THREAD: thanksgiving drama trumps bold message

ISRAEL’S Bold Response: Striking Down Houthi Threats

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ISRAELI TROOPS Reclaim Strategic Mount Hermon Peak: A Bold Move

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

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

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

TRUMP’S BOLD Move: Elon Musk and Ukraine’s Zelenskyy Connect

09 November 2024 — President-elect Donald Trump facilitated a conversation between Elon Musk and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a congratulatory call. A Ukrainian official revealed that Trump handed his phone to Musk, allowing Zelenskyy to thank the SpaceX CEO for providing Starlink satellite internet access. This highlights Musk’s influence within Trump’s circle, sparking speculation about a potential formal role in the administration.

Trump’s interactions with Zelenskyy are under scrutiny as he prepares to assume office on January 20th. He has suggested a shift in U.S. policy towards Ukraine, proposing Kyiv might cede territory for peace with Russia — an idea Zelenskyy rejects. This stance contrasts with Trump’s previous administration’s decision to arm Ukraine against Russian aggression in 2017, which helped counter the full-scale invasion in 2022.

The Biden administration has provided extensive military and economic aid to Ukraine, drawing criticism from Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance. They argue that U.S. resources should prioritize domestic needs over foreign conflicts, reflecting their cautious approach towards international involvement.

FARAGE’S Bold Invitation: Conservative Councillors Offered a NEW Political Home

24 October 2024 — Nigel Farage has invited 1,352 Conservative councillors in England to join Reform UK. The party is gearing up for its first national election campaign. Currently, Reform UK has 28 local councillors and aims to grow significantly.

In a video message, Farage said many local Conservatives align more with his party than with Westminster’s Conservatives. Unlike the 2019 election deal with Boris Johnson’s Conservatives, Reform UK plans to run candidates in every local council contest this May. Farage warned that most Conservative councillors risk losing their seats and offered them a “lifeline” by joining Reform UK.

Farage stressed that only those who truly want to change the country should apply, setting a deadline for decisions before next month’s candidate selection. He made it clear not everyone would be accepted, especially those prone to internal conflicts typical of Tory politics.

The invitation comes just before the announcement of the new Conservative Party leader — either Kemi Badenoch or Robert Jenrick replacing Rishi Sunak. Farage dismissed the leadership contest as irrelevant, claiming the Conservative brand is irreparably damaged due to repeated betrayals of voters’ trust over successive elections and manifestos.

HEZBOLLAH WEAKENED: Netanyahu’s Strong Message to Lebanon

08 October 2024 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Hezbollah’s leadership has faced major losses, including the death of former leader Hassan Nasrallah and his successors. Netanyahu declared, “Today, Hezbollah is weaker than it has been for many, many years,” highlighting Israel’s efforts to reduce the group’s power. He urged the “people of Lebanon” to reclaim their country from Hezbollah’s grip.

Netanyahu accused Iran of turning Lebanon into a pseudo “Iranian military base” serving Tehran’s interests against Israel. He warned that if Lebanon does not act, Hezbollah will continue its aggression from populated areas at Lebanese citizens’ expense. The prime minister encouraged Lebanese citizens to choose peace over conflict stirred by Hezbollah.

While Netanyahu did not specify conditions for stopping Israeli strikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon, there are hints of possible negotiations. Earlier comments by Hezbollah’s deputy leader Naim Qassem suggested openness to a cease-fire excluding Gaza from talks.

The Biden administration reportedly holds “very low” trust in Netanyahu’s government and calls for transparency in these matters. This lack of trust complicates potential negotiations and highlights tensions between the U.S., Israel, and regional actors like Iran and Hezbollah.

NETANYAHU’S Bold Visit: IDF Heroes Strike Fear Into Hezbollah

06 October 2024 — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a significant visit to an IDF base on the northern border on October 6, 2024. He met with Maj.-Gen. Ori Gordin and Brig.-Gen. Moran Omer for a security briefing focused on Lebanon and the fight against Hezbollah.

