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  • Thousands Protest Anti-Netanyahu in Jerusalem; Relative Calm in Gaza

    Thousands Protest Anti-Netanyahu in Jerusalem; Relative Calm in Gaza

    Thousands Protest Anti-Netanyahu in Jerusalem; Relative Calm in Gaza

    On Monday evening, thousands of Israelis gathered to demand early elections, criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of the Gaza conflict and his failure to repatriate “dozens” of hostages still held by Hamas.

    Meanwhile, reports emerged from witnesses in the Palestinian territory of Israeli airstrikes during the night, albeit in a relatively calmer context following a humanitarian pause observed by the army in a southern sector.

    This ceasefire, coinciding with the commencement of Eid al-Adha, a Muslim festival, is theoretically aimed at facilitating the delivery of much-needed aid to the Gaza population.

    In an uncommon occurrence during over eight months of bloody conflict, thousands of Israelis demonstrated near Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence and the Knesset in Jerusalem on Monday evening. “I am glad to see people have mobilized. And I hope it continues. We need to lay siege on Jerusalem, on the Knesset. We must paralyze the country to bring down the government,” stated Yaacov Godo, whose son Tom was killed by Hamas on October 7.

    This demonstration comes approximately a week after the resignation of the war cabinet of centrist leaders Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot, two former army chiefs, resulting in the dissolution of the body established after the October 7 attack.

    Despite the departure of these opposition figures, who had joined the government in unity following Hamas attacks, Benjamin Netanyahu and his conservative allies maintain their majority in the Knesset.

    “Each of Netanyahu’s actions leads towards the destruction of Israel. He is accountable for what happened on October 7,” accused 73-year-old retired engineer Moshe Sandarovich.

    On that day, Islamist commandos infiltrated southern Israel from Gaza, carrying out an unprecedented attack that resulted in the death of 1,194 individuals, mostly civilians, according to official Israeli data reported by AFP.

    Of the 251 individuals abducted, 116 are still held captive in Gaza, with 41 confirmed deaths, as per the military.

    A senior Israeli official engaged in negotiations informed AFP that Israel had confirmed the survival of “dozens” of hostages held in Gaza. “We cannot leave them there for long; they will perish,” added the official under anonymity due to not being authorized to speak publicly on the matter.

    In response to the October 7 attack, the Israeli military launched an offensive in Gaza, causing 37,347 deaths, predominantly civilians, according to data from the Gaza government Health Ministry led by the Islamist group.

    Some protestors at the demonstration carried placards calling for new elections and urged for a ceasefire to ensure the safe return of the remaining hostages.

    “All of them! Now!” chanted demonstrators, some wearing t-shirts bearing slogans such as “Stop the war” and “We are all equal.”

    In Gaza, the army announced a halt from “08:00 to 19:00” (05:00 to 16:00 GMT) until further notice along a stretch of road approximately ten kilometers long, extending from the Israeli Kerem Shalom crossing point in the south of the territory to the European Hospital in Rafah slightly further north.

    Kerem Shalom has become the sole entry point for humanitarian aid in the south of Gaza since the army launched its offensive in Rafah and seized control of the border crossing with Egypt.

    The UN praised the Israeli announcement but called for this pause to lead to concrete measures that facilitate deliveries, reiterating the need for the removal of all obstacles to aid distribution given the population’s somber mood amidst ongoing hostilities.

    “We are not in the mood for Eid. Eid is when we return home, when the war ends. When there is a martyr every day, it’s not Eid,” remarked Amer Ajour, a displaced individual in Deir el-Balah city.

    Along the Israel-Lebanon border, where exchanges of fire have been almost daily since October, Hezbollah attacks intensified following the Israeli strike that resulted in the death of one of its key commanders, Taleb Sami Abdallah, last week.

    “The risk of miscalculations leading to a sudden and wider conflict is very real,” cautioned the UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, and the head of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Aroldo Lazaro.

    On Monday, the Israeli military announced the killing of another significant Hezbollah member, Mohammad Mustafa Ayoub, allegedly responsible for rocket and missile attacks in the southern Lebanese region of Selaa. Hezbollah confirmed the fighter’s death.

