THREAD: us reclaims panama canal bold

SOUTH CHINA SEA Showdown: Rising Fears and Global Stakes

07 March 2025 — Armed forces from several nations are boosting their presence in the South China Sea, raising tensions over territorial claims. Chinese naval vessels have confronted American warships in disputed waters, leading to close encounters. The United States reaffirms its commitment to freedom of navigation, while China insists the area is under its sovereignty.

Regional allies like Japan and Australia are worried about the rising tension and call for diplomatic solutions. Chinese vessels have intercepted U.S. Navy ships during routine operations, prompting condemnation from the U.S. State Department. In response, China defends its actions as protecting sovereignty and warns against foreign provocations.

Both sides prepare for possible military drills in the region, raising fears of accidental conflict. Analysts warn that ongoing military posturing could trigger a major geopolitical crisis affecting trade routes and international relations across Asia-Pacific.

The situation demands careful handling to avoid unintended escalation and maintain regional stability as tensions continue to simmer in these contested waters.

US and ISRAEL REJECT $53 Billion Gaza Plan: A Bold Stand or Missed Opportunity?

06 March 2025 — Egypt proposed a $53 billion plan to rebuild Gaza, gaining broad support but facing rejection from the U.S. and Israel. The White House criticized the plan, stating it ignores complex realities on the ground. Palestinians in Gaza strongly oppose any attempts to displace them, with some international voices warning forced relocation could be seen as ethnic cleansing.

U.S. HALTS Intelligence Sharing with UKRAINE: A New Era of European Uncertainty

The United States has stopped sharing intelligence with Ukraine amidst growing tensions in Europe. French President Macron cautioned Europe to prepare for a scenario where America might not be an ally anymore. Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer expressed readiness to deploy military resources for peace efforts in Ukraine at a recent defense summit.

GREENLAND SHOWDOWN: Prime Minister’s Defiant Stand Against Trump’s Bold Move

05 March 2025 — Prime Minister Múte Bourup Egede of Greenland has firmly stated, “Greenland is ours,” in response to President Donald Trump’s interest in buying the territory. This declaration has sparked intense discussions about territorial claims and increased tensions between the U.S. and Denmark, which currently controls Greenland.

The situation highlights the complex ties between the U.S. and Greenland, a region rich in resources and strategically important. Analysts are watching closely to see how this might affect international relations as events continue to unfold.

Global leaders are keeping a close eye on these developments, although reactions from Denmark and other countries have yet to be fully voiced. The evolving situation could present significant diplomatic challenges worldwide.

SAN CLEMENTE’S Bold Move: Stopping Illegal Immigration at its Shores

17 February 2025 — San Clemente is taking a stand against illegal immigration by teaming up with border authorities to watch its beaches. The city wants to stop illegal entries using small boats called pangas. City Manager Andy Hall is working with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) on this effort.

Mayor Steve Knoblock stressed the importance of adding surveillance cameras along the city’s 7-mile coastline. He believes these cameras will help deter illegal immigration and other crimes. “Recently, we’ve seen more pangas landing on our beach,” Knoblock shared with Fox News Digital.

Right now, San Clemente has cameras on its pier for marine safety but none watching ocean activity directly. The City Council decided to look into upgrading technology and turning existing cameras toward the water during a recent meeting, following warnings from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement about increased panga sightings used for smuggling in Southern California since 2021.

TRUMP’S Bold Gaza Plan: A Shocking Twist In US Policy

05 February 2025 — President Donald Trump has sparked controversy by suggesting the United States take control of the Gaza Strip. His plan includes relocating Palestinians, which has drawn global criticism. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz tried to calm concerns, reaffirming U.S. support for a two-state solution despite Trump’s remarks.

This proposal is a major shift from long-standing U.S. policy on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and could increase regional tensions. Trump’s comments came during a meeting where he emphasized American intervention in Gaza, advocating for Palestinian relocation — a stance met with international outrage.

Critics argue this approach could have severe humanitarian consequences for Gaza’s residents and further destabilize an already volatile region. International leaders and activists have voiced strong opposition to what they see as an aggressive change in American foreign policy under Trump’s leadership.

US RECLAIMS PANAMA Canal: A Bold Move Against China

03 February 2025 — Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino announced plans to end a major development deal with China after meeting U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This decision comes after President Trump raised concerns about China’s influence over the Panama Canal, a key shipping route connecting the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Mulino stressed that Panama’s control over the canal remains firm but showed interest in boosting ties with the United States instead of renewing its 2017 agreement with China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

On his first international trip since confirmation, Secretary Marco Rubio promised to further America’s interests in Panama. He emphasized his dedication to advancing President Trump’s “America First” foreign policy during meetings with U.S. Embassy staff in Panama City. Rubio declared that the United States will not allow more Chinese control over this strategic waterway, echoing Trump’s resolve to protect American economic interests in global trade routes.

