THREAD: Latest News

STAR APPOINTMENT: Mandelson Named UK Ambassador to US

21 December 2024 — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Peter Mandelson as the next UK ambassador to Washington. This appointment is unusual as Mandelson comes from outside the diplomatic corps. His experience in senior roles under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown makes him a strong candidate for this critical position.

Mandelson will assume his role early next year, succeeding Karen Pierce. Starmer expects Mandelson to play a key role during President Donald Trump’s second term, beginning January 20th. The United States remains one of Britain’s most vital allies, and Mandelson’s expertise is anticipated to strengthen this relationship further.

At 71, Mandelson is recognized for his political acumen and was instrumental in Labour’s 1997 comeback under Blair after years in opposition. He served as business secretary under Brown and was also the European Commissioner for trade, which could be crucial given Trump’s tariff threats on imports.

Mandelson expressed eagerness to tackle challenges and seize opportunities for Britain’s economy and security while enhancing the historic alliance with the U.S. His appointment underscores Britain’s commitment to maintaining robust ties with America amid global uncertainties.

ISRAEL’S Bold Response: Striking Down Houthi Threats

19 December 2024 — The Houthis launched their seventh ballistic missile at ISRAEL, along with five drone attacks in recent weeks. Sirens blared in Tel Aviv early morning as shrapnel threatened the area. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

Israel responded swiftly to the Houthi aggression. The IDF, under Defense Minister Israel Katz’s approval, targeted military sites in Yemen with airstrikes and naval operations. These strikes aimed to dismantle the Houthis’ military capabilities and prevent further threats.

The IDF stated that most of the Houthi-launched projectiles had been intercepted successfully. The targets hit were crucial for military operations and weapon smuggling facilitated by Iran and Iraqi militias. This collaboration aims to destabilize the region and threaten Israeli civilians.

Israel remains steadfast in defending its citizens against any threats posed by hostile forces like the Houthis, backed by Iran’s support. The IDF is committed to neutralizing dangers wherever necessary to ensure national security and regional stability.

AUSTRALIAN’S SHOCKING Bitcoin Claim Lands Him in Contempt

19 December 2024 — An Australian computer scientist, Craig Wright, falsely claimed to be the creator of BITCOIN and was found in contempt by London’s High Court. Justice James Mellor ruled that Wright violated a court order by threatening more legal action related to bitcoin. This breach involved a claim worth over 900 billion pounds ($1.1 trillion), according to Copa lawyers.

The court’s decision followed Wright’s persistent claims of being “Satoshi Nakamoto,” the mysterious creator of bitcoin. For eight years, Wright insisted he wrote the first versions of bitcoin software during the 2008 financial crisis. However, in March, Judge Mellor ruled against him and confirmed he was not Nakamoto.

Bitcoin’s origins remain a mystery since its start in 2008 under Nakamoto’s name. The digital currency promised anonymous transactions without banks or national currencies but left no trace of its creator after three years. As Wright awaits sentencing for contempt, questions about bitcoin’s true founder continue to intrigue many worldwide.

RUSSIAN GENERAL’S Shocking Death: Bombing in Moscow Sparks Global Outcry

18 December 2024 — A senior Russian general, Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, died in a scooter bombing outside his Moscow apartment on Tuesday. The attack also took the life of his assistant as they left for work. Ukrainian officials claimed responsibility, linking it to criminal charges filed against him just a day before.

Kirillov, 54, led Russia’s Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Defense Forces and faced international sanctions for his role in the Ukraine conflict. Ukraine’s Security Service accused him of using banned chemical weapons and called him a “war criminal.” An anonymous official confirmed their involvement in the attack, labeling Kirillov an "entirely legitimate target.

The SBU has documented over 4,800 instances of Russia allegedly using chemical weapons since its invasion began in February 2022. In May, the U.S. State Department reported that Russia used chloropicrin gas against Ukrainian forces. Despite these allegations, Russia denies employing chemical weapons and accuses Ukraine of deploying toxic agents instead.

