THREAD: inflation woes how rising costs threaten

IRAN’S Nuclear Threat: Global Fears and Rising Pressure

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

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

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

CIA and MI6 Chiefs WARN: Global Threats Looming

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

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

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

MIGRANT CROSSINGS Surge: Lives at Risk in English Channel Crisis

04 September 2024 — Migrants continue to risk their lives crossing the English Channel, highlighting a growing crisis for France and the U.K. This comes shortly after a tragic incident where a dozen migrants lost their lives. The mayor of Wimereux, Jean-Luc Dubaële, called for stronger action from both governments to address the issue.

Dubaële criticized the criminal networks smuggling people across the channel, labeling it “unacceptable” and “scandalous.” He emphasized that migrants are drawn to Britain rather than seeking asylum in France. He urged immediate discussions with Britain’s new government to find a lasting solution.

The issue of cross-Channel migration was pivotal in the recent U.K. general election, which saw Keir Starmer become prime minister after Labour’s victory. French maritime authorities confirmed an inflatable boat carrying 40 to 50 migrants was monitored by French patrols on Wednesday morning.

The overcrowded inflatable had people crammed side-by-side with some dangling their legs overboard. French patrol vessels were on standby to assist if needed, underscoring the ongoing risks and challenges of these perilous crossings.

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.

BIDEN’S Border Failure: Communities Suffer Amid Migrant Surge

19 June 2024 — President Biden’s border policy is under scrutiny as a new wave of migrants arrives at the southern border. Border Patrol agents report an unprecedented surge, straining resources and personnel.

Republican leaders criticize the administration for what they call a “failed approach” to immigration. Texas Governor Greg Abbott stated, “The federal government must take immediate action to secure our borders.”

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas insists the administration is handling the situation effectively. However, many conservatives argue that current policies encourage illegal crossings.

The debate over border security continues to heat up as communities near the border feel the impact. Calls for stricter enforcement and policy changes grow louder from Republican lawmakers and citizens alike.

Biden’s BORDER Policy SHOCKS Americans: Crime Rates Soar

11 June 2024 — President Biden’s border policy has led to a surge in illegal crossings. Many Americans are worried about the rising crime rates linked to this influx. Local communities are feeling the impact, and some residents say they no longer feel safe in their own neighborhoods.

Critics argue that Biden’s approach is too lenient and lacks proper enforcement. They believe this has encouraged more people to cross illegally, putting a strain on resources and law enforcement.

Supporters of stricter border control point out that crime rates have increased in areas with high numbers of illegal immigrants. They call for immediate action to secure the border and protect American citizens from further harm.

The debate over immigration policy continues, but one thing is clear: many Americans are deeply concerned about their safety and the future of their communities under current policies.

Biden’s BORDER Crisis: SHOCKING Numbers Reveal the Truth

10 June 2024 — The border crisis under President Biden is getting worse. New data shows a record number of illegal crossings. Many Americans are worried about the impact on our country’s safety and economy.

In August alone, over 200,000 illegal immigrants were caught crossing the southern border. This is a huge increase from previous months. Border Patrol agents are overwhelmed and struggling to keep up with the surge.

Critics say Biden’s policies are to blame for this crisis. They argue that his administration has been too lenient on immigration laws. This has encouraged more people to try and enter the U.S. illegally, putting strain on resources and communities near the border.

Supporters of stricter immigration laws believe that tougher measures are needed now more than ever. They call for stronger enforcement at the border and policies that discourage illegal crossings altogether. The situation remains tense as America watches how this issue will unfold in the coming months under Biden’s leadership.

UN Chief BLASTS Fossil Fuel Industry for CLIMATE Chaos

06 June 2024 — In a fiery speech in New York City, U.N. chief Antonio Guterres accused the fossil fuel industry of causing climate chaos while reaping record profits. He labeled climate change as a “stealth tax” on everyday people and vulnerable communities.

Guterres warned that the world is on a “highway to climate hell” and likened current actions to playing Russian roulette with our planet. He criticized the fossil fuel industry’s greenwashing efforts and their attempts to delay climate action through lobbying and legal threats.

The U.N. leader also targeted advertising and PR firms, comparing them to characters from Mad Men, for aiding fossil fuel companies in their destructive practices. He urged these firms to stop taking new fossil fuel clients immediately and plan to drop existing ones.

MASS MIGRATION Cripples UK Housing: Urgent Call for Policy Overhaul

13 May 2024 — The Bank of England’s chief economist, Huw Pill, has identified a severe shortage in housing supply and skyrocketing demand as the primary reasons for rising rent prices. In 2022, a record-breaking net migration of 745,000 significantly fueled this demand. Pill criticizes the restrictive planning policies that have hindered adequate housing development.

Contrasting with the government’s positive spin on economic figures, Pill’s insights reveal underlying challenges. Treasury chief Jeremy Hunt highlighted a 0.6 percent GDP growth as evidence of post-pandemic recovery. Yet, this growth occurs against a backdrop of high taxes and limited spending cuts under what Hunt describes as a neo-liberal globalist agenda.