Netanyahu learned about how ground efforts and intense firepower have weakened Hezbollah’s capabilities. He spoke with brigade commanders from the 36th Division about their year-long operations across multiple fronts, showcasing their relentless spirit in combat.

The Prime Minister also addressed soldiers directly, praising their courage and commitment. Netanyahu stressed that IDF troops are dismantling terrorist setups by Hezbollah meant to threaten Israeli communities just meters away from the border.

BIDEN and STARMER UNITE on Ukraine: Bold Strategy Talks at White House

14 September 2024 — Labour leader Keir Starmer met with President Joe Biden at the White House to discuss strategy for Ukraine. They did not focus on specific capabilities.

Starmer had planned to press Biden on sending British Storm Shadow missiles to Ukraine but will now address it at the UN General Assembly.

Biden dismissed Putin’s warnings about arming Ukraine, stating he doesn’t think much about Putin and believes Putin won’t win the war. However, Biden is hesitant to provide long-range ATACMS missiles due to limited impact and stock concerns.

The leaders also talked about Gaza, with Britain recently halting arms deliveries to Israel over potential violations of international humanitarian law.

BRITISH PM Storms NATO Summit With Bold Ukraine Support

10 July 2024 — Newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer made a strong debut at the NATO summit in Washington. He met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reaffirming Britain’s unwavering support for Ukraine against Russia’s invasion. Starmer emphasized that his Labour government would ensure NATO’s unified backing for Kyiv.

Starmer aimed to send a clear message to Russian President Vladimir Putin about NATO’s strength and unity. He stated that NATO is now bigger and more united than ever, fully aware of the threat posed by Russian aggression.

In addition to meeting Zelenskyy, Starmer will have a one-on-one discussion with President Joe Biden to reaffirm the “special relationship” between the U.S. and Britain. Their extended handshake at the summit arrival ceremony highlighted this enduring partnership.

Starmer’s visit follows his landslide victory on July 4, signaling a new chapter for Britain after years of political turmoil over Brexit. His message to the world is clear: “We’re back.”

CHINA’S Moon Landing: A Bold Step in Space Race

04 June 2024 — China’s space program reached a major milestone by landing a module on the moon’s far side. The lander touched down at 6:23 a.m. Beijing time in the South Pole-Aitken Basin, according to the China National Space Administration. This mission is China’s sixth in its moon exploration program, aiming to compete with the United States, Japan, and India.

The mission involves using a mechanical arm and drill to gather up to 2 kilograms of surface and underground material over two days. An ascender will then transfer these samples to another module orbiting the moon, which will return them to Earth by June 25. The samples are expected to land in China’s Inner Mongolia region.

Landing on the far side of the moon presents unique challenges due to lack of direct communication and difficult terrain. Neil Melville-Kenney from the European Space Agency noted that automation is particularly challenging at high latitudes because long shadows can confuse landers. Despite these difficulties, China continues its ambitious plans with an eye on putting a person on the moon by 2030, making it only the second country after America to achieve this feat.

NIGEL FARAGE’S Bold Return: Reform UK Aims to Shake UP British Politics

04 June 2024 — Nigel Farage is back at the helm of the Reform UK Party, formerly known as the Brexit Party. He will stand for election in Clacton, a seat where his former party UKIP previously found success. Farage’s ambitions extend beyond this election, aiming for significant influence in future elections.

A recent poll indicates a potential Conservative Party defeat under Rishi Sunak’s leadership. Farage believes Reform UK could surpass the Conservatives in votes next month. He stated, "We’re going to get a huge number of votes... they are on the verge of total collapse.

Reform UK has outpolled Conservatives before, notably in the 2019 EU Parliament elections with 5.2 million votes against 1.5 million for Conservatives. However, replicating this success in Westminster elections would be challenging due to Britain’s electoral system favoring established parties like Labour and Conservatives or regional parties like SNP and Greens.

