THREAD: freedom at last marc fogels...

HONG KONG Freedom Faces Dark Days: Democratic Party Pressured to Disband

12 April 2025 — The Democratic Party of Hong Kong, once a symbol of pro-democracy, is nearing its end. Co-founder Yeung Sum admitted the harsh truth as Chinese officials pushed for its disbandment. This marks a major blow to Hong Kong’s promised freedom and rights since the 1997 handover from Britain.

The 2019 protests led to a harsh crackdown, silencing voices through strict elections and media control. China’s national security law jailed some party members and shut down many civil groups. Yeung Sum showed his reluctance but urged members to support disbandment to avoid harsh penalties.

Party veteran Fred Li confirmed similar pressure from Chinese officials, hinting that joining future legislative elections would be impossible if they stayed active. Founding member Sin Chung-kai reported local warnings about potential fallout if the party continued existing.

The dissolution highlights a turning point in Hong Kong’s political scene as Beijing tightens its hold on the region’s autonomy and freedoms.

GREENPEACE’S SHOCKING Stunt at US Embassy Exposed

11 April 2025 — Greenpeace activists, led by UK figurehead Will McCallum, were arrested after a bold protest at the U.S. embassy in London. They poured “blood-red dye” into a pond to protest U.S. arms sales to Israel amid the Gaza conflict. The group cleverly used bicycles disguised as delivery bikes to transport containers of non-toxic dye labeled "Stop Arming Israel.

The Metropolitan Police acted quickly, arresting six individuals for criminal damage and conspiracy charges. A spokesperson confirmed that no breach of the secure perimeter occurred since the pond is accessible via a public footpath.

This protest underscores Greenpeace’s ongoing controversial tactics, even as they face financial troubles and possible bankruptcy. The group’s methods continue to ignite debate over their effectiveness and legality in highlighting international issues.;

RUSSIAN ESPIONAGE Threat: UK’S Undersea Infrastructure at Risk

08 April 2025 — Several sensing devices, believed to be of Russian origin, have washed ashore in the UK. The British Royal Navy’s mine hunting and underwater surveillance efforts uncovered more such devices. These espionage tools are allegedly intended to spy on Britain’s nuclear submarines and NATO’s critical underwater infrastructure.

Western civilization relies heavily on undersea pipelines and cables for energy and data transmission. Hostile access to this infrastructure poses risks of espionage and sabotage, including data harvesting or planting explosives. Russian autonomous submarines have been found near deep-sea data cables without support vessels, suggesting secretive operations.

The Royal Navy insists its nuclear deterrent remains undetected despite these threats. A Ministry of Defence spokesman stated that measures are being taken to secure critical offshore infrastructure against Russian activities near the UK or NATO territories. Critics argue that stronger defenses are necessary to counter these threats effectively.

Former defense minister Tobias Elwood claims the UK is already in a “grey zone war” with Russia due to these actions. He calls for increased defense capabilities against Moscow’s remote seabed platforms recharging mini-submarines mapping undersea cable networks. This situation underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures in response to growing Russian espionage activities.

HHS LAYOFFS Shock Nation: 10,000 Jobs at Risk

01 April 2025 — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is undergoing a major shake-up, leading to layoff notices for up to 10,000 workers. Senator Bill Cassidy wants Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to explain the changes next week. HHS hasn’t shared many details about the mass firings that started Tuesday but did release some information on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Democratic attorneys general and governors from 23 states and Washington, DC, are suing HHS and Secretary Kennedy over a $12 billion cut in public health funding. They claim this reduction is illegal and harmful during ongoing health crises like the opioid epidemic and mental health care issues. New York Attorney General Letitia James warned these cuts could undo progress in vital healthcare areas.

These events put more pressure on HHS’s actions under Secretary Kennedy’s leadership, affecting public health systems nationwide. The upcoming Senate hearing will likely reveal more about these controversial decisions impacting thousands of jobs and billions in funding across states.;

“LAST Of The FEW”: RAF Hero John “Paddy” Hemingway Passes at 105

19 March 2025 — John “Paddy” Hemingway, a celebrated Irish national and Royal Air Force veteran, died at his Dublin home on Monday. He was 105. Hemingway joined the RAF before World War II and played a key role in defending Britain during the Battle of Britain in 1940.

