Trump confirms U.S. to abandon nuclear arms treaty with Russia - UPI
UPI reports: "President Donald Trump on Saturday said the United States will pull out
of a decades-long nuclear deal signed between Washington and Moscow
during the Cold War.
The Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty, signed between former
President Ronald Reagan and Soviet Union President Mikhail Gorbachev in
1987, bans all land-based cruise missiles with a range between 310 and
3,417 miles.
Before a campaign rally in Nevada, Trump told reporters unless other
countries quit violating the INF, the United States will terminate the
agreement. [...] The New York Times reported on Friday the Trump administration will tell Russian leaders next week about the plan to exit the landmark treaty, partly to enable the United States to counter a Chinese arms buildup in the Pacific."
Russia condemns U.S. plan to withdraw from INF treaty - UPI
UPI reports: "Russia condemned U.S. President Donald Trump's plan to pull out of a
decades-long nuclear deal signed between the two countries during the
Cold War.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov told Russia's state-run
Tass news agency it would be a 'very dangerous step' for the United
States to back out of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty.
[...] Ryabkov told Sputnik that Russia would adopt a number of
retaliatory measures if the United States continues to unilaterally
withdraw from agreements."
Comment: From what I understand, the Russian violations had been well documented under the Obama Administration and so this move makes sense. It's no less alarming for that, but it makes sense as a negotiating tactic. I think it unlikely that Russia really wants to end the treaty and so we might expect this to lead to some serious negotiating to salvage the treaty. Time will tell. As the article hints, China is a new strategic reality that did not exist when the treaty was signed in 1987 and that will no doubt play a part in determining the outcome.
Monday, October 22, 2018
Earthquakes
3 large earthquakes strike off Pacific coast of British Columbia - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Three large earthquakes were recorded near Vancouver Island off the British Columbia coast late Sunday night by the U.S. Geological Survey, but it did not set off any tsunami warnings. The earthquakes happened over a one-hour period, the USGS stated."
UPI reports: "Three large earthquakes were recorded near Vancouver Island off the British Columbia coast late Sunday night by the U.S. Geological Survey, but it did not set off any tsunami warnings. The earthquakes happened over a one-hour period, the USGS stated."
Friday, October 19, 2018
King of the North
Putin: Russia 'ahead of competition' with latest weapons - AP
The AP reports: "The Russian leader also warned that new hypersonic missiles his country developed give it a military edge. [...] Russia already has deployed the Kinzhal hypersonic missile. Putin said that another new weapon, the Avangard, is set to enter service in the next few months. Earlier this year, Putin said the Avangard has an intercontinental range and can fly in the atmosphere at a speed 20 times the speed of sound, making it capable of piercing any missile defense system. His blunt talk Thursday comes as Russia-West relations remain frosty over the Ukrainian crisis, the war in Syria and the allegations of Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential vote."
Comment: Hypersonic missiles are an interesting development as they would seem to undermine existing countermeasures. I need to read more about this.
The AP reports: "The Russian leader also warned that new hypersonic missiles his country developed give it a military edge. [...] Russia already has deployed the Kinzhal hypersonic missile. Putin said that another new weapon, the Avangard, is set to enter service in the next few months. Earlier this year, Putin said the Avangard has an intercontinental range and can fly in the atmosphere at a speed 20 times the speed of sound, making it capable of piercing any missile defense system. His blunt talk Thursday comes as Russia-West relations remain frosty over the Ukrainian crisis, the war in Syria and the allegations of Russian meddling in the 2016 U.S. presidential vote."
Comment: Hypersonic missiles are an interesting development as they would seem to undermine existing countermeasures. I need to read more about this.
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
Roaring Seas & Waves
Rising seas threaten dozens of UNESCO World Heritage Sites - AP
The AP reports: "To better characterize the risks facing sites of historic and cultural significant in the Mediterranean, scientists surveyed the exposure of 49 low-lying UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the region. Of the 49 sites, 37 would be affected by a 100-year storm surge. Another 42 are threatened by coastal erosion. As sea levels rise, the risk of a storm surge capable of damaging world heritage sites is expected to increase by 50 percent."
Comment: Will sea level rise become more real to people if they see major tourist sites like Venice impacted? Possibly. It's good that they are planning for this, although I think (re a previous post) new re-development strategies for populated coastal areas are a higher priority.
The AP reports: "To better characterize the risks facing sites of historic and cultural significant in the Mediterranean, scientists surveyed the exposure of 49 low-lying UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the region. Of the 49 sites, 37 would be affected by a 100-year storm surge. Another 42 are threatened by coastal erosion. As sea levels rise, the risk of a storm surge capable of damaging world heritage sites is expected to increase by 50 percent."
Comment: Will sea level rise become more real to people if they see major tourist sites like Venice impacted? Possibly. It's good that they are planning for this, although I think (re a previous post) new re-development strategies for populated coastal areas are a higher priority.
Tuesday, October 16, 2018
Pestilence
Mysterious paralyzing illness found among kids in 22 states - AP
AP reports: "U.S. health officials on Tuesday reported a jump in cases of a rare paralyzing illness in children, and said it seems to be following an every-other-year pattern. At least 62 cases have been confirmed in 22 states this year, and at least 65 additional illnesses in those states are being investigated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Similar waves of the same illness occurred in 2014 and 2016. [...] About 90 percent of the cases are children who have suffered muscle weakness or paralysis, including in the face, neck, back or limbs. The symptoms tend to occur about a week after they had a fever and respiratory illness."
Comment: That's really scary, praying they will quickly find a vaccine and a cure.
AP reports: "U.S. health officials on Tuesday reported a jump in cases of a rare paralyzing illness in children, and said it seems to be following an every-other-year pattern. At least 62 cases have been confirmed in 22 states this year, and at least 65 additional illnesses in those states are being investigated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Similar waves of the same illness occurred in 2014 and 2016. [...] About 90 percent of the cases are children who have suffered muscle weakness or paralysis, including in the face, neck, back or limbs. The symptoms tend to occur about a week after they had a fever and respiratory illness."
Comment: That's really scary, praying they will quickly find a vaccine and a cure.
Saturday, October 13, 2018
Persecution
Egypt Sentences 17 to Death in Attacks on Christians - The New York Times
The New York Times reports: "An Egyptian military court handed down death sentences on Thursday to 17 people convicted in a series of fatal attacks on Christians that started in December 2016 and left more than 80 people dead and 150 wounded. Egyptian state media said the defendants were accused of belonging to the Islamic State and of plotting attacks against Christian churches and a police checkpoint."
