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Monday, September 22, 2025
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Disney Reverses Course, Kimmel’s Show to Return After Uproar

Lisa.Felice
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Disney Reverses Course, Kimmel’s Show to Return After Uproar

Just days after its sudden and controversial suspension, Jimmy Kimmel Live! is set to return to the air, Disney announced on Monday, a dramatic reversal that follows a storm of public outrage, a unified show of support from his fellow hosts, and immense pressure on the network from across the industry. The decision marks a victory for free expression advocates and ends a six-day hiatus that sparked a national debate over corporate capitulation and government censorship.

In a statement, the Walt Disney Company confirmed the show would resume production on Tuesday, a week after it was “pre-empted indefinitely” following comments Kimmel made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The company’s statement said the temporary pause was “to avoid further inflaming a tense situation” but that “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel had led to the decision to bring him back.

Jimmy Kimmel Live suspended

The abrupt return is a clear sign that the network caved to pressure—but not from the government. The suspension itself, which followed threats from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr and a public cheer from President Trump, triggered a furious backlash from Hollywood. Over 400 celebrities, including Meryl Streep, Ben Affleck, and Tom Hanks, signed an open letter condemning the move as a “dark moment for freedom of speech.” Fellow late-night hosts like Stephen Colbert, Jon Stewart, and Jimmy Fallon publicly rallied to Kimmel’s defense, and the Writers Guild of America (WGA) called the suspension an act of “corporate cowardice.”

While the return is a clear victory, the fight is not over. The suspension was initially triggered when Nexstar and Sinclair, two of the largest owners of ABC affiliate stations, preempted the show. On Monday, a Sinclair representative stated that the network would not air Kimmel’s show on its local stations, including in the key Washington, D.C. market, until the host apologizes to the Kirk family and makes a “meaningful personal donation” to them.

The ongoing battle between national broadcasters and local affiliates, amplified by political pressure, underscores the precarious state of late-night television. For now, a voice that was silenced has returned to the air. But the conditions of that return—and the power struggle it lays bare—ensure that the future of late-night comedy will remain a subject of both laughter and fear.

France Joins Historic Wave of Nations Recognizing Palestinian State

Roy Siemens
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France Joins Historic Wave of Nations Recognizing Palestinian State

UNITED NATIONS — In a major and symbolic diplomatic break from its traditional policy, France has officially recognized a Palestinian state, joining a growing wave of European and Western nations that are shifting their position in a move that has outraged Israel and energized the Palestinian cause. The historic announcement, made by French President Emmanuel Macron at a high-level United Nations meeting, cements a new and increasingly united front against Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza and its rejection of a two-state solution.

The decision by France, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, follows the formal recognition of Palestinian statehood by the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Portugal just a day earlier. In his address at the UN General Assembly, Macron declared, “True to the historic commitment of my country to the Middle East, to peace between the Israelis and the Palestinians, this is why I declare that today, France recognizes the state of Palestine.” The announcement was met with a standing ovation from a majority of the 140-plus delegations in attendance.

The coordinated move is a direct response to a two-fold reality on the ground: the intensifying humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and Israel’s accelerated expansion of settlements in the West Bank. European leaders, including Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, argue that their recognitions are not a reward for Hamas but a necessary step to keep the peace process from collapsing entirely. The hope is that by empowering the Palestinian Authority and offering a political horizon, it will strengthen moderate voices and provide a viable path to a peaceful resolution.

The diplomatic unity, however, was met with a fierce and predictable backlash. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the recognitions as “appeasement towards jihadist terrorists” and vowed retaliation, a sentiment echoed by his government. An Israeli official confirmed that annexing parts of the West Bank is a retaliatory option being considered, a move that would further deepen Israel’s isolation. For its part, the Trump administration made it clear it opposes the recognitions, with U.S. and Israeli delegations pointedly absent from the UN summit where Macron made his announcement.

For the Palestinian people, the recognition is a major diplomatic victory. The Palestinian Authority’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the move as a “historic and courageous decision” that aligns with international law. While largely symbolic, the declarations by these major world powers serve to delegitimize the Israeli occupation and put pressure on the United States, which has consistently used its veto power to block full UN membership for a Palestinian state.

The wave of recognitions, led by France, signals a tectonic shift in global diplomacy. It marks a clear break from decades of a U.S.-led policy and ushers in a new and uncertain chapter in the Middle East. With key allies like the UK and France now charting their own course, the U.S. is finding itself increasingly alone in its approach to one of the world’s most intractable conflicts.

Trump Links Tylenol to Autism, Drawing Fire from Medical Experts

Kathryn R. Bown
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Trump Links Tylenol to Autism, Drawing Fire from Medical Experts

In a highly controversial claim that has sent shockwaves through the medical community, President Trump and his administration have officially linked the use of the common pain reliever Tylenol to an increased risk of autism. The announcement, made at a White House press conference, was met with immediate and widespread skepticism from scientists and public health officials who warn that the unproven assertion could cause a public health crisis and erode trust in established medicine.

The policy, which was spearheaded by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., was introduced with a statement that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would begin notifying doctors that the active ingredient in Tylenol, acetaminophen, “can be associated with a very increased risk of autism.” President Trump declared from the White House, “Taking Tylenol is not good,” and said the administration was strongly recommending women limit its use during pregnancy unless medically necessary. The announcement followed a weekend where the President had teased a major revelation, telling a crowd that he believed he had “found an answer to autism.”

But the administration’s claim stands in stark opposition to the consensus of the medical community. Leading organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) have long held that Tylenol is a safe and appropriate option for pregnant women seeking to manage pain and fever. Experts have repeatedly cautioned that a small number of studies that have found a weak correlation do not prove causation. They point to a major 2024 Swedish study involving millions of births that found no link between acetaminophen and autism.

Medical professionals and patient advocacy groups are expressing grave concern that the announcement will unleash a wave of fear and misinformation. Dr. David Mandell of the University of Pennsylvania, an autism expert, has warned that a claim of a causal link between Tylenol and autism “is unproven” and that the real danger lies in women avoiding a medication needed to treat fevers that can, if left untreated, cause harm to the fetus.

For some families with autistic children, the announcement feels like a painful blame game. “It makes me feel like they’re trying to say it’s my fault,” one parent told a reporter, “and that’s just so wrong.” The move is seen as the culmination of an effort by Kennedy, who has for years championed debunked theories about environmental factors and autism.

The President’s claim is a significant test of the public’s trust in both political leaders and the medical establishment. It puts the government in a direct and unprecedented conflict with mainstream science, forcing the public to choose between the advice of their doctors and the word of their President.

How the Kirk Memorial Forged a New MAGA Vision

James J. Williams
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How the Kirk Memorial Forged a New MAGA Vision

The memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk was more than just a tribute to a fallen figure; it was a powerful and revealing fusion of religious fervor and political zeal that offered a glimpse into the future of the MAGA movement, a future where faith is not just an undercurrent but a central, defining force. The solemn tribute quickly morphed into a spiritual revival and a political rally, with speakers on the stage and thousands in the audience weaving a narrative where politics and a perceived “spiritual war” are one and the same.

