THREAD: global shockwaves emotional stories and powerful

IRAN’S Nuclear Threat: Global Fears and Rising Pressure

15 November 2024 — The world is worried about Iran’s nuclear activities. Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stressed the need for “concrete, tangible and visible results” during his visit to Tehran. He urged Iran to show progress and ease tensions to possibly avoid conflict.

Grossi’s comments seem directed at Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz’s recent statements. Katz pointed out Israel’s airstrikes in October, saying they revealed Iran’s nuclear sites to potential attacks. He claimed these actions might help remove threats against Israel.

Grossi criticized Iran for not cooperating with IAEA inspectors and increasing uranium enrichment activities. He noted that compliance with inspection rules stopped early in the Biden administration, complicating transparency efforts and resolution attempts.

US STRIKES on ISIS in Syria: A Powerful Blow to Terrorism

30 October 2024 — U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced a series of successful strikes on ISIS locations in Syria, eliminating up to 35 terrorists. The operation targeted multiple camps and took out several senior ISIS leaders, with no civilian casualties reported.

CENTCOM stated that these airstrikes will disrupt ISIS’s ability to plan and execute attacks against civilians, the U.S., allies, and partners in the region. The command emphasized its commitment to degrading ISIS’s operational capabilities alongside regional allies to ensure the group’s defeat.

This announcement follows an incident in Iraq where two U.S. service members were injured during an operation that killed at least seven ISIS operatives. Both service members are reportedly in stable condition as CENTCOM continues its efforts against terrorism in the Middle East.

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.

250 HEZBOLLAH Fighters ELIMINATED: Israel’s Powerful Response

05 October 2024 — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced they eliminated 250 Hezbollah terrorists, including nearly two dozen commanders, in southern Lebanon. The operation targeted over 2,000 sites like terrorist facilities and missile platforms. IDF spokesperson Avichay Adraee highlighted the success in preventing threats to northern Israeli residents.

During the operation, IDF forces found Hezbollah’s combat equipment warehouses and missile launchers ready for use. They also discovered explosive devices left by terrorists near the separation fence. This effort aimed to neutralize entrenched threats and protect Israeli citizens from danger.

Among those killed were five battalion commanders, ten company commanders, and six platoon commanders of Hezbollah forces. Despite these successes, the IDF reported two Israeli soldiers died during combat in northern Israel on Friday. Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledged the ongoing “tough war” with Hezbollah as tensions remain high along the border.

CIA and MI6 Chiefs WARN: Global Threats Looming

08 September 2024 — The heads of the CIA and MI6 have issued a stark warning about global threats. They highlighted the war in Ukraine, sabotage in Europe, and rising tensions with China. “We saw the war in Ukraine coming,” they stated, emphasizing their role in alerting the international community.

They are actively working to disrupt Russia’s sabotage campaigns across Europe and address escalating conflicts like the Israel-Gaza situation. Counterterrorism efforts against ISIS are also a priority. The intelligence chiefs stressed that global stability is under threat like never before since the Cold War.

China’s rise is identified as the main geopolitical challenge of this century, prompting both agencies to reorganize their priorities accordingly. Russian intelligence activities were described as reckless, with recent incidents of sabotage and arson attacks on infrastructure in Europe being attributed to Moscow’s covert operations.;

GLOBAL Elections SHAKE-UP: Major Voter Impact in Coming Days

28 June 2024 — In the coming days, voters in countries like Mauritania, Mongolia, Iran, Britain, and France will head to the polls. These elections could significantly impact global politics amid ongoing conflicts and economic concerns.

Iran faces a critical election following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei seeks a successor among hard-liners Saeed Jalili and Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, and reformist Masoud Pezeshkian.

National elections this year are happening in over 50 countries with significant political changes in India, Mexico, and South Africa. Russia remains unchanged despite global shifts.

SUMMER 2023: RECORD-Breaking Heat Shocks Scientists

14 May 2024 — The summer of 2023 was the hottest in the Northern Hemisphere in over 2,000 years, according to a new study. Weather agencies had already declared it the hottest month, summer, and year on record based on thermometer data.

Scientists used tree rings to calculate temperatures dating back to year 1 AD and found no hotter summer than last year’s. Lead author Jan Esper from Gutenberg Research College confirmed that before industrial emissions, the hottest year was 246 AD.

This period marked the start of medieval history when Roman Emperor Philip the Arab fought along the Danube River. The study highlights significant climate changes linked to human activities like burning fossil fuels.