Prime Minister Winston Churchill praised these young pilots for their bravery against Nazi forces, famously stating that “never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.” The Battle of Britain Memorial honors 2,941 Allied airmen who fought in this critical battle.

Hemingway’s bravery shone when he twice bailed out of his Hurricane fighter during dogfights with German aircraft. Despite receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross in 1941, Hemingway downplayed his heroism, saying he was just doing his duty as a wartime pilot.

In a 2020 BBC interview, Hemingway spoke about the inevitability of joining war efforts: “The world was at war, and you couldn’t go somewhere and say, “I’m at peace and I don’t fight wars.”” His death marks an end to an era for those who remember “the few” who saved Britain from danger.

GREENLAND’S Center-Right Victory: A Bold Move For Freedom

12 March 2025 — Greenland’s center-right opposition party claimed victory in a key parliamentary election on Tuesday. The election was shaped by U.S. President Donald Trump’s past annexation threat and growing local calls for independence from Denmark.

A January poll showed 85% of Greenlanders were against joining the United States, with nearly half seeing Trump’s interest as a threat. This feeling influenced the election results, showing strong resistance to foreign control.

The winning party’s pro-business approach appealed to voters wanting economic growth and freedom from Danish rule. This change is crucial for Greenland’s political scene and its future ties with global powers.

TRUMP’S Bold "Last Warning" to Hamas Over Hostages

06 March 2025 — Former President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Hamas about releasing Israeli hostages. He stated that civilians in Gaza would face serious consequences if hostages were held.

The talks, first reported by Axios, are happening in Qatar. These discussions aim to secure the release of U.S. hostages and explore a broader agreement to end the conflict.

This development highlights significant international news beyond usual UK and US headlines. Trump’s comments emphasize his strong stance on foreign policy issues involving American citizens abroad.

LEONARD PELTIER’S Defiant Fight for Freedom and Justice

01 March 2025 — Leonard Peltier, now 80, remains defiant decades after a shootout on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation led to his imprisonment. Convicted for the 1975 killings of two FBI agents, he maintains his innocence despite serving a life sentence. President Joe Biden commuted his sentence, allowing him to serve the remainder under house arrest in North Dakota.

Peltier vows to continue fighting for Indigenous rights from his tribal homeland near the Canadian border. “I’m going to spend the rest of my life fighting for our people,” he declared in an interview with The Associated Press. His release marks a new phase in his activism amid ongoing political tensions affecting tribal nations and Indigenous peoples.

Born during a time of violent government-Indigenous conflicts, Peltier is no stranger to political volatility. He warns against threats posed by both far-right movements and federal policies targeting tribal lands’ resources. He believes that administrations like President Trump’s will pursue minerals and oil on these lands, continuing historical patterns of exploitation.

ISRAEL’S Brave Stand: Hostage Release Drama Unfolds

23 February 2025 — Hamas released six hostages, including Ethiopian-Israeli Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed, after ten years of captivity. Mengistu’s family is worried about his communication, while al-Sayed’s father described his son’s condition as shocking and like torture. Hamas still holds 66 Israeli hostages in Gaza.

The release ceremony was a psychological tactic by Hamas to pressure Israel into making concessions during negotiations. Two hostages, Eviatar David and Guy Gilboa-Dalal, were forced to witness the event as propaganda tools. Hamas demands Israel end the war and leave Gaza for more releases.

Israel remains determined to dismantle Hamas militarily and stop its control over Gaza again. Despite ongoing talks, tensions are high as both sides hold firm on key issues. This situation shows the complex challenges in achieving peace in the region.

In exchange for the hostages’ release, Israel freed 602 convicted Palestinian terrorists on Saturday after a delay caused by a body mix-up involving Shiri Bibas sent by Hamas. The delicate power balance continues as both sides navigate this intricate diplomatic landscape with high stakes involved for all parties concerned.

VP VANCE Slams Censorship: Defends Prayer Freedom In UK

17 February 2025 — Vice President JD Vance has spotlighted the case of U.K. army veteran Adam Smith-Connor, arrested for silently praying outside an abortion clinic. Smith-Connor expressed surprise and gratitude on “Fox and Friends Weekend” after learning that Vance highlighted his situation internationally.

Smith-Connor was found guilty of breaking a local Public Spaces Protection Order nearly two years after his silent prayer outside an abortion facility. He was fined £9,000, about $11,330 USD, for his actions.