Trump has criticized China’s alleged grip on the canal, accusing Beijing of charging high fees on U.S. ships using this crucial passage built by America and handed to Panama under President Carter’s administration. By refocusing on U.S.-Panama relations, both Trump and Rubio aim to counter what they see as increasing Chinese influence in Latin America’s vital infrastructure projects like the canal itself.

TRUMP’S Bold Return: Global Alliances Shaken

28 January 2025 — President Donald Trump has re-entered the White House, quickly overturning Biden-era policies and pulling out of major international agreements. His actions have left global partners unsure about their standing. Allies and adversaries are closely watching how Trump’s second term will unfold on the world stage.

In his first 100 hours, Trump signed executive orders, including one labeling Mexican cartels as foreign terror organizations. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago and attended his inauguration, supporting his push for increased NATO defense spending. Meloni is seen as a key EU contact amid fears of a potential trade war with Europe under Trump’s leadership.

Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a long-time ally of Trump, expressed excitement for Trump’s return to office but missed the inauguration due to scheduling conflicts. Orban sees this as an opportunity to challenge what he calls Brussels’ "left-liberal oligarchy.

Argentina’s President Javier Milei seeks stronger U.S.-Argentina relations under Trump’s presidency. At the Davos World Economic Forum, Milei hinted at leaving the Mercosur trade bloc if it means securing a new trade deal with the U.S., highlighting shifting alliances in response to Trump’s policies.

TRUMP’S Bold Move: Greenland Dream Ignites NEW Excitement

07 January 2025 — President-elect Trump has reignited interest in acquiring GREENLAND with a humorous post on social media. On Monday, he shared a video suggesting that Greenlanders support the idea of joining the United States. The video featured a man wearing a MAGA hat, expressing his desire for America to purchase Greenland.

Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., is set to visit Greenland on Tuesday in a personal capacity. He will not engage with government officials during this trip. The timing of this visit aligns with Trump’s renewed calls for U.S. ownership of the island, sparking curiosity and speculation about potential diplomatic moves.

In his Truth Social post, Trump claimed that Greenlanders are supporters of his “Make America Great Again” movement. This claim was bolstered by the video where a local expressed admiration for Americans and dissatisfaction with Danish governance. Such statements could fuel further discussions about U.S.-Greenland relations under Trump’s leadership.

TRUMP’S Bold Move: Withdrawing From WHO On Inauguration DAY

22 December 2024 — The U.S. gives 16% of the World Health Organization’s budget, making it the top donor. Conservative voices have criticized this large financial commitment. Former President Trump has called the W.H.O. a tool of China’s global ambitions.

According to the Financial Times, Trump’s team plans to announce a withdrawal from the Geneva-based health body on January 20, inauguration day. This move would cut off the W.H.O.’s biggest source of funds in one decisive action.

Trump began a withdrawal process in 2020 during his presidency, accusing the agency of being under China’s control amid Covid-19’s spread. Joe Biden reversed this decision on his first day in office in 2021 by restarting relations with the organization.

Experts say Trump’s team aims to act quickly if he returns to office, emphasizing symbolism by reversing Biden’s actions immediately upon inauguration. Ashish Jha noted that many within Trump’s circle do not trust the W.H.O., seeking a symbolic departure as a clear statement of their stance on day one.

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.

CHINA’S Failed Nicaragua Canal: A Symbol of Lost Ambitions

10 May 2024 — The Interoceanic Grand Canal, also known as the Nicaragua Canal, was a bold initiative intended to link the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans via Central America’s largest lake. Daniel Ortega’s government in Nicaragua promoted this $50 billion project as a competitor to the Panama Canal. It also risked boosting China’s influence in the region with a 50-year lease given to HKND Group, led by Chinese tycoon Wang Jing.

Despite breaking ground in December 2014 amid much celebration, no substantial progress ensued. Wang Jing saw his wealth plummet by 85% shortly thereafter. By 2021, he and his company were ousted from the Shanghai Stock Exchange due to unethical practices, signaling a sharp fall from their lofty ambitions.

Following these setbacks, Nicaragua’s National Assembly enacted legal reforms at Ortega’s behest. They annulled previous laws that had granted canal concessions and declared these changes essential for “strengthening” Nicaragua’s legal framework for improved national governance. Critics suggest these actions were mere attempts to recover dignity following an embarrassing failure

In sum, while initially seen as a strategic geopolitical move and economic boon for Nicaragua, the failed canal project has instead become emblematic of overreach and mismanagement under Ortega’s rule.

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.

PORT CRISIS Triggered by Baltimore Bridge Collision: Full Recovery Weeks Away, Temporary Channels Opened

02 April 2024 — The MV Dali’s catastrophic collision with the Francis Scott Key Bridge continues to wreak havoc on Baltimore’s port operations. The primary shipping channel, designed to handle large Evergreen A-class container carriers, is still obstructed by remnants of the bridge. However, a smaller secondary route has been temporarily opened for use.