Farage aims to use this campaign as a springboard for future success, positioning Reform UK as the main opposition party against an internally conflicted Conservative Party. “We are going to be the voice of opposition,” he declared confidently, promising to surprise everyone once again with his political prowess.

BIDEN’S Bold Threat: US Weapons Withheld if Israel Invades

09 May 2024 — President Joe Biden recently stated that the U.S. would withhold weapons to Israel if they proceed with an invasion of Rafah. In a CNN interview, he clarified that this scenario has not occurred but cautioned against the use of U.S.-supplied arms in urban warfare.

Critics were quick to voice concerns over Biden’s remarks, citing potential threats to Israeli security. Notable figures like former Vice President Mike Pence and Senators John Fetterman and Mitt Romney voiced their strong disapproval, stressing unwavering U.S. support for Israel.

Pence labeled Biden’s approach as hypocritical, reminding the public of a past president’s impeachment related to similar issues with foreign aid. He called on Biden to stop making threats and to reinforce America’s longstanding alliance with Israel, echoing widespread conservative views.

Besides his statements about Israel, earlier this month Biden endorsed a significant aid package for Ukraine and other allies, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to global support despite facing criticism at home.

TIKTOK On The BRINK: Biden’s Bold Move to Ban or Force Sale of Chinese App

02 May 2024 — TikTok and Universal Music Group have just renewed their partnership. This deal brings UMG’s music back to TikTok after a short break. The agreement includes better promotion strategies and new AI protections. Universal CEO Lucian Grainge said the deal will help artists and creators on the platform.

President Joe Biden has signed a new law that gives TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, nine months to sell the app or face a ban in the U.S. This decision is due to worries from both political sides about national security and protecting American youth from foreign influence.

TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, announced plans to fight this law in U.S courts, claiming it supports their constitutional rights. Yet, ByteDance would rather close TikTok in the U.S than sell it if they lose their legal battle.

This conflict shows the ongoing struggle between TikTok’s business goals and America’s national security needs. It points out big worries about data privacy and foreign influence in American digital spaces by China’s tech sector.

UK to RAMP UP Defense Spending: A Bold Call for NATO Unity

25 April 2024 — During a military visit in Poland, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a significant increase in the UK’s defense budget. By 2030, spending is set to rise from just over 2% of GDP to 2.5%. Sunak described this boost as essential in what he termed “the most dangerous global climate since the Cold War,” calling it a "generational investment.

The next day, UK leaders pressed other NATO members to also raise their defense budgets. This push aligns with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s long-standing demand that NATO countries up their contributions for collective security. UK Defense Minister Grant Shapps voiced strong support for this initiative at an upcoming NATO summit in Washington DC.

Some critics question whether many nations will achieve these elevated spending targets without an actual attack on the alliance. Nonetheless, NATO has recognized that Trump’s firm stance on member contributions has significantly bolstered the alliance’s strength and capabilities.

At a Warsaw press conference with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, Sunak discussed his commitment to supporting Ukraine and enhancing military cooperation within the alliance. This strategy represents a major policy shift aimed at strengthening Western defenses against escalating global threats.

UK’S RECORD Military Aid to UKRAINE: A Bold Stand Against Russian Aggression

23 April 2024 — Britain has unveiled its largest military aid package for Ukraine, totaling £500 million. This significant boost raises the UK’s total support to £3 billion for the current financial year. The comprehensive package includes 60 boats, 400 vehicles, over 1,600 missiles, and nearly four million rounds of ammunition.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stressed the critical role of supporting Ukraine in Europe’s security landscape. “Defending Ukraine against Russia’s brutal ambitions is crucial not just for their sovereignty but also for the safety of all European nations,” Sunak remarked before his discussions with European leaders and NATO’s chief. He cautioned that a victory for Putin could pose threats to NATO territories as well.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps emphasized how this unprecedented aid would bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russian advances. “This record package will equip President Zelenskiy and his courageous nation with essential resources to repel Putin and bring back peace and stability to Europe,” stated Shapps, reaffirming Britain’s dedication to its NATO allies and European security overall.

