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Military Rule Rising in Africa: History Shows Negative Outcomes

In recent years, West Africa has witnessed a resurgence of military coups, with nations like Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, Sudan, and Guinea experiencing military rule once more. These regimes, asserting they are protecting citizens from both internal and external threats, have suppressed protests, restricted media, and caused significant civilian casualties. Despite their claims, military governance has often exacerbated violent extremism rather than alleviating it. The geopolitical landscape has shifted as these military leaders distance themselves from traditional allies like France and the United States, while forming ties with Russian mercenaries. This revival of militarism echoes a historical pattern where military regimes, despite their oppressive tactics and failures to deliver promised stability and prosperity, maintain a grip on power. Analysts suggest understanding these developments requires a long-term perspective on Africa's postcolonial history, highlighting the complex interplay of military ambition and societal discontent. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 2 am

ISKCON Stands with Chinmoy Krishna Das After Bangladesh Arrest

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) has voiced its support for priest Chinmoy Krishna Das, who was arrested in Bangladesh on sedition charges for allegedly raising a flag alongside the national flag. Following his court appearance in Chittagong, where his bail was denied, ISKCON expressed solidarity on social media, calling for divine protection for devotees. The arrest has ignited public outrage, with calls for Das's immediate release, including from former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who condemned the action as "unjust" and highlighted ongoing violence against minority communities. In a related development, a lawyer filed a petition to ban ISKCON, labeling it a "radical organisation." The situation has intensified tensions between the Bangladeshi government and ISKCON, prompting protests and raising concerns over religious freedom in the country. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 5 am

PM Claims Under-16 Social Media Ban Will Cut "Harm

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a significant new law aimed at banning social media access for children under 16, claiming it will lead to "less harm" for young Australians. Approved by parliament late Thursday, the legislation targets platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X, with Albanese emphasizing the need for these companies to prioritize children's safety. He acknowledged that while the law may not be perfectly enforced, similar to underage alcohol restrictions, it represents a necessary step forward. Social media firms face potential fines of up to Aus$50 million for non-compliance, but they have criticized the law as "vague" and "problematic." Set to take effect in 12 months, the legislation currently lacks detailed enforcement mechanisms, raising concerns among experts about its practical impact and potential to become merely symbolic. Albanese reassured parents, stating, "We've got your back." sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 5 am

Biden: Russian Attack Highlights Urgency of Supporting Ukraine

US President Joe Biden condemned Russia's recent missile and drone attacks on Ukraine, which targeted the country's energy infrastructure and left one million people without power, emphasizing the urgent need for continued support for Kyiv. In a statement, Biden labeled the assault as "outrageous," reiterating America's commitment to standing with Ukraine as he prepares to leave office. This comes amid speculation that incoming President Donald Trump may shift US policy towards Ukraine, having pledged to mediate a ceasefire between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Critics express concern that Trump's approach could pressure Ukraine into unfavorable concessions, potentially including the cession of occupied territories or a halt to NATO aspirations. Trump recently appointed retired General Keith Kellogg as his Ukraine envoy, who advocates using military aid as leverage to facilitate peace negotiations. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 5 am

Chinese Ships Encircle Disputed Island, Satellite Images Reveal

Satellite images reveal a significant presence of Chinese civilian vessels near Thitu Island, a critical outpost for the Philippines in the contested South China Sea. Despite the sighting of approximately 60 vessels, Vice Admiral Alfonso Torres and Rear Admiral Roy Trinidad of the Philippine Navy downplayed concerns, noting that such "maritime militia" ships often gather in the area and asserting that their presence, while illegal, does not warrant alarm. The Philippines remains vigilant, especially given recent confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels. The situation unfolds amid domestic political tensions in the Philippines, with Vice President Sara Duterte accusing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of attempting to remove her from office. Analysts suggest that China may be testing Manila's responses during this politically sensitive period, with implications for ongoing construction efforts on Thitu Island aimed at enhancing the Philippines' monitoring capabilities in the region. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 3 am