Comment: Thankful that justice has been done and that the government of Egypt has taken this matter seriously. Despite the cynical reporting of the NYT (in which the reporter spent the bulk of the article questioning the integrity of the judicial system rather than discussing the particulars of the attacks, the motives of the attackers and the response of the Christian community), it is certainly encouraging to belivers in Egypt to see justice prevail after these barbaric attacks.
The New York Times reports: "An Egyptian military court handed down death sentences on Thursday to 17 people convicted in a series of fatal attacks on Christians that started in December 2016 and left more than 80 people dead and 150 wounded. Egyptian state media said the defendants were accused of belonging to the Islamic State and of plotting attacks against Christian churches and a police checkpoint."
Comment: Thankful that justice has been done and that the government of Egypt has taken this matter seriously. Despite the cynical reporting of the NYT (in which the reporter spent the bulk of the article questioning the integrity of the judicial system rather than discussing the particulars of the attacks, the motives of the attackers and the response of the Christian community), it is certainly encouraging to belivers in Egypt to see justice prevail after these barbaric attacks.
Friday, October 12, 2018
Persecution
Turkey releases U.S. pastor Andrew Brunson after 2 years in captivity
UPI reports: "Longtime Turkish captive Andrew Brunson was released from house arrest Friday, allowing the pastor to return to the United States after two years in captivity. Brunson has been in Turkish custody since October 2016 when he was arrested on charges that he spied on the government and aided in a military coup attempt."
Comment: Please join me in offering thanks that Pastor Brunson has been released from imprisonment. He had been arrested on trumped up charges, part of the drama surrounding the failed coup attempt and Turkey's efforts to secure the arrest of the U.S. based Islamic cleric they blame for it. They had in mind a prisoner swap that apparently has not happened. Good news indeed!
UPI reports: "Longtime Turkish captive Andrew Brunson was released from house arrest Friday, allowing the pastor to return to the United States after two years in captivity. Brunson has been in Turkish custody since October 2016 when he was arrested on charges that he spied on the government and aided in a military coup attempt."
Comment: Please join me in offering thanks that Pastor Brunson has been released from imprisonment. He had been arrested on trumped up charges, part of the drama surrounding the failed coup attempt and Turkey's efforts to secure the arrest of the U.S. based Islamic cleric they blame for it. They had in mind a prisoner swap that apparently has not happened. Good news indeed!
Thursday, October 11, 2018
Earthquakes - Roaring Waves
Indonesia Tsunami: Experts Warn of More Deadly Disasters | Time
Time Magazine reports: "Indonesia is facing a long and painful recovery from the devastating earthquake and tsunami of two weeks ago, but scientists say that this latest calamity could simply be a warning of more deadly and destructive disasters ahead. [...] The reasons are clear: more humans are moving into more densely populated cities, and surrounding themselves with infrastructure — roads, bridges, and buildings — that become deadly hazards during a disaster, and expensive to repair when it subsides."
Comment: It's time for all countries to carefully reconsider development in disaster prone areas. They must counter the emotional "we will rebuild" sentiment people so often express. It's not brave to rebuild when you know it's a flood/quake/tsunami/typhoon/hurricane/tornado zone. At the very least, insurers should no longer pay to rebuild in such areas and opt instead to pay for relocation.
Time Magazine reports: "Indonesia is facing a long and painful recovery from the devastating earthquake and tsunami of two weeks ago, but scientists say that this latest calamity could simply be a warning of more deadly and destructive disasters ahead. [...] The reasons are clear: more humans are moving into more densely populated cities, and surrounding themselves with infrastructure — roads, bridges, and buildings — that become deadly hazards during a disaster, and expensive to repair when it subsides."
Comment: It's time for all countries to carefully reconsider development in disaster prone areas. They must counter the emotional "we will rebuild" sentiment people so often express. It's not brave to rebuild when you know it's a flood/quake/tsunami/typhoon/hurricane/tornado zone. At the very least, insurers should no longer pay to rebuild in such areas and opt instead to pay for relocation.
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Pestilence
DNA vaccine shows promising, long-term results against Ebola virus
UPI reports: "A synthetic DNA vaccine is showing immediate and long-term promising results against the Ebola virus in preclinical animal research. [...] The Zaire Ebolavirus infection causes a severe hemorrhagic fever with a 50 percent fatality rate. Ebola, which is transmitted to people from wild animals and spreads in the human population through human-to-human transmission, first appeared in 1976 in what is now, Nzara, South Sudan, and in Yambuku, Democratic Republic of Congo."
Comment: I wish them luck with the vaccine, Ebola is one of the scariest diseases we track in this category.
UPI reports: "A synthetic DNA vaccine is showing immediate and long-term promising results against the Ebola virus in preclinical animal research. [...] The Zaire Ebolavirus infection causes a severe hemorrhagic fever with a 50 percent fatality rate. Ebola, which is transmitted to people from wild animals and spreads in the human population through human-to-human transmission, first appeared in 1976 in what is now, Nzara, South Sudan, and in Yambuku, Democratic Republic of Congo."
Comment: I wish them luck with the vaccine, Ebola is one of the scariest diseases we track in this category.
Tuesday, October 09, 2018
Earthquakes
Magnitude-6.3 earthquake rocks Russia's Kuril Islands
UPI reports: "A 6.3-magnitude earthquake hit Russia's Kuril Islands Tuesday three days after the nearby Ebeko volcano erupted on Paramushir Island. The earthquake's epicenter was located 90 miles east of Onekotan Island at a depth of 34 kilometers, according to the Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk seismic station, according to Russia's state-run Sputnik News. [...] The earlier volcanic eruption spewed ash as high as 4.5 kilometers in the air."
Comment: Scientists continue to say that there's nothing unusual going on and that quakes are not increasing in frequency and severity. While it's true that we have better monitoring and reporting procedures now than in the past and this contributes to the misconception that they are, I do hope they will quickly let us know if the trend lines ever change.
UPI reports: "A 6.3-magnitude earthquake hit Russia's Kuril Islands Tuesday three days after the nearby Ebeko volcano erupted on Paramushir Island. The earthquake's epicenter was located 90 miles east of Onekotan Island at a depth of 34 kilometers, according to the Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk seismic station, according to Russia's state-run Sputnik News. [...] The earlier volcanic eruption spewed ash as high as 4.5 kilometers in the air."
Comment: Scientists continue to say that there's nothing unusual going on and that quakes are not increasing in frequency and severity. While it's true that we have better monitoring and reporting procedures now than in the past and this contributes to the misconception that they are, I do hope they will quickly let us know if the trend lines ever change.
