THREAD: Latest News

US THAAD DEPLOYMENT to Israel Sparks Concerns Over Army Readiness

15 October 2024 — The U.S. has sent a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery to Israel, along with 100 soldiers. This move, ordered by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and approved by President Joe Biden, puts extra pressure on the Army’s air defense forces. These forces are already stretched thin due to global conflicts. The deployment raises concerns about the military’s ability to upgrade missile defense systems amid rising demands from Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East.

Army Secretary Christine Wormuth expressed worries over the high operational pace of air defense forces, calling them “the most stressed” part of the Army. She highlighted the need for careful consideration when planning future deployments but admitted that unstable global situations sometimes require quick action. The Pentagon stated it would take several days for both equipment and personnel to reach Israel from their current U.S.-based location.

The decision highlights ongoing tensions within the Defense Department about resource allocation for international conflicts and its effect on U.S. military readiness at home. Gen. Randy George, Army chief of staff, noted that U.S. Army air defense forces are in high demand worldwide, describing them as “our most deployed formation.” This situation raises questions about America’s ability to balance international commitments with national security needs effectively.;

TRUMP And HARRIS Neck-And-Neck: What’s Behind the Poll Shocker?

15 October 2024 — Recent polls show a tight race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, with both candidates nearly tied. Just last month, Harris was ahead in election and favorability ratings. Now, her lead is gone, sparking questions about why voters are changing their minds.

NBC’s Savannah Guthrie talked with analyst Steve Kornacki about this shift. He explained how Harris’s favorability ratings have reversed. Last month, she had a 48% positive rating compared to Trump’s steady numbers. Now her positive rating has fallen to 43%, while her negative rating jumped to 49%.

Kornacki noted that this change brings Harris’s ratings closer to Trump’s figures. He also mentioned an interesting twist about public views on Trump’s presidency. Recent polling shows that 44% of voters think Trump’s policies helped their families more than during his time in office.

HURRICANE MILTON’S Fury: Florida’s Heroic Rescue Efforts and Destruction

10 October 2024 — More than 3 million Floridians are without power as Hurricane MILTON wreaks havoc across the state. The storm hit near Siesta Key as a Category 3 hurricane, leaving four dead in St. Lucie County due to tornadoes. Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed that over 48 people have been rescued so far, with more than 125 active rescue missions underway in 26 counties.

Milton has now moved off Florida’s east coast, downgraded to a Category 1 storm, but not before causing significant damage through destructive winds and flooding. The worst-hit areas include Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota counties. “The storm was significant,” DeSantis stated, emphasizing the widespread impact but noting it was not the worst-case scenario.

Tampa Bay faced severe weather conditions with up to 18 inches of rainfall reported in some areas and a construction crane collapsing into an office building housing the Tampa Bay Times headquarters. The roof of Tropicana Field was also damaged by strong winds. Sarasota County experienced a substantial storm surge between eight and ten feet high.

Water levels are expected to rise along northeast and west-central Florida rivers over the next day or so, potentially reaching flood stages according to forecasts. Despite the challenges posed by Hurricane Milton’s impact on infrastructure and communities, rescue efforts continue

RED SEA Shipping Under Attack: Houthi Rebels Escalate Danger

10 October 2024 — A series of suspected attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeted a ship in the Red Sea on Thursday, authorities report. This incident highlights ongoing threats to maritime traffic in this crucial waterway amid Middle Eastern conflicts. The British military stated that a projectile damaged the vessel but caused no fire or injuries.

At least two more projectiles fell near the ship, which was far from Hodeida, a port controlled by the Houthis. Although the rebels did not immediately claim responsibility, they have previously targeted over 80 merchant vessels since October’s Gaza conflict escalation. These attacks have resulted in seized ships and casualties among sailors.

The Houthis argue their targets are linked to Israel, the U.S., or the U.K., aiming to pressure an end to Israel’s actions against Hamas in Gaza. However, many affected ships have little connection to these nations or conflicts, including some bound for Iran. A U.S.-led coalition has intercepted several missiles and drones intended for Western military vessels as well.