Shapps further underscored Britain’s unwavering commitment to support its allies by enhancing Ukraine’s military strength which is vital in maintaining regional stability and deterring future aggression from Russia.

IRAN’S BOLD Strike: Over 300 Drones Target Israel in Unprecedented Assault

15 April 2024 — In a bold move, Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles at Israel, marking a major spike in hostilities. This attack was directly from Iran, not through its usual channels like Hezbollah or the Houthi rebels. President Biden called this assault “unprecedented.” Despite the massive scale of this strike, Israel’s defense systems managed to intercept about 99 percent of these threats.

Iran hailed this as a “victory,” even though the damage was minimal and only one Israeli life was lost. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), known as a terrorist organization by the U.S., spearheaded this attack after vowing revenge on Israel for targeting their leaders. This move is seen by many as proof of Iran feeling more bold due to current U.S. foreign policy decisions.

This aggressive act followed Iran’s expansion of its drone and missile programs after an important deadline from the Obama-era nuclear deal passed without action on October 18, 2023. This occurred despite Iran breaking the deal’s terms and backing terrorist attacks against Israel, including a recent massacre led by Hamas with Tehran’s support.

Iran’s latest actions show it ignoring international deals and underline worries about its nuclear plans. The regime’s pride in attacking Israel points to its ongoing threat to peace in the Middle East and worldwide security, sparking debate on how best to contain it moving

NETANYAHU’S BOLD Blueprint for Gaza: IDF Dominance and Total Demilitarization

23 February 2024 — Netanyahu has recently disclosed his strategic blueprint for Gaza. The plan ensures that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will supervise Gaza’s borders, thereby ensuring an unhindered operation to suppress terrorism within the region.

The strategy also advocates for a comprehensive demilitarization of the Gaza Strip from a Palestinian standpoint, leaving only a civilian police force operational. A proposed kilometer-wide buffer zone within Gaza is also part of the plan, acting as a defensive shield for Israeli border communities that were targeted by Hamas last October.

While Netanyahu’s blueprint does not explicitly exclude a role for the Palestinian Authority (PA) or propose a Palestinian state, it leaves these contentious matters undefined. This strategic ambiguity seems to be designed to balance demands from both the Biden administration and Netanyahu’s right-leaning coalition partners.

EMERGENCY Weapons Sale to Israel: BIDEN’S Bold Move Amidst Foreign Aid Stalemate

31 December 2023 — Once again, the Biden administration has greenlit an emergency sale of weapons to Israel. The State Department made this announcement on Friday, stating that the move is designed to support Israel in its ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken notified Congress about a second emergency determination that approves over $147.5 million in equipment sales. These sales encompass necessary components for 155 mm shells previously bought by Israel, including fuses, charges, and primers.

This decision was executed under an emergency provision of the Arms Export Control Act. This provision enables the State Department to sidestep Congress’ review role concerning foreign military sales. Interestingly enough, this move coincides with President Joe Biden’s request for nearly $106 billion in aid for countries like Israel and Ukraine being held up due to border security management debates.

“The United States remains dedicated to ensuring the security of Israel against threats it encounters,” declared the department.

President MILEI’S BOLD Plan to Revive Argentina: Sweeping Reforms Unveiled

29 December 2023 — Argentina’s leader, President Javier Milei, has introduced a detailed 351-page bill named “Law of Bases and Starting Points for the Freedom of Argentines.” The President’s Office says this bill is designed to “restore the economic and social order,” as outlined by Argentina’s constitution. Its goal is to tackle obstacles that impede the functioning of a market economy and contribute to national poverty.