Monday, October 08, 2018
Fear for the Future
UN climate report calls for immediate action to curb global warming - UPI
UPI reports: "The latest report from the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change calls for "rapid, far-reaching and unprecedented changes" to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The IPCC report, which was produced with the help of 91 authors and review editors from 40 countries, was approved over the weekend at a meeting in South Korea. [...] The UN report warns the most serious impacts of climate change could arrive as early as 2030 if carbon emissions aren't significantly reduced."
Comment: Most governments are run by ideologues and not pragmatists and since all of this costs money and there are other more immediate and tangible things to spend money on, nothing will be done about this. This means we will be able to look back in the future and confirm that the climate-change skeptics had it wrong. It's not the best way to win an argument.
UPI reports: "The latest report from the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change calls for "rapid, far-reaching and unprecedented changes" to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The IPCC report, which was produced with the help of 91 authors and review editors from 40 countries, was approved over the weekend at a meeting in South Korea. [...] The UN report warns the most serious impacts of climate change could arrive as early as 2030 if carbon emissions aren't significantly reduced."
Comment: Most governments are run by ideologues and not pragmatists and since all of this costs money and there are other more immediate and tangible things to spend money on, nothing will be done about this. This means we will be able to look back in the future and confirm that the climate-change skeptics had it wrong. It's not the best way to win an argument.
Saturday, October 06, 2018
Covenant With Many
As Gaza worsens, Palestinian leader controls fate of US plan - AP
The AP reports, "Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has been sidelined, isolated and humiliated by the Trump administration. But the embattled Palestinian leader may have the final say in determining the fate of the White House’s long-awaited vision for Mideast peace."
Comment: This is another good example of the news media exaggerating the power of the Palestinians over the peace process. Has there ever been a peace agreement they have accepted? If there is power is saying no, then they have that. But if there is power and influence in negotiating and promoting a deal for the betterment of their people, then they have demonstrated that they have no power.
The AP reports, "Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has been sidelined, isolated and humiliated by the Trump administration. But the embattled Palestinian leader may have the final say in determining the fate of the White House’s long-awaited vision for Mideast peace."
Comment: This is another good example of the news media exaggerating the power of the Palestinians over the peace process. Has there ever been a peace agreement they have accepted? If there is power is saying no, then they have that. But if there is power and influence in negotiating and promoting a deal for the betterment of their people, then they have demonstrated that they have no power.
Thursday, October 04, 2018
Famine - War
Key battle in Yemen's war risks tipping country into famine - AP
AP reports: "With American backing, the United Arab Emirates has resumed an all-out offensive aimed at capturing Yemen’s most vital port, Hodeida, where Shiite rebels are digging in to fight to the last man. Thousands of civilians are caught in the middle, trapped by minefields and barrages of mortars and airstrikes. If the array of Yemeni militias backed by the UAE takes the city, it would be their biggest victory against the rebels, known as Houthis, after a long stalemate in the three-year-old civil war. But the battle on the Red Sea coast also threatens to throw Yemen into outright famine."
Comment: Throughout history famine and war often go hand in hand. Yemen, it seems, has not escaped that pattern.
AP reports: "With American backing, the United Arab Emirates has resumed an all-out offensive aimed at capturing Yemen’s most vital port, Hodeida, where Shiite rebels are digging in to fight to the last man. Thousands of civilians are caught in the middle, trapped by minefields and barrages of mortars and airstrikes. If the array of Yemeni militias backed by the UAE takes the city, it would be their biggest victory against the rebels, known as Houthis, after a long stalemate in the three-year-old civil war. But the battle on the Red Sea coast also threatens to throw Yemen into outright famine."
Comment: Throughout history famine and war often go hand in hand. Yemen, it seems, has not escaped that pattern.
Earthquakes - Roaring Waves
Death toll from Indonesia quake-tsunami hits 1,420 - UPI.com
UPI reports: "The official death toll from last week's earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia rose to more than 1,420 Thursday, with over 100 missing as some aid arrives. The 7.5-magnitude quake hit the Indonesian island of Sulawesi Friday and triggered a tsunami wave, soil rivers, and a continuously-climbing death toll. As of Thursday morning, the official death toll was 1,424 people though some on the ground say it's much higher. Indonesia's military authority, KOREM, said that 1,558 people have been confirmed dead and 113 are missing, TIME reported."
Comment: Such a terrible tragedy. It's unfortunate that the current news cycle devotes more time to scandal than to natural disasters.
UPI reports: "The official death toll from last week's earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia rose to more than 1,420 Thursday, with over 100 missing as some aid arrives. The 7.5-magnitude quake hit the Indonesian island of Sulawesi Friday and triggered a tsunami wave, soil rivers, and a continuously-climbing death toll. As of Thursday morning, the official death toll was 1,424 people though some on the ground say it's much higher. Indonesia's military authority, KOREM, said that 1,558 people have been confirmed dead and 113 are missing, TIME reported."
Comment: Such a terrible tragedy. It's unfortunate that the current news cycle devotes more time to scandal than to natural disasters.
Tuesday, October 02, 2018
Mark Update
Biohacker Who Implanted Transit Chip in Hand Evades Fine – Futurism
Futurism.com reports: "In April 2017, Meow-Meow implanted a chip in his hand. The chip is from his Opal card, needed to ride public transportation in Sydney, and it essentially functions as a debit card — users add money to it, then whenever they use a bus, train, or other transportation service, they swipe their card to pay the fee. Thanks to his new implant, Meow-Meow no longer had to worry about losing his card. The biohacker could just place his hand near the Opal card reader and be on his way. All this was presumably working out OK for Meow-Meow until August 2017. That’s when the New South Wales transport authority, which issues the Opal cards, charged him with traveling without a ticket and failing to produce a ticket for transportation officials."
Comment: It doesn't surprise me that bureaucrats would be petty and not really grasp the concept. I think the real story here is the use of an implanted chip as a payment device and access device. As a proof of concept, that is very compelling. I think that early adopters like this guy have clearly demonstrated that an implanted chip is a practical means of combining identity verification, access control and mobile payments. It's possible. Whether the MOTB turns out to be a chip is still up for debate but for now, it's clear that this tech is here now.