PLASTIC WARFARE: Nations Clash Over New Global Treaty in Ottawa

29 April 2024 — For the first time, global negotiators are crafting a treaty aimed at ending plastic pollution. This marks a significant shift from mere discussions to actual treaty language. The talks are part of the fourth in a series of five international plastics summits.

The proposal to limit global plastic production is causing friction among nations. Plastic-producing countries and industries, particularly those linked to oil and gas, strongly oppose these limits. Plastics primarily derive from fossil fuels and chemicals, intensifying the debate.

Industry representatives advocate for a treaty that emphasizes plastic recycling and reuse rather than production cuts. Stewart Harris of the International Council of Chemical Associations highlighted the industry’s commitment to cooperate on implementing such measures. Meanwhile, scientists at the summit aim to counteract misinformation by providing evidence on plastic pollution impacts.

The final meeting is set to address unresolved issues around plastic production limits before concluding negotiations on this groundbreaking treaty. As discussions continue, all eyes are on how these contentious points will be resolved in the upcoming final session.

NYPD STANDS United: A Powerful Display of Support at Officer’s Court Hearing

17 April 2024 — In a moving display of unity, around 100 NYPD officers gathered at the Queens courthouse. They were there to show their support during the arraignment of Lindy Jones, who is facing charges related to the death of Officer Jonathan Diller.

Jones and Guy Rivera are at the center of this case due to their alleged involvement in the March incident that tragically ended Officer Diller’s life. Jones has pleaded not guilty to weapon possession charges, while Rivera faces more severe accusations, including first-degree murder and attempted murder.

The courtroom was filled with NYPD officers, a testament to their collective mourning and unwavering support for one another. Amidst this somber backdrop, Jones’ defense lawyer highlighted his client’s right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.

This high-profile case has sparked renewed debate over crime and justice in New York City. Critics argue that individuals like Jones and Rivera represent a clear danger to society and question why they were allowed freedom prior to committing such heinous acts against law enforcement.

NETANYAHU DEFIES UN Cease-Fire: Vows to Continue Gaza War Amidst Global Tensions

28 March 2024 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has openly criticized a United Nations Security Council resolution for a cease-fire in Gaza. According to Netanyahu, the resolution, which the United States did not veto, has only served to empower Hamas.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas is now in its sixth month. Both parties have consistently rejected cease-fire efforts, escalating tensions between the U.S. and Israel regarding war conduct. Netanyahu maintains that an expanded ground offensive is necessary to dismantle Hamas and free hostages.

Hamas seeks a lasting cease-fire, Israeli forces’ withdrawal from Gaza, and freedom for Palestinian prisoners before releasing hostages. A recent proposal that didn’t meet these demands was dismissed by Hamas. In response, Netanyahu argued that this rejection demonstrates Hamas’ lack of interest in negotiations and underlines the harm inflicted by the Security Council’s decision.

Israel expresses dissatisfaction with the U.S.“s abstention from voting on a Security Council resolution calling for a cease-fire — marking it as the first time since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war began. The vote passed unanimously without U.S.”s involvement.

NETANYAHU DEFIES Global Outrage, Sets Sights on Rafah Invasion

16 March 2024 — Despite international outcry, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to press ahead with plans to invade Rafah, a city in the Gaza Strip. This decision comes in the face of protests from the United States and other world powers.

The Israeli Defense Force is slated to lead this operation as part of broader military initiatives in the region. This move will proceed even if there’s a potential cease-fire agreement with Hamas, Netanyahu’s office confirmed on Friday.

Alongside these invasion plans, an Israeli delegation is preparing for a trip to Doha. Their mission? To negotiate for hostage release. But before they can proceed, they need full consensus from the security cabinet.

The announcement has heightened tensions as Palestinians gather for Ramadan prayers at Al-Farouq Mosque ruins in Rafah — a site ravaged by ongoing conflicts between Israel and militant group Hamas.

AUSTRALIAN Activist’s SHOCKING Sentence in China Sparks Global Outrage

05 February 2024 — Yang Hengjun, an Australian pro-democracy activist and former Chinese government worker, faces a surprising sentence in China. Born as Yang Jun in 1965, he served the Chinese government before moving to Australia in 2002. He also spent time as a visiting scholar at Columbia University.

Yang was arrested during a family trip to China in 2019. His arrest happened during the height of the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement and amidst tense relations between Australia and China. The Australian government and human rights groups have consistently condemned his detention, calling him a political prisoner.

