US Secretary of Energy Rick Perry accused Iran of involvement in a drone attack on Saudi oil facilities at the International Atomic Energy Agency’s annual meeting in Vienna. He called the attacks “an attack on the global economy and the global energy market.”
Category: Politics
Trump “Locked and Loaded” After Saudi Oil Attack
Donald Trump, in his first response to Saturday’s attack on Saudi oil facilities that have seriously disrupted oil production, said the United States is ready to take military action if suspicions are confirmed. Houthi Yemeni insurgents fighting the Saudi-led coalition have claimed responsibility for the attack, but the US says the attacks were the work of Iran.
Trump Tweets U.S. “Locked and Loaded” After Saudi Attacks
Though President Trump did not openly state whom he believes is the perpetrator of the heinous attack on the Saudi Arabia oil plants, his top diplomat, Mike Pompeo, has since Saturday asserted that the attack was carried out from Iran, and not Yemen, as the world was initially made to believe. Trump tweeted Sunday he was “locked and loaded depending on verification.”
Do Something – A Call for Action on Gun Violence
I have been waiting for many years for the Republicans in Congress to act to make our country safer from mass shootings. I thought they would do something when 20 children and 6 adults were killed at Sandy Hook–a shooting which shocked the whole nation. I thought they would act after the high school shooting in Parkland, (17 deaths), the Orlando night club (50 deaths), the Las Vegas music festival, (59 deaths) the El Paso Walmart (22 deaths), Sutherland Springs church (25 deaths), Odessa and Midland, (7 deaths), San Bernardino (14 deaths) Virginia Beach (12 deaths), Thousand Oaks (12 deaths), Pittsburg synagogue (11deaths) and Santa Fe High School (8 deaths).
Trump Confirms Death of Hamza bin Laden in Counterterrorism Strike
The US. has confirmed that Hamza bin Laden, Osama bin Laden’s son, considered the heir apparent to al-Qaeda’s command, was killed in a U.S. counter terrorism operation. The American media had earlier reported his death in late July. Hamza, aged roughly 30 years old, was the fifteenth of Osama bin Laden’s 20 children.
Mexico Condemns “Astonishing” SCOTUS Ruling on Asylum
Mexico regretted that the Supreme Court of the United States gave the green light to new restrictions on asylum promoted by the administration of President Donald Trump. The regulations directly affect the Latin American country because all applicants who have passed through their territory could not request protection on US soil unless they have done so in Mexico, or another nation, first.
Rouhani: Negotiating with US “Meaningless” Unless Sanctions Lifted
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, in a telephone call with his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, said that talks with the United States would be “meaningless,” unless sanctions are lifted. Rouhani also said that “if agreements with Europe are finalized, we’re ready to return to JCPOA commitments, and a meeting between Iran and the 5+1 is only possible when sanctions are lifted.”
Trump Plans to Ban Flavored Electronic Cigarettes
US President Donald Trump has announced that his administration will ban some flavored electronic cigarettes, after they were linked to the recent deaths of some smokers. “E-cigarette smoking is a new problem that needs to be addressed, especially among children,” Trump told reporters.
Supreme Court Approves Trump’s Asylum Restrictions
The US Supreme Court has granted approval to President Donald Trump’s plan to significantly reduce the ability of immigrants to seek asylum. According to the plan, people arriving through a third country must seek asylum there before reaching the US border.
Iranian Ambassador: We Will Not Negotiate With US Despite Bolton’s Ouster
Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran’s Ambassador to the United Nations, has said that Iran will not negotiate with the United States, despite John Bolton’s ouster. The day before, US President Donald Trump announced that he had fired Bolton as US National Security Adviser. Mr. Bolton is a hard-line figure and a strong supporter of the MEK in the White House.
BREAKING: Trump Fires National Security Advisor Bolton
In a tweet Tuesday, US President Donald Trump announced that he had fired White House National Security Adviser John Bolton. Mr. Trump tweeted that he had informed Mr. Bolton Monday night that his services would no longer be required.
House of Commons, Again, Rejects Johnson’s Call for Snap Election
The House of Commons voted for the second time to reject the government’s request for early general elections.The vote comes on the last day of Parliament’s work before a five-week suspension, at the request of the government, until October 14. Members of Parliament will have no further opportunity to vote on any early elections until the end of the suspension period, which means that elections cannot be held until at least late November.