Futurism.com reports: "In April 2017, Meow-Meow implanted a chip in his hand. The chip is from his Opal card, needed to ride public transportation in Sydney, and it essentially functions as a debit card — users add money to it, then whenever they use a bus, train, or other transportation service, they swipe their card to pay the fee. Thanks to his new implant, Meow-Meow no longer had to worry about losing his card. The biohacker could just place his hand near the Opal card reader and be on his way. All this was presumably working out OK for Meow-Meow until August 2017. That’s when the New South Wales transport authority, which issues the Opal cards, charged him with traveling without a ticket and failing to produce a ticket for transportation officials."
Comment: It doesn't surprise me that bureaucrats would be petty and not really grasp the concept. I think the real story here is the use of an implanted chip as a payment device and access device. As a proof of concept, that is very compelling. I think that early adopters like this guy have clearly demonstrated that an implanted chip is a practical means of combining identity verification, access control and mobile payments. It's possible. Whether the MOTB turns out to be a chip is still up for debate but for now, it's clear that this tech is here now.
Monday, October 01, 2018
Persecution
Turkey's Recep Tayyip Erdogan says jailed U.S. pastor tied to terrorism - UPI
UPI reports: "Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday he rejects U.S. President Donald Trump's call to release an American pastor jailed in Turkey. Erdogan, addressing Turkish Parliament in Ankara on the start of its legislative year, said pastor Andrew Brunson has links to terrorism. He also called the Brunson case a pretext for U.S. sanctions on Turkey."
Comment: Please join me in praying for the release of Pastor Andrew Brunson. Turkey says he has "links" to terrorism. The real truth is that he is being held a pawn to be exchanged for Fethullah Gulen, a U.S.-based cleric that Erdogan blames for the 2016 coup attempt.
UPI reports: "Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday he rejects U.S. President Donald Trump's call to release an American pastor jailed in Turkey. Erdogan, addressing Turkish Parliament in Ankara on the start of its legislative year, said pastor Andrew Brunson has links to terrorism. He also called the Brunson case a pretext for U.S. sanctions on Turkey."
Comment: Please join me in praying for the release of Pastor Andrew Brunson. Turkey says he has "links" to terrorism. The real truth is that he is being held a pawn to be exchanged for Fethullah Gulen, a U.S.-based cleric that Erdogan blames for the 2016 coup attempt.
Friday, September 28, 2018
Earthquakes
Tsunami sweeps away homes on Indonesian island of Sulawesi - AP
AP reports: "A powerful earthquake rocked the Indonesian island of Sulawesi on Friday, triggering a 3-meter-tall (10-foot-tall) tsunami that an official said swept away houses in at least two cities. [...] The region was rocked by a magnitude 7.5 earthquake Friday and numerous strong aftershocks, including one of magnitude 6.7. An earlier magnitude 6.1 quake in central Sulawsi killed several people, injured 10 and damaged dozens of houses. [...] Indonesia is prone to earthquakes because of its location on the “Ring of Fire,” an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Basin."
Comment: I wanted to be sure and note this because I'm not sure our American visitors will see it, as it has nothing to do with the Washington drama that has dominated the news of late. It's noteworthy because a 7.5 magnitude quake is a very large quake.
AP reports: "A powerful earthquake rocked the Indonesian island of Sulawesi on Friday, triggering a 3-meter-tall (10-foot-tall) tsunami that an official said swept away houses in at least two cities. [...] The region was rocked by a magnitude 7.5 earthquake Friday and numerous strong aftershocks, including one of magnitude 6.7. An earlier magnitude 6.1 quake in central Sulawsi killed several people, injured 10 and damaged dozens of houses. [...] Indonesia is prone to earthquakes because of its location on the “Ring of Fire,” an arc of volcanoes and fault lines in the Pacific Basin."
Comment: I wanted to be sure and note this because I'm not sure our American visitors will see it, as it has nothing to do with the Washington drama that has dominated the news of late. It's noteworthy because a 7.5 magnitude quake is a very large quake.
Thursday, September 27, 2018
Rumors of War
Dutch police arrest 7, foil twin terror plot
UPI reports: "Police in the Netherlands arrested seven men Thursday, breaking up what the country's public prosecutors said was plans for a major terror attack. [...] The officials said the men allegedly planned to attack a large event that would yield many victims."
Comment: It is a good thing when the authorities describe the plots they have foiled. It's a deterrent to future attacks and encourages the public to see the security services actively protecting the public.
UPI reports: "Police in the Netherlands arrested seven men Thursday, breaking up what the country's public prosecutors said was plans for a major terror attack. [...] The officials said the men allegedly planned to attack a large event that would yield many victims."
Comment: It is a good thing when the authorities describe the plots they have foiled. It's a deterrent to future attacks and encourages the public to see the security services actively protecting the public.
Pestilence
Officials push flu vaccine after most deadly season in four decades
UPI reports: "One year after a severe flu season, medical personnel are giving it their best shot to reduce hospitalizations and deaths by giving a boost to vaccines. [...] Last year there was an estimated 900,000 hospitalizations, and more than 80,000 deaths, according to new data released by the CDC on Thursday. The previous high for regular flu season deaths was 56,000. The number of people vaccinated dropped last year by 1.1 percentage point to 57.9 percent -- far below the goal of 80 percent."
Comment: Thank you for the encouragement, I'll be sure to get vaccinated.
UPI reports: "One year after a severe flu season, medical personnel are giving it their best shot to reduce hospitalizations and deaths by giving a boost to vaccines. [...] Last year there was an estimated 900,000 hospitalizations, and more than 80,000 deaths, according to new data released by the CDC on Thursday. The previous high for regular flu season deaths was 56,000. The number of people vaccinated dropped last year by 1.1 percentage point to 57.9 percent -- far below the goal of 80 percent."
Comment: Thank you for the encouragement, I'll be sure to get vaccinated.
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
Covenant With Many
AP - Trump, at UN, backs separate states for Israel, Palestinians
AP reports: "For the first time since taking office, President Donald Trump endorsed a two-state solution as the best way to resolve the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians as he met Wednesday at the U.N. with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. [...] In his earlier comments, Trump said his much anticipated but still unreleased Mideast peace plan could be presented in the next two to four months, but was not specific as to timing."
Comment: It will be interesting to see how Trump's peace plan differs from those proposed by his predecessors. Expecting big things from a great deal-maker!
AP reports: "For the first time since taking office, President Donald Trump endorsed a two-state solution as the best way to resolve the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians as he met Wednesday at the U.N. with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. [...] In his earlier comments, Trump said his much anticipated but still unreleased Mideast peace plan could be presented in the next two to four months, but was not specific as to timing."