During the Munich Security Conference last Friday, Vance criticized what he called “Soviet”-style censorship in Europe. He used Smith-Connor’s case to champion free speech and religious liberty against increasing restrictions abroad.

TRUMP, MUSK, And Vance Defy Courts: A Bold Stand For Freedom

10 February 2025 — Former President Donald TRUMP, Elon Musk, and Senator J.D. Vance are reportedly preparing to challenge court orders. Critics say Trump’s recent actions show defiance of judicial authority. This has sparked debate over the balance between executive power and judicial oversight.

Vance’s comments highlight possible tensions between court orders and executive power. The Supreme Court’s “political question doctrine” often avoids policy decisions or constitutional powers of other branches. This doctrine might shape how these challenges play out in politics.

Strategically suggesting defying court orders can serve political purposes without actual intent to do so. These tactics are common in Trump’s political career, drawing both support and criticism from different groups.

Senator Vance openly supported presidential defiance against certain court orders last year with a simple “Yup” to Politico. This stance highlights ongoing debates about the limits of executive authority in America today.

HAMAS HALTS Hostage Release: Ceasefire in Jeopardy

10 February 2025 — Hamas has stopped releasing Israeli hostages, accusing Israel of breaking the ceasefire. Israeli officials call this a “violation” and are now on high alert. The ceasefire, active since last month, was seen as a step toward peace talks.

The delay in releasing hostages adds tension to an already shaky situation. Israeli authorities are deeply worried that this could harm ongoing peace efforts. Military forces are on high alert to prevent any possible escalations.

This incident shows the ongoing instability in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where ceasefires and hostage issues remain crucial concerns. If not resolved soon, this suspension might affect future talks and regional stability.

MOTHER’S Sacrifice: Hunger Strike for SON’S Freedom in Egypt

08 February 2025 — Laila Soueif, a mathematician and political activist, is on day 129 of a hunger strike outside the British prime minister’s office. Her goal is to secure freedom for her son, Alaa Abd el-Fattah, imprisoned in Egypt. She believes sacrificing herself is the only way to highlight what she calls his unjust imprisonment.

Alaa Abd el-Fattah, a well-known pro-democracy activist, has been jailed for most of the past 14 years. His role in Egypt’s 2011 uprising led to repeated incarcerations. His latest offense was “liking” a Facebook post about torture in Egyptian prisons.

Abd el-Fattah has been detained since September 2019 and received a five-year sentence from an emergency security court. Despite his release date passing last September, authorities extended his detention until January 2027 by not counting pre-trial time served.

TRUMP-Led Diplomacy ACHIEVES Release of Americans from Venezuela

04 February 2025 — The Maduro regime has freed six Americans after negotiations led by Richard Grenell, President Trump’s Presidential Envoy for Special Missions. Among those released are David Estrella, Aaron Barret Logan, Gregory David Werber, and David Guttember Guillaume. These men were accused of plotting against socialist dictator Nicolás Maduro without any evidence presented.

Grenell traveled to Caracas and met with Maduro to secure their release. Unlike previous efforts under President Biden, these talks did not involve a prisoner swap deal. The agreement also included Venezuela accepting U.S. deportation flights of illegal migrants, including members of the Tren De Aragua criminal group.

Previously, the Biden administration engaged in a prisoner swap in October 2022 for seven Americans detained by Venezuela. Those released included members of the “CITGO 6” and two others who later sued Maduro for alleged torture during their detention. This recent development marks a significant diplomatic achievement under Trump’s envoy without concessions from the U.S side.

AMERICAN-ISRAELI Hostage Freed: Emotional Reunion After Hamas Release

02 February 2025 — Keith Siegel, an American-Israeli dual citizen, has been freed by Hamas along with two other hostages. This release took place as part of a November 2023 truce agreement. Siegel’s freedom shines a light on the ongoing hostage crisis involving members of the Bibas family and others.

In exchange for the hostages, 183 Palestinian prisoners were released. United Press International reported that Siegel was handed over in Gaza City shortly after Yarden Bibas and Ofer Kalderon were freed in Khan Younis. Since January 19, eighteen hostages have been released, while Israel has let go of many more prisoners.

The cease-fire also opened the Rafah Crossing between Gaza and Egypt for the first time in nine months. Israel agreed to this after Hamas released the last living female hostages held in Gaza. The initial hostage-taking followed a brutal terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in about 250 people being taken hostage and approximately 1,200 killed.

