships have little connection to these nations or conflicts, including some bound for Iran. A U.S.-led coalition has intercepted several missiles and drones intended for Western military vessels as well.

HURRICANE MILTON’S Fury: Florida’s Heroic Rescue Efforts and Destruction

10 October 2024 — More than 3 million Floridians are without power as Hurricane MILTON wreaks havoc across the state. The storm hit near Siesta Key as a Category 3 hurricane, leaving four dead in St. Lucie County due to tornadoes. Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed that over 48 people have been rescued so far, with more than 125 active rescue missions underway in 26 counties.

Milton has now moved off Florida’s east coast, downgraded to a Category 1 storm, but not before causing significant damage through destructive winds and flooding. The worst-hit areas include Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota counties. “The storm was significant,” DeSantis stated, emphasizing the widespread impact but noting it was not the worst-case scenario.

Tampa Bay faced severe weather conditions with up to 18 inches of rainfall reported in some areas and a construction crane collapsing into an office building housing the Tampa Bay Times headquarters. The roof of Tropicana Field was also damaged by strong winds. Sarasota County experienced a substantial storm surge between eight and ten feet high.

Water levels are expected to rise along northeast and west-central Florida rivers over the next day or so, potentially reaching flood stages according to forecasts. Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Milton’s impact on infrastructure and communities, rescue efforts continue