RUSSIA’S Military Losses Soar Amid Ukraine Conflict

10 October 2024 — Britain’s Ministry of Defence reports a sharp rise in Russian military casualties, averaging 1,271 per day in September. This marks the highest daily losses since the conflict began. The increase is linked to Ukraine’s counter-invasion efforts and Russia’s aggressive tactics.

The analysis shows Russia’s casualty rate has more than doubled compared to last year’s peaks. Despite harsh winter conditions, there’s no sign of reduced conflict intensity. Over 648,000 Russian casualties are estimated since the war started, based on Ukrainian figures.

Ukraine claims it inflicted over 38,000 casualties on Russian forces in September alone and destroyed thousands of vehicles like tanks and armored units. However, Western sources often highlight Russian losses without comprehensive data on Ukrainian casualties due to limited transparency from Kyiv.

While Ukraine’s reported figures for Russian losses exceed those from Britain’s Ministry of Defence, accurate assessments are tough due to wartime secrecy. President Zelensky dismissed Kremlin claims about Ukrainian casualties as exaggerated lies earlier this year but didn’t disclose specific numbers for his own forces’ losses.

HARRIS’S FUNDING Frenzy: Can Trump’s Campaign Catch UP?

10 October 2024 — Vice President Kamala Harris has surged ahead of former President Donald Trump in campaign fundraising. On the day she announced her candidacy, Harris raised $25 million and reached $500 million within a month. This financial boost gives her a strong edge as the 2024 presidential race intensifies.

Trump’s campaign, however, had collected $309 million by the end of August. To close this gap, Republican super PACs are stepping up, spending over $80 million on TV ads nationwide in September alone. They’ve also set aside more than $100 million for advertising during the campaign’s final weeks.

Despite this fundraising difference, Republicans remain determined. They’re investing heavily in online, mail, and door-to-door campaigns to counter Harris’s financial lead. The race for the White House is becoming fiercely competitive as both sides strategically deploy their resources to win voters over.

IRANIAN MISSILE Threat: Israel on Edge as Sirens Wail

08 October 2024 — Sirens blared in Tel Aviv during a terror attack in Jaffa, claiming several lives. Amidst the chaos, a looming ballistic missile strike from Iran heightened tensions. Reporters were ready to cover the events but were ordered to stay put for safety reasons.

Journalists prepared their gear, but orders from New York told them to remain indoors as Iran’s attack approached. The situation became more dangerous with alarms signaling incoming missiles.

Iran launched ballistic missiles toward Israel, leaving only 12 minutes until impact. The exact timing of the strike was uncertain, adding urgency and fear to an already tense atmosphere in Tel Aviv.

HURRICANE MILTON’S Fury: Tampa Bay Braces for Historic Impact

08 October 2024 — Hurricane Milton, though slightly weakened, still poses a major threat to the Tampa Bay area. With winds reaching 145 mph, it could deliver a once-in-a-century direct hit. The storm’s approach has prompted hurricane warnings along Florida’s west and east coasts.

The storm is expected to make landfall Wednesday night in the densely populated Tampa Bay region, home to over 3.3 million residents. Local authorities have ordered evacuations for vulnerable areas and mobile homes by Tuesday night. Governor Ron DeSantis reassured residents about fuel availability and advised them to evacuate only tens of miles if needed.

Despite warnings, some residents like Martin Oakes from Apollo Beach plan to stay put and face the storm head-on. “We got shutters up; the house is all ready,” Oakes said while waiting for gas in Riverview. This sentiment reflects a common resolve among locals preparing for Milton’s impact.

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.

WILD Belfast Woman’s SEAGULL Standoff Shocks Community

07 October 2024 — Angela Wildman, 58, faced court for allegedly attacking people who tried to free a baby seagull she had captured. The incident happened on August 14 in Belfast. Wildman reportedly used a milk carton and a long-handled mop as weapons against the passersby.

Wildman denied charges of common assault, possessing an offensive weapon, disorderly behavior, and resisting arrest. Her defense attorney stated she has no diagnosed mental health conditions. Known locally as a wildlife enthusiast, Wildman claims to care for birds and maintain her privacy.

