THREAD: strikes public opinion

TRUMP’S Triumph Ignites Outrage: Just Stop OIL Strikes Back

06 November 2024 — On Wednesday, Donald Trump claimed victory in the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, winning support from over 70 million Americans. Yet, not everyone was pleased. The far-left group Just Stop Oil showed their anger by splashing bright orange paint on the U.S. Embassy in London.

Just Stop Oil slammed corporate power and fossil fuel industries, saying they control major political parties and are the real winners of the election. They called Trump a “fake populist,” claiming he ignores what they see as vital — stopping oil and gas drilling. The group urged regular people to act since they believe no leaders will make needed changes.

Activist Joseph Aggarwal was detained by police after joining the protest. He voiced concerns about a lack of true democracy across Western nations, arguing voters get similar policies no matter which party wins, worsening living conditions and climate issues. Aggarwal accused Trump of using public frustration to help billionaires while ignoring urgent environmental problems.

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.

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.

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.

IDF STRIKES Hezbollah: Major Airstrikes Rock Lebanon

22 September 2024 — On Saturday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched major airstrikes against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. The IDF targeted 400 sites, including rocket launchers ready for activation.

The IDF reported hitting about 290 targets with thousands of launcher barrels and other terrorist infrastructure. Later in the day, another series of strikes hit around 110 Hezbollah targets.

Hezbollah responded by firing at Israeli communities in the north. Between 6:24 and 7:00 AM, about 85 projectiles crossed into Israeli territory. Some were intercepted while others caused fires in Kiryat Bialik, Moreshet, and other areas.

Later sirens sounded again as approximately 20 more projectiles were identified crossing from Lebanon into Israel’s Jezreel Valley area. Most were intercepted or fell in open areas without causing injuries. The IDF remains committed to dismantling Hezbollah’s capabilities.

ISRAEL STRIKES Lebanon: Preventing Hezbollah’s Deadly Attacks

25 August 2024 — Israel launched airstrikes across southern Lebanon early Sunday, targeting Hezbollah. The militant group had launched rockets and drones in retaliation for the killing of one of its top commanders last month. The Israeli military stated the strikes were to prevent a heavy barrage of rockets and missiles toward Israel.

Hezbollah responded by attacking Israeli military positions, citing the death of Fouad Shukur, one of its founders, in an Israeli airstrike last month. By mid-morning, both sides claimed they targeted only military positions. At least three people died in Lebanon, with no reported casualties in Israel.

The situation remains tense as U.S. and Arab mediators attempt to broker a cease-fire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. Hezbollah has indicated it will stop fighting if a cease-fire is achieved in Gaza. Iran supports both Hezbollah and Hamas along with other militant groups across the region that could join any larger conflict.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the need to defend Israel at a Cabinet meeting, stating that thousands of rockets aimed at northern Israel had been eliminated. “We are determined to do everything to defend our country,” he said, urging citizens to follow directives from the Home Front Command.

LABOUR PARTY’S Economic Plan Under Fire: Will It Really Work?

22 July 2024 — Britain’s new Treasury chief, Rachel Reeves, vows to run the economy with “iron discipline.” She hinted at above-inflation pay raises for public sector workers to end ongoing strikes.

The Labour Party, elected two weeks ago, faces pressure to increase salaries and welfare without raising taxes or public borrowing. Reeves criticized the previous Conservative government for high taxes and debt.

Labour won a landslide victory on promises of economic growth, housebuilding, green energy projects, and improved public services. The electorate seeks relief from high living costs and past economic mismanagement.

Inflation has dropped to 2%, but strikes by hospital doctors strain the National Health Service. Other public-sector workers like nurses and teachers have also demanded higher pay through walkouts over the past year.

ISRAELI STRIKES Escalate: Gaza Families Desperate Amid Chaos

09 July 2024 — Heavy Israeli bombardment rocked Gaza City on Tuesday, forcing thousands of Palestinians to flee and causing medical facilities to shut down. Israel’s new ground assault aims to combat Hamas militants regrouping in previously cleared areas.