    Special envoy of US President Joe Biden, Amos Hochstein, arrived in Jerusalem on Monday to exert pressure for de-escalation with Lebanon as tensions remain high in the region.

  • Swedish Parliament Votes on Controversial Defense Agreement with the United States

    Swedish Parliament Votes on Controversial Defense Agreement with the United States

    Swedish Parliament Votes on Controversial Defense Agreement with the United States

    The Swedish Parliament is set to vote on Tuesday regarding a controversial defense agreement with the United States, with opponents expressing concerns that it may pave the way for the deployment of nuclear weapons and permanent American bases in Sweden.

    The Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) represents a significant shift in Sweden’s defense policy, as the country abandoned two centuries of military non-alignment in March by joining NATO.

    The agreement, signed by Stockholm and Washington in December, allows US forces access to 17 Swedish defense bases and the storage of military equipment, weapons, and ammunition within the country.

    Critics of the agreement argue that it should explicitly prohibit the presence of nuclear weapons in Sweden. “The agreement does not set any limits,” remarked Daniel Helldén, a co-leader of the Greens party, which, along with the Left Party, opposes the agreement. He expressed concerns that the vague wording of the agreement could potentially enable the government to authorize nuclear weapons even in peacetime.

    Sweden’s center-right government led by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, supported by the Sweden Democrats (SD, far-right), maintains that the agreement upholds Swedish sovereignty. Defense Minister Pal Jonson affirmed that Sweden, as a sovereign nation, retains the authority to decide which weapons are permitted on its soil.

    In order to be adopted, the agreement must be approved by at least three-quarters of voting parliamentarians and by more than half of the 349 elected officials. The vote is scheduled to take place after 17:15 (15:15 GMT).

    The Greens and the Left Party, with a combined total of 42 seats, cannot block the agreement on their own. In a column in the Aftonbladet newspaper on Sunday, two Left Party MPs described the agreement as “not only naive but outright senseless” and argued that it compromises Sweden’s security by aligning with US nuclear weapons policy.

    The Swedish Society for Peace and Arbitration, a prominent critic, highlighted that unlike the agreements of Norway and Denmark, Sweden’s agreement lacks safeguards against the introduction or stationing of nuclear weapons on Swedish soil. This omission contrasts with Finland’s DCA, which explicitly prohibits nuclear weapons on Finnish territory.

    The debate was further intensified when Prime Minister Kristersson suggested in May that nuclear weapons could be positioned in Sweden during wartime. This stance was sharply criticized by Left Party members, who underscored the inconsistency with Sweden’s longstanding position against nuclear weapons.

    Concerns remain regarding the enforcement of the agreement and whether Sweden can effectively regulate US activities on its territory that may contradict Swedish laws or interests. Critics emphasize the need for concrete measures and guarantees rather than relying solely on trust when addressing such critical issues.

    Defense Minister Jonson defended the DCA by highlighting its potential benefits, asserting that Sweden could receive timely and effective military support from the US in response to deteriorating security situations.

    As the Swedish Parliament deliberates on the defense agreement, the outcome of the vote will have profound implications for Sweden’s defense strategy, national security, and geopolitical alignment. The debate surrounding the agreement underscores the complex considerations and challenges in navigating international defense alliances and safeguarding national sovereignty.

  • NBA: Boston Celtics secure historic 18th NBA title with Tatum/Brown duo triumph

    NBA: Boston Celtics secure historic 18th NBA title with Tatum/Brown duo triumph

    NBA: Boston Celtics secure historic 18th NBA title with Tatum/Brown duo triumph

    In a spectacular display of talent and determination, the Boston Celtics clinched their 18th NBA championship title by defeating the Dallas Mavericks (4-1) in Massachusetts on Monday. This victory not only etches a monumental record in the annals of the NBA but also heralds the rise of the dynamic duo, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, as integral figures in the rich history of the Celtics franchise.

    The Celtics’ dominance in the championship game, culminating in a commanding 106-88 win, marked a significant moment for Jayson Tatum, who basked in the glory of a match that will be remembered for generations to come. This triumph propels the Celtics ahead of their arch-rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, reclaiming their position at the forefront of the NBA’s greatest franchises.