Seven American citizens were among those captured during this attack by terrorists often referred to as “militants” by some media outlets like United Press International. The conflict has seen significant tension and violence since then.

PARENTS’ HEARTBREAK: Will Newsom Stop Killer’s Release?

07 January 2025 — The parents of Emily Shane, a 13-year-old girl killed by a suicidal driver in Malibu in 2010, are pleading with California Governor Gavin Newsom. They want him to prevent the release of Sina Khankhanian, who was found guilty of second-degree murder and sentenced to 15 years to life. The parole board approved his release again in October 2024, but Newsom has yet to intervene.

Khankhanian drove erratically for 17 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway before hitting Emily as she walked home from a sleepover. He claimed he was upset over losing his job and had suicidal thoughts at the time. His attorney argued that Khankhanian’s autism affected his understanding of the consequences of his actions.

In June 2023, a parole board granted him parole, but Newsom reversed that decision later that year. Now with another approval for release on the table, Emily’s parents are frustrated and concerned about their daughter’s killer potentially walking free without further intervention from Newsom.

FARAGE BLASTS ‘TWO-Tier’ Justice System Over Prisoner Release

12 September 2024 — Nigel Farage faced heckles as he criticized the early release of 1,700 criminals to make room in British prisons. Farage questioned the fairness of releasing serious offenders while targeting social media users. “Does the Prime Minister understand there is a growing feeling of anger in this country that we are living through two-tier policing and a two-tier justice system?” he asked.

New Labour Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer blamed the previous Tory government for breaking the prison system. Starmer stated, “I’m angry to be put in a position of having to release people who should be in prison because the last government broke the prison system.” He defended his decision by highlighting warnings from former officials about overcrowding issues.

Farage has been critical of how the government handled anti-mass migration protests and riots after a mass stabbing at a “Taylor Swift” dance party left three children dead. The unrest led to over 1,280 arrests and 796 charges, including for social media comments, prompting public warnings to "think before you post.

LABOUR’S Dangerous Plan: Early Prisoner Release Sparks Outrage

14 July 2024 — The United Kingdom’s new Labour government announced a controversial plan to release prisoners who have served 40% of their sentence. This measure aims to address severe overcrowding in prisons across the country.

British Secretary of State for Justice Shabana Mahmood blamed the previous government for the crisis, stating, “They put their political interests before the country.” Mahmood emphasized that emergency measures are necessary to prevent a total breakdown of law and order.

According to Mahmood, U.K. prisons have been operating at over 99% capacity since early 2023, with full occupancy expected soon. The new policy will include safeguards and exemptions to ensure public safety and will be implemented in September.

JUDGE BLOCKS Public Release of Nashville Shooter’s Writings

05 July 2024 — A judge in Nashville ruled that the writings of Audrey Hale, who killed six people at a Christian school, cannot be released to the public. Judge I’Ashea Myles determined that the victims’ families hold the copyright to Hale’s works. The families argued they should control access to these materials.

The decision stems from a novel legal argument using federal Copyright Act exceptions. Hale’s parents transferred ownership of her property to the victims’ families, who then fought in court for this ruling. This case marks a unique interpretation of copyright law as it applies to public records.

Interest in these documents is high due to theories about Hale’s motives, including possible hate crimes against Christians. Police reported that Hale may have identified as transgender, adding another layer of controversy and speculation around her writings.

Victims’ families praised the ruling, stating it denies notoriety to the shooter and brings them some relief. Cindy Peak’s family expressed gratitude for preventing Hale’s “vile and unfiltered thoughts” from being released publicly. The case is expected to be appealed soon.

JUSTICE At LAST: Architect of Police Officer’S Murder Gets Life Sentence

11 May 2024 — Piran Ditta Khan, aged 75, was handed a life sentence for masterminding the murder of a British police officer during a 2005 heist. He is required to serve at least 40 years. After the crime, Khan escaped to Pakistan but was extradited to the U.K. last year.

During sentencing, Judge Nicholas Hilliard stated that Khan will likely spend the rest of his life in prison given the gravity of his offenses. He noted that Khan had spent many years freely abroad, avoiding capture.

Khan did not directly kill Officer Sharon Beshenivsky but was found guilty as he orchestrated the robbery and provided the weapons used in her murder. The prosecution underscored his central role in this devastating incident in Bradford.