This new pathway is not dredged and only reaches a depth of 11 feet. It passes under the first standing span of the destroyed bridge. The Tugboat Crystal Coast marked its inaugural journey along this alternate route near the Dali container vessel site while pushing a fuel barge. This narrow passage will primarily serve barges and tugs involved in clean-up operations.

Governor Wes Moore from Maryland has revealed plans for another temporary channel south of the disaster area with a marginally deeper draft at 15 feet. Despite these advancements, obstacles and limited air drafts continue to hinder full port reopening efforts. Rear Admiral Gilreath from Coast Guard has stressed that reinstating access to the central deep water channel remains his main concern.

The incident has forced significant changes in East Coast ports as they accommodate cargo redirected from Baltimore harbor. Salvage specialists are now tasked with clearing debris from what was once an integral bridge serving thousands daily. With six people feared dead and two survivors rescued from Patapsco River

US NAVY SAVES the Day: Huthi Missile Attack on Oil Tanker Thwarted

18 February 2024 — The Huthis, a rebel group based in Yemen, announced that they had targeted a British oil tanker, named the Pollux, in the Red Sea using missiles. The US Central Command (CENTCOM), however, clarified that this vessel is actually Danish-owned and registered in Panama.

CENTCOM confirmed that from areas of Yemen under Huthi control, four anti-ship ballistic missiles were launched. It was reported that at least three of these missiles were directed towards MT Pollux.

In reaction to this looming threat, CENTCOM successfully executed two self-defence strikes against one mobile anti-ship cruise missile and one mobile unmanned surface vessel located in Yemen. This incident happened just as Washington’s reclassification of the Huthis as a terrorist group became official along with related sanctions.

This event underscores the importance of vigilance and quick action in maintaining security on international waters. It also highlights Washington’s commitment to combating terrorism globally.

BUKELE’S TRIUMPH: El Salvador’s ‘Charming Tyrant’ Sweeps Re-Election

06 February 2024 — El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, who proudly wears the label of the “planet’s most charming tyrant,” celebrated a decisive re-election victory this Sunday. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken was quick to extend his congratulations, praising the efforts of election monitors and expressing readiness to collaborate with the freshly elected officials after their June inauguration.

Blinken highlighted the enduring bond between the U.S and El Salvador, a relationship that has endured for over a century and a half. He asserted that occurrences in El Salvador have direct consequences on U.S interests at home and abroad. Furthermore, he affirmed that good governance, inclusive economic growth, assurance of fair trials, and human rights would remain at the forefront under their Root Causes Strategy.

Preliminary election results indicate Bukele clinching victory with an astounding 83% support rate, leaving his closest rival trailing far behind at just 7%. The confident president had already proclaimed himself as winner before official results were released, asserting he had garnered more than 85% of votes.

President Noboa SNUBS Maduro’s Aid, COURAGEOUSLY Seeks US Assistance Instead

25 January 2024 — Ecuador’s leader, President Noboa, has decisively spurned an offer of support from Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro. Instead, he has chosen to seek aid from the United States. This decision follows Maduro’s suggestion that Noboa should accept his help rather than succumb to what he labels as U.S. Southern Command’s “interventionism” and “colonialism”.

During a recent interview on Tuesday, Noboa responded to Maduro’s proposition with a firm “Thank you, but no thank you.” He went on to clarify that his decision was not based on personal disagreement with Maduro but stemmed from the need to address pressing issues within his own nation.

Earlier this week, President Noboa engaged in talks with U.S. officials about potential security collaborations. He sought weapons, technology and training for Ecuador’s security forces from the U.S., while also exploring options for refinancing Ecuador’s external debt.

Despite warnings from Maduro about inviting the “devil” into Ecuador — referring indirectly to the United States — and despite criticism at home over his anti-gang policies, President Noboa remains unwavering in his pursuit of American assistance.

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.”

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.

USS MASON Bravely Defends Against Pirate Attack and Dodges Yemeni Missiles: A New Threat on the Horizon?

28 November 2023 — In a daring act of valor, the USS Mason responded to a distress call from commercial vessel M/V Central Park. The Mason successfully defended against an attack by five armed pirates. After attempting to flee, the pirates were pursued and apprehended by the Mason’s crew. The Pentagon has suggested that these pirates are likely of Somali origin, not Houthi.

As the rescue operation was winding down, two ballistic missiles were launched from areas in Yemen under Houthi control. These missiles landed approximately 10 nautical miles away from both the USS Mason and M/V Central Park. Fortunately, no damage or injuries have been reported.

This missile attack could signify an escalation of aggression by Iran-backed forces towards U.S. assets in this region. While there has been a recent increase in drone and missile attacks on U.S bases and troops stationed in Iraq and Syria by Iran-backed groups, this marks a new development with ballistic missiles being directed at U.S ships.

The vessel under attack, M/V Central Park flies under Liberia’s flag but is managed by an Israeli firm owned by Israel’s Ofer

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.