Comment: It will be interesting to see how Trump's peace plan differs from those proposed by his predecessors. Expecting big things from a great deal-maker!
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
Pestilence
WHO warns of 'perfect storm' in Congo Ebola outbreak
UPI reports: "The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo could become worse due to a 'perfect storm' of challenges that are allowing the disease to spread, a World Health Organization official warned. A WHO health chief said ongoing violent disputes between armed groups, community resistance to public health officials advice and spread of the disease in broader area are making the Ebola crisis worse [...] Ebola is spread through infected blood and bodily fluids with symptoms including unexplained bleeding or bruising, vomiting, muscle pain, and severe headaches, according to the CDC."
Comment: The words "perfect storm" are not what you hope to hear from medical professionals about a disease outbreak.
UPI reports: "The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo could become worse due to a 'perfect storm' of challenges that are allowing the disease to spread, a World Health Organization official warned. A WHO health chief said ongoing violent disputes between armed groups, community resistance to public health officials advice and spread of the disease in broader area are making the Ebola crisis worse [...] Ebola is spread through infected blood and bodily fluids with symptoms including unexplained bleeding or bruising, vomiting, muscle pain, and severe headaches, according to the CDC."
Comment: The words "perfect storm" are not what you hope to hear from medical professionals about a disease outbreak.
Monday, September 24, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
Iran vows revenge for parade attack that killed 29
UPI reports: "Iran warned the United States, Saudi Arabia and Israel Monday that Tehran would take revenge for an attack on a military parade in Iran. The Saturday attack in southern Iran killed at least 29 people and injured 70, including military personnel and civilians spectators. The gunmen attempted to make their way to a grandstand that contained government officials. The Revolutionary Guard has accused Saudi Arabia of supporting the attack."
Comment: Whoever perpetrated this attack should be ashamed of themselves. It was indeed a cowardly act to attack civilians at a public parade. What were they thinking? This kind of thing does not suggest a regime in disarray. It doesn't undermine the trust in the government. To the contrary, heroic pictures of military personnel protecting women and children by shielding them with their own bodies only encourages support for the regime. Now Iran is lashing out at the likely suspects and they include the U.S. in that list. I would like to think that no matter how much the Trump team may dislike the Iran nuclear deal, they would never stoop so low. I think it more likely that the Saudis paid some mercenaries to do this with very little guidance as to strategy and tactics.
UPI reports: "Iran warned the United States, Saudi Arabia and Israel Monday that Tehran would take revenge for an attack on a military parade in Iran. The Saturday attack in southern Iran killed at least 29 people and injured 70, including military personnel and civilians spectators. The gunmen attempted to make their way to a grandstand that contained government officials. The Revolutionary Guard has accused Saudi Arabia of supporting the attack."
Comment: Whoever perpetrated this attack should be ashamed of themselves. It was indeed a cowardly act to attack civilians at a public parade. What were they thinking? This kind of thing does not suggest a regime in disarray. It doesn't undermine the trust in the government. To the contrary, heroic pictures of military personnel protecting women and children by shielding them with their own bodies only encourages support for the regime. Now Iran is lashing out at the likely suspects and they include the U.S. in that list. I would like to think that no matter how much the Trump team may dislike the Iran nuclear deal, they would never stoop so low. I think it more likely that the Saudis paid some mercenaries to do this with very little guidance as to strategy and tactics.
Rumors of War - King of the North
Russia to provide Syria with new missile system, over Israeli opposition
UPI reports: "Russia will supply Syria with an S-300 surface-to-air missile system within two weeks, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Monday. The announcement came after Syria, which now uses the Soviet-era S-200 system, inadvertently shot down a Russian military plane on Sept. 17. All 15 people aboard were killed. [...] Shoigu also said Russia will begin suppressing communications systems of military aircraft 'attacking objects on Syrian territory.' While the reference to Israeli combat planes is evident, it could also include planes of a U.S.-led coalition fighting the Islamic State in Syria."
Russia blames Israel for downed plane because misleading on airstrikes - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Russia said Sunday the Israeli government is solely to blame for the downing of one of its aircraft by Syria last week because it deliberately was misleading on planned airstrikes. [...] A Russian Il-20 military aircraft crashed near Syria on Sept. 17, killing 15 Russian airmen when the airplane was mistakenly shot down by Syria's air defenses soon after an Israeli strike near the coastal Syrian city of Latakia."
Comment: Have you been wondering how long the friendly relationship between Russia and Israel will last? There are now evident strains in the relationship.
UPI reports: "Russia will supply Syria with an S-300 surface-to-air missile system within two weeks, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Monday. The announcement came after Syria, which now uses the Soviet-era S-200 system, inadvertently shot down a Russian military plane on Sept. 17. All 15 people aboard were killed. [...] Shoigu also said Russia will begin suppressing communications systems of military aircraft 'attacking objects on Syrian territory.' While the reference to Israeli combat planes is evident, it could also include planes of a U.S.-led coalition fighting the Islamic State in Syria."
Russia blames Israel for downed plane because misleading on airstrikes - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Russia said Sunday the Israeli government is solely to blame for the downing of one of its aircraft by Syria last week because it deliberately was misleading on planned airstrikes. [...] A Russian Il-20 military aircraft crashed near Syria on Sept. 17, killing 15 Russian airmen when the airplane was mistakenly shot down by Syria's air defenses soon after an Israeli strike near the coastal Syrian city of Latakia."
Comment: Have you been wondering how long the friendly relationship between Russia and Israel will last? There are now evident strains in the relationship.
Pestilence
Scientists eradicate malaria-carrying mosquitoes in lab tests
UPI reports: "For the first time, scientists have successfully used "gene drive" technology to block female reproduction and eliminate malaria-carrying mosquitoes in lab experiments. [...] Several hundred thousand people die every year as a result of malaria infections. The majority of infections and deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa."
Comment: Why don't we start this week off with some good news for a change. According to this report, scientists are close to eradicating malaria. They way they are doing this is very interesting. Instead of curing the disease they are blocking the way the disease is spread. We know that malaria is spread by mosquitoes so this new effort eradicates the disease by killing off the most common malaria-carrying mosquito species. No more mosquito bites, no more malaria!
UPI reports: "For the first time, scientists have successfully used "gene drive" technology to block female reproduction and eliminate malaria-carrying mosquitoes in lab experiments. [...] Several hundred thousand people die every year as a result of malaria infections. The majority of infections and deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa."