The trial has been slammed for its secrecy, with claims of torture and forced confessions emerging. Yang reportedly faced a secret trial on vague espionage charges three years ago. In August 2023, he voiced fears of dying from an untreated kidney cyst while waiting for his verdict

The sentencing has ignited international outrage with Australia condemning it as an “appalling” obstacle to better relations with China. Human Rights Watch Asia Director Elaine Pearson labelled Yang’s treatment as making a mockery of legal proceedings.

TRUMP’S MAGA Wave Sparks Global Conservative Populist Triumphs

08 January 2024 — In a recent interview at Mar-a-Lago, Donald Trump stated that his MAGA-Trump movement is driving a global surge of conservative populist victories. He pointed to Argentina’s new president, Javier Milei, as an example. Milei reportedly thanked Trump for laying the groundwork with his policies. The former US president playfully suggested that Milei’s “Make Argentina Great Again” slogan could also be shortened to MAGA.

Trump’s 2016 triumph over Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton was not a singular occurrence. It was preceded by significant wins for conservative populists worldwide, such as the Brexit referendum in the UK and Jimmy Morales’s victory in Guatemala’s presidential race. These successes helped ignite the movement that ultimately led to Trump’s ascendancy.

As we approach 2024, conservative populists are making further strides globally. Italy now boasts Giorgia Meloni as Prime Minister and Geert Wilders’ PVV party leads polls in Netherlands. With these victories and more expected throughout the year, it appears a global sweep for conservative populists is on the cards leading up to Trump’s anticipated rematch with Democrat President Joe Biden.

IRAN’S Ruthless ACT: Woman Forced into Child Marriage Executed Despite Global Pleas

21 December 2023 — Samira Sabzian, an Iranian woman who was compelled into a child marriage and later incarcerated for her husband’s murder, was executed on Wednesday. This event occurred despite fervent pleas from international human rights groups for leniency. The execution was carried out in Ghezelhesar Prison according to reports from the Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO).

Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, Director of IHRNGO, referred to Sabzian as a victim of “gender apartheid, child marriage, and domestic violence.” He expressed strong criticism towards the Iranian regime’s management of the case.

Amiry-Moghaddam made it clear that Sabzian had become a target of an “inefficient and corrupt regime’s killing apparatus.” He demanded accountability from Ali Khamenei and other leaders within the Islamic Republic. Sabzian had spent ten years in prison following her arrest for her husband’s murder.

AMERICAN TEEN Freed: The Emotional Rollercoaster of a Family’s Fight Against Hamas Captivity

21 October 2023 — Natalie Raanan, an American teenager, has been released after enduring two harrowing weeks as a hostage under Hamas in Gaza. Her father, Uri Raanan from Illinois, confirmed the news of her freedom and reassured that she is recovering well. The announcement sparked an outpouring of relief and joy within the family who had spent anxious hours praying for Natalie’s safe return.

Uri Raanan expressed his overwhelming relief and joy at the thought of his daughter being home in time to celebrate her upcoming 18th birthday. Before her abduction, Natalie and her brother Ben had made plans to get matching tattoos as a symbol of their bond on this special day. In a heartfelt tribute during her absence, Ben got a tattoo that intertwined their names.

The family’s group text message thread turned from cautious optimism to jubilant celebration upon receiving the news about Natalie’s release. Despite their happiness, they remain conscious that other families continue to live under the shadow of fear for their captive loved ones.

HEARTBREAKING TRUTH: Maya Kowalski’s Shocking Testimony on Alleged Medical Abuse and Mother’s Suicide

10 October 2023 — Maya Kowalski, the young woman embroiled in a high-profile alleged child medical abuse case in Florida, delivered her testimony on Monday. The case has catapulted into national consciousness due to its ties with the Netflix documentary “Take Care of Maya”. In 2016, Maya was diagnosed with a rare condition known as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and was subsequently admitted to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital (JHAC).

Hospital staff raised suspicions of “medical abuse” by her parents and promptly notified the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). This led to an enforced separation between Maya and her parents while she remained hospitalized. During her testimony in a Sarasota County courtroom, she portrayed this separation as “unbelievably cruel”.

The allegations had devastating consequences for Maya’s family. Her mother, Beata Kowalski, tragically ended her own life after enduring months without seeing her daughter. According to family attorney Greg Anderson, Beata committed suicide on January 7th, 2016.