Large parts of Gaza City have been flattened after nine months of fighting, with several hundred thousand Palestinians still in the north. “The fighting has been intense,” said Hakeem Abdel-Bar, who fled to relatives’ homes as Israeli forces advanced.

Families called for ambulances for their wounded or trapped relatives, but first responders couldn’t reach them due to ongoing operations, according to Palestinian Red Crescent spokesperson Nebal Farsakh. “It’s a dangerous zone,” she stated.

Following an evacuation call from Israel on Monday, staff at Al-Ahli and Patients Friends Association Hospital rushed to move patients and shut down. All three Red Crescent medical facilities in Gaza City have closed as well.

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.

ISRAELI STRIKES in Gaza Spark Outrage, Kill 37

29 May 2024 — Israeli shelling and airstrikes killed at least 37 people near Rafah, Gaza Strip, mostly in tents. This follows a deadly fire days earlier in a camp for displaced Palestinians. Witnesses and emergency workers confirmed the casualties.

The tent camp inferno has sparked international outrage, even from Israel’s allies. Spain, Norway, and Ireland recognized a Palestinian state on Tuesday. The Israeli military suggested the blaze might have been caused by secondary explosions from militants’ weapons.

Israel’s initial probe into the fire is ongoing. Military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari stated that Israeli munitions were too small to cause such a fire. Prime Minister Netanyahu called it a "tragic mishap.

The strikes have forced over 1 million people to flee Rafah since May 6th, according to the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees. Most of these families are now scattered across makeshift camps and war-torn areas in Gaza.;

ISRAEL’S Military Strikes in Gaza Spark US Alarm: Humanitarian Crisis Looms

27 April 2024 — The U.S. has voiced serious concerns over Israel’s military operations in Gaza, particularly in the city of Rafah. This area is crucial as it serves as a center for humanitarian aid and provides shelter to over a million displaced individuals. The U.S. is worried that increasing military activities could cut off vital aid and deepen the humanitarian crisis.

Public and private communications have been made by the U.S. with Israel, focusing on the protection of civilians and the facilitation of humanitarian assistance. Sullivan, actively engaged in these discussions, has emphasized the need for effective plans to ensure civilian safety and access to essential resources such as food, housing, and medical care.

Sullivan stressed that American decisions will be guided by national interests and values amid this conflict. He confirmed that these principles would consistently influence U.S actions, demonstrating a commitment to both American standards and international humanitarian norms during ongoing tensions in Gaza.

TRAGEDY Strikes Gaza: CHILDREN Among the Dead in Latest Israeli Airstrike

21 April 2024 — An Israeli airstrike in Rafah, Gaza Strip, tragically ended the lives of nine people, including six children. This devastating event is part of a seven-month-long offensive by Israel against Hamas. The strike specifically targeted a house in Rafah, a densely populated refuge for many of Gaza’s residents.

Abdel-Fattah Sobhi Radwan and his family were among those who perished. Heartbroken relatives gathered at al-Najjar hospital to mourn their unimaginable loss. Ahmed Barhoum, grieving the deaths of his wife and daughter, voiced his despair over the erosion of human values amid ongoing conflict.

Despite global pleas for moderation from allies including the United States, Israel has hinted at an impending ground assault in Rafah. This area is considered a key base for Hamas militants still active in the region. Prior to this incident, some locals had left their homes following preliminary warnings issued by the Israeli military.

REFORM UK RISES: Public Discontent Over Immigration Policies Fuels Momentum

29 March 2024 — Reform UK is gaining momentum, largely fueled by its firm stance against “unchecked immigration,” as stated by the party’s deputy chair. This surge in support comes in light of recent data from Ipsos Mori and British Future, a pro-immigration think tank. The figures highlight public dissatisfaction with the government’s management of borders, indicating a potential shift in the UK’s political landscape.