Putin’s Candidates Suffer Losses in Local Russian Elections
In what was supposed to be a quiet round of regional elections in Russia— and, at the same time, a referendum on President Vladimir Putin, and his ruling party, United Russia— the results of local elections showed that the ruling party suffered significant losses. In Moscow, United Russia lost more than a third of its seats on the city council. The elections followed a police crackdown on anti-government protests over the summer.
President Ghani: Ready to Talk with Taliban, but Cease Fire First
Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani says the government is ready to talk to the Taliban, but insists peace talks are not possible without a ceasefire. Mr. Ghani said Afghanistan was at a critical juncture, and both peace and elections were necessary. He said that peace is the demand of the whole nation, which will belong to the whole Afghan nation.
Trump Continues to Fight for the End of DACA
Ever since President Obama signed DACA, The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, it has received constant beratement from Republicans and conservative activists. One of the most common criticisms of DACA is that President Obama did not have the legal right to sign it.
Pompeo: Peace Talks with Taliban Still Possible
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a television interview that he would not talk to the Taliban unless they change their attitude. Mr. Pompeo told ABC News that the Taliban had escalated violence, and that the group had taken credit for the latest suicide attack in Kabul, which killed eight people, including an American. With this incident, President Trump said that “It is enough.”
Trump Cancels “Secret Camp David Meeting” with Taliban in Tweet
US President Donald Trump announced on Twitter that he had canceled peace talks with the Taliban. Trump wrote in his tweet that talks with the Taliban were canceled after an attack in Kabul, which killed 12 people, including an American soldier.
Is Russia Responsible for the Disappearance of GEOMAR’s Boknis Eck Observatory in the Baltic Sea?
A mystery surrounds the recent disappearance of GEOMAR’s Boknis Eck Observatory and research station (weighing 1,630 lbs) from the bottom of the Baltic Sea. By all indications, the station has been stolen. The primary function of the station, whose location was undisclosed, was to collect environmental data from the ocean floor and transmit information to the researchers.
US Congress Demands Details of Khalilzad’s Peace Deal with the Taliban
The US Congress has called on Zalmay Khalilzad, the country’s special envoy for Afghan peace, to provide details of the deal with the Taliban. Rep. Eliot Engel, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, urged Mr. Khalilzad to present details of the deal with the Taliban to Congress in a public hearing. The Democratic Party has a majority in the House of Representatives.
Pompeo: Iran’s Latest Reduction in Nuclear Deal Commitments “Unacceptable”
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday that the US is determined to continue its policy against Iran even though Donald Trump has repeatedly stated his readiness to meet with Iranian officials without preconditions. “They announced just yesterday that they’re going to continue to do more research and development on their nuclear weapon systems. Those things are unacceptable,” Pompeo said.
Mexico Reports Migrant Drop Since Trump Tariff Threat
Figures presented Friday by Mexican Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard confirm a 56% drop in border apprehensions by the United States in the last four months. Last month, 63,989 migrants were apprehended on the US-Mexico border, compared to 144,266 in May, according to figures from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CPB).
Just the Facts – The President is Putting Your Life at Risk
We live in a time of turmoil and confusion. Our newspapers, internet, TV present us with many opposing opinions. There is also information that is untruthful or purposely intended to foster discord and distrust. How can we protect our thinking and try to understand what is really happening in our country and the world?
Sanders Looks to Increase the Scope of his Already Costly Healthcare Plan
Senator Bernie Sanders, the self-described Democratic Socialist, has been constantly and consistently attacking the American medical industry. The Presidential hopeful has long championed Medicare for all and has criticized the healthcare industry as being “insane and cruel.” Many economists fear that the staggering cost of Sanders’ single payer healthcare plan could cripple the economy.
Five Killed, 21 Injured in Another West Texas Mass Shooting
At least five people were killed and 21 injured when a man shot seemingly random people while driving through the West Texas cities of Odessa and Midland. The attacker had been stopped by police officers for a traffic violation. He, however, shot at them and then aimed his weapon at other motorists and passers-by.
Israel News: Trump and Pence Defend Israel From All Imminent Threats
Two Israeli drones fell on Beirut the same night in which Israel attacked Iranian and Syrian weapon depots near Demascus. One of the drones exploded near a Hezbollah weapons factory. Hezbollah said they were both armed with explosives. Hassan Nasrallah has pledged to take revenge for this attack in the near future but has also said that he is not looking for an all-out war. Israel is taking him seriously and has moved soldiers into strategic locations in the North.
Developments in the Trade War – Can China Compromise?