ASIAN MARKETS in Chaos: Evergrande Crisis and Wall Street Woes Trigger Shockwaves

25 September 2023 — Asian stock markets experienced a significant downturn on Monday, with Tokyo standing as the sole major regional market to register gains. This follows on the heels of Wall Street’s most dismal week in half a year, which subsequently boosted U.S. futures and oil prices.

Investor confidence was shaken due to multiple factors including worries over China’s real estate sector, a potential shutdown of the U.S. government, and an ongoing strike by American auto industry workers. European markets weren’t spared either with Germany’s DAX, Paris’ CAC 40, and Britain’s FTSE 100 all experiencing a 0.6% drop.

China Evergrande Group saw its shares plummet nearly 22% after it disclosed its inability to secure additional debt due to an ongoing investigation into one of its subsidiaries. This revelation threatens the restructuring of its staggering debt that exceeds $300 billion. In response, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng dropped 1.8%, Shanghai Composite index fell by 0.5%, while Japan’s Nikkei 225 managed to climb by 0.9%.

Elsewhere in Asia, Seoul’s Kospi dipped by 0.5%. On a brighter note though, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 managed to claw back some ground ending with a modest

POLIO ERADICATION Stumbles: Key Goals Missed, Global Effort Faces Setbacks

24 September 2023 — The worldwide endeavor to eliminate polio has hit a bump in the road. According to an independent assessment, two critical objectives set for this year are unlikely to be met. The targets were set for 2023 and aimed at stopping the spread of wild polio in Afghanistan and Pakistan — the only two countries where it’s still prevalent. A similar goal was set for a variant called “vaccine-derived” polio causing outbreaks elsewhere.

The Independent Monitoring Board supervising the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), backed by the U.N., declared that neither objective would be reached this year. GPEI agreed with this assessment, pointing out security issues in crucial regions as one of the remaining obstacles. They highlighted that halting vaccine-derived outbreaks will probably take longer than expected.

Despite reducing cases by over 99% since 1988 through mass vaccination drives, total eradication remains a tough nut to crack. Aidan O’Leary, director of polio eradication at the World Health Organization (WHO), maintains that it’s achievable and insists on persisting with efforts. Only seven instances of wild polio have been reported this year — five in Afghanistan and two in Pakistan.

O’Leary anticipates an interruption of transmission by early 2024 — just slightly behind

G20 SUMMIT SHOCKER: Global Leaders Slam Ukraine Invasion, Ignite NEW Biofuels Alliance

16 September 2023 — The second day of the G20 Summit in New Delhi, India, ended with a powerful joint statement. World leaders united to condemn the invasion of Ukraine. Although Russia and China objected, the consensus was reached without explicitly naming Russia.

The declaration read, “We … welcome all relevant and constructive initiatives that support a comprehensive, just, and durable peace in Ukraine.” The statement underscored that no state should use force to breach another’s territorial integrity or political independence.

President Joe Biden renewed his push for the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi warmly received Comoros President Azali Assoumani at the summit. In a landmark move, Biden teamed up with Modi and other world leaders to kickstart the Global Biofuels Alliance.

This alliance aims to secure biofuel supply while ensuring affordability and sustainable production. The White House announced this initiative as part of a shared commitment towards cleaner fuels and achieving global decarbonization goals.

DAVIS CUP Showdown: Canada Triumphs, US and Britain Clinch Wins Amidst Surprises

14 September 2023 — Canada has launched its Davis Cup title defense with a commanding 3-0 victory over Italy in the group stage finals. Alexis Galarneau and Gabriel Diallo each clinched straight-set victories. Additionally, Galarneau joined forces with Vasek Pospisil to secure the doubles match.

In contrast, Australia, the finalist from last year’s tournament, faced a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Britain in Manchester. The Australians were defeated in both singles matches but managed to salvage some pride with a consolation win in the doubles match.

The United States started their campaign against Croatia on uneven ground. Mackenzie McDonald clinched an early victory for the team but Frances Tiafoe was unexpectedly defeated by Borna Gojo. Nevertheless, Austin Krajicek and Rajeev Ram pulled through to secure a 2-1 win for the U.S. in the crucial doubles match.

In other news from around the tournament, Czech Republic outclassed Spain with an impressive 3-0 victory. Notably absent from Spain’s lineup was Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz.

Morocco’s DEADLIEST Earthquake in a Century: OVER 2,000 Lives Lost and Rising

09 September 2023 — Morocco has been hit by its most powerful earthquake in 120 years. The devastating 6.8 magnitude quake has resulted in over 2,000 fatalities and severe structural damage. With rescue efforts ongoing, the death toll is feared to increase as remote areas remain inaccessible.