Despite Labour currently leading in the polls, Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party is outpacing the Conservatives when it comes to trust and policy matters. This could serve as an alarm bell for Tory politicians who have been at Britain’s political helm for two centuries. Ben Habib, Deputy Leader of Reform UK, attributes this shift to what he perceives as the Conservative Party neglecting their own voter base.

According to Ipsos Mori research, 69% of Britons express dissatisfaction with immigration policies while only 9% are content. Of those dissatisfied individuals, over half (52%) believe migration should be reduced while just 17% think it should increase. Specific grievances include inadequate measures to prevent channel crossings (54%) and high immigration numbers (51%). Less concern was shown towards creating negative environments for migrants (28%) or poor treatment of asylum seekers (25%).

Habib asserts that this widespread discontent signifies a historic realignment in politics

ROYAL FAMILY Under Siege: Cancer Strikes Twice, Threatens Monarchy’s Future

25 March 2024 — The British monarchy faces a double health crisis as Princess Kate and King Charles III both battle cancer. This unsettling news adds further strain to an already challenged royal family.

Princess Kate’s diagnosis has prompted a wave of public support for the royals. Yet, it also underscores the shrinking pool of active family members. With Prince William stepping back to care for his wife and children during this difficult time, questions arise about the monarchy’s stability.

Prince Harry remains distant in California, while Prince Andrew grapples with scandal over his Epstein associations. Consequently, Queen Camilla and a handful of others bear the responsibility of representing a monarchy that now garners increased public empathy but lessened visibility.

King Charles III had planned to downsize the monarchy upon his ascension in 2022. His aim was to have a select group of senior royals carry out most duties — an answer to complaints about taxpayers funding numerous royal members. However, this compact team now faces extraordinary stress.

UK Government STRIKES BACK Against Post Office Injustice: Here’s What You Need to Know

13 March 2024 — The UK government has taken a significant stride towards rectifying one of the country’s most egregious miscarriages of justice. A new law introduced on Wednesday aims to overturn the wrongful convictions of hundreds of Post Office branch managers across England and Wales.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasized that this legislation is vital for “finally clearing” the names of those unjustly convicted due to a flawed computer accounting system, known as Horizon. The victims, whose lives were drastically affected by this scandal, have experienced prolonged delays in receiving compensation.

Under the anticipated law, expected to be enacted by summer, convictions will be automatically overturned if they meet certain criteria. These include cases initiated by the state-owned Post Office or Crown Prosecution Service and offenses committed between 1996 and 2018 using the faulty Horizon software.

More than 700 subpostmasters were prosecuted and criminally convicted between 1999 and 2015 due to this software glitch. Those with overturned convictions will receive an interim payment with an option for a final offer of £600,000 ($760,000). Enhanced financial compensation will be provided to those who suffered financially but weren’t convicted.

TRAGEDY Strikes Joel Osteen’s Texas Megachurch: SHOCKING Shooting Incident Leaves Child in Critical Condition

12 February 2024 — A shocking incident unfolded at Joel Osteen’s megachurch in Houston, Texas, on Sunday when a woman armed with a long gun opened fire. The attack happened just before the church’s 2 p.m. Spanish service was about to commence. Despite the prompt intervention of two off-duty officers who neutralized the shooter, two people were injured, including a critically wounded 5-year-old boy.

The assailant entered the colossal Lakewood Church — a former NBA arena that can accommodate up to 16,000 people — accompanied by the young boy who tragically ended up in the line of fire. A man in his fifties also suffered injuries during this harrowing event. The connection between the woman and the boy remains uncertain as does who shot both victims.

Houston Police Chief Troy Finner pointedly attributed blame to the female shooter for recklessly endangering lives, particularly that of an innocent child. Both victims were immediately transported to separate hospitals where they are receiving treatment for their injuries — while reports suggest that man is stable, sadly, the child’s condition remains critical.