    Throughout their illustrious history, the Celtics have been synonymous with legendary players such as Bill Russell, John Havlicek, and Larry Bird, who paved the way for success and glory. The recent triumph, led by the emerging talents of Jaylen Brown (27) and Jayson Tatum (26), signifies a new chapter in the franchise’s journey, following a period of transition since their last championship in 2008.

    “Fulfilling a part of Celtics history means winning a championship,” acknowledged Tatum, recognizing the significance of their collective mission to elevate the team to new heights. The tandem of Tatum and Brown now symbolizes the spirit and resilience of the Celtics, propelling them to a remarkable season with an outstanding record in both the regular season and playoffs.

    Known for their sharp shooting, powerful drives to the basket, and agile defense, Tatum and Brown embody the versatile skill set demanded by the modern NBA player. Their pivotal roles in the team’s success underscore the importance of cohesive teamwork and individual excellence on the court.

    Surrounded by a talented supporting cast, including notable additions like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, the Celtics have meticulously crafted a formidable lineup capable of overcoming any challenge. Under the astute leadership of coach Joe Mazzulla, known for his strategic acumen and innovative approach to the game, the Celtics have evolved into a cohesive unit with a dynamic playing style that outmaneuvers their opponents.

    The victory against Dallas not only showcased their prowess on the court but also demonstrated a remarkable mental fortitude and resilience following setbacks in previous seasons. Boston’s ability to overcome adversity and adapt their strategies has been instrumental in their journey to reclaiming the NBA championship title.

    With Jayson Tatum’s exceptional 31-point performance leading the charge against Dallas, accompanied by standout plays from the team, the Celtics’ triumph was a masterclass in teamwork and determination. As celebrations ensue and the city of Boston revels in their team’s success, the resilience and spirit of the Celtics epitomize the essence of NBA greatness.

  • Australia: Virgin Australia Boeing engine catches fire after takeoff

    Australia: Virgin Australia Boeing engine catches fire after takeoff

    Australia Virgin Australia Boeing engine catches fire after takeoff

    In a heart-stopping incident on Monday, a Virgin Australia Boeing 737 aircraft experienced a frightening engine failure less than an hour after takeoff. The flight, en route from Queenstown to Melbourne, was disrupted when one of the aircraft’s engines caught fire, engulfing the plane in a harrowing scene of flames.

    Eyewitnesses described the terrifying sight of flames bursting from the aircraft as the engine combusted mid-flight. The 67 passengers and six crew members onboard were faced with a nerve-wracking ordeal as the pilot was forced to make an emergency landing at Invercargill airport in the remote southern region of New Zealand.

    “The safety of our passengers and crew is our top priority,” affirmed Stuart Aggs, Virgin Australia’s chief operating officer, as emergency services awaited the stricken plane’s arrival at the airport. The swift and efficient response from the airline staff and emergency personnel ensured that the situation was handled with utmost caution and care.

    Initial investigations into the cause of the engine malfunction point towards a potential bird strike during the aircraft’s takeoff. Virgin Australia released a statement attributing the incident to this suspected collision with a bird, highlighting the unforeseen dangers that can arise during flight operations.

    Despite the alarming nature of the incident, the swift actions of the pilot and the crew averted a potential tragedy, demonstrating the importance of well-executed emergency protocols and crew training. The passengers’ safety and well-being were safeguarded through the professional response of the airline personnel, who handled the situation with composure and expertise.

    Boeing, plagued by a series of recent mishaps and controversies, faces yet another episode in its turbulent history. The engine fire on the Virgin Australia 737 adds to the manufacturer’s challenges, raising concerns about the reliability and safety of Boeing aircraft amidst ongoing scrutiny.

    The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of air travel and the critical role of stringent safety measures in safeguarding passengers’ lives. As authorities delve into the specifics of the engine failure and conduct a thorough investigation, questions arise regarding the maintenance practices and the resilience of aircraft in the face of unforeseen events.

    Passengers and aviation enthusiasts worldwide are closely monitoring developments in the aftermath of the Virgin Australia Boeing engine fire, underscoring the significance of transparency, accountability, and continuous improvements in air travel safety protocols. The collective efforts of airlines, regulators, and manufacturers are pivotal in ensuring the skies remain a secure and reliable mode of transportation for all.