The event at State Farm Stadium, which began with Christian worship music, was a masterclass in this blending of sacred and profane. As attendees waved “Never Surrender” signs alongside Bibles, a rotating cast of speakers framed Kirk’s life not in political terms alone, but in a divine context. Kirk was repeatedly called a “martyr,” a “prophet,” and a “warrior for Christ.” Rob McCoy, Kirk’s pastor, declared that Kirk “looked at politics as an on-ramp to Jesus,” a powerful articulation of a new political-religious fusion.

The ideological poles of the movement were on full display in the speeches of its two most prominent voices. Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, who was named the new CEO of Turning Point USA, delivered the emotional core of the service. She tearfully announced she had forgiven her husband’s killer, a message she said was inspired by Christ and her late husband. She vowed to continue his work through the newly created “Turning Point USA Faith,” which will aim to recruit thousands of new pastors and congregations.

Immediately following her plea for forgiveness, President Donald Trump took the stage. His address was a powerful and stark contrast to hers, as he praised Kirk as “a martyr for American freedom” and “our greatest evangelist.” But in a viral, unscripted moment, he veered from his prepared remarks to declare, “He did not hate his opponents. He wanted the best for them. That’s where I disagreed with Charlie. I hate my opponent, and I don’t want the best for them.” The moment, which drew both laughter and applause, crystallized a central conflict within the new movement’s soul.

Other speakers, including Vice President J.D. Vance and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, took a more belligerent tone. Miller delivered a fiery, apocalyptic speech, telling an undefined “you” that “You are nothing. You are wickedness. You are jealousy, you are envy, you are hatred. You are nothing.” For his part, Vance wove personal anecdotes about Kirk’s faith into a broader political message, a move seen by many as a clear effort to position himself as the heir apparent to Trump by bridging the gap between the populist base and the Christian conservative movement.

The memorial was not just a tribute to a political leader; it was a powerful re-affirmation of a movement that is increasingly defining itself not by policy, but by a mission that its followers believe is both political and sacred. The fusion of the cross and the campaign, on full and unblinking display in a football stadium in Arizona, suggests that the MAGA movement is charting a new, and potentially more powerful, course for its future.

Dutch Police Clash with Anti-Immigration Protesters Ahead of Elections

Diane A. Wade
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Dutch Police Clash with Anti-Immigration Protesters Ahead of Elections

THE HAGUE — Clashes have erupted between Dutch police and anti-immigration protesters in a violent confrontation that signals a deepening and dangerous divide in the Netherlands over the country’s immigration policies. The riot, which saw police use tear gas and water cannons, has plunged the nation into a state of political turmoil just weeks before a critical general election.

The violence unfolded in The Hague on Saturday, where thousands had gathered to demand a crackdown on asylum seekers. What began as a large but peaceful demonstration quickly spiraled out of control as a faction of protesters threw bottles and rocks at officers, set a police car on fire, and vandalized the headquarters of the center-left D66 party. In response, police deployed riot control units, a water cannon, and tear gas to regain order. At least two officers were injured and approximately 30 arrests were made, with authorities not ruling out more.

The unrest is a powerful symptom of a nation grappling with its identity. It comes just a month before a snap election on October 29, which was triggered by the collapse of the governing coalition after far-right leader Geert Wilders pulled his party from the administration over disagreements on migration policy. Wilders, whose party is leading in opinion polls, has made a promise to drastically reduce asylum for refugees a central pillar of his campaign.

The political reaction to the clashes was swift and sharp, highlighting the stark divisions in the country. Wilders himself, who was invited to the demonstration but did not attend, condemned the violence on social media, calling those involved “idiots” and “scum.” Caretaker Prime Minister Dick Schoof called the attacks on law enforcement “absolutely unacceptable,” while D66 leader Rob Jetten vowed, “We will never let extremist rioters take our beautiful country away.” Meanwhile, Frans Timmermans, the leader of the Labour-Green alliance, cast the scenes as “Trumpian conditions, fueled by politicians who sow fear and division,” urging citizens to make their voices heard.

For a nation long known for its stability and progressive policies, the violence serves as a stark warning. The riots are a powerful and visible manifestation of the raw political anger simmering beneath the surface, fueled by an election that has placed immigration at the very center of a battle for the country’s future.

A Nation Mourns Under Guard: Americans Gather in Arizona for Charlie Kirk Memorial

Nancy Clayson
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A Nation Mourns Under Guard: Americans Gather in Arizona for Charlie Kirk Memorial

GLENDALE, AZ — Under the unblinking gaze of surveillance drones and a heavy law enforcement presence, thousands of Americans gathered on Sunday for the memorial service of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The somber occasion, held at State Farm Stadium, was a powerful and poignant reminder of the political violence that led to his death and the deep divisions that now define the nation.

The event, designated a “Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR) Level 1,” put security on par with the Super Bowl. Attendees faced airport-style security screenings, with a perimeter secured by federal agencies, including the Secret Service. The heightened measures were not a mere precaution; on Saturday, an armed man claiming to be a law enforcement officer was arrested at the stadium. The incident cast a long shadow over a memorial already steeped in sorrow and political tension.

Charlie Kirk assassination

The atmosphere inside the stadium was a complex mix of grief and defiance. For many in the crowd, Kirk was a unifying figure, a fiery yet inspiring voice for a generation of young conservatives. The memorial was as much a political rally as it was a funeral, with a who’s who of the Republican Party’s inner circle in attendance. President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard were among the top officials who paid tribute to Kirk’s legacy. Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, who was recently named the new CEO of Turning Point USA, also spoke, vowing to continue her late husband’s work.

The service, however, was not without its critics. Outside the stadium, a small group of protesters gathered, arguing that the event was a political spectacle and that Kirk’s legacy was one of division. While the nation mourns the loss of a life, the memorial service itself has become a symbol of a country struggling to reconcile its profound political differences.

A Diplomatic Earthquake: Keir Starmer’s Historic Shift to Recognize Palestinian State

James J. Williams
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A Diplomatic Earthquake: Keir Starmer’s Historic Shift to Recognize Palestinian State

LONDON — In a historic and politically seismic move, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to announce on September 21 that the United Kingdom will officially recognize a Palestinian state, a long-sought goal of the Palestinian people and a profound shift in British foreign policy. The decision comes after what Downing Street has described as Israel’s failure to meet a series of conditions set out by Starmer in July to improve the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.

The announcement is expected to be a key element of the UK’s diplomatic push at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York. While recognition of a Palestinian state has been a long-standing commitment of the Labour Party, the timing and context of the move are highly charged. Starmer previously said the UK’s recognition was contingent upon Israel agreeing to a ceasefire, committing to a two-state solution, and halting illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank. Officials have concluded that, with the humanitarian crisis worsening and a new Israeli ground offensive in Gaza City, those conditions have not been met, forcing the UK’s hand.