This alarming incident occurred between services at one

US STRIKES BACK: Protecting Commercial Ships from Houthi Missiles in Yemen

18 January 2024 — The US has launched strikes on roughly a dozen missiles owned by the Houthi rebels in Yemen, an official stated. These missiles were reportedly being primed to target commercial ships navigating the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

This move comes after a previous US strike on a stockpile of anti-ship ballistic missiles, owned by the Houthis. The action was taken in direct retaliation to a missile fired at US vessels present in the Red Sea.

Houthi forces have openly claimed responsibility for ongoing attacks on merchant vessels and have issued threats against US and British ships. Their campaign is part of their support for Hamas against Israel.

This recent attack by the Houthis is the first one acknowledged by the US since they initiated strikes last Friday. This follows weeks of relentless assaults on shipping within the Red Sea region. Stay tuned as we continue to provide updates on this developing story.

LEBANON STRIKES: Hezbollah’s Deadly Missile Attack Rattles Israel Amidst Gaza Conflict

14 January 2024 — A lethal anti-tank missile, launched from Lebanon, claimed the lives of two civilians in northern Israel this past Sunday. This alarming incident has ignited concerns over a potential second front emerging amidst the ongoing clash between Israel and Hamas.

This strike marks a grim milestone — the 100th day of a war that has tragically taken nearly 24,000 Palestinian lives and forced approximately 85% of Gaza’s population from their homes. The conflict was sparked by an unexpected Hamas incursion into southern Israel last October, leading to around 1,200 fatalities and roughly 250 hostages.

The region remains on edge as daily fire exchanges persist between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah group. Meanwhile, Iranian-backed militias target U.S. interests in Syria and Iraq as Yemen’s Houthi rebels threaten international shipping lanes.

Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, remains defiant vowing to persist until a Gaza cease-fire is established. His declaration comes as countless Israelis evacuate northern border regions due to escalating aggression.

US-UK STRIKES on Yemen’s Houthi Rebels: A Stern Warning of Fierce Retaliation

13 January 2024 — Yemen’s Houthi rebels, supported by Iran, have issued a stern warning. They assert that the joint airstrikes conducted by the US and UK will not be left unanswered. The ominous message came from Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree and deputy foreign minister Hussein al-Ezzi, who warned both nations to brace for a severe backlash.

The strikes reportedly claimed five lives and injured six among the Houthis’ military forces in areas of Yemen under their control. The UK acknowledged successful strikes on a site in Bani used for drone launches by the Houthis, as well as an airfield in Abbs used to launch cruise missiles and drones.

In a related move, the US Treasury Department slapped sanctions on two firms based in Hong Kong and the United Arab Emirates. These firms are accused of shipping Iranian commodities for Sa’id al-Jamal, an Iran-based financial facilitator for the Houthis. Four vessels owned by these companies were identified as blocked property.

President Biden authorized these strikes as a direct response to unprecedented attacks by Houthis against international maritime vessels in the Red Sea

SECOND AMENDMENT Assault: California’s Public Gun Ban Rolls OUT Despite Legal Firestorms

01 January 2024 — As the New Year dawns, a contentious California law banning firearms in most public places is set to take effect. This move comes hot on the heels of a U.S. district judge’s ruling on December 20, declaring that the law infringes upon the Second Amendment and citizens’ rights to self-defense.

The district judge’s verdict was momentarily stalled by a federal appeals court, paving way for the law’s enactment while legal battles rage on. Lawyers are gearing up to present their cases before the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in January and February.

Spearheaded by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, this controversial law prohibits concealed carry in 26 locations such as public parks, churches, banks, and zoos — irrespective of permit status. The only loophole is for private businesses that explicitly permit firearms within their boundaries.