  • EU Negotiation Drama: Stalemate on Top Jobs Continues

    EU Negotiation Drama: Stalemate on Top Jobs Continues

    No Agreement Yet on Top Jobs in the EU

    The second term of EU Commission President von der Leyen is generally considered secure. However, the negotiation poker for the reshuffling of EU top jobs continues, with a focus on the role of the Council President.

    The EU Special Summit concluded without an agreement on assigning the European top jobs. “It was a good conversation, heading in the right direction, I think. But there is no agreement tonight,” stated EU Council President Charles Michel overnight.

    Ursula von der Leyen is not completely certain of being nominated for a second term as EU Commission President by the heads of state and government. Michel emphasized that there will be “more clarity” at the regular EU Summit at the end of the following week.

    Broad Support for von der Leyen

    Michel mentioned that pan-European political parties had put forth suggestions for the positions. Further work towards an agreement is needed, with no specifics provided on the proposals.

    During the summit, discussions included the possibility of a second five-year term for von der Leyen. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic stated after deliberations that he hadn’t heard anyone questioning her position. Prior to the summit, von der Leyen received widespread support, with several heads of state and government publicly acknowledging the CDU politician for doing a “very good job” over the past five years, even from those outside her political alliance.

    Dispute Over EU Council President Term

    The key aspect of negotiations appears to be the succession of Michel as Council President. According to diplomats, the center-right party family EPP, with CDU and CSU, aimed to ensure that the appointment to the office is not immediately set for five years. This would mean that they could theoretically claim the position after two and a half years. Allegedly, the Social Democrats opposed this.

    Contrary to the Commission President and High Representative for Foreign Affairs, the Council President is typically elected for 2.5 years. However, in past negotiations, the position has been promised for five years to a party family, similar to other posts.

    Costa and Kallas Eyed for Top Positions

    Former Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa is rumored for the position. Costa, like Chancellor Olaf Scholz, belongs to the Social Democrats party family (S&D).

    Moreover, discussions at the summit included the successor to EU High Representative Josep Borrell, with Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas on the table for the role. Kallas, aligned with French President Emmanuel Macron in the Liberals (Renew), is considered one of the most significant supporters of Ukraine within the EU.

  • USA “Concerned” Ahead of Putin’s North Korea Visit: Latest International Updates

    USA “Concerned” Ahead of Putin’s North Korea Visit: Latest International Updates

    USA “Concerned” Ahead of Putin’s North Korea Visit

    The United States is expressing “concern” about the deepening relationship between North Korea and Russia. The Ukrainian military reports successes against air defense in Crimea. Read about the latest developments from Monday.

    USA “Concerned” Ahead of Putin’s North Korea Visit

    The USA is expressing “concern” about the growing ties between North Korea and Russia. With Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin set to visit Pyongyang, the White House in Washington stated, “We are not concerned about this trip. However, what does concern us is the deepening relationship between both countries.”

    Earlier, the Kremlin and North Korean state media announced that Putin would embark on a two-day “friendly state visit” to the communist nation on Tuesday. Russian state news agencies quoted Putin’s diplomatic adviser Yuri Ushakov as saying that several documents would be signed, including “important, very significant documents”.

    According to John Kirby, National Security Council spokesperson, the USA is worried about the potential impact of the strengthened alliance between the two nations “on the Ukrainian people”. It is noted that ballistic missiles from North Korea could be utilized by the Russian military for attacks. Kirby also expressed concerns about how there might be interactions that “could jeopardize security on the Korean peninsula”.

    Ukrainian President Zelensky Takes First Step Towards Peace

    Following the international Ukraine peace conference over the weekend in Switzerland, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has positively assessed the outcomes. In his evening video address, Zelensky stated they have taken the “first tangible step towards peace – in unity unseen before in the world”. He mentioned the need for further steps and revealed a preliminary work plan for the upcoming summer months. Zelensky emphasized their commitment to active communication with partners, underlining Ukraine’s desire for a fair peace, recognizing that it is achievable.

    German Historical Institute in Moscow Deemed Unwelcome

    The Russian authorities have declared the German Historical Institute in Moscow an unwelcome organization. The Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation included the institute in the list of foreign and international NGOs deemed unwelcome in Russia. Although the DHI ceased its activities in 2022 following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, its library remains accessible by appointment only.