Putin Warns Trump to Be Cautious and Unsafe

Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his admiration for US President-elect Donald Trump, calling him an experienced and intelligent politician, but raised concerns about Trump's safety following two assassination attempts. Speaking in Kazakhstan, Putin referenced a July incident in Pennsylvania where Trump was wounded and a subsequent September attempt involving a man charged with aiming a rifle at one of Trump’s golf courses in Florida. He criticized the "uncivilised methods" employed against Trump during the election campaign, including personal attacks on his family, which he deemed "revolting." Putin speculated that the Biden administration's actions in Ukraine might either assist Trump or complicate his relationship with Russia. Despite these challenges, he expressed confidence that Trump would "find the solution" and reiterated Moscow's readiness for dialogue. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 4 am

Netanyahu: Committed to Stopping Iran's Nuclear Ambitions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel's commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, following warnings from Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi that Tehran may reconsider its nuclear policy if Western sanctions are reimposed. As Iran prepares for crucial nuclear talks with European nations, tensions have escalated, particularly after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) censured Iran for its nuclear activities. Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s determination to act against Iran, particularly after a recent ceasefire in Lebanon. Iran, which insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, has enriched uranium to 60%, nearing weapons-grade levels. Amidst these developments, political analysts warn that Iran aims to navigate potential renewed pressures from both the incoming U.S. administration and European governments, especially following allegations of its military support for Russia in Ukraine, which have strained its relations with Europe. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 2 am

Queensland's "Adult Crime, Adult Time" Bill Targets Children

Queensland's Liberal National Party government has unveiled a controversial youth crime bill, which Premier David Crisafulli admits will "directly discriminate" against children. The "Queensland Safer" legislation, introduced on Thursday, aims to increase maximum sentences for youth crimes, fulfilling the party's "adult crime, adult time" pledge. Critics, including human rights organizations and legal experts, argue the bill undermines children's rights, disproportionately affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth already overrepresented in the justice system. Attorney General Deb Frecklington acknowledged the potential for more children to end up in state watch houses, raising concerns about humane treatment. The legislation permits life sentences for children as young as 10, prompting condemnation from Queensland's human rights commissioner, Scott McDougall, who described it as indicative of a society that "has lost its way." The bill will undergo an eight-day review by a parliamentary committee before returning for a final vote in December. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 12 am

Berlin Doctor Accused of Murdering Eight Elderly Patients

German authorities are investigating a 40-year-old Berlin doctor, suspected of murdering eight elderly patients under his care and attempting to conceal his crimes by setting fire to their homes. Initially arrested in August for the manslaughter of four women aged 72 to 94, prosecutors have since linked him to four additional deaths involving men and women aged between 61 and 83. The suspect, who worked in palliative care, is now facing murder charges, with investigators alleging he had no motive beyond a "lust for murder." Notably, in one incident, an 87-year-old patient was resuscitated but later died in hospital, while in another case, the suspect reportedly initiated a fire that was extinguished before causing significant damage. The alleged killings occurred between June 2022 and April 2024, with the suspect accused of administering lethal medications to his victims before igniting blazes to mask his actions. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 12 am

Iran May Lift Nuclear Arms Ban If Sanctions Return

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has indicated that the country may reconsider its nuclear policy if Western sanctions are reimposed, as tensions rise ahead of talks with Britain, France, and Germany regarding its nuclear programme. Following a recent censure by the UN atomic watchdog, Iran expressed frustration over unmet commitments, particularly concerning sanctions relief. While Tehran maintains its right to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, it has enriched uranium to 60%, close to weapons-grade levels, raising concerns among Western nations. The 2015 nuclear deal, which limited Iran's enrichment in exchange for sanctions relief, is under strain, especially with the anticipated return of US President-elect Donald Trump, who previously withdrew from the agreement. Amidst accusations of military support for Russia in Ukraine and a politically motivated IAEA resolution, Iran aims to avoid intensified pressures from both the US and Europe during the upcoming negotiations. sources

Published:
Nov 29 2024, 12 am

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