Comment: Why don't we start this week off with some good news for a change. According to this report, scientists are close to eradicating malaria. They way they are doing this is very interesting. Instead of curing the disease they are blocking the way the disease is spread. We know that malaria is spread by mosquitoes so this new effort eradicates the disease by killing off the most common malaria-carrying mosquito species. No more mosquito bites, no more malaria!
Saturday, September 22, 2018
Persecution
Vatican, China make breakthrough deal on bishop appointments - AP
The AP reports: "The Vatican and China said Saturday they had signed a 'provisional agreement' over the appointment of bishops, a breakthrough on an issue that stymied diplomatic relations for decades and aggravated a split among Chinese Catholics. The deal resolved one of the major sticking points in recent years, with the Vatican agreeing to accept seven bishops who were previously named by Beijing without the pope’s consent. [...] With the status of the seven bishops now reconciled, the Vatican said all bishops in China are now in communion with Rome — even though the Catholic community in China is still split between Catholics who belong to the official Chinese church and those in the underground church who remain loyal to the pope. [...] This spring, a 5-year plan regarding Christians was introduced, along with new rules on religious affairs. Over the last few months, local governments across China have shut down hundreds of private Christian 'house churches.' The Vatican spokesman indicated there was still some ways to go for better relations between the Catholic Church and China."
Comment: Interesting development. Please join me in praying for the persecuted church in China.
The AP reports: "The Vatican and China said Saturday they had signed a 'provisional agreement' over the appointment of bishops, a breakthrough on an issue that stymied diplomatic relations for decades and aggravated a split among Chinese Catholics. The deal resolved one of the major sticking points in recent years, with the Vatican agreeing to accept seven bishops who were previously named by Beijing without the pope’s consent. [...] With the status of the seven bishops now reconciled, the Vatican said all bishops in China are now in communion with Rome — even though the Catholic community in China is still split between Catholics who belong to the official Chinese church and those in the underground church who remain loyal to the pope. [...] This spring, a 5-year plan regarding Christians was introduced, along with new rules on religious affairs. Over the last few months, local governments across China have shut down hundreds of private Christian 'house churches.' The Vatican spokesman indicated there was still some ways to go for better relations between the Catholic Church and China."
Comment: Interesting development. Please join me in praying for the persecuted church in China.
Friday, September 21, 2018
Persecution
Religious Leaders: China’s Campaign Against Christians Intensifies
The Voice of America reports: "Officials in central China are increasing pressure on unregistered religious groups and religious centers, including churches for Christians. Observers say Chinese President Xi Jinping aims to contain the growth and spread of Christianity in the country. China’s government tightly controls the activities of religious groups."
Comment: Please join me in praying for the persecuted church in China. One of the best books I've ever read on the spiritual life was by a Chinese Christian by the name of Watchman Nee. It is sad to see that not much as changed in China since his time.
The Voice of America reports: "Officials in central China are increasing pressure on unregistered religious groups and religious centers, including churches for Christians. Observers say Chinese President Xi Jinping aims to contain the growth and spread of Christianity in the country. China’s government tightly controls the activities of religious groups."
Comment: Please join me in praying for the persecuted church in China. One of the best books I've ever read on the spiritual life was by a Chinese Christian by the name of Watchman Nee. It is sad to see that not much as changed in China since his time.
Thursday, September 20, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
Iran, Lebanon take steps against Israel nuclear 'threat'
UPI reports: "The Iranian government asked the United Nations Thursday to censure Israel due to what Tehran perceives a significant nuclear threat. [...] The letter also demanded the United Nations not only condemn Israel's threat, but also make the country join the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, and open its nuclear program to International Atomic Energy Agency inspections. In Lebanon Thursday, Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said his country possesses precision rockets that are capable of hitting targets in Israel."
Comment: I'm sure there is a proper word or phrase to describe the absurdity of Iran complaining to the United Nations that they fear a nuclear threat from Israel. How many times has Iran threatened to wipe Israel off the map?
UPI reports: "The Iranian government asked the United Nations Thursday to censure Israel due to what Tehran perceives a significant nuclear threat. [...] The letter also demanded the United Nations not only condemn Israel's threat, but also make the country join the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, and open its nuclear program to International Atomic Energy Agency inspections. In Lebanon Thursday, Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said his country possesses precision rockets that are capable of hitting targets in Israel."
Comment: I'm sure there is a proper word or phrase to describe the absurdity of Iran complaining to the United Nations that they fear a nuclear threat from Israel. How many times has Iran threatened to wipe Israel off the map?
Wednesday, September 19, 2018
Mark of the Beast
Amazon considering opening up to 3,000 cashierless stores by 2021: Bbg
Reuters reports: "Amazon.com Inc (AMZN.O) is considering a plan to open as many as 3,000 new Amazon Go cashierless stores in the next few years, Bloomberg reported here on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter. [...] The Amazon Go store, which has no cashiers and allows shoppers to buy things with the help of a smartphone app, is widely seen as a concept that can alter brick-and-mortar retail."
Comment: Ok, let's get this out of the way first: I'm not saying this is the MOTB and I don't claim to know what the MOTB will be. That said, I think it is worthwhile to note trends and technologies that may become the MOTB.
I think this is a noteworthy development because it suggests a level of technology that allows people to shop without cash or traditional payment methods. They do, however, need to scan an app before entering the store. In other words, if you don't have the app, you can't buy anything. Commentators have been anticipating the rise of a cashless society for many years now and although we are not there yet, this development is bringing that day closer. Let's keep an eye on this.
Reuters reports: "Amazon.com Inc (AMZN.O) is considering a plan to open as many as 3,000 new Amazon Go cashierless stores in the next few years, Bloomberg reported here on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter. [...] The Amazon Go store, which has no cashiers and allows shoppers to buy things with the help of a smartphone app, is widely seen as a concept that can alter brick-and-mortar retail."
Comment: Ok, let's get this out of the way first: I'm not saying this is the MOTB and I don't claim to know what the MOTB will be. That said, I think it is worthwhile to note trends and technologies that may become the MOTB.
I think this is a noteworthy development because it suggests a level of technology that allows people to shop without cash or traditional payment methods. They do, however, need to scan an app before entering the store. In other words, if you don't have the app, you can't buy anything. Commentators have been anticipating the rise of a cashless society for many years now and although we are not there yet, this development is bringing that day closer. Let's keep an eye on this.
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Wickedness Increases
'Vicious" needle scare now includes apples, bananas in Australia - UPI.com
UPI reports: "The needle scare in Australia has grown worse -- moving from strawberries now possibly to apples and bananas, authorities said Tuesday. Officials said an apple and banana in Sydney have been found to contain needles, and 20 new cases involving strawberries have been reported in New South Wales. In one case, a man was hospitalized."