Court testimony revealed that those trying to rescue the seagull were assaulted with the mop and milk carton by Wildman. Police officers reported her aggressive behavior when they arrived at the scene in south Belfast.

The case continues as Wildman’s actions have sparked local interest due to her reputation as a bird lover.

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.

MIGRANT TRAGEDY: Heartbreaking Loss in the English Channel

06 October 2024 — Four migrants, including a 2-year-old child, died in two incidents while trying to cross the English Channel to Britain. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the smugglers, stating they have “the blood of these people on their hands.” He promised intensified efforts against these criminal networks profiting from dangerous crossings.

The recent deaths add to a grim trend making 2024 one of the deadliest years for Channel crossings. Last month, 12 migrants perished when their boat broke apart. Two weeks later, another eight lives were lost in similar circumstances.

Pas-de-Calais prefect Jacques Billant reported that rescuers found the deceased child aboard a migrant boat that had called for help Saturday morning. Fourteen other migrants were rescued and returned to France for questioning by border police. A 17-year-old with leg burns was hospitalized in Boulogne-sur-Mer.

Some migrants refused rescue and continued toward Britain despite the risks involved. Billant criticized smuggling networks for endangering lives without regard for safety, particularly families with children, leading them into perilous situations and often death.

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.

UK’S CHAGOS ISLANDS Plan Ignites Security Fears

05 October 2024 — The UK government faces backlash after announcing plans to hand over the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) to Mauritius. This decision has raised alarms in Washington D.C. and London, with officials warning it could give China a strategic foothold. The BIOT includes Diego Garcia, a crucial military base supporting Western defense operations.

Critics argue that transferring sovereignty risks Chinese influence through debt-trap diplomacy, similar to Hong Kong under China’s control. Despite UK government assurances of safeguards in the deal, concerns persist about long-term security implications. The agreement supposedly secures the military base for 99 years but depends on future compliance by all parties involved.

The Times reported unnamed sources claiming private warnings from U.S. officials about potential Chinese espionage threats if Mauritius gains control of the islands. British civil servants reportedly echoed these concerns, fearing China might set up listening posts nearby. However, the UK government denies such discussions occurred and remains confident in its decision-making regarding BIOT’s governance future.

Nigel Farage MP has called for parliamentary debate and voting on this matter when Parliament reconvenes, emphasizing that surrendering sovereignty should not happen without public discourse or electoral mandate approval. This move was notably absent from Labour’s recent election manifesto, adding to domestic political tensions surrounding this controversial decision by Britain’s leaders.

DOCKWORKERS STRIKE Halted: New Contract Brings Hope and Relief

04 October 2024 — The International Longshoremen’s Association has paused its strike affecting East and Gulf coast ports. This break allows time to negotiate a new contract until January 15. The union will resume work once they reach a tentative wage agreement with the U.S. Maritime Alliance.

The proposed deal includes a wage increase from 50% to 62% over six years, pending union member approval. The strike began Tuesday due to disputes over pay and automation at 36 ports from Maine to Texas, threatening holiday supply chains but was eased by retailers’ early preparations.

President Joe Biden expressed optimism about the agreement’s potential stability, highlighting its importance for maintaining critical supplies during Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. He praised both parties for their patriotic actions in reopening the ports swiftly.

FORMER NHS Psychologist Escapes Jail After Child Grooming Scandal

04 October 2024 — Dr. Ross Canade, once a lead psychologist at the Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust, received a 12-month suspended sentence for attempting to meet a child after sexual grooming. He also got six months suspended for trying to engage in sexual conversation with a minor. Despite these convictions, Dr. Canade remains a registered psychologist without any restrictions from the regulator.

The Daily Telegraph reports that Dr. Canade can still practice, raising alarm due to his past work with children. His sentences will only be enforced if he reoffends, leading to automatic imprisonment. The Tavistock clinic suspended and later fired him after police investigated his actions on Grindr, where he was caught by fake profiles posing as teenage boys.