This extensive bill reportedly includes two-thirds of Milei’s reform ideas and calls for a public emergency in multiple sectors until December 31, 2025. This period can be extended by up to two years at the discretion of the executive branch. The proposal builds on last week’s Necessity and Urgency Decree (DNU) signed by Milei, which changed or removed over 350 socialist policies.

The DNU’s contents are formalized in this new bill through codification. It also addresses subjects an executive order cannot touch upon, such as criminal law, taxation, and electoral matters. If Congress rejects the DNU, Milei has announced plans for a national vote for its approval.

In terms of state reforms, the proposed legislation advocates privatizing all roughly 40 state-owned enterprises including oil company YPF and Aerolíneas Argentinas airline. Furthermore, it suggests that

Biden’s BOLD Defiance of Supreme Court: The TRUTH Behind Student Loan Forgiveness Numbers

21 December 2023 — President Joe Biden made a bold claim on Wednesday, boasting about his defiance of the Supreme Court’s ruling on student loans. During a speech in Milwaukee, he asserted that he had wiped out the debt for 136 million people. This statement came despite the Supreme Court rejecting his $400 billion loan forgiveness plan back in June.

However, this claim not only challenges the separation of powers but also holds no water factually. As per data from early December, only $132 billion in student loan debt has been cleared for a mere 3.6 million borrowers. This implies that Biden exaggerated the number of beneficiaries by an astounding figure – approximately 133 million.

Biden’s misrepresentation sparks concerns about his administration’s transparency and its respect for judicial decisions. His remarks further fuel ongoing discussions around student loan forgiveness and its ripple effects on economic aspects like homeownership and entrepreneurship.

“This incident underscores the need for accurate information from our leaders and respectful adherence to judicial rulings. It also highlights how critical it is to have open dialogues about policy impacts, particularly when they affect millions of Americans’ financial futures.”

UNSHAKEN BIDEN Keeps Hunter Close Amidst Impeachment Storm: A Bold Statement or Blind Love?

21 December 2023 — President Joe Biden remains steadfast in his support for his son, Hunter Biden, despite the ongoing impeachment investigation into Hunter’s overseas business dealings. On Monday, the Bidens were spotted sharing a meal with friends before Hunter accompanied the first family on their return flight from Delaware on Air Force One and Marine One.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre refuted claims that the administration was trying to hide Hunter by not listing him on passenger rosters shared with journalists. She underscored that it has been a longstanding tradition for presidents’ family members to travel with them, and this custom is not going away anytime soon.

Hunter’s public appearances in front of press photographers and reporters could signify President Biden’s readiness to openly back his son. This support is unwavering even as Hunter faces potential criminal charges and defies a congressional subpoena. Throughout his presidency, President Biden has consistently voiced pride in his son.

NEW ZEALAND’S Bold Move: Eying Aukus Partnership for Stronger Defense Ties with Australia

20 December 2023 — New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon, is contemplating a strategic move. He’s considering joining the AUKUS partnership to strengthen defense ties with Australia. The AUKUS agreement is a tripartite pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It aims to counteract China’s expanding military influence.

Since his election in October, Luxon made his first overseas visit to Australia. There he and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese agreed on aligning their defense strategies. To coordinate these efforts further, their foreign ministers are set to meet in 2024.

Luxon has expressed particular interest in “AUKUS Pillar 2”. This pillar emphasizes developing and sharing advanced military capabilities like artificial intelligence and electronic warfare systems. Luxon believes that this partnership could be a catalyst for stability and peace within the region.

The U.S. and Britain have already committed to providing Australia with U.S.-powered nuclear submarines under the AUKUS agreement. If New Zealand joins this alliance, it could potentially fortify this tripartite pact against China’s growing regional power.

TOILET To TAP": California’s Bold Move to Battle Drought with Recycled Sewage Water

12 December 2023 — In a daring attempt to tackle severe droughts, California is contemplating the adoption of a new technology that recycles sewage water. The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) recently unveiled proposed regulations for direct potable reuse — a process that swiftly transforms wastewater into drinking water within hours.