The quake’s destructive force was felt nationwide, causing extensive damage to ancient cities and isolated villages alike. Remote communities such as those in the Ouargane Valley have been cut off from the rest of the world due to power outages and disrupted cell service. Residents are left grieving for their lost neighbors while assessing their own losses.

In Marrakech, residents are fearful of returning indoors due to potential building instability. Notable landmarks like the Koutoubia Mosque have sustained damage; however, the full extent is yet to be determined. Videos on social media show significant damage to parts of Marrakech’s iconic red walls that encircle the old city.

The Interior Ministry reports a death toll of at least 2,012 people mainly from Marrakech and nearby provinces close to the epicenter. Additionally, over 2,059 individuals were injured with more than half listed in critical condition.

INDIA’S G-20 Summit: A Golden Opportunity for US to Reclaim Global Supremacy

08 September 2023 — India is preparing to host its inaugural G-20 summit in New Delhi on September 9. This important event gathers leaders from the world’s most powerful economies. These nations represent a staggering 85% of the world’s GDP, 75% of all international trade, and two-thirds of the global population.

Elaine Dezenski, a representative from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, views this as a golden chance for America to reclaim its position as a global leader. She stressed the importance of fostering transparency, development and open trade rooted in democratic rules and principles.

Yet, Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine pose a significant challenge likely to cause division among attendees. Western nations supporting Ukraine may find themselves at odds with countries like India that maintain a more neutral stance. Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor, underscored that Russia’s war has inflicted severe social and economic damage on less affluent countries.

Despite unanimous condemnation at last year’s Bali summit declaration over Ukraine’s situation, disagreements persist within the G-20 group.

NEW COVID-19 Variant BA286 Strikes England: Moderna and Pfizer Boast Robust Defenses

08 September 2023 — England is grappling with 34 cases of a new highly mutated COVID-19 variant, BA.2.86, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKSHA). This fresh offshoot of Omicron bears over 35 key mutations, mirroring the original Omicron variant that sparked record infections.

As of September 4th, five people have been hospitalized due to this emerging variant. No deaths have been reported yet. A single outbreak in a Norfolk care home is responsible for 28 out of these confirmed cases.

In light of this situation, Moderna and Pfizer made an announcement on Wednesday. Their updated COVID-19 vaccines have demonstrated strong defenses against the BA.2.86 subvariant in trials.

ROYAL FANS and Adorable Corgis Pay Heartfelt Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II in Unique Parade

05 September 2023 — In a touching tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II, a small group of dedicated royal fans and their corgis gathered on Sunday. The event marked the one-year anniversary of the beloved monarch’s passing. The parade took place outside Buckingham Palace, reflecting Queen Elizabeth’s well-documented affection for this particular breed of dogs.

The unique procession included approximately 20 staunch monarchists and their festively attired corgis. Photos captured from the event portray these short-legged canines sporting various accessories such as crowns and tiaras. All dogs were leashed together near the palace gates, creating a picture-perfect homage to their royal fan.

Agatha Crerer-Gilbert, who orchestrated this unique tribute, expressed her aspiration for it to become an annual tradition. Speaking to Associated Press she said: “I can’t envision a more fitting way to honor her memory than through her beloved corgis...the breed that she cherished throughout her life.”

UK Schools SHUT DOWN: Government’s Late Warning Sparks Panic Among Parents and Officials

04 September 2023 — As the new academic year is about to commence, over 100 schools across the United Kingdom have been ordered to keep their doors shut. The sudden directive from the British government is a response to safety concerns related to deteriorating concrete in school buildings. This unexpected announcement has left school administrators in a flurry, with some contemplating a shift back to virtual learning.

The eleventh-hour decision has ignited a wave of questions from parents and school officials alike, questioning why preemptive measures weren’t taken earlier. Schools Minister Nick Gibb attributed an urgent reassessment of buildings made with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) to an incident involving beam collapse over summer.

On Monday, the Department for Education issued orders for 104 schools to either partially or fully close their doors. RAAC, known for being lighter and cheaper than standard reinforced concrete, was widely used in public building construction from the 1950s through mid-1990s. However, its estimated lifespan is roughly 30 years and many of these structures are now due for replacement.

Despite being aware of issues concerning RAAC’s durability since 1994, the UK government only started monitoring conditions of public buildings in 2018. A survey conducted last year identified schools constructed with this material; more than 50 school buildings had already been closed due to similar concerns.

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.