Comment: I know that I don't make many posts under the "wickedness increases" tag. That's not because I can't find news reports that relate to that. It's more like there are too many news reports that might fall under that category and I don't want it to be the only thing I post. That would be depressing after a while, right? We all understand this is a fallen world and evil people will act out the evil that is in their hearts. We see it in the headlines every day. But there's just something about this needle scare that is so horrible, more than just your run of the mill story of inhumanity, this is a very cold, calculating and malicious act. Praying that they catch the culprit!
UPI reports: "The needle scare in Australia has grown worse -- moving from strawberries now possibly to apples and bananas, authorities said Tuesday. Officials said an apple and banana in Sydney have been found to contain needles, and 20 new cases involving strawberries have been reported in New South Wales. In one case, a man was hospitalized."
Comment: I know that I don't make many posts under the "wickedness increases" tag. That's not because I can't find news reports that relate to that. It's more like there are too many news reports that might fall under that category and I don't want it to be the only thing I post. That would be depressing after a while, right? We all understand this is a fallen world and evil people will act out the evil that is in their hearts. We see it in the headlines every day. But there's just something about this needle scare that is so horrible, more than just your run of the mill story of inhumanity, this is a very cold, calculating and malicious act. Praying that they catch the culprit!
Monday, September 17, 2018
Gog Alliance - Doomed Damascus
Russia, Turkey agree to establish demilitarized zone in Syria's Idlib
UPI reports: "Russia and Turkey agreed Monday to establish a demilitarized zone in the Syrian province of Idlib amid concerns of a potentially catastrophic offensive against rebels in the area. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced they would create the demilitarized zone by Oct. 15 during a meeting in Sochi."
Comment: The levels of cooperation between Russia and Turkey are really very high now. What a change from only a few years ago when they were shooting planes down!
UPI reports: "Russia and Turkey agreed Monday to establish a demilitarized zone in the Syrian province of Idlib amid concerns of a potentially catastrophic offensive against rebels in the area. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced they would create the demilitarized zone by Oct. 15 during a meeting in Sochi."
Comment: The levels of cooperation between Russia and Turkey are really very high now. What a change from only a few years ago when they were shooting planes down!
Covenant With Many
Palestinian official says U.S. will never present Middle East peace plan | Reuters
Reuters reports: "The United States will not present its long-awaited plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace any time soon and is instead trying to unilaterally change the terms of reference for any future proposal, a senior Palestinian official said on Saturday. Echoing deep scepticism among the Palestinians, Arab countries and analysts, Saeb Erekat, the Palestinian chief negotiator, said that the Trump administration was siding with Israel on the core issues of the decades-old conflict, burying all chances for Middle East peace."
Comment: Here is an interesting news report that illustrates Palestinian rejection of any Trump peace plan...even before it's announced. They will now probably fire off more missiles at Israel to demonstrate their sincere desire for peace.
Reuters reports: "The United States will not present its long-awaited plan for Israeli-Palestinian peace any time soon and is instead trying to unilaterally change the terms of reference for any future proposal, a senior Palestinian official said on Saturday. Echoing deep scepticism among the Palestinians, Arab countries and analysts, Saeb Erekat, the Palestinian chief negotiator, said that the Trump administration was siding with Israel on the core issues of the decades-old conflict, burying all chances for Middle East peace."
Comment: Here is an interesting news report that illustrates Palestinian rejection of any Trump peace plan...even before it's announced. They will now probably fire off more missiles at Israel to demonstrate their sincere desire for peace.
Friday, September 14, 2018
Famine
Isolated and unseen, Yemenis eat leaves to stave off famine - AP
The AP reports: "At least 20 children are known to have died of starvation already this year in the province that includes the district, more than three years into the country’s ruinous civil war. The real number is likely far higher, since few families report it when their children die at home, officials say. [...] The worsening hunger in Aslam is a sign of the gaps in an international aid system that is already overwhelmed and under pressure from local authorities. Yet outside aid is the only thing preventing widespread death from starvation in Yemen. The conditions in the district may also be an indication that humanitarian officials’ warnings are coming true: In the face of unending war, hunger’s spread is outstripping efforts to keep people alive."
Comment: Famine can be natural or man-made. In this case, it appears to be a man-made famine caused by war and neglect. The neglect arises because international aid is provided but it is not reaching the poorest living in remote areas.
The AP reports: "At least 20 children are known to have died of starvation already this year in the province that includes the district, more than three years into the country’s ruinous civil war. The real number is likely far higher, since few families report it when their children die at home, officials say. [...] The worsening hunger in Aslam is a sign of the gaps in an international aid system that is already overwhelmed and under pressure from local authorities. Yet outside aid is the only thing preventing widespread death from starvation in Yemen. The conditions in the district may also be an indication that humanitarian officials’ warnings are coming true: In the face of unending war, hunger’s spread is outstripping efforts to keep people alive."
Comment: Famine can be natural or man-made. In this case, it appears to be a man-made famine caused by war and neglect. The neglect arises because international aid is provided but it is not reaching the poorest living in remote areas.
Thursday, September 13, 2018
Roaring Waves
'Catastrophic' rains, floods expected as Hurricane Florence hits Carolinas
UPI reports: "Hurricane Florence slowed as it approached land Thursday afternoon, making catastrophic flooding more of a threat for the Carolina coast, the National Hurricane Center said. [...] Though the storm has weakened as it approached land, its biggest threat was expected to be heavy rainfall and storm surges."
Comment: This is welcome news, the storm is slowing and perhaps weakening?
UPI reports: "Hurricane Florence slowed as it approached land Thursday afternoon, making catastrophic flooding more of a threat for the Carolina coast, the National Hurricane Center said. [...] Though the storm has weakened as it approached land, its biggest threat was expected to be heavy rainfall and storm surges."
Comment: This is welcome news, the storm is slowing and perhaps weakening?
Wednesday, September 12, 2018
Persecution
Franklin
Graham says 'Christians in Nigeria Are Being Brutally Slaughtered',
Urges Church Not to Turn 'A Deaf Ear to Their Cries' | CBN News
CBN reports: "Evangelist Franklin Graham is making an impassioned plea on behalf of Nigeria's persecuted Christians. 'Christians in Nigeria are being brutally slaughtered, and they feel like the rest of the world is turning a deaf ear to their cries,' the 66-year-old head of Samaritan's Purse wrote in a Facebook post over the weekend. It comes as ongoing violence between Christians and Muslim farmers in Nigeria's central Plateau state continues to escalate. [...] The central Nigerian state has been the epicenter of vicious violence between Christian and Muslim farmers for months."