Photo AP

The decision is expected to be met with a furious backlash from Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu having already condemned the move as “appeasement towards jihadist terrorists” and a reward for Hamas. The United States has also expressed its opposition, with leading U.S. politicians urging the UK and its allies to reverse course, arguing that such a move undermines prospects for peace and “rewards Hamas with statehood before they have returned every hostage.”

For the Palestinian Authority, the recognition will be a major diplomatic victory, bringing the Palestinian people one step closer to full self-determination. Over 147 of the 193 UN member states already recognize a Palestinian state, and the UK’s move, following France’s decision earlier this year, could trigger a domino effect as other key allies like Canada and Australia consider similar actions. The move will also allow for the establishment of a Palestinian embassy in London and for the UK to treat Palestine as a sovereign entity in its diplomatic relations.

While some domestic critics question the timing and the potential for a diplomatic rift with the U.S. and Israel, Starmer and his government appear to believe that a bold and decisive action is necessary to revive the long-stalled peace process. The recognition of a Palestinian state, a move that only a few years ago was considered a distant prospect, is now a reality—a powerful signal that the international community’s patience for a peaceful two-state solution is wearing thin.

H-1B Visa: India Warns New US Visa Fee Will Have ‘Humanitarian Consequences’

Diane A. Wade
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H-1B Visa: India Warns New US Visa Fee Will Have ‘Humanitarian Consequences’

India has launched a scathing diplomatic protest against the new U.S. fee for skilled worker visas, warning that the policy will have “serious humanitarian consequences” and could disrupt the lives of tens of thousands of skilled Indian workers and their families. The move, which introduces a unprecedented $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications, has turned a routine immigration issue into a major diplomatic flashpoint.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a strongly worded statement on Saturday, expressing “serious concern” and directly challenging the Trump administration’s rationale for the fee. While the U.S. framed the measure as a way to curb “abuse” of the H-1B program and protect American jobs, the MEA’s spokesperson stated that the “disruption caused for families” is a significant concern that policymakers must address. The warning came as major Indian and U.S. tech companies scrambled to advise employees on H-1B visas who were abroad to return to the U.S. before the fee took effect, a one-day deadline that has created widespread panic.

The new policy represents a staggering increase from the previous application fees, which typically ranged from $2,000 to $5,000. It is a direct blow to India, which accounts for over 70 percent of all H-1B visa recipients, many of whom are working for the world’s largest tech companies. The National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM), India’s leading tech industry body, echoed the government’s concerns, warning of “ripple effects” that could harm the U.S. innovation ecosystem and the global job market.

The diplomatic spat also takes place against the backdrop of ongoing trade tensions between the two countries. An Indian delegation, led by Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal, is scheduled to visit Washington, D.C., for talks, and some Indian officials privately view the new visa fee as a form of “pressure tactic” by the U.S. to gain leverage in those negotiations.

The Trump administration has defended the policy as a way to ensure that only the “very best” and most exceptional foreign talent enters the country, arguing that the H-1B visa has been used to undercut American wages. But critics on both sides of the Pacific argue that the move is an economic and humanitarian self-inflicted wound.

The conflict over the H-1B visa is no longer confined to the boardrooms of Silicon Valley or the halls of Congress. It has become a personal and deeply human issue for thousands of Indian families whose lives are now in a state of uncertainty, a stark reminder of the global consequences of an “America First” immigration policy.

Russia’s Aerial Barrage Kills Three as Ukraine’s Cities Endure Night of Terror

Roy Siemens
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Russia’s Aerial Barrage Kills Three as Ukraine’s Cities Endure Night of Terror

KYIV — In one of the most intense bombardments in recent weeks, Russia unleashed a “massive” aerial attack on Ukraine on Saturday, killing at least three people and wounding dozens more as a barrage of missiles and drones struck cities across the country. The onslaught, which included a missile equipped with cluster munitions hitting a residential building, prompted a renewed call from Ukrainian officials for more air defense systems from Western allies.

According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the attacks took place across nine regions, with major strikes reported in Dnipro, Kharkiv, and Kyiv. A missile carrying cluster munitions directly struck a high-rise apartment building in the city of Dnipro, killing at least one person and injuring 26, according to the regional governor. Other casualties included a 62-year-old man killed in a drone attack in northern Ukraine’s Chernihiv region and another person killed in the Khmelnytskyi region, where firefighting crews recovered a body from a damaged residential building.

The Ukrainian Air Force said it had detected a total of 619 drones and missiles in the overnight attack, a mix that included cruise and ballistic missiles, along with hundreds of drones. While Ukrainian air defenses claimed to have shot down or neutralized the vast majority of the projectiles, the sheer scale of the assault overwhelmed some defenses, allowing strikes to hit civilian areas and critical infrastructure.

In a social media statement, President Zelensky condemned the strikes, calling them “not a military necessity but a deliberate strategy by Russia to terrorize civilians and destroy our infrastructure.” He urged international partners to provide more air defense systems and impose additional sanctions on Russia, arguing that “every restriction on Russia saves lives.” The attacks come as both sides have stepped up their use of long-range aerial assaults, with Ukraine claiming its drones hit several Russian oil refineries and pumping stations on Saturday.

The continued violence highlights a grim reality in a war where the front lines have become increasingly static, forcing both sides to escalate their campaigns to strike at each other’s home fronts and critical infrastructure. While diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire have stalled, the human toll continues to mount with each successive barrage.

The $100,000 Surcharge: Trump’s Visa Fee Reshapes U.S. Immigration

Clyde K. Valle
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The $100,000 Surcharge: Trump’s Visa Fee Reshapes U.S. Immigration

In a dramatic and sweeping overhaul of the nation’s immigration system, the Trump administration has introduced a new and unprecedented $100,000 fee for companies seeking to sponsor skilled worker visas. The move, announced via a proclamation on Friday, targets the H-1B visa program, a system long relied upon by the tech sector, and is being framed as an aggressive effort to protect American jobs and curb what the administration calls systemic abuse.

The new fee, which took effect immediately, requires employers to pay the $100,000 for each new H-1B applicant coming from abroad. The administration has clarified that the fee is a one-time payment, though initial reports had suggested it would be an annual charge. Still, the immense financial barrier represents a staggering increase from the current fees, which typically range from a few thousand to around $5,000. While the proclamation does not apply to current H-1B visa holders already in the U.S., it has prompted companies like Microsoft to issue an urgent advisory urging employees to avoid international travel and return to the country before the new rule took effect.

The administration’s rationale for the change is rooted in its “America First” agenda. According to White House staff secretary Will Scharf, the H-1B program, originally designed to attract exceptional foreign talent, has been exploited to replace American workers with “lower-paid, lower-skilled” labor. The administration argues that the new fee will force companies to hire only the most exceptional candidates who are truly indispensable, thereby creating more opportunities for American graduates. President Trump stated that this is not only an economic issue but also a matter of national security, citing investigations into visa fraud and other illicit activities.