    Stoltenberg Advocates for Increased Arms to Kiev, Criticizes China

    NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, while in Washington, advocated for increased arms deliveries to Ukraine and criticized China’s actions amidst the Russian aggression. Stoltenberg highlighted the paradoxical concept that “the path to peace leads through more weapons for Ukraine” ahead of a meeting with US President Joe Biden. He stressed the necessity for “credible and enduring” support for the Kyiv government.

    Addressing China’s role, Stoltenberg mentioned their claimed neutrality aiming to avoid sanctions and maintain trade, suggesting that China fuels the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II while striving to uphold good relations with the West.

    Ukraine: Russia Intensifies Attacks Ahead of F-16 Fighter Jets Delivery

    According to Ukraine’s assessment, Russia is escalating its attacks in response to the anticipated deliveries of fighter jets and additional military aid from Western countries to Kyiv. Ukrainian Army Chief Oleksandr Syrsky stated that Moscow is fully aware that the forthcoming supplies and arrival of F-16 fighter jets will shift the tide in Ukraine’s favor, prompting Russia to ramp up efforts to expand the conflict. Russian forces have been steadily advancing in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region and further south. Kyiv is struggling with defense, citing shortages of soldiers and ammunition.

    Kremlin: Putin to Visit North Korea on Tuesday and Wednesday

    Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit North Korea on Tuesday. The Kremlin and North Korean state media announced that Putin would undertake a two-day “friendly state visit” to the diplomatically isolated country. Following his North Korea visit, Russia’s president will travel for a two-day visit to Vietnam to enhance the “comprehensive strategic partnership” between Moscow and Hanoi.

    Putin’s trip to North Korea marks a rare diplomatic visit to the secluded nation, which has been accused of supporting Russia in its war in Ukraine through arms deliveries. Putin’s visit is at the invitation of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. In Vietnam, the Russian president aims to strengthen ties with Hanoi.

    Peskov: Stoltenberg’s Comments on Nuclear Weapons are Provocative

    Russia views NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg’s remarks on potential deployment of additional nuclear weapons as provocative. Dmitry Peskov, a spokesperson for the Kremlin, deemed it as a further escalation of tensions. Stoltenberg’s statements, discussing the positioning of more nuclear weapons and readiness levels, contradict the Ukraine conference communiqué, stated Peskov, emphasizing that any use or threat of nuclear weapons related to Ukraine is unacceptable.

    Ukraine Fails to Reach Agreement with Creditors

    Ukraine has not reached an agreement with creditors in negotiations, failing to avert the risk of insolvency. Talks with a group of bondholders on restructuring around $20 billion of international debts did not result in a resolution. The urgency arises as a two-year payment moratorium set to expire on August 1, agreed upon due to the country’s economic struggles resulting from Russian aggression.

    Ukrainian Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko stated that discussions will continue, expressing hope for a government settlement by August. The war-torn country has been exploring debt restructuring plans with major investors since late 2023.

    Denmark Considers Restricting Shadow Fleet of Russian Oil Tankers

    Denmark is exploring options to limit the passage of old tankers carrying Russian oil through the Baltic Sea. Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen mentioned forming a group with allied nations to examine measures against the so-called shadow fleet of aging ships transporting Russian oil. A third of Russian oil exports transit through the Danish strait, which serves as a gateway to the Baltic Sea, comprising approximately 1.5% of global oil deliveries. Disrupting these shipments could escalate oil prices and strain the Kremlin’s finances.

    Russia Threatens Tougher Peace Conditions

    Russian Foreign Intelligence Chief Sergey Naryshkin warns of imposing harsher conditions for peace with Ukraine. Naryshkin stated that if President Vladimir Putin’s proposed peace terms are rejected, subsequent conditions will be more stringent. Putin recently stated that Russia would cease hostilities if Ukraine abandoned NATO aspirations and pulled its forces from the four regions—Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson—claimed by Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Putin’s remarks as untrustworthy.

  • The Intersection of Politics and Justice: Insights from Recent Court Rulings in the USA

    The Intersection of Politics and Justice: Insights from Recent Court Rulings in the USA

    How Politics Is Made in the Courtroom

    The rulings against Trump, Biden’s son Hunter, and on gun rights in the USA have sparked numerous discussions, highlighting the increasing politicization of US courts.