Newsom hailed the appeals court’s decision on X (formerly Twitter), asserting it maintains 'common-sense gun laws’ during appeal processes. However, dissenting voices like U.S. District Judge Cormac Carney contend that this sweeping legislation is “repugnant to the Second Amendment,” and flouts Supreme Court precedent.

US and UK GEAR UP for Imminent Strikes on Yemen’s Houthi Forces: A Tense Standoff Unfolds

20 December 2023 — The United States and the United Kingdom are making strategic moves near Yemen, hinting at a potential offensive against the Houthi forces. This includes positioning sensitive air and naval assets in the region, alongside a U.S.-led naval task force.

The Iran-backed Houthis have recently escalated tensions by launching multiple attacks on civilian shipping vessels in the Red Sea. These assaults have severely disrupted international shipping routes, compelling many companies to reroute their vessels around Africa’s southern tip. This diversion has led to increased time and costs.

While specific details about the military forces positioned closer to Yemen are not disclosed, it is confirmed that both strike and supporting platforms are involved. The Eisenhower carrier strike group is currently stationed off the Yemeni coast with four F/A-18 fighter squadrons and an electronic warfare squadron.

Given these developments, it appears increasingly probable that strikes against Houthi targets inside Yemen will be executed by U.S. and U.K. forces in the near future.

TEXAS STRIKES Back: Governor Abbott Signs Tough Laws to Tackle Illegal Immigration

19 December 2023 — Texas Governor Greg Abbott has enacted three stringent laws aimed at halting illegal immigration. These laws, passed in two special sessions this fall, are part of a broader strategy to stem the tide of migrants from Mexico. The governor announced on Twitter that unlawful entry into Texas is now a crime with potential penalties including deportation or imprisonment.

The bill signing event in Brownsville saw the attendance of Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and National Border Patrol Council President Brandon Judd among other border officials. However, House Speaker Dade Phelan was conspicuously absent. Senate Bill 4 from the fourth special session criminalizes unauthorized entry into Texas from foreign countries.

This state legislation mirrors federal statute Title 8 of the United States Code 1325 but takes it a step further by allowing for sentences up to two decades for violators. It also includes mechanisms for deporting offenders back to their home countries and offers legal protection to local and state officials enforcing these rules. Critics claim that current federal immigration laws are not being sufficiently enforced under the present administration.

With these new measures — including funding for wall construction and harsher penalties for human smuggling — Texas is

RED SEA Chaos: Iranian-Backed Houthis Unleash Missile Attacks on Commercial Ships, US Destroyer Strikes Back

04 December 2023 — Central Command has verified four missile attacks on three commercial ships in the Red Sea. One of these was an Israeli-owned vessel. The Houthis in Yemen initiated the attacks, but they were “fully backed by Iran,” according to a statement released Sunday. The USS Carney, a U.S. destroyer, retaliated by shooting down two drones.

The assaults started at 9:15 a.m. local time when the Carney detected an anti-ship missile launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen at the M/V Unity Explorer. This ship is flagged by Bahamas and U.K owned with crew members from two nations. However, USNI News and Balticshipping.com report that Tel Aviv-based Ray Shipping owns it.

Around noon, Carney responded to and shot down a drone also launched from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen. Central Command stated that it was uncertain whether the drone specifically targeted CARNEY or not but confirmed no damage to the U.S vessel or injuries to personnel.

These attacks pose a direct threat to international commerce and maritime security,“ Central Command said in its statement. It added that it would consider appropriate responses ”in full coordination with its international allies and partners.

IDF STRIKES Back: Unveils Hamas’ Dark Underbelly Beneath Hospitals, Refutes Accusations of Targeting Medical Facilities

12 November 2023 — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have initiated a joint air and ground operation against the Hamas military quarter in Gaza City. This district, situated near Shifa Hospital, has been exploited by Hamas as an underground base and torture chamber for over ten years. Moreover, the IDF has exposed evidence of Hamas tunnels beneath additional hospitals and rocket launches in close proximity to healthcare facilities.