The reaction from the tech community has been one of shock and alarm. Critics warn that the steep fee will have a chilling effect on innovation and could lead to a significant “brain drain” as highly skilled foreign workers look to other countries. While large tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft may be able to absorb the new costs for a select few key employees, smaller startups and companies with a high reliance on foreign talent could be hit hardest. Critics also argue that this move could hamper the U.S.’s position in the global race for innovation, particularly in fast-moving fields like artificial intelligence.

For a system that has long been a key part of the U.S. economy, the new fee represents a momentous shift, and is a clear signal that the administration is prioritizing protectionism over global talent.

The Late-Night Stand: Hosts Rally Around Kimmel as Trump Targets TV Networks

Sonia Pantiss
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The Late-Night Stand: Hosts Rally Around Kimmel as Trump Targets TV Networks

In an unprecedented show of solidarity, the titans of late-night television have rallied around their colleague Jimmy Kimmel, as President Trump escalates his rhetoric and directly threatens to strip broadcast licenses from networks that dare to criticize him. The rare, unified response from hosts across the dial marks a dramatic escalation of the ongoing battle between the administration and the American media, turning a broadcast controversy into a high-stakes showdown over the future of the First Amendment.

The chorus of support for Kimmel followed the stunning news that ABC had indefinitely suspended his show in the wake of comments he made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The suspension was preceded by a public condemnation from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, a Trump appointee, who called Kimmel’s remarks “sick” and hinted at regulatory action. On Thursday, President Trump himself weighed in, celebrating the suspension on social media and telling reporters that networks giving him “only bad press” might have their “licenses…taken away.”

The thinly veiled threats and the silencing of one of their own prompted a series of uncharacteristically serious and often satirical monologues from Kimmel’s peers.

  • Stephen Colbert, whose own show was canceled by CBS earlier this year in a move many believed was politically motivated, used his platform to deliver a somber warning. “We are all Jimmy Kimmel,” he told his audience, later adding, “With an autocrat, you cannot give an inch… if ABC thinks this is going to satisfy the regime, they are woefully naive.”
  • Jon Stewart, making a surprise appearance on The Daily Show, delivered a biting satire on the new rules of free speech, joking that in America, we now have a “talent-o-meter” that measures a performer’s loyalty to the president. “It’s managed media. And it’s no good,” Stewart later said at a public event. “It’s silly. It’s ridiculous. You can’t go around firing somebody because you’re fearful or trying to suck up to an authoritarian criminal administration.”
  • Seth Meyers opened his show by sarcastically praising the president, claiming any past negative comments must have been “just AI,” before delivering a heartfelt defense of Kimmel and free expression. “It is a privilege and an honor to call Jimmy Kimmel my friend, in the same way that it’s a privilege and honor to do this show every night,” he said.
  • Jimmy Fallon also used his monologue to express solidarity, telling his audience, “To be honest with you all, I don’t know what’s going on. And no one does. But I do know Jimmy Kimmel, and he’s a decent, funny and loving guy, and I hope he comes back.”

The unified response from Kimmel’s colleagues signals a new and more confrontational era for late-night television. For years, the shows have offered a mix of comedy and political commentary, often at the risk of alienating half the country. But with the suspension of a peer and the explicit threats from the highest office, the stakes are now existential. The conflict is no longer just a media feud but a full-blown constitutional and political showdown, with the freedom of the press and the soul of a democratic institution hanging in the balance.

US Vetoes UN Gaza Ceasefire Call for Sixth Time

Roy Siemens
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US Vetoes UN Gaza Ceasefire Call for Sixth Time

For the sixth time since the war began, the United States has vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, cementing its diplomatic isolation on the world stage even as the humanitarian crisis inside the enclave deepens. The vote, which saw 14 of the 15 council members unite in favor of the measure, underscored the growing chasm between Washington and the rest of the world on the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The draft resolution, put forward by the council’s ten elected members, demanded an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire, the release of all hostages held by Hamas, and the lifting of all restrictions on the delivery of humanitarian aid. But the U.S. representative, Morgan Ortagus, stated that the U.S. would not support a measure that “fails to condemn Hamas” or “recognize Israel’s right to defend itself.” Ortagus accused the council of engaging in “performative action” and said the resolution’s demands were “unacceptable” as they would leave Hamas in a position to carry out future attacks.

The veto drew immediate and sharp condemnation. The Palestinian ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, expressed “anger and frustration” at the council’s failure to act. In a raw and emotional address, Algeria’s ambassador, Amar Bendjama, apologized to the Palestinian people, saying the council “could not save your children.” He accused the U.S. of being complicit in a “genocide unfolding before open eyes,” a sentiment echoed by diplomats from Russia and China, who said Washington was “abusing” its veto power.

The diplomatic standoff unfolded against a backdrop of a worsening human catastrophe on the ground. The vote took place as Israeli tanks and jets pounded Gaza City, the target of a major new ground offensive. The UN’s humanitarian office has warned that the last lifelines for civilians are collapsing in the besieged city, which a recent food crisis report says is now experiencing widespread famine. According to health authorities in Gaza, the death toll from the conflict has surpassed 65,000.

The U.S. position remains steadfast. U.S. officials maintain that a ceasefire must be linked to the release of all hostages, arguing that a temporary halt to the fighting would only allow Hamas to regroup and rearm. The U.S. has continued to work through back channels to secure a ceasefire deal and the release of hostages, but with each successive veto, Washington finds itself increasingly isolated on a humanitarian issue that has captivated the world.

For the international community, the US’s continued use of its veto power sends a clear message that the diplomatic process is at a standstill. While the diplomatic battle rages on, the human toll on the ground grows with each passing day—a tragic testament to the high cost of the ongoing stalemate.

Brendan Carr’s FCC Takes on President Trump’s Media Foes

Lisa.Felice
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Brendan Carr’s FCC Takes on President Trump’s Media Foes

Under the leadership of its new chairman, Brendan Carr, a longtime Trump loyalist, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has taken on a more aggressive and openly political role, wielding its regulatory power to challenge media outlets and hosts critical of the administration. This new posture, most visibly demonstrated in the recent suspension of the late-night talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live!, is raising serious questions about the future of media regulation and free speech.

Carr, who was elevated to the chairmanship by President Trump in January, has wasted no time in making his intentions clear. In the wake of a monologue by Kimmel that criticized the administration’s response to a political assassination, Carr appeared on a conservative podcast and suggested the FCC could take “the hard way” with broadcasters who aired what he called “sick” and “misleading” content. Just hours after Carr’s warning, major ABC affiliates began to drop the show, and ABC announced its indefinite suspension. Critics, including House Democrats, are calling Carr’s actions a “corrupt abuse of power” and have demanded his resignation.