This innovative method stands apart from the current indirect potable reuse system, which gradually enhances treated wastewater through groundwater recharge or dilution with surface water.

The SWRCB is set to review testimonies on these regulations before making their final decision next week. If given the green light, “toilet to tap” projects could soon be underway in Santa Clara County, Los Angeles, and San Diego among other communities.

Anticipating these regulations, water agencies in Santa Clara, San Diego and Los Angeles have already initiated pilot projects. Globally too this concept is gaining traction — countries like Israel are also testing similar ideas while examining potential risks such as pharmaceutical byproducts reentering the public supply post-treatment.

ITALY’S Bold Exit from China’s Belt and Road Initiative: A Triumph for Western Independence

06 December 2023 — Italy recently declared its departure from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), signifying a major shift in Western attitudes towards Beijing’s economic clout. After four years of involvement, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani noted that nations not participating in the initiative have seen superior results.

The official withdrawal notice was issued by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration this week, well before the initial agreement expires next year. This decision sets the stage for an upcoming summit hosted by China with European Union leaders who have lately adopted a more wary stance towards Beijing.

In response to mounting skepticism, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi advocated for mutually beneficial relationships between Europe and China to boost global development. However, such views are increasingly met with suspicion in Europe as Western societies strive to steer clear of economic connections that might give Beijing an upper hand during political upheavals.

Stefano Stefanini, former Italian Ambassador, underscored an official G7 policy termed “de-risking”, spotlighting U.S.'s opposition against Italy’s participation in BRI. Despite U.S warnings labeling it as a “predatory” lending scheme aimed at controlling strategic infrastructure, Italy joined the initiative back in 2019.

OIL TYCOONS Rule COP28: A Shocking Paradox or a Bold Leap for Climate Goals?

30 November 2023 — The forthcoming COP28 climate summit, to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is stirring up a storm of controversy. Critics are questioning the seemingly ironic choice of Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, CEO of UAE’s state oil company, as the event’s overseer.

UK Guardian columnist Marina Hyde has expressed concerns about this decision. She compares it to China’s temporary factory closures during the 2008 Olympics for cleaner air. She questions whether UAE will also pause its gas flaring operations during the conference.

Climate advocates fear that powerful politicians and industrialists could twist climate policies for personal gain. These fears are amplified by reports that Al Jaber and UAE may exploit COP28 to broker oil and gas deals with other nations.

Despite these apprehensions, some believe that involving major oil producers is key to meeting climate objectives. But with President Joe Biden absent and protests pushed to distant locations, doubts over COP28’s effectiveness continue to mount.

BIDEN-XI Summit: A Bold Leap or a Blunder in US-China Diplomacy?

16 November 2023 — President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping have committed to keeping direct lines of communication open. This decision follows their lengthy four-hour discussion at the 2023 APEC summit in San Francisco. The leaders unveiled an initial agreement aimed at halting the influx of fentanyl precursors into the U.S. They also plan to restore military communications, which were cut off after China’s disagreement with the Pentagon following Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in 2022.

Despite rising tensions, Biden made efforts during Wednesday’s meeting to strengthen U.S.-China relations. He also vowed to persistently challenge Xi on human rights issues, arguing that frank discussions are “critical” for successful diplomacy.

Biden voiced positivity about his rapport with Xi, a relationship that began during their vice-presidential terms. However, uncertainty looms as a congressional investigation into COVID-19 origins threatens US-China relations.

It is unclear whether this renewed dialogue will result in substantial progress or further complications.

NEW Speaker Johnson’s BOLD Pledge: Strong Support for Israel, Fierce Condemnation of Hamas

29 October 2023 — In his inaugural public appearance as Speaker, Johnson made an impassioned pledge of unwavering support for Israel while denouncing the Palestinian terror group Hamas. The tales of survival from Israelis who endured Hamas attacks deeply affected him, leading him to label the group as “demonic”.