Dr. Canade planned to meet what he thought was a 15-year-old boy for sex but was stopped by vigilantes known as “paedophile hunters.” These groups often conduct sting operations despite the UK government’s stance against vigilantism due to its illegal nature. However, many prosecutions of sex offenders are made possible through these efforts in practice.;

WESTERN DEFENSE Failing: House of Lords’ Alarming Warning on Russia

27 September 2024 — The House of Lords International Relations and Defence Committee has issued a stark warning: Western defense is no longer enough to deter Russia. Their report criticizes the British Army’s size and capability, stating it cannot meet NATO obligations or handle multiple conflicts at once.

The committee highlights that the Ukraine War has shattered long-held beliefs about modern warfare. Advanced technology alone cannot make up for fewer troops in prolonged conflicts, as shown by the ongoing situation in Ukraine.

The report calls for a “whole of society” approach to national defense, involving civilians in preparedness efforts. It suggests adopting models from Finland and Sweden, where total defense includes significant civilian involvement and strong reserve forces.

BRITISH Woman HORRIFIED to Find Her Own Obituary Online

27 September 2024 — Faye Finaro, 39, from Nottingham, was shocked to find her obituary posted online while she was very much alive. The obituary appeared in the Mansfield Chad’s “Legacy” section, causing confusion among her friends and family.

Finaro discovered the mistake after a friend called to check if she was actually dead. She explained that a previous celebration post about her business launch had somehow merged with the obituary section.

She contacted Legacy to remove the erroneous obituary, emphasizing that she is the “only person in the world” with her name. The mix-up caused unnecessary concern among those who know her.

NETANYAHU VOWS to Destroy Hezbollah with Full Force

26 September 2024 — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel will continue its offensive against Hezbollah “with full force” until all objectives are met. Netanyahu made this statement upon arriving in New York for the U.N. General Assembly, despite international calls for a 21-day cease-fire.

The Israeli military recently killed a Hezbollah drone commander in an airstrike on an apartment building in Beirut’s suburbs. This action is part of Israel’s escalated strikes aimed at stopping over 11 months of cross-border attacks by Hezbollah, which have displaced tens of thousands of Israelis.

Netanyahu emphasized that the primary goal is to ensure the safe return of northern residents to their homes.

The ongoing conflict has raised fears of a broader war between Israel and Hezbollah, with discussions about a potential ground invasion into Lebanon gaining traction.

LIBERAL GROUP Targets Trump And Vance In Shocking Charges

25 September 2024 — A liberal group backed by George Soros and Mark Zuckerberg’s FWD.us has filed charges against Donald Trump and Senator J.D. Vance. The Haitian Bridge Alliance claims the duo disrupted public services and harassed the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio.

The charges include making false alarms, telecommunications harassment, aggravated menacing, and complicity. The group’s attorney stated that local prosecutors failed to act, prompting this rare move by private citizens in Ohio.

State law mandates a hearing before the affidavit can proceed, but none has been scheduled yet. Pro-Democratic media outlets have amplified these accusations while downplaying the impact of government-funded migration on American jobs and communities.

UK PM’S SAUSAGE Gaffe Sparks Social Media Frenzy

25 September 2024 — United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer made a significant blunder during a speech at the Labour Party’s annual conference in Liverpool. He mistakenly called for the return of “sausages” instead of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Starmer quickly corrected himself, but the error did not go unnoticed.

Starmer was addressing the need for a cease-fire in Gaza and a two-state solution when he made the gaffe. He stated, “I call again for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, the return of the sausages — the hostages — and a recommitment to the two-state solution.” The mistake quickly went viral on social media platforms.

In addition to his verbal slip-up, Starmer faced heckling from an audience member who shouted about Gaza during his remarks. The incident added to what was already a challenging moment for him at the conference.

TRAGIC Accident: WELSH Man Dies in Freak Burger Mishap

23 September 2024 — British officials have determined that Barry Griffiths, 57, died after accidentally stabbing himself while separating frozen burgers. The tragic incident occurred in June 2023.

Griffiths, who lived in Llandrindod Wells, had reduced mobility in one arm due to a stroke. This likely contributed to the accident, according to coroner Patricia Morgan.

His body was discovered on July 4, 2023, after remaining in his apartment for several days. Limited social contact delayed the wellness check by police for over a week.