The FCC’s new approach marks a significant shift from its traditional role. While the agency has the authority to issue licenses and regulate broadcast content under a broad “public interest” standard, it has historically avoided intervening in political speech, and the FCC’s own website states that it is expressly prohibited from censoring broadcast matter. However, Carr has embraced a more expansive view of the FCC’s mission, arguing that the agency has a responsibility to combat “news distortion” and hold broadcasters accountable for what he deems to be inaccurate or politically motivated content.

This new legal and political playbook is already proving effective. The suspension of the Kimmel show follows a similar incident involving CBS and its parent company, Paramount. After the company’s merger with Skydance was in jeopardy and was only approved after a settlement with President Trump, it canceled The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. The timing of both events has led critics to argue that the FCC, under Carr, is using its regulatory authority to coerce media companies and chill free speech.

The FCC’s aggressive stance is being cheered by President Trump, who has long accused mainstream media outlets of being “the enemy of the people.” For his critics, however, the FCC’s actions represent a dangerous escalation, raising fears that the government is blurring the line between a media regulator and a political enforcer, with dangerous consequences for the First Amendment.

A Hair’s Breadth from Tragedy: Man Dodges Runaway Car at Nebraska Gas Station

Nancy Clayson
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A Hair’s Breadth from Tragedy: Man Dodges Runaway Car at Nebraska Gas Station

BRADY, NEBRASKA — A man washing his windshield at a rural Nebraska gas station is being hailed as the man who cheated death after he narrowly avoided being hit by a car traveling at an estimated 65 mph in a 40 mph zone. The harrowing incident, captured on a dramatic surveillance video, shows the man jumping out of the way just as the out-of-control vehicle flips and crashes into his parked truck.

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office reported that the near-miss occurred on a Friday evening at a gas station in the small town of Brady. The man, identified as Brady Johnson, was mid-task when a red Nissan sedan careened into the gas station. Video footage shows the vehicle hurtling over a curb before flipping onto its side and striking a streetlight pole and Johnson’s pickup. Johnson, displaying incredible reflexes, managed to leap away from the impact just in time.

In a remarkable show of composure, Johnson, despite being grazed on the lower leg by the crashing car, immediately went to the aid of the driver. The driver, who was taken to a local hospital with minor injuries, is expected to be cited for reckless driving, driving without an operator’s license, no proof of insurance, and expired registration. Johnson, who said he only felt pain in his leg after his adrenaline wore off, was not seriously injured. The incident stands as a powerful testament to the unpredictability of everyday life and the thin line between an ordinary evening and a life-altering tragedy.

China Hails TikTok Deal as ‘Win-Win’ Victory in Tech War

Clyde K. Valle
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China Hails TikTok Deal as ‘Win-Win’ Victory in Tech War

In a major breakthrough that signals a potential easing of tensions with the United States, China is celebrating a new framework agreement on the future of TikTok as a “win-win” outcome. The preliminary deal, which averts a complete ban on the popular social media app, is being hailed by Beijing as a diplomatic and technological victory that has not only preserved its most valuable digital export but has also created a new playbook for navigating international regulatory pressure.

The framework, reached during recent trade talks in Madrid, would transfer ownership of TikTok’s U.S. operations from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to a U.S.-based entity. However, the key to Beijing’s victory narrative lies in what the deal does not do. Chinese officials have indicated that the agreement allows ByteDance to license its prized recommendation algorithm to the new American-led consortium. This arrangement, which retains Chinese involvement in the technology that drives the app’s success, is seen as a major concession from the U.S. and a vindication of China’s refusal to fully divest its proprietary technology.

China US

The official commentary, published in the state-run People’s Daily, framed the consensus as being based on the principles of “mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation.” From China’s perspective, the deal is a triumph of negotiation over what it has long decried as U.S. “unilateral bullying” and a weaponization of national security concerns. The fact that the U.S. has repeatedly extended the deadline for the ban, and that the two sides are now set to finalize a compromise, is viewed as a sign that the Trump administration has softened its stance.

The agreement comes as U.S. and Chinese officials continue to navigate a complex trade relationship, with President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping scheduled to speak and potentially finalize the deal. While some in the U.S. Congress, particularly the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, have expressed alarm that retaining Chinese control over the algorithm violates the spirit of the divestiture law, Beijing sees the outcome as a pragmatic solution that has protected its national interests.

For a nation that has watched its tech champions come under immense global scrutiny, the TikTok deal represents a significant moment of progress. It allows Beijing to project an image of strength and resilience, proving that it can defend its companies on the world stage without having to surrender its most valuable technological assets.

Brigitte Macron to Offer ‘Scientific Evidence’ She Is a Woman In Candace Owens Lawsuit

Diane A. Wade
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Brigitte Macron to Offer ‘Scientific Evidence’ She Is a Woman In Candace Owens Lawsuit

In a legal action of unprecedented scope and sensitivity, French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, have announced they will provide “scientific evidence” in a U.S. court to prove that the first lady is a woman, their lawyer has confirmed. The extraordinary step is part of a high-stakes defamation lawsuit against American right-wing commentator Candace Owens, whose repeated promotion of a long-debunked conspiracy theory has launched a global campaign of humiliation against the Macrons.

The lawsuit, filed in a Delaware court, accuses Owens of waging a relentless campaign of “defamatory, and far-fetched fictions,” including the central claim that Brigitte Macron was born a man named Jean-Michel Trogneux, the first lady’s older brother. The case has moved to a new and extraordinary phase, with the Macrons’ lawyer, Tom Clare, telling the BBC that his clients were prepared to take the stand and present “expert testimony that will come out that will be scientific in nature” to counter the false claims.

Brigitte Macron
Image source Wikimedia

For Brigitte Macron, 72, the legal process will be a public and deeply personal ordeal, but her lawyer said she is “firmly resolved to do what it takes to set the record straight.” Clare did not specify the exact nature of the scientific evidence but said it would demonstrate “both generically and specifically” the falsity of the allegations. He added that the couple would also present photographic evidence, including images of the first lady pregnant and raising her children, to be presented in open court where “there are rules and standards.”

The legal battle underscores the unique challenges of fighting online misinformation across international borders. To win the defamation case in a U.S. court, the Macrons, as public figures, must meet the high bar of proving “actual malice”—that Owens knew the claims were false or acted with reckless disregard for the truth. By offering scientific and photographic evidence, the couple aims to establish that their case is not simply about politics but about fact.

Owens’ legal team has filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that the case is a politically motivated attempt by a foreign government to suppress the free speech of an American journalist. Owens has also publicly doubled down on her claims, which she has stated she would “stake [her] entire professional reputation on.”

The Macrons’ decision to sue in the U.S. follows a setback in their native France, where a court initially found two French bloggers liable for spreading the same false claims, only to have that verdict overturned on appeal on free speech grounds. The couple has now appealed that decision to the country’s highest court, making it clear that they are prepared to continue their fight on multiple legal fronts. For the Macrons, the battle against the conspiracy theory is not just about their personal dignity; it is a test of whether verifiable truth can still prevail in an age of rampant digital disinformation.