WOMAN’S Shocking Mushroom Find Feeds Family For A Week

17 December 2024 — Alissimon Minnitt, a 27-year-old from North Marston, UK, stumbled upon an enormous puffball mushroom while hiking with her father. At first, she thought it was trash but soon realized its true nature. Weighing in at an impressive 11 pounds, this find was anything but ordinary.

Minnitt turned the giant fungi into meals for her family that lasted a week. She shared and rated these culinary creations on her TikTok account. Her discovery underscores both the potential bounty and risks of foraging wild mushrooms.

Experts warn that while some wild mushrooms are safe to eat, others can be deadly if consumed. Proper identification is essential to avoid dangerous consequences when foraging in the wild.

TRAGIC WISCONSIN School Shooting: Heartbreaking Loss and Heroic Response

17 December 2024 — A 15-year-old student opened fire at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin. The attack left a teacher and a teenager dead. It happened during study hall, prompting a quick police response after a second grader called 911. Six others were injured, with two students critically hurt.

The shooter, Natalie Rupnow, was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound and died on the way to the hospital. Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes stressed the lasting impact on everyone involved. “Every child, every person in that building is a victim,” he said.

Abundant Life Christian School has about 420 students from prekindergarten through high school. The school’s director mentioned that safety drills are usually announced but not this time. “When they heard “Lockdown, lockdown,” they knew it was real,” she explained.

SYRIA’S NEW Hope: Christians Celebrate After Assad’s Ouster

15 December 2024 — Christians in Syria celebrated Sunday services for the first time since Bashar Assad’s removal. This marked a hopeful change. Worshippers expressed optimism for a future without the "tyrant.

The U.N. envoy for Syria urged lifting Western sanctions to support the country’s new leadership. These sanctions have economically isolated Syria since Assad’s harsh crackdown in 2011.

Even with Assad exiled to Russia, challenges remain for Syria’s transitional leadership. The main rebel group is still labeled a terrorist organization by the U.S., complicating governance plans.

U.N. envoy Geir Pedersen called for quick international action after the rebels’ swift offensive. Moving forward means balancing regional and global interests amid complex internal dynamics.

ICE STORM Chaos: Iowa and Nebraska Gripped by Nature’s Fury

15 December 2024 — A massive ice storm hit Iowa and eastern Nebraska, causing dangerous roads and closing Interstate 80 temporarily. Cars slid off the road, leading officials to advise people to stay home. Many events were canceled, and businesses delayed opening for safety reasons.

By Saturday afternoon, temperatures rose enough to melt most of the ice. “Luckily some warmer air is moving in behind this to make it temporary,” said Dave Cousins from the National Weather Service in Davenport, Iowa. Sadly, icy roads claimed a life when a 57-year-old woman lost control of her pickup near Arlington, Nebraska.

Meanwhile, California faced severe weather with wind gusts up to 60 mph leading to a rare tornado warning in San Francisco early Saturday morning. The alert affected about 1 million people but was lifted after 20 minutes without major damage initially reported.

Later that day, a tornado touched down near Scotts Valley south of San Francisco overturning cars and toppling trees and utility poles according to the National Weather Service.

DEMOCRATS’ SHOCKING Letter: Israel’s Arms Sales Under Fire

14 December 2024 — A group of left-wing Jewish Democrats, including Reps. Jan Schakowsky and Sara Jacobs, have signed a controversial letter about Israel’s military actions. The letter claims to support Israel’s right to self-defense but criticizes its compliance with international human rights laws. This suggests the U.S. might need to rethink arms sales to Israel amid ongoing conflicts with terrorists and Iran.

The Jewish News Syndicate reports that while the letter doesn’t directly request stopping aid, it mentions statutes that could lead to such actions if humanitarian aid is blocked. The signatories accuse Israel of restricting aid delivery, raising concerns about its adherence to U.S. arms sales laws.