The escalating housing crisis necessitates immediate action as the existing supply fails to accommodate the influx from mass migration. This dire situation demands a thorough reassessment of immigration and housing regulations to effectively tackle these pressing issues.

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.

BRITISH FARMERS Revolt: Unfair Trade Deals and Deceptive Food Labels Undermine Local Agriculture

26 March 2024 — London’s streets echoed with the voices of British farmers, expressing their deep concerns over free trade agreements and deceptive food labels. They argue these deals, inked by Tory governments post-Brexit with nations such as Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico and New Zealand, are a blow to local farming.

The farmers highlight a stark contrast in standards between them and their international competitors. They are expected to adhere to stricter labour, environmental and health regulations which inadvertently allows foreign goods to undercut local produce prices. The issue is further amplified as European farmers gain access to UK markets thanks to generous government subsidies and the use of cheap migrant labour.

Adding insult to injury is a policy that allows foreign food repackaged in the UK to sport the British flag. This tactic muddies the waters for local farmers trying to set their products apart from overseas competition.

Liz Webster, founder of Save British Farming voiced her frustration at the protest stating that UK farmers are “completely disadvantaged”. She accused the government of reneging on its 2019 promise for a beneficial deal with the EU for British agriculture.

GREEN AGENDA Hits Hard: Ofgem Warns of Financial Burden on Low-Income Consumers

13 March 2024 — The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) sounded an alarm on Monday. It cautioned that the shift towards a “Net Zero” carbon emissions economy could unfairly impact low-income consumers. These individuals might lack the financial resources to acquire government-approved technology or modify their lifestyle habits.

In the past year alone, debts from energy consumers have skyrocketed by 50%, amassing a total of £3 billion. Ofgem voiced grave concerns about struggling households’ limited resilience to future price shocks. The regulator also highlighted that the burden of recovering bad debts could pose serious threats to the retail energy sector.

Economic difficulties have already pushed British consumers into rationing their energy consumption. This has led to “harms associated with living in a cold, damp home,” potentially triggering an increase in mental health issues rates.

Tim Jarvis, Ofgem’s director general, underscored the necessity for a long-term strategy to manage escalating debt levels and shield struggling consumers from future price shocks. He mentioned that measures such as altering standing charges for prepayment meter customers and tightening requirements on suppliers had been implemented.

PUTIN’S NUCLEAR Warning: Russia Ready to Defend Sovereignty at ANY Cost

13 March 2024 — In a stark warning, President Vladimir Putin has declared that Russia stands ready to employ nuclear weapons if its statehood, sovereignty or independence comes under threat. This alarming statement comes on the eve of a presidential election this week where Putin is anticipated to secure another six-year term.

During an interview with Russian state television, Putin underscored the full readiness of Russia’s nuclear forces. He confirmed that the nation is militarily and technically prepared and would resort to nuclear action if its existence or independence was threatened.

Despite his continuous threats since launching the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Putin refuted any plans of using battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine as there hasn’t been any necessity for such drastic measures so far.

U.S President Joe Biden was characterized by Putin as an experienced politician who comprehends the potential dangers of escalation. He voiced optimism that the U.S would avoid actions that could potentially ignite a nuclear conflict.

WHO Chief SOUNDS Alarm on ‘Disease X’: The Inevitable Threat We’re Not Ready For

18 February 2024 — World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Tedros Ghebreyesus, has issued a stark warning about the looming threat of “Disease X”. Speaking at the World Government Summit in Dubai, he stressed that another pandemic is not just likely — it’s inevitable.

Tedros, who accurately predicted a similar outbreak in 2018 before COVID-19 hit, criticized the world’s lack of readiness. He dismissed any doubts that his call for a global treaty by May was simply an effort to expand WHO’s influence.

Tedros labels the proposed treaty as “mission critical for humanity”. Despite some advancements in disease surveillance and vaccine production capabilities, he maintains that we are still ill-prepared for another pandemic.

Reflecting on COVID-19’s severe impact, Tedros underscored the urgency of addressing this issue. The world is still wrestling with social, economic and political aftershocks from the ongoing pandemic.

PASSPORT PANIC: Zimbabweans Race Against Time Amid Looming Price Hike Fear

25 December 2023 — In Zimbabwe, currently grappling with economic woes, the most sought-after Christmas gift isn’t a gadget or toy, but a passport. The capital city’s passport office in Harare is teeming with citizens hoping to secure their travel documents before an expected price surge in the New Year. The looming increase and deteriorating economic conditions are driving a spike in migration.

Nolan Mukona, a 49-year-old father of three, was among those who rose at dawn to join the queue at the passport office. Despite his early start, he was greeted by over 100 people already waiting when he arrived at 5 a.m. “The only thing that can make my Christmas cheerful is if I manage to get a passport,” Mukona shared.

At present, passports cost $120 — an amount already burdensome for many Zimbabweans struggling to meet basic needs. However, according to 2024 budget proposals from the finance minister, these fees will rise to $150 in January — reduced from an initially proposed $200 after public backlash.