Trump Urges Starmer to Use Military to Control UK Borders

Diane A. Wade
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Trump Urges Starmer to Use Military to Control UK Borders

CHESHAM, ENGLAND — In a highly unusual and provocative intervention into UK domestic policy, President Donald Trump has suggested that Prime Minister Keir Starmer should consider using the military to stop illegal migration, a proposal that has been met with both diplomatic caution and public debate in Britain. The comments came during a press conference at Chequers, the Prime Minister’s official country residence, marking the conclusion of Trump’s unprecedented second state visit to the UK.

Speaking alongside Starmer, President Trump drew a parallel between the UK’s challenge with migrants crossing the English Channel in small boats and his own efforts to secure the U.S. southern border. “You have people coming in, and I told the prime minister I would stop it,” Trump said. “And it doesn’t matter if you call out the military, it doesn’t matter what means you use, but it’s going to destroy countries from within.”

The direct advice, offered on British soil, was a rare moment of candidness in an otherwise carefully choreographed visit designed to project a united front. While both leaders praised the “special relationship” and announced a new tech and investment deal, Trump’s remarks on migration highlighted a key point of divergence between the two allies.

For his part, Prime Minister Starmer did not directly address the military proposal, instead pointing to his government’s own efforts to tackle the issue. He noted that the UK had just deported its first migrant to France under a new “one in, one out” deal and that his government was taking the matter “incredibly seriously.” The prime minister’s measured response reflects the political sensitivity of using the military for border control in the UK, a measure that some MPs have suggested but has no widespread government support.

The conversation underscores the immense political pressure both leaders face on immigration, a top concern for voters on both sides of the Atlantic. While Trump has used his military as a tool for border enforcement, Starmer’s government has focused on a new Border Security Command and deportation deals. The comments serve as a vivid reminder that for all the pomp of state visits and talk of an unbreakable bond, the two nations’ approaches to some of the world’s most pressing issues remain fundamentally different.

Jimmy Kimmel’s Show Suspended Indefinitely in a New Front of the Culture War

Sonia Pantiss
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Jimmy Kimmel’s Show Suspended Indefinitely in a New Front of the Culture War

In a sudden and stunning turn, ABC has indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live!, a dramatic move that leaves one of late-night television’s most enduring chairs empty and signals a new, high-stakes phase in the nation’s political and media culture wars. The decision came swiftly after the host’s pointed remarks about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk sparked a firestorm of controversy and drew sharp condemnation from top government officials.

During his monologue earlier this week, Kimmel accused what he called the “MAGA gang” of trying to “capitalize on the murder” of Kirk, saying they were attempting to politically exploit the tragedy. The comments drew immediate backlash and prompted two of the largest owners of ABC affiliates, Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group, to announce they would pull the show from their local stations, calling Kimmel’s words “offensive and insensitive at a critical time in our national political discourse.”

But the local affiliate rebellion was not the only source of pressure. The suspension was preceded by a public warning from the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Brendan Carr, a Trump appointee. In a public statement, Carr suggested that broadcasters who continued to air what he called “sick” content were putting their licenses at risk—an extraordinary and rare intervention by the federal regulator.

The confluence of events—the local affiliate revolt and the government pressure—has been widely condemned by free speech advocates and Democrats, who accuse the Trump administration of weaponizing its regulatory power to silence a critical voice. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), a nonprofit focused on free speech, called the suspension a sign that “another media outlet withered under government pressure, ensuring that the administration will continue to extort and exact retribution on broadcasters and publishers who criticize it.”

While many on the right, including President Donald Trump himself, have celebrated the suspension—citing a long-running animosity towards Kimmel’s comedic critiques—the abrupt removal of a show that has been a staple of the late-night landscape for over two decades has left the industry reeling. The move also follows the summer cancellation of Stephen Colbert’s show on CBS, a decision many critics believe was also politically motivated.

Kimmel himself has yet to comment on the suspension, leaving his future and the fate of his show in limbo. His contract is set to expire in May 2026, and the indefinite hiatus raises a stark and unsettling question: in a new era of political warfare, what space, if any, remains for satire and dissent on the nation’s airwaves? The empty chair in the late-night lineup serves as a powerful and ominous symbol for a new and dangerous moment in American media.

The Brain’s Odometer: Scientists Pinpoint the Mind’s Internal Mileage Clock

Kathryn R. Bown
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The Brain’s Odometer: Scientists Pinpoint the Mind’s Internal Mileage Clock

LONDON — Scientists have, for the first time, pinpointed a specific brain region that functions as an “internal mileage clock,” a landmark discovery that sheds new light on how the mind tracks distance and could have profound implications for understanding neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. The groundbreaking study, published in the journal Current Biology, identifies a precise neural mechanism responsible for our innate sense of how far we have traveled.

The research, led by Professor James Ainge from the University of St Andrews, centered on a series of experiments with both rats and humans. In the primary experiment, researchers trained rats to run a specific distance in a controlled arena to earn a reward. While monitoring the animals’ brains, they discovered that “grid cells”—a type of neuron in the brain’s entorhinal cortex, a region crucial for navigation—were not only helping the rats map their surroundings but were also firing in a regular, ticking pattern with every few steps they took. The more regular this “ticking” was, the better the animals were at estimating the correct distance.

Brain-Injury

The scientists then scaled up the experiment for human participants, asking them to perform the same distance-estimation task in a larger arena. Just like the rats, the human volunteers consistently performed the task correctly, confirming that a similar cognitive process was at work. The team found that when the environment was altered to distort the signal from these “mileage-counting cells”—much like when landmarks disappear in dense fog—both humans and rats began to lose their sense of distance and underestimated how far they had traveled. This suggests the brain’s internal odometer is highly susceptible to environmental changes.

This discovery is a significant leap forward in understanding the brain’s “GPS.” While the existence of place cells (which map specific locations) and grid cells (which form a coordinate system for navigating) has been known for years, this study is the first to directly connect the rhythmic firing of grid cells to the ability to accurately gauge distance traveled. This newfound understanding of how the brain navigates could provide critical insights into neurodegenerative diseases, as the entorhinal cortex is one of the very first areas of the brain to be affected by Alzheimer’s.

The research is a substantial step toward understanding how we use our brains in real-world environments. This video, featuring Nobel laureate John O’Keefe, explores the foundational discoveries of place cells, grid cells, and how they function as the “GPS of the brain.”

The Austerity Backlash: A Nation on Strike as Protests Rock France

Nancy Clayson
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The Austerity Backlash: A Nation on Strike as Protests Rock France

In a forceful and unified rebuke of government austerity plans, hundreds of thousands of workers across France have launched a massive, coordinated strike, bringing essential public services to a grinding halt and plunging the nation into a new political crisis. The nationwide demonstrations, fueled by frustration over budget cuts and economic inequality, have put immense pressure on the new prime minister, Sébastien Lecornu, as he attempts to navigate a deeply fractured political landscape.