In the wake of this IDF operation, global media outlets have pointed fingers at Israel for allegedly targeting Shifa Hospital and causing fatalities there. However, the IDF has rebuffed these claims, asserting that any damage to Shifa resulted from stray Palestinian projectiles. They referenced a similar episode where a misguided Palestinian Islamic Jihad rocket struck al-Ahli Baptist Hospital’s parking area earlier in the conflict.

Daniel Hagari, IDF Spokesperson, reassured on Israeli television that Shifa Hospital was not under threat. He further stated that Israel was aiding evacuations from the eastern side of the building despite ongoing skirmishes to its west. In addition to this assurance, the head of Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) issued an Arabic message confirming that anyone wishing to leave could do so freely as no hospital was under “siege”.

ISRAELI Raid on GAZA and US Strikes on Iran-Linked Sites in Syria: The Tense Standoff Escalates

27 October 2023 — In a sudden move, Israeli forces carried out a brief but intense raid on northern Gaza. The military operation, which took place overnight, was aimed at Hamas fighters and their anti-tank weaponry. This action is seen as groundwork for a possible ground invasion, marking the third such Israeli raid since the conflict erupted.

Meanwhile, responding to drone and missile assaults on U.S. bases and personnel in the region, the U.S. military executed airstrikes early Friday morning. These strikes targeted two locations in eastern Syria associated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), according to Pentagon reports.

Arab leaders unitedly called for an immediate cease-fire on Thursday. Their plea aims to alleviate civilian suffering by allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza where residents are grappling with severe shortages of food, water, medicine while UN workers struggle with dwindling fuel supplies for relief missions.

The Health Ministry of Hamas-controlled Gaza reported that over 7,000 Palestinians have lost their lives in the ongoing conflict — an unverified figure thus far. On Israel’s end, there have been more than 1,400 casualties

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.

STRIKES: Junior Doctors Enter Talks With Government after Pay Rise AGREED for Nurses and Ambulance Workers

17 March 2023 — After the UK government finally struck a pay deal for most NHS staff, they now face pressure to allocate funds to other parts of the NHS, including junior doctors. After a 72-hour strike, the British Medical Association (BMA), a trade union for doctors, has vowed to announce new strike dates if the government makes a “substandard” offer.

It comes after NHS unions reached a pay deal for nurses and ambulance staff on Thursday. The offer included a 5% pay rise for 2023/2024 and a one-off payment of 2% of their salary. The deal also consisted of a Covid recovery bonus of 4% for the current financial year.

However, the current offer does not extend to NHS doctors, who now demand a complete “pay restoration” that would bring their earnings back to the equivalent of their pay in 2008. This would entail a substantial pay rise, estimated to cost the government an additional £1 billion!

MORE STRIKES: Amazon Workers Join NHS Nurses and a LONG List of Others

16 December 2022 — Amazon workers in Coventry have voted to formally strike in a UK first and join nurses who, on Thursday, started the largest strike in NHS history. They join a long list of other workers who have staged strikes this year, including Royal Mail postal workers, train workers, bus drivers, and airport staff, causing widespread disruption across the country before Christmas.

The disruption caused by the strikes has been extensive, particularly during the Christmas period, when there are more deliveries and busier hospitals.

The Amazon warehouse workers in Coventry voted on Friday to take strike action, asking for an hourly pay increase from £10 an hour to £15. They are the first UK Amazon staff to participate in a formal strike.

On Thursday, tens of thousands of nurses went on strike, resulting in 19,000 patient appointments being postponed. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has asked for a 19% pay rise for nurses and has warned more strikes will follow in the new year. Rishi Sunak has said the 19% pay rise is unaffordable but that the government is open to negotiation.

The prime minister is reportedly concerned about the precedent it would set if the government gave into the RCN’s demands, fearing that other sectors would follow suit and ask for similar unaffordable pay rises.