This case has highlighted the risks faced by Britain’s unarmed police force. As justice is served, there is a somber remembrance for Officer Beshenivsky’s family and their profound loss.

EU’S NEW SPEED Control Rules: Are They an Invasion of Driver Freedom?

29 April 2024 — Starting July 6, 2024, all new cars and trucks sold in the European Union and Northern Ireland must be equipped with technology that alerts drivers when they exceed speed limits. This could mean audible warnings, vibrations, or even automatic slowing of the vehicle. The intention is to boost road safety by curbing high-speed accidents.

The United Kingdom has decided not to enforce this rule strictly. Although new vehicles will have intelligent speed assistance (ISA) installed, drivers can choose whether to activate it each day. ISA works by using cameras and GPS to recognize local speed limits and notify drivers when they are going too fast.

Should a driver ignore these warnings and continue speeding, ISA will take action by automatically reducing the car’s speed. This technology has been available as an option in certain car models since 2015 but became mandatory in Europe from 2022 onwards.

This move raises questions about personal freedom versus public safety benefits. While some see it as a necessary step towards reducing traffic accidents, others view it as an overreach into personal driving habits and choices.

OJ Simpson’s TWISTED Fate: From Freedom to Prison

13 April 2024 — More than two decades after O.J. Simpson walked free in a murder case that grabbed headlines worldwide, a Nevada jury found him guilty of armed robbery and kidnapping. The conviction was for trying to take back personal items in Las Vegas. Some say the tough 33-year sentence at 61 years old was because of his earlier trial and his fame.

The trial in Los Angeles, coming after the Rodney King incident, ended with Simpson not guilty. But many think this result made his punishment for the Las Vegas crimes harsher later on. “Celebrity justice swings both ways,” said media lawyer Royal Oakes, pointing out how Simpson’s star status affected his legal troubles.

Released on parole in 2017 after nine years behind bars, Simpson’s journey is much different from his first trial’s verdict. His cases have started talks about how fame can tilt the scales of justice and possible jury bias due to race. These events show the tricky mix of fame, societal issues, and law in America.

Simpson’s story continues to be a powerful example of how celebrity can impact legal outcomes differently over time, raising questions about fairness and justice in high-profile cases.

PASSING of Joe Lieberman: The LAST Moderate Voice in Senate, Dead at 82

27 March 2024 — Joe Lieberman, the former Senator from Stamford, Conn., has tragically passed away at the age of 82. His death resulted from complications following a fall.

The news was confirmed by his family. He leaves behind an enduring legacy as a dedicated public servant and an unwavering advocate for both Jewish people and the Jewish state.

Former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid tribute to him as an “exemplary public servant” and a "peerless champion of Jewish causes.

Conservative radio host Mark Levin mourned Lieberman’s passing, referring to him as “the last of the moderates.” This sentiment underscores the profound impact he had on American politics.

Supreme Court: Last RESORT for CUNY Professors Suing Union Over Alleged Antisemitism

22 January 2024 — A collective of professors from the City University of New York (CUNY) is taking legal action against a teachers union, Professional Staff Congress/CUNY (PSC). They accuse PSC of fostering antisemitism. The professors see their ultimate hope in the Supreme Court’s intervention. Despite their resignation from the union due to its perceived anti-Jewish bias, state law obliges them to maintain an association with it.

The dispute ignited when PSC endorsed a “Resolution in Support of the Palestinian People” in 2021. This resolution was interpreted as antisemitic and anti-Israel by six professors, prompting their withdrawal from the union. Nonetheless, New York State law dictates that these same professors must be represented by this union in collective bargaining discussions.

Avraham Goldstein, a mathematics professor and one of the six dissenters, voiced his distress over being compelled to align with a union he believes issues antisemitic statements without his approval.

This legal battle follows on from a significant Supreme Court ruling in Janus v. AFSCME (2018). The court decided that public employees who are not members can’t be forced to pay fees to a union as it infringes upon their First Amendment rights.

TRUMP BACKLASH: Former Arkansas Governor Booed at Florida Freedom Summit Over Anti-Trump Remarks

06 November 2023 — Asa Hutchinson, the former governor of Arkansas, was met with a chorus of boos during his speech at the Florida Freedom Summit. This strong reaction from the crowd was triggered when Hutchinson hinted that Donald Trump could potentially face a felony conviction by a jury next year.