Reps. Jason Crow, Madeleine Dean, and Chrissy Houlahan led this contentious effort. They urge the administration for a thorough review of Israel’s compliance with these laws due to unresolved issues like arbitrary restrictions on aid and inadequate delivery routes.

TURKISH ATTACKS on US Allies in Syria: A Looming Danger

13 December 2024 — Gen. Mazloum Abdi of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) told Fox News about ongoing Turkish attacks despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. The SDF, a key U.S. ally, guards 45,000 ISIS militants and their families in Eastern Syria. Gen. Mazloum said these attacks have severely hindered their counterterror operations.

Since Bashar Al Assad’s fall on December 8, Turkish aggression against the SDF has intensified. Gen. Mazloum warned that if Kurdish forces withdraw, ISIS could resurge in the region. Half of the fighters guarding ISIS camps have been pulled back to protect their families amid escalating violence from Turkey’s forces and allied groups like the Syrian National Army (SNA).

The situation is critical as prison guards at facilities like Raqqa are halved, leaving them vulnerable to potential ISIS breakouts. The U.S., with 900 troops stationed in Eastern Syria, faces a strategic dilemma if Kurdish allies retreat under Turkish pressure.

National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby emphasized maintaining focus on counter-ISIS missions while engaging with both SDF partners and Turkish counterparts to resolve tensions peacefully.

TURKISH ATTACKS Ignite Fears: US Allies In Danger

13 December 2024 — In an exclusive interview with Fox News, Gen. Mazloum Abdi of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) revealed ongoing Turkish military attacks on his Kurdish forces. Despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, Turkey continues its aggression, launching up to 80 drone attacks daily and heavy artillery shelling. This has severely hindered the SDF’s counterterrorism operations against ISIS in Eastern Syria.

The situation has worsened since Bashar Al Assad’s fall on December 8, with Gen. Mazloum warning of an ISIS resurgence if Kurdish fighters are forced to flee. He noted that half of the guards at ISIS camps have withdrawn to protect their families, leaving prisons like Raqqa’s in a precarious state with diminished security personnel.

Gen. Mazloum emphasized that all prisons remain under SDF control but are critically understaffed due to Turkish aggression. The U.S., which has 900 troops in Eastern Syria, may need to withdraw if the Kurdish forces retreat under pressure from Turkey’s military actions against what it perceives as terrorist threats from the Kurds.

National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby stated that maintaining focus on counter-ISIS missions is crucial and highlighted ongoing communication with both SDF partners and Turkish counterparts to address these tensions effectively.

GUN Evidence SHOCKS in United Healthcare CEO’S Tragic Murder

12 December 2024 — New York City police confirmed that the GUN found on Luigi Mangione matched shell casings at the crime scene of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s murder. Commissioner Jessica Tisch stated that Mangione’s fingerprints were also found on items near the midtown Manhattan site. Authorities think Mangione bought these items while waiting for his target.

Mangione, 26, is currently held without bail in Pennsylvania after being arrested on gun and forgery charges. Manhattan prosecutors are working to extradite him to New York to face a murder charge. His lawyer has urged against rushing to judgment as investigations continue into his motives and background.

Police suspect Mangione harbored resentment toward the healthcare industry, possibly linked to a back injury he sustained on July 4, 2023. Investigators are examining his social media posts showing X-rays of spinal screws and writings critical of corporate America and the U.S. healthcare system.

The case remains in its early stages as authorities piece together evidence and motive details.

UK’S BOLD Move: PUBERTY Blockers Banned for Kids Indefinitely

12 December 2024 — The United Kingdom has decided to keep puberty blockers outlawed for children, Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced. He emphasized that children’s healthcare must be evidence-based. The Commission on Human Medicines found current treatments for gender dysphoria pose safety risks.

Streeting cited the Cass Review, which questioned the benefits of puberty blockers and highlighted significant risks. He stressed the need for caution when dealing with vulnerable young people and following expert advice. Clinical trials will continue next year to establish a clear evidence base for these drugs.