    On Friday, the US Supreme Court overturned the only gun law tightening measure from the Trump era. This decision came after an incident in October 2017 where a gunman in Las Vegas fired over a thousand shots from a hotel room in just eleven minutes, resulting in the death of 60 people, prompting even the favorite of the gun lobby to acknowledge the need for action.

    Former President Donald Trump had banned the so-called bump stocks, an accessory that can turn a semi-automatic weapon into a rapid-fire rifle capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute.

    Conservative Majority at the Supreme Court

    With a proven conservative majority of 6-3, the Supreme Court justices declared the ban on bump stocks unconstitutional. The lawsuit was brought by a gun dealer from Texas. Trump views the rightward shift of the Supreme Court as one of the greatest achievements of his presidency, along with filling over 200 federal judge positions with staunch conservatives.

    Politics are intertwined with justice in the US. Trump supporters applaud him for overturning nationwide abortion rights. This was made possible by Trump filling three vacant Supreme Court seats with conservative abortion opponents.

    Hunter Biden Verdict – Relief for Democrats

    Many Republicans would have preferred a different verdict as history was made for the second time in a brief period this week. Hunter Biden, son of Joe Biden, was found guilty of breaking gun laws, marking the first time a close family member of a sitting US president has been convicted in a criminal case.

    To the discreet relief of the Democratic camp, it demonstrates that everyone, including presidential sons, is equal before the law. This outcome subtly vexes Republicans who would have liked to establish a precedent showing judicial bias in favor of the Biden camp. Therefore, the Trump camp is now trying to reinterpret the trial against Hunter Biden as a political distraction, shifting attention away from the alleged corruption within the Biden family.

    Recent events in the US vividly expose the weaknesses of the American justice system. It’s acceptable at times to shape politics with like-minded individuals on the bench, but not always. Politically motivated court rulings are welcomed at times and condemned at others. While Justice can have a party affiliation, it should ideally align with one’s own. The reactions to the rulings against Donald Trump and Hunter Biden once again highlight this double standard.

    Trump’s Stroke of Luck

    Adding to the equation is the factor of chance. Supreme Court justices in the US are appointed for life. Their tenure and the unpredictability of who resides in the White House to nominate their successors are subject to chance.

    Trump was remarkably fortunate to appoint three staunchly conservative individuals to the Supreme Court, tipping the balance to 6-3 in favor of conservatives. Biden has had only one replacement so far, with no indication of another on the horizon. Hence, crucial societal issues like abortion rights are now determined by conservatives for the foreseeable future. It’s no wonder then that few in the US are convinced that Justice is truly blind and that all are equal before the law.

    Judgments Have Minimal Impact on Election Decisions

    Furthermore, the incessant doubt cast by politics on the functionality of the rule of law is unhelpful. Trump shattered trust in democratic institutions and the media. For court proceedings, as for elections, Trump and his followers deem them fair only when favorable outcomes ensue.

    It is somewhat reassuring that Americans are accustomed to these circumstances and have learned to navigate them. In a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, 80% stated that Hunter Biden’s verdict wouldn’t influence their voting decision, while 61% affirmed that Trump’s condemnation wouldn’t affect where they cast their vote. While it may be concerning that the frontrunner according to this survey is a convicted criminal (Trump narrowly leads Biden in Reuters/Ipsos), it could also be interpreted as informed voter behavior, indicating that political sentiments in the US are gradually forming and not easily swayed.

    Supreme Court to Rule on Presidential Immunity

    Later this month, a landmark decision by the right-leaning Supreme Court on the immunity of a US president is anticipated. During his term, Trump emphasized that the three justices he appointed owed him a favor. He would like to be granted immunity by the highest court to dismiss the three pending lawsuits against him.

    It is widely expected that the Supreme Court will rule that even presidents are not entirely above the law. Irrespective of the details of the decision, it’s certain that the verdict will promptly be denounced by someone as political agitation.