The strike, heralded by unions as the largest day of protest in years, saw an estimated 600,000 to 900,000 people take to the streets in over 250 demonstrations across the country. In a rare show of unity, major trade unions brought together a diverse coalition of workers—from teachers and hospital staff to transport workers and pharmacists—who feel the burden of the government’s fiscal policies falls squarely on their shoulders.

“The anger is huge, and so is the determination,” declared Sophie Binet, the head of the powerful CGT union. “My message to Mr. Lecornu today is this: it’s the streets that must decide the budget.”

The public anger is a direct response to a proposed €44 billion budget squeeze aimed at tackling France’s ballooning public debt. The deeply unpopular austerity measures, which included a proposed freeze on welfare spending and cuts to public services, already cost Lecornu’s predecessor, François Bayrou, his job after he lost a no-confidence vote earlier this month. While Lecornu has vowed to scrap some of the most widely despised proposals, unions remain skeptical that he will reverse the core of the austerity plan.

The strike’s impact was immediate and widespread. Nearly half of all teachers in Paris walked off the job, with many schools closed and some high school entrances blockaded by students carrying signs that read, “Tax the rich.” In the transportation sector, regional trains and the Paris Metro were heavily disrupted, forcing commuters to find alternative routes. In a striking sign of discontent, up to nine out of 10 pharmacies were closed as pharmacists joined the protest.

The day of action serves as a brutal baptism of fire for Prime Minister Lecornu, who was appointed by President Emmanuel Macron just last week as the third head of government in less than a year. His position is precarious; with no absolute majority in parliament, he must try to find a compromise on the budget that appeases both the protesting masses and a divided legislature.

The protests, however, are not just about a single budget. They are a manifestation of a deeper crisis of public trust in Macron’s pro-business agenda. As one public sector worker put it, “France is one of the few countries that still has a proper social security system, but year after year it is being eroded by funding cuts. We’re being blamed for the high public debt when it’s Macron’s tax breaks to businesses that have damaged public finances.”

For now, the streets of France have delivered a powerful and unmistakable message. The coming weeks will be a test of whether the new government can find a way to compromise, or if the political chaos that has gripped the nation will continue, with the fate of the French economy hanging in the balance.

The Fed’s First Move: Central Bank Cuts Interest Rate, Citing Labor Market Weakness

Clyde K. Valle
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The Fed’s First Move: Central Bank Cuts Interest Rate, Citing Labor Market Weakness

The Federal Reserve has cut its benchmark interest rate by a quarter-point, the first such reduction this year, in a move that signals a pivot toward a more accommodative monetary policy as the central bank grapples with a softening labor market. The decision, which was largely anticipated by investors, lowers the federal funds rate to a range of 4% to 4.25%, the lowest it has been since November 2022.

In a closely watched press conference, Fed Chair Jerome Powell explained the decision was an exercise in “risk management,” rather than an indication of a thriving economy. Citing a recent slowdown in job gains and an uptick in unemployment, Powell said the central bank’s primary concern has shifted to the “downside risks to employment.” This move comes even as inflation remains elevated, a dual challenge that Powell described as an “unusual” situation for the Fed to manage. The sole dissenting vote came from the newest Fed governor, Stephen Miran, a Trump appointee who favored a larger, half-point cut.

Federal Reserve

The Impact on You: What the Rate Cut Means

While a single quarter-point cut may not dramatically alter the financial landscape overnight, it sets a tone for the coming months. Here’s how it could affect consumers and businesses:

  • Mortgages and Loans: For prospective homebuyers, much of the impact has already been priced into the market, with mortgage rates gradually falling since the beginning of the year. However, a declining interest rate environment will provide some relief for borrowers over time, potentially offering opportunities to refinance or consolidate high-interest debt.
  • Credit Cards and Savings: Credit card rates, which are at a high of over 20% on average, will likely see a slow-moving reduction. For savers, however, this could be bad news, as yields on high-yield savings accounts and CDs are expected to slowly erode from their currently attractive levels.
  • The Stock Market: The initial market reaction was mixed. While a rate cut is generally seen as a positive for stocks, the major indexes ended the day with little change, suggesting the news was already factored in. Investors are now looking to the Fed for a clearer signal on the pace of future cuts.

The Path Ahead: A Divided Outlook

Fed officials’ latest economic projections show a split on the committee regarding future rate cuts. While a majority of officials now pencil in at least two more cuts by the end of the year, a significant number believe no further reductions are necessary. This divergence reflects the uncertain economic outlook, with a weakening labor market on one side and persistent inflation on the other. Powell emphasized that the projections are not a commitment, and the central bank will continue to make decisions “meeting by meeting,” a statement that leaves the future of monetary policy firmly in the balance.

Trump Praises King Charles, Touts ‘Priceless’ UK Bond at State Banquet

Diane A. Wade
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Trump Praises King Charles, Touts ‘Priceless’ UK Bond at State Banquet

WINDSOR, ENGLAND — In a lavish state banquet at Windsor Castle, President Donald Trump delivered a speech that was both a tribute to the “priceless” and “eternal” bond between the United States and the United Kingdom, and a personal salute to King Charles III and the royal family. The unprecedented second state visit for a U.S. president unfolded with a choreographed grandeur that attempted to project unity despite deep political and public divisions.

Seated beside the King in the opulent St. George’s Hall, President Trump hailed his second state visit as “truly one of the highest honours of my life.” He praised King Charles as a “very, very special man,” and thanked him for his decades of service, from environmental advocacy to supporting the arts.

In a speech that drew laughter and applause, the president used a lyrical metaphor to describe the transatlantic partnership. “We’re like two notes in one chord or two verses of the same poem,” he said. “Each beautiful on its own, but really meant to be played together.” He added that “the word special does not begin to do it justice.”

The evening’s pageantry was a careful diplomatic effort to balance history with modern political realities. Before the banquet, King Charles and President Trump rode in a gilded carriage and inspected a military parade, with a Red Arrows flypast underscoring the enduring military alliance. In his own remarks, the King spoke of the two nations’ shared history, from their common language to their sacrifices in two world wars. He also made a pointed reference to the need to stand with Ukraine against tyranny and to protect the environment.

The visit comes at a critical time for both nations. The UK government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is eager to solidify new trade and technology partnerships. For President Trump, the state visit serves as a powerful symbol of his diplomatic standing and a welcome break from domestic political turmoil.

While the banquet was a study in diplomatic grace, the backdrop of the visit was a London fraught with tension. Tens of thousands of protesters marched against the president, a vocal counterpoint to the pomp and ceremony. Yet inside Windsor, surrounded by the finest of British tradition, President Trump seemed to relish the moment. In a personal touch, he singled out the Princess of Wales, who he said looked “so radiant and so healthy, so beautiful,” a comment that was widely seen as a warm and sincere tribute.