The government plans to work with NHS England to open new gender identity services after closing Tavistock Centre over safety concerns. Puberty blockers were banned by NHS in March, followed by emergency legislation in May prohibiting prescriptions for minors in all healthcare sectors.

TransActual UK challenged the ban legally, claiming it was unlawful to use emergency powers this way, but Britain’s High Court upheld it. The decision was influenced by Dr Hilary Cass’s report that undermined key aspects of the transgenderism movement’s arguments regarding children’s treatment.

FRANKIE DETTORI’S TAX Troubles: The Risk of Trusting Advisors

10 December 2024 — Italian jockey FRANKIE DETTORI is working with Britain’s tax authorities after losing a legal fight to keep his name private in a tax dispute. His case involves HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), which denied him certain income tax deductions. A judge initially granted him anonymity, but this was overturned on Monday.

Dettori expressed frustration, saying he relied on professional advisers who assured him their financial structure was HMRC-approved. However, HMRC later challenged this setup, leading to the current dispute. Dettori has since dismissed his former advisers and hired new ones to address the issue quickly.

Hui Ling McCarthy, representing HMRC, emphasized that public figures like Dettori cannot avoid scrutiny simply because they prefer privacy in their affairs. The principle of open justice remains paramount despite personal preferences for anonymity in such cases.

SYRIA’S NEW ERA: Rebels Triumph Over Assad’s Regime

10 December 2024 — Syria’s prime minister announced that most cabinet ministers have resumed work after rebels toppled President Bashar Assad. However, some state workers have not yet returned to their jobs. A United Nations official noted that the public sector has come "to a complete and abrupt halt.

Refugees are returning to Syria from neighboring countries, hoping for peace and searching for missing relatives from Assad’s rule. This movement shows a desire for stability and reconciliation among the Syrian people.

The rebel alliance now controls much of Syria but faces challenges as they lead the nation. The alliance is led by a former senior al-Qaida militant who has distanced himself from extremism, promising representative government and religious tolerance.

GERMAN Brothers’ SHOCKING Arrest for Islamic State Allegiance

10 December 2024 — German authorities have arrested two German-Lebanese brothers, aged 15 and 20, from Mannheim. A 22-year-old German-Turkish man from Hesse was also detained. The arrests happened on Sunday, as stated by prosecutors and police.

The brothers are accused of planning an attack fueled by their religious beliefs and support for the Islamic State group. They allegedly obtained an assault rifle and ammunition for this plan. The weapon was found at the home of the 22-year-old suspect.

Investigators discovered more items like a balaclava, a protective vest, several knives, and cellphones during their search. A judge has ordered that the suspects stay in custody while awaiting possible charges.

Prosecutors stressed there was no “concrete danger to the public” during the investigation. Authorities did not reveal any specific plans or targets related to a potential attack.

ASSAD’S Fall Rocks Syria: Russia’s Strategic Nightmare

09 December 2024 — The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria marks a major shift after 14 years of civil war. Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, has been ousted, leaving these powers to handle the fallout. This change challenges Russia’s strategic interests in the Middle East.

Russia aimed to maintain its influence in the region through military bases like Khmeimim and Tartus. With Assad out, these assets are now at risk. Rebekah Koffler calls this a strategic defeat for Russia amid its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Ksenia Svetlova from the Atlantic Council criticized Russia’s failure to keep its promises in Syria. She noted that Moscow’s abandonment of Assad makes it look like an unreliable ally, unlike U.S. support for Israel during crises. This perception weakens Russia’s position among Middle Eastern allies.

Former President Trump commented on the situation saying, “Assad is gone,” highlighting the rebels’ success against the longtime dictator. The event underscores shifting power dynamics and raises questions about future regional stability and alliances.

ISRAELI TROOPS Reclaim Strategic Mount Hermon Peak: A Bold Move

08 December 2024 — Israel has made a bold move by returning troops to the peak of Mount Hermon, a strategic location in the region. This is the first time Israeli forces have been on the mountain’s summit since the Yom Kippur War in 1973. The mountain is vital due to its height and military importance.