Up to this point the Trump presidency has been marked with controversy, uncertainty, disapproval, and excitement. Of All of the president’s policies none embody these characteristics as well as his tariffing of Chinese imports, and the subsequent trade-war with China. This trade war has caused volatility in the stock market, increased costs to American manufacturers, and has threatened US imports into China. It has also has also helped to protect American industry and to give the US leverage against China to renegotiate trade agreements.
Trump: “No Rush” for Taliban Talks
US President Donald Trump says there is “no rush,” and “no timeline” for Afghan peace talks with the Taliban. President Trump told reporters on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France on Monday that there are no plans for withdrawing American troops from Afghanistan.
Trump Dissatisfied with New North Korean Missile Test
At the G7 Summit in Biarritz, US President Donald Trump said he was dissatisfied with North Korea’s latest ballistic missile test conducted on Saturday. However, he stated that the missile test had not broken any agreements.
Trump: It’s Too Early to Meet Iran Foreign Minister
The day after an unexpected visit by Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif to the G7 meeting, US President Donald Trump said it was “too early” for him to meet Mr. Zarif. Trump has reiterated that he does not seek regime change in Iran but calls for a “strong” Iran.
Johnson “Very, Very Worried” About China-US Trade War
France hosted the G7 summit in Biarritz from August 24th to 26th, 2019. Although China did not participate, and the China-US trade war is not an issue, it is an unavoidable topic. Only seven Western countries (and the European Union representing Europe) are present, but the group discussed pressing issues, such as the global economy, climate change, Libya, Iran, terrorism and immigration issues.
Former Congressman Challenges Trump for 2020 Nomination
Conservative radio host and former Illinois congressman Joe Walsh announced his intention to run in the republican party primaries on Sunday in a bid to be nominated as its presidential candidate. Walsh made the announcement on the ABC television program, “This Week.”
G7 Meeting: Leaders Debate Russia, Receive Sunday Surprise
Monday is the third and final day of the 45th G7 summit in the French resort town of Biarritz. On Sunday, the American delegation received a surprise, in the form of a visit by Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. Saturday was host to a heated debate over whether to allow Russia to return to this elite club of the world’s developed countries.
Does the G7 Have a Future? What Holds This Alliance Together?
The 45th G7 (Group of Seven) Summit is being held from August 24–26, 2019, in Biarritz, France. The Group of Seven consists of the US, Canada, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. France has identified the following main objectives for the 2019 Summit:
Trump’s Disloyalty Jibe – How It Is Received in Israel
The reaction in Israel to the remarks of President Trump claiming that Jews who vote Democrat are showing disloyalty to Israel was received in Israel very cautiously. Ynet Yediot a major newspaper Israel commented on his remarks: Israel officials prefer to stay quiet and not to comment on his remarks even though it is for support of Israel. Various Jewish groups distanced themselves from his statements.
Trump “Orders” US Companies to Leave China After Beijing Announces Tariffs
US President Donald Trump says he has issued an “enforceable order” for US companies to leave China, after Beijing announced tariffs on US goods and products. The White House did not say whether the president had the authority to force private US companies to leave China. Trump pledged to respond to Beijing after Chinese authorities unveiled a plan to impose a 10 percent tariff on US goods and products, worth up to $75 billion a year.
Texas Rep. Dustin Burrows Breaks His Silence – Emerges Like a Groundhog
Texas State Representative Dustin Burrows emerged only after feeling safe after Governor Greg Abbott endorses Burrows for re-election. This is after Governor Abbot sent out a letter the day before the mass shooting in El Paso, Texas that stated that the state and the people “need to take action upon their own hands” relating to immigrants in Texas.
China Announces Tariffs on $75 Billion in US Goods
China announced that it will impose a 5 or 10% tariff on $75 billion worth of US goods, which will be implemented in two batches on September 1 and December 15.
White House Extends Detention of Immigrant Children Indefinitely
Washington wants to restrict illegal immigration across the Mexican border by tightening regulations. The White House and the US Department of Homeland Security say the new code will not ban the detention of children of immigrants over the 6-day ceiling.
Trump Cancels Trip to Denmark After Danish PM Refuses Talks on Greenland Sale
US President Donald Trump canceled his trip to Denmark because of Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen’s refusal to sell Greenland to the United States. Speaking in a tweet Tuesday, August 20, the president praised Denmark, and commented about the prime minister’s remarks that she had no interest in discussing the sale of Greenland to the United States.