As the evening concluded with a toast, the “special relationship” was not just a historical term but a present-day reality, a complex and enduring bond that, as President Trump noted, seems “irreplaceable and unbreakable” despite the challenges it faces.

Israeli Tanks Push Deep into Gaza Residential Areas, Forcing New Exodus

Roy Siemens
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Israeli Tanks Push Deep into Gaza Residential Areas, Forcing New Exodus

In a long-feared escalation of the ground war, Israeli tanks have pushed deep into the heart of Gaza City, advancing into major residential areas and marking a new and potentially devastating phase of a conflict that has already claimed more than 65,000 Palestinian lives. The incursion, supported by relentless airstrikes and artillery fire, has sent a fresh wave of panic and forced displacement through a population with nowhere left to run.

The Israeli military confirmed on Tuesday that it had begun its ground offensive into the urban core of Gaza City, a sprawling, densely populated area that it considers the main stronghold of Hamas. Two army divisions, comprising tens of thousands of troops, are now operating in the city. The military’s stated goal is to “dismantle Hamas’s central stronghold” and its vast network of tunnels and command centers.

The new offensive has had an immediate and catastrophic effect on civilians. Residents reported a night of “heavy, relentless” bombardment, with hospitals in the area, including the children’s Rantisi Hospital, reporting dozens of new casualties. The strikes have toppled high-rise residential towers and homes, adding to the already immense destruction. An estimated 600,000 people are believed to have remained in the city, many of whom are now trapped by the advancing ground forces.

Gaza exodus

“There is not a single day without bombings and deaths in the south, even in the so-called humanitarian zones,” said Fatima al-Zahra Sahweil, a researcher, reflecting the widespread fear that no place in Gaza is safe. The UN has reiterated its “grave concerns” for the safety of civilians and warned that with the closure of key aid routes, a humanitarian catastrophe is worsening by the hour. The total number of Palestinians killed since the war began in October 2023 has now surpassed 65,000, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, a figure widely accepted by international humanitarian agencies.

As tanks roll into residential neighborhoods, the international community has reacted with alarm. A UN commission of inquiry accused Israel of committing genocide in a report released on the same day the offensive began, an accusation Israel has vehemently denied. The European Union is reportedly considering new tariffs and sanctions to pressure Israel to end the war, while Saudi Arabia and other nations have condemned the incursion.

For many Palestinians in Gaza, the military advance into their homes is a new chapter in a long-standing nightmare. They are caught between an advancing army and a devastated landscape, with few options for survival. As the battle for Gaza City’s heart begins in earnest, the world watches, bracing for a new level of carnage in a war that has already defied all expectations of horror.

Obama’s Stark Warning: ‘We’re at an Inflection Point’ After Killing of Charlie Kirk

Nancy Clayson
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Obama’s Stark Warning: ‘We’re at an Inflection Point’ After Killing of Charlie Kirk

In his first public comments on the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, former President Barack Obama issued a sobering warning that the United States has reached a dangerous “inflection point,” arguing that political violence, long an “anathema to democracy,” has re-emerged in a nation poisoned by rage and division.

Speaking at an event in Erie, Pennsylvania, Obama did not shy away from the fraught political nature of the tragedy. He called the killing “horrific” and a “tragedy,” while also acknowledging that he profoundly disagreed with many of Kirk’s ideas. “That doesn’t negate the fact that what happened was a tragedy and that I mourn for him and his family,” Obama said. “The central premise of our democratic system is that we have to be able to disagree and have sometimes really contentious debates without resorting to violence.”

The former president pointed a clear finger at a culture of normalization that he said is coming from the highest levels of government. Without naming President Donald Trump directly, Obama criticized the impulse by some leaders to “identify an enemy” and “use that as a rationale for trying to silence discussion” in the wake of such a tragedy. He argued that when the “weight of the United States government” is put behind extremist views, the nation is in a state of crisis. Obama also drew parallels to other recent political violence, including the shooting deaths of a Minnesota lawmaker and her husband.

“There’s been some confusion, I think, around this lately, and, frankly, coming from the White House and some of the other positions of authority,” Obama said. “We’re going to suggest that somehow that enemy was at fault…and that’s a mistake.”

The current White House was quick to fire back, with spokeswoman Abigail Jackson issuing a statement that called Obama the “architect of modern political division in America.” The pointed retort underscored the very political polarization that Obama was addressing.

In a rare moment of bipartisan praise, Obama commended Utah Governor Spencer Cox, a Republican, for his response to Kirk’s death, saying his call for unity showed “that it is possible for us to disagree while abiding by a basic code of how we should engage in public debate.”

For a nation still reeling from the shock of the assassination, Obama’s intervention was a powerful call to action. It was a plea for a return to a political discourse where even the most bitter of opponents could agree on a fundamental truth: that violence has no place in a functioning democracy. The question now is whether his words will be heeded, or if they will simply be lost in the deafening echo chamber of a nation on the brink.

Flying Cars Collide in China, Raising Sobering Questions

James J. Williams
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Flying Cars Collide in China, Raising Sobering Questions

CHANGCHUN, CHINA – The thrilling promise of a new era of personal air travel was brought to a jarring halt on Tuesday, as two “flying cars” crashed into each other in a spectacular mid-air collision during a rehearsal for a major Chinese air show. While the crash resulted in no fatalities, it ignited a fire on one of the aircraft and cast a pall of uncertainty over an industry that has soared on a wave of ambition and hype.

The incident occurred at the Changchun Air Show in northeastern China, where two electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, manufactured by Xpeng AeroHT, were practicing a close-formation drill. According to a company statement, the aircraft “came into contact due to insufficient clearance,” a miscalculation that sent one of the sleek vehicles spiraling to the ground. Footage from the scene, which circulated on Chinese social media, showed black smoke billowing from the wreckage as fire trucks rushed to extinguish the flames.

The accident is a sobering reality check for a burgeoning industry that has been aggressively promoted by Beijing as a key pillar of its “low-altitude economy.” Xpeng AeroHT, a subsidiary of the Chinese electric vehicle giant Xpeng, is a leading player in this field. The company has already amassed thousands of pre-orders for a modular flying car system priced at around $300,000, with plans for mass production and delivery to begin by 2026.

While the company quickly assured the public that “all personnel at the scene are safe,” conflicting reports emerged. Some sources, citing a company employee, stated that at least one pilot suffered minor injuries, highlighting the inherent dangers in a technology still in its infancy. For a sector that has long faced public skepticism over safety and regulation, the televised crash is a devastating setback.

Industry analysts are already warning that the incident will force a hard reset for the eVTOL industry, which has so far been focused on demonstration flights and ambitious production timelines. The crash serves as a powerful reminder that the path to a future of flying cars is not only a matter of engineering innovation but also of meticulous regulation and a meticulous attention to safety. For Xpeng and its competitors, the incident may ground some of their highest ambitions, proving that in the race to the skies, even a small mistake can have a catastrophic impact.

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