During the Yom Kippur War, Syria and Egypt launched a surprise attack on Israel, capturing an Israeli base lower on Mount Hermon. Despite initial setbacks, Israel reclaimed both Syrian and Israeli positions through intense battles involving paratroopers landing at the peak. The conflict ended with Israel returning Syria’s base as part of a peace agreement.

Today, a memorial stands on Mount Hermon’s slopes honoring Golani brigade soldiers who fell during that war. This recent troop movement highlights ongoing tensions and strategic interests in this historically contested area between Israel and Syria.

ASSAD FLEES as Rebels Take Damascus: A NEW Dawn for Syria

08 December 2024 — Syrian leader Bashar Assad has fled the country after rebels seized control of Damascus, reports Reuters. Assad and his family have reportedly left Syria, though their destination is unknown. Syrian state TV aired a video statement announcing Assad’s overthrow and the release of all prisoners.

The statement urged opposition fighters and citizens to protect state institutions in “the free Syrian state.” It celebrated unity among Syrians of all sects and ethnic groups. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali said he lost contact with Assad on Saturday night.

Celebrations erupted in Damascus as crowds gathered in central squares, chanting anti-Assad slogans and firing celebratory gunshots. The fall of the Assad regime marks a major shift in Middle East power dynamics after nearly 14 years of civil war.

This collapse ends over 50 years of Assad family rule in Syria, signaling a new chapter for a nation embroiled in conflict with Islamist rebels seeking change.

ISRAEL’S Bold Return: Troops Reclaim MT Hermon Peak After 50 Years

08 December 2024 — Israeli troops have returned to the peak of Mount Hermon for the first time since the Yom Kippur War in 1973. This strategic mountain, the highest in the region, has long been important for both Israel and Syria. During that war, Syrian forces captured an Israeli base on its slopes but were eventually pushed back by Israeli paratroopers.

In a fierce battle from October 21 to 22, 1973, Israeli forces took control of both their own and Syrian positions on Mount Hermon. Paratroopers landed at the peak and fought downward while another force ascended, trapping Syrian troops. However, Israel later returned control of Syria’s base at the peak as part of a post-war agreement to reduce tensions between the two nations.

Today, a memorial stands on Mount Hermon’s slopes honoring Golani brigade soldiers who fell during that conflict. The return to this historic site underscores ongoing regional tensions and highlights Israel’s commitment to securing its borders against potential threats from neighboring countries like Syria.

DANGEROUS ‘SLAPPING Therapy’ Healer Gets 10-Year Prison Sentence

07 December 2024 — An alternative healer, Hongchi Xiao, received a 10-year prison sentence for the death of a diabetic woman during his “slapping therapy” workshop. The victim, 71-year-old Danielle Carr-Gomm, stopped taking insulin and died after Xiao failed to get medical help as she suffered in pain.

Xiao promoted paida lajin therapy, where patients slap themselves to expel “poisonous waste.” Critics say this method lacks scientific support and can be harmful. Carr-Gomm’s death is not the only case — another patient also died under similar conditions.

Xiao was extradited from Australia after being convicted of manslaughter in a similar case involving a 6-year-old boy. Justice Robert Bright called Xiao dangerous despite him lacking typical traits of other offenders during sentencing at Winchester Crown Court.

CEO MURDER Sparks Fear: Corporate America on High Alert

07 December 2024 — The shocking murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson has left corporate America in fear. The gunman, still unidentified, likely fled New York City by bus shortly after the ambush. Police are investigating potential motives, including whether the shooter was a disgruntled employee or client.

Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny stated that investigators are working tirelessly to track down the suspect. Video evidence shows the gunman fleeing on a bicycle into Central Park before taking a taxi to a bus terminal. This terminal offers routes to several major cities, complicating efforts to pinpoint his location.

The bold nature of this crime has raised concerns about safety among top executives nationwide. As police continue their search, corporate leaders are urged to review security measures and stay vigilant in these uncertain times.