United States Prevented Sale of 2.8 Million Barrels of Iranian Oil on Markets
Mike Pompeo has claimed that the White House sanctions on Iran’s oil exports have prevented the sale of 2.8 million barrels of oil. Iran claims to be able to sell its oil. The US secretary of state, speaking in an interview with MSNBC, said he was confident that the White House could continue its strategy. Pompeo made reference to the “Iran zero oil export” strategy that Donald Trump’s government has adopted since May. Mr. Pompeo has called on the United Nations Security Council to extend Iran’s arms embargo, which expires next year.
The Hatred of LGBT by Certain Preachers – They Are Sinning by Judging!
Some pastors have a wicked and warped interpretation of scripture and religion. In my previous blog post Hatred Towards LGBT People By Those Who Are Not Knowledgeable About LGBT Issues, I talked about the misunderstanding of LGBT individuals by uneducated people, and the hatred that is shown. This post was quickly shared by LGBT individuals, Pride organizations, and several local activists and advocates. With this blog post being shared so rapidly and so broadly, this has drawn scrutiny from several groups, and anti-LGBT individuals.
Gov. Newsom Signs Use of Force Bill, “Changes the Culture of Policing” in California
“I’m ready to sign this damn thing.” That’s what California Governor Gavin Newsom told a crowd gathered at a ceremony Monday in Sacramento. In so doing, California adopted one of the toughest laws in the country governing the use of force by police officers. The change, from “objectively reasonable” to “necessary,” amends a standard in California policing dating to 1872, which has often been used to justify officer-involved shootings, and frustrated community activists. Newsom also said he hopes the law, which will take effect in January, becomes a model for other states. “As California goes, so goes the rest of the United States of America.”
Israel Defends Decision to Deny Entry to Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib
On Thursday Israel announced that it would not allow entry to US Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (D-Minesota) and Rashida Tlaib (D-Michigan) because of their vocabulary and their vocal BDS advocacy. The House Democrats were considering issuing a no confidence statement regarding Israel Ambassador to the United States Ron Dermer.
White House Economic Advisor: China and US Working Hard to Resume Negotiations
US President Trump’s Chief Economic Adviser, Larry Kudlow said on August 18th that the Washington and Beijing authorities are actively working to resume trade negotiations to end the US-China trade war that disrupts the global market. Kudlow also said that despite the turmoil in the global financial market, there will be no economic recession, and the trade war against China has not harmed the US economy.
United States Extended the Ban on Huawei’s “Breathing” for 90 Days
Reuters quoted two sources saying that the US Department of Commerce will extend the time for Chinese technology giant Huawei to purchase US corporate products. It is expected to be extended for another 90 days. If the ban is strictly enforced, it will seriously affect Huawei’s supply chain. However, it may also strike against US customers that Huawei is serving and suppliers that supply Huawei. In view of this, the United States proposed a delay in implementation shortly after the ban was issued.
An Activist, A House Speaker, and A Representative: A Scandal With a Twist and Silence
State Rep. Dustin Burrows of Lubbock has resigned as chair of the Texas House GOP Caucus amid allegations that he and House Speaker Dennis Bonnen planned to politically target members from their party in the 2020 primaries. Conservative activist Michael Quinn Sullivan has said he secretly recorded Burrows and House Speaker Dennis Bonnen asking him to challenge 10 House incumbents in the 2020 elections.
Trilateral Meeting Discusses Yemen’s Future in Tehran
A meeting of Iran, representatives of Yemen’s Ansarollah and ambassadors of four European countries were held in Tehran to find solutions to the Yemen crisis in Tehran. The meeting discussed the political developments and the situation in the war-torn country.
Germany President Welcomes New Iranian Ambassador to Germany
The ceremony of presenting the credentials of Iran’s new ambassador to Germany has been criticized. Some German politicians have shrugged off the “glorious” welcome of the Iranian ambassador. The president’s office says the ceremonies were normal and diplomatic.
Police Keep it (Mostly) Peaceful in Portland Protests
Thirteen people were arrested and six people were injured, with one requiring hospitalization, after a day of protests in Portland Saturday. The Portland Police Bureau, several other local and national law enforcement agencies, and civic organizations and leaders throughout the city had spent weeks preparing for much worse. It was their stated mission to protect members of the right-wing group, Proud Boys, and left-wing Antifa protesters, from each other by keeping them separate. For the most part, they succeeded. However, the Proud Boys have already warned they’ll be back.
Sudan: Army and Civilian Leadership Sign Historic Power-sharing Deal
Leaders of Sudan’s Transitional Military Council, and their civilian opposition counterparts, have today officially signed a historic agreement widely viewed as an eventual possible solution to the major political crisis that has rocked the oil-rich African state for the past eight months.