  • Biden and Trump Agree on Rules for First TV Debate Without Studio Audience

    Biden and Trump Agree on Rules for First TV Debate Without Studio Audience

    Biden and Trump Set Rules for First TV Debate

    US President Biden and his likely challenger Trump have agreed on rules for their first TV debate on June 27th. Both candidates have decided to forego a studio audience during the 90-minute encounter on the CNN network.

    Ahead of the US presidential election in November, President Joe Biden and his presumed challenger Donald Trump have agreed on the rules for their first TV debate at the end of the month. The debate is set to last 90 minutes, as announced by the television network CNN. There will be two moderators on June 27th but no studio audience.

    “Both candidates have agreed to appear on a podium,” CNN stated. “Their podium positions will be determined by a coin toss.” It has also been stipulated that only the microphone of the respective speaker will be open at any given time. The other candidate’s microphone will be muted during that period.

    According to reports, the candidates will each receive only a pen, a notepad, and a bottle of water. There will be two commercial breaks during the hour and a half-long debate, which will be recorded in the city of Atlanta, Georgia. During these breaks, Biden and Trump are not allowed to have contact with their staff.

    TV Debates on June 27th and September 10th

    “Some aspects of the debate – including the absence of a studio audience – will deviate from previous debates,” CNN explained. Moderators Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will “use all the tools at their disposal to enforce timing and ensure a civilized discussion.” Biden and Trump agreed in May to hold two televised debates. The first will be on June 27th on CNN, with the second on September 10th on ABC.

    While Biden and Trump have not formally been nominated as presidential candidates for their parties in the November 5th election, it is considered a mere formality. The 78-year-old Trump has already won the Republican primaries by a large margin, despite them being ongoing. In the still ongoing Democratic primaries, the 81-year-old Biden does not face significant competition.

    The Republicans will nominate their presidential candidate at a party convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in mid-July. The Democratic nomination convention will follow in August in Chicago, Illinois. Before the 2020 election that Trump lost to Biden, the two engaged in two TV debates as well. During those debates, they frequently talked over each other.

  • Court Approves Liquidation of Alex Jones’s Assets Over Sandy Hook Claims

    Court Approves Liquidation of Alex Jones’s Assets Over Sandy Hook Claims

    Alex Jones’s Assets Can Be Liquidated

    For years, U.S. conspiracy theorist Jones claimed that the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in the U.S. never happened. Therefore, he is now required to pay billions in damages. A U.S. court has now approved the liquidation of his assets.

    The right-wing U.S. conspiracy theorist Alex Jones must sell personal assets in the face of billion-dollar compensation claims. However, his company will not be touched for now. This was decided by a Texas bankruptcy court, according to U.S. media reports.

    The founder of the online portal “Infowars” from the far-right orbit around former President Donald Trump filed for bankruptcy in 2022. Previously, he had claimed for years that the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in the state of Connecticut had been staged by actors. In December 2012, a 20-year-old had shot and killed 20 school children and six teachers there.

    Several relatives sued Jones for his claims in different lawsuits and were successful – he was ordered to pay a total of around $1.5 billion (approximately 1.4 billion euros) in damages.

    Dubious Income Sources

    The 50-year-old primarily earns his money by selling dubious dietary supplements on his far-right online portal “Infowars,” through which he spreads various conspiracy theories and engages in political propaganda. With the Friday ruling, he can continue to operate there.

    There is disagreement among the Sandy Hook victims’ relatives on this matter. Some are mainly concerned with silencing Jones and shutting down the website. They would be willing to accept a lower amount of damages. Others want to financially penalize Jones and demand the entire sum.

    This has created a dilemma because Jones must first earn the money to pay it. Whether and when the victims’ families will be paid by him remains uncertain, as he has appealed in the cases. The “Washington Post” also reported that Jones had transferred millions to other companies owned by family and friends before the court proceedings.

    Jones Fears the End of “Infowars”

    Before the court’s decision, Jones had told journalists himself that it probably means “the end of Infowars very, very soon.” His “fight against tyranny” has only just begun. On Friday, the Infowars website mentioned that this could be its “final broadcast.”

    Only this week, the tragedy of Sandy Hook in the U.S. was once again very present. On Wednesday, dozens of students who survived the massacre twelve years ago and still struggle with severe traumas to this day attended their graduation ceremony.