Having served as both a federal prosecutor and representative, Hutchinson is currently not making any waves in the Republican primary race with his polling numbers flatlining at zero percent. His remarks sparked widespread disapproval among the more than 3,000 attendees present at the event.

Despite facing an unfavorable response from his audience, Hutchinson didn’t back down. He maintained that Trump’s potential legal troubles could sway independent voters’ view of the party and influence down-ticket races for Congress and Senate.

PEACE at RISK: Biden’s Push for Palestinian Consulate Jeopardizes Israel-Saudi Talks

02 October 2023 — Last month, President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a meeting. The focus was on encouraging peace talks between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Notably, these discussions did not necessitate the establishment of a Palestinian state — a significant shift in Middle East policy. Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia also appeared to ease his position on the Palestine issue.

However, recent reports suggest that the Biden administration may be jeopardizing this potential peace accord. They are insisting on establishing a new Palestinian consulate in Jerusalem. This move could effectively split Jerusalem between Israel and Palestine, overturning policies set by President Donald Trump and breaking bipartisan commitments to keep the city united.

Israeli news outlet Israel Hayom has reported growing frustration among Israeli and Saudi officials with Washington’s overemphasis on concessions for Palestinians. Insiders familiar with the ongoing negotiations suggest this focus is impeding potential progress.

The primary hurdle seems to be defining the specifics of a U.S.-Saudi defense agreement. This includes whether nuclear enrichment will be allowed on Saudi soil — an aspect that Israel appears willing to accept for comprehensive peace.

Immigration CRISIS: Biden’s Policies Cause SURGE at Border

29 September 2023 — The number of people attempting to cross the US-Mexico border has seen a dramatic increase recently. This surge is believed to be a result of President Biden’s immigration policies.

Many believe that Biden’s decision to reverse several of Trump’s immigration policies has led to this increase. Critics argue that these changes have encouraged more people to attempt the risky journey.

In response, the White House has defended its policies, stating they are more humane and fair than those of the previous administration. However, this defense has done little to quell concerns about the rising numbers at the border.

As we move forward, it remains unclear how this situation will evolve. What is clear though is that immigration will continue to be a hot-button issue in American politics.

CANADA’S FREEDOM Convoy Trial Begins: Unmasking the Controversial Protest Tactics

06 September 2023 — The trial of Tamara Lich and Chris Barber, organizers of Canada’s Freedom Convoy, commenced on Tuesday. Prosecutors are focusing not on political ideologies but on the protest methods used.

Lich and Barber were arrested in February 2022 following nearly a month of protests in Ottawa. The demonstrators demanded the termination of federal mask and vaccine mandates amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Critics suggest that their actions extended beyond health measures to challenge the broader Liberal Canadian government.

Throughout their protest, truckers remained stationed outside Canada’s Parliament building, a move city officials labeled as an “occupation”. Over a 13-day trial (with an additional six days in October), The Crown Prosecution will argue that these gridlock tactics constituted dangerous action.

Alongside other organizers, Lich and Barber face charges including mischief, counseling others to commit mischief, intimidation and obstructing police. This case represents a pivotal point in evaluating how society perceives and conducts protests.

FUKUSHIMA FALLOUT: Tepco Begins Controversial Release of Radioactive Water into Pacific, Sparks Global Outrage

01 September 2023 — Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) started discharging treated radioactive water from the devastated Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean on Thursday. The flow began around 1 p.m. local time, with plans to continue the release for 17 days. TEPCO executives assured they would stop the release if any problems arose.

The decision has sparked global protests, including in Japan and South Korea. China issued a harsh statement on Thursday, condemning Japan’s “selfish and irresponsible” actions. Beijing warned of a potential “man-made secondary disaster” if Japan proceeded with the water dumping.

In Tokyo, hundreds of protestors gathered near TEPCO’s headquarters. Despite not being allowed to approach the building, their determined presence was a stark contrast to the tranquility of the nearby Imperial Palace. Their demands included calls to “protect our rights.”

Among the crowd was Terumi Kataoka, a woman in her sixties from Fukushima. She held a banner adorned with fish, her message clear: “No Dumping Radioactive Water into The Ocean.” The demonstration was peaceful, with journalists and a minimal police presence on hand.