Johnson steps into the shoes of Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), a well-known ally of Israel, and promises to carry on this legacy. He highlighted that his first resolution was in favor of Israel and that he made it a point to meet with the Republican Jewish Coalition on his initial trip.

He expressed concern over anti-Israel sentiments within the House’s Democratic Party caucus, attributing these views to an alarming rise in antisemitism within Congress, universities, and even media outlets. Johnson had a stern message for the UN: peace will only be achieved when Hamas no longer poses a threat to Israel.

Deeply rooted in religious faith and guided by Biblical teachings that link blessings with support for Israel, Johnson emphasized the crucial role of U.S.-Israel alliance. He confidently declared his conviction that both America and Israel have yet more chapters to add to their storied histories.

TOP US Military Officers DEPLOYED to Israel: Biden’s Bold Move Amid Gaza Tensions

23 October 2023 — President Joe Biden has sent a select group of top U.S. military officers to Israel, the White House announced on Monday. Among these officers is Marine Lt. Gen. James Glynn, known for his successful strategies against the Islamic State in Iraq.

These high-ranking officials have been tasked with advising the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on their ongoing operations in Gaza, according to National Security Council spokesman John Kirby and White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre during Monday’s press briefing.

While Kirby did not reveal the identities of all dispatched military officials, he confirmed that each one possesses relevant experience for the operations currently being conducted by Israel.

Kirby emphasized that these officers are there to offer insights and pose challenging questions — a tradition consistent with U.S.-Israeli relations since this conflict began. However, he refrained from commenting on whether President Biden had urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to postpone a full-scale ground war until civilians could safely evacuate.

Marcos Jr STANDS UP to China: The Bold Challenge Over South China Sea Barrier

30 September 2023 — Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has taken a firm stance against China’s installation of a 300-meter barrier at the entrance to Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea. This marks his first public opposition to this move, following his directive to dismantle the barrier. Marcos asserted, "We’re not seeking conflict, but we won’t back down from defending our maritime territory and our fishermen’s rights.”

This recent face-off between China and the Philippines follows Marcos’ decision earlier this year to increase U.S. military presence under a defense pact from 2014. This move has raised concerns in Beijing, as it could lead to an increased American military presence near Taiwan and southern China.

After the Philippine coast guard removed the Chinese barrier at Scarborough Shoal, Filipino fishing boats managed to catch around 164 tons of fish in just one day. “This is what our fishermen miss out on... it’s evident that this area belongs to the Philippines,” stated Marcos.

Despite these efforts, two Chinese coast guard vessels were seen patrolling the shoal’s entrance by a Philippine surveillance aircraft on Thursday. According to Commodore Jay Tar

AMERICAN CAVER Trapped: Unfolding Drama in Turkish Cave as Rescue Operation Faces Challenges

07 September 2023 — Mark Dickey, a seasoned American caver and researcher, is trapped deep within Turkey’s Morca cave. Located in the formidable Taurus Mountains, the cave has become Dickey’s unexpected prison nearly 1,000 meters below its entrance. During an expedition with fellow Americans, Dickey fell ill with severe stomach bleeding.

Despite receiving on-site medical attention from rescuers including a Hungarian doctor, his extraction from the constricted cave could take weeks. The complexity of the situation is due to both his condition and the challenging environment of the cold cave.

In a video message shared by Turkey’s communications directorate, Dickey expressed heartfelt gratitude towards both the caving community and Turkish government for their rapid response. He believes their efforts have been life-saving. While he appears alert in the video footage, he stressed that his internal recovery is still ongoing.

According to his affiliated New Jersey-based rescue group, Dickey has stopped vomiting and has been able to eat for the first time in days. However, what caused this sudden illness remains a mystery. The rescue operation continues under demanding conditions requiring multiple teams and constant medical care.