Over recent decades, millions of Zimbabweans have fled their homeland due to its crumbling economy. This exodus has accelerated recently as optimism for improvement following Robert Mugabe’s ousting from power in 2017 continues to wane.

UK INFLATION TUMBLES to 39%: Central Bank May Slash Rates Sooner Than Predicted

21 December 2023 — The Office for National Statistics (ONS) recently announced a surprising drop in UK inflation to 3.9% in November, a decrease from the previous month’s 4.6%. This dip, larger than what financial markets had forecasted, marks the lowest inflation level since September 2021.

This decline is primarily attributed to falling fuel and food prices according to the ONS. However, despite this optimistic news, the Bank of England’s primary interest rate remains at a staggering high of 5.25%, not seen for over a decade and a half.

Governor Andrew Bailey hinted that this stringent interest rate policy might continue for some time. Yet Samuel Tombs, chief U.K economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics suggests an alternative view — that this sharp fall in inflation could trigger an earlier-than-expected cut in interest rates; perhaps as early as the first half of next year.

While elevated interest rates initially helped curb inflation sparked by supply chain disruptions and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, they have also put pressure on consumer spending and slowed economic growth. As such there are growing worries that maintaining high rates could inflict unnecessary damage on the economy.

ISRAEL’S Warfare Crisis: Growing Pleas for Peace Amid Rising Civilian Deaths and Humanitarian Despair

18 December 2023 — Israel is grappling with escalating global demands for a ceasefire. This comes in the wake of a string of fatal shootings, including an accidental incident that claimed the lives of three Israeli hostages. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, now into its tenth week, has raised serious questions about Israel’s military actions. Despite the U.S.'s crucial military and diplomatic backing, Israel may face increased scrutiny during Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s imminent visit.

The brutal war has led to substantial civilian losses with thousands dead and vast areas of northern Gaza reduced to rubble. An estimated 1.9 million Palestinians, constituting nearly 90% of Gaza’s population, have been forced to flee southwards within the beleaguered territory. Struggling Palestinians are surviving on scant humanitarian aid while some are seen crowding around aid trucks at Egypt’s Rafah crossing point.

Even though Israel has permitted direct aid into Gaza for the first time since the war commenced, relief workers argue it falls short considering the magnitude of destruction. The U.N agency responsible for Palestinian refugees estimates over half of Gaza’s infrastructure lies in ruins due to this conflict.

On a

Bipartisan Committee CALLS for END of China’s Trade Status: A Potential Jolt to US Economy

12 December 2023 — A bipartisan committee, led by Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), has been studying the economic effects of China on the US for a year. The investigation centered on job market changes, manufacturing shifts, and national security concerns since China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001.

The committee released a report this Tuesday recommending President Joe Biden’s administration and Congress to implement nearly 150 policies to counteract China’s economic influence. One significant suggestion is to cancel China’s permanent normal trade relations status (PNTR) with the U.S., a status endorsed by former President George W. Bush in 2001.

The report argues that granting PNTR to China did not bring anticipated benefits for the US or trigger expected reforms in China. It asserts that this has led to a loss of vital U.S. economic leverage and inflicted damage on U.S industry, workers, and manufacturers due to unfair trade practices.

The committee proposes shifting China into a new tariff category that reinstates U.S economic leverage while reducing dependence on Chinese

ISRAEL-HAMAS Conflict: The Rising Tensions and Shocking Russian War Crime Probes

10 December 2023 — Defense reporter Mike Brest from the Washington Examiner recently delved into the intensifying Israel-Hamas conflict. He sat down with Magazine Executive Editor Jim Antle to discuss this escalating issue, which has seen a worrying increase in casualties in Gaza.

Brest didn’t stop there; he also shed light on ongoing investigations into potential Russian war crimes in Ukraine. This new development brings an added layer of complexity to an already strained global situation.

The persistent conflict between Israel and Hamas, along with Russia’s alleged misdeeds, is stirring unease across the globe. As these situations continue to evolve, they promise to have profound impacts on international relations and worldwide stability.

UK Inflation DEFIES Predictions, STAYS at 67%: What’s Next for the Economy?

18 October 2023 — The UK’s inflation rate held steady at 6.7% in September, flying in the face of economists’ predictions for a slight decrease. The Office for National Statistics highlighted that while food and drink prices dipped, they were counterbalanced by an uptick in fuel costs.

This persistent inflation rate is more than triple the Bank of England’s target of 2%. Despite this, it is not expected that the bank will hike interest rates during its November policy meeting. Instead, it seems set to keep its main borrowing rate at a peak not seen in 15 years — a hefty 5.25%.

James Smith from the Resolution Foundation think tank offered his perspective on this economic puzzle: “For now, progress on reducing inflation has hit a roadblock.” He anticipates a significant drop to below 5% next month as energy prices are projected to fall for most consumers.

In response to price surges triggered by pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — both factors contributing heavily to increased food and energy costs — the Bank of England has been steadily cranking up interest rates from near zero levels.