Comment: Please join me in praying for the persecuted church in Nigeria.
CBN reports: "Evangelist Franklin Graham is making an impassioned plea on behalf of Nigeria's persecuted Christians. 'Christians in Nigeria are being brutally slaughtered, and they feel like the rest of the world is turning a deaf ear to their cries,' the 66-year-old head of Samaritan's Purse wrote in a Facebook post over the weekend. It comes as ongoing violence between Christians and Muslim farmers in Nigeria's central Plateau state continues to escalate. [...] The central Nigerian state has been the epicenter of vicious violence between Christian and Muslim farmers for months."
Comment: Please join me in praying for the persecuted church in Nigeria.
Tuesday, September 11, 2018
Rumors of War - King of the North
Russia includes China in biggest war games in decades
UPI reports: "Russia began its war games -- the largest show of military force since the height of the Cold War nearly four decades ago -- Tuesday, amid heightened tensions with the United States. [...] About 3,200 Chinese troops, more than 900 pieces of weaponry and 30 fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters will participate in joint training to conduct fire strike and counterattacks, the Chinese Defense Ministry said. China's participation will enhance its counterattack abilities and reinforce ties with Russia, Chinese government officials said Tuesday."
Comment: Most great powers stage war games on a yearly basis, so this is nothing new, but the addition of China does indeed make this noteworthy. There was a time when Russia and China were more competitive but that has changed greatly over the last decade or so. Their mutual anti-American sentiment seems to have formed a strong bond between them but I wonder, is it too late to undermine that alliance?
UPI reports: "Russia began its war games -- the largest show of military force since the height of the Cold War nearly four decades ago -- Tuesday, amid heightened tensions with the United States. [...] About 3,200 Chinese troops, more than 900 pieces of weaponry and 30 fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters will participate in joint training to conduct fire strike and counterattacks, the Chinese Defense Ministry said. China's participation will enhance its counterattack abilities and reinforce ties with Russia, Chinese government officials said Tuesday."
Comment: Most great powers stage war games on a yearly basis, so this is nothing new, but the addition of China does indeed make this noteworthy. There was a time when Russia and China were more competitive but that has changed greatly over the last decade or so. Their mutual anti-American sentiment seems to have formed a strong bond between them but I wonder, is it too late to undermine that alliance?
Monday, September 10, 2018
Persecution
Reuters - China to crack down on 'chaotic' online religious info: media
Reuters reports: "China has drawn up new draft guidelines to crack down on the 'chaotic' and illegal online promotion of religion, the official Global Times reported on Tuesday, part of a tough state campaign to bring religious worship into line. [...] Chinese citizens are theoretically free to practice any religion as long as it is officially recognized by the government. It has repeatedly cracked down on unauthorized religious activity, with authorities in Beijing shutting down a large Protestant church on Monday."
Comment: Hundreds and maybe even thousands of Christian house-churches are under threat from this new crackdown. Please join me in praying for the church in China, that the government will realize they have nothing to fear from Christians.
Reuters reports: "China has drawn up new draft guidelines to crack down on the 'chaotic' and illegal online promotion of religion, the official Global Times reported on Tuesday, part of a tough state campaign to bring religious worship into line. [...] Chinese citizens are theoretically free to practice any religion as long as it is officially recognized by the government. It has repeatedly cracked down on unauthorized religious activity, with authorities in Beijing shutting down a large Protestant church on Monday."
Comment: Hundreds and maybe even thousands of Christian house-churches are under threat from this new crackdown. Please join me in praying for the church in China, that the government will realize they have nothing to fear from Christians.
Friday, September 07, 2018
Earthquakes
Japan quake toll up to 20 as rescuers dig through landslides
AP reports: "The toll from an earthquake that rocked Japan’s northernmost main island of Hokkaido rose to 20 on Friday, and 19 others remained unaccounted for in one small town after an entire mountainside collapsed on their homes. [...] Rescuers were using search dogs, backhoes and shovels as they dug through tons of mud and debris from the landslides triggered by the magnitude 6.7 quake that struck before dawn Thursday."
Comment: That was a big quake, best of luck to the rescuers. I though this was noteworthy to post, after all, you may not have heard about it since it has nothing to do with sensational news and scandals.
AP reports: "The toll from an earthquake that rocked Japan’s northernmost main island of Hokkaido rose to 20 on Friday, and 19 others remained unaccounted for in one small town after an entire mountainside collapsed on their homes. [...] Rescuers were using search dogs, backhoes and shovels as they dug through tons of mud and debris from the landslides triggered by the magnitude 6.7 quake that struck before dawn Thursday."
Comment: That was a big quake, best of luck to the rescuers. I though this was noteworthy to post, after all, you may not have heard about it since it has nothing to do with sensational news and scandals.
Thursday, September 06, 2018
Gog Alliance
Syria summit in Iran may decide Idlib military offensive
The AP reports: "The presidents of Iran, Russia and Turkey will meet in Tehran to discuss the war in Syria, with all eyes on a possible military offensive to retake the last rebel-held bastion of Idlib. The summit Friday, the third between Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, may determine whether diplomacy halts any military action."
Comment: The military alliance depicted in Ezekiel 38 is taking shape.
The AP reports: "The presidents of Iran, Russia and Turkey will meet in Tehran to discuss the war in Syria, with all eyes on a possible military offensive to retake the last rebel-held bastion of Idlib. The summit Friday, the third between Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, may determine whether diplomacy halts any military action."
Comment: The military alliance depicted in Ezekiel 38 is taking shape.
Covenant With Many
Paraguay moving Israeli embassy back to Tel Aviv, after 4 months
UPI reports: "Paraguay said Wednesday it's moving its Israeli embassy back to Tel Aviv, just weeks after moving the consulate to Jerusalem. [...] In response, Israel closed its embassy in the South American nation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanhyahu on Wednesday raised concern about the move's impact on diplomatic relations. [...] The Palestinian Authority said it convinced newly-elected Paraguayan President Mario Abdo Benitez to reverse the decision to move away from Tel Aviv, which was made by his predecessor."
Comment: This is an unexpected diplomatic victory for the Palestinians, one that underscores how easy it is to manipulate opinion against Israel.
UPI reports: "Paraguay said Wednesday it's moving its Israeli embassy back to Tel Aviv, just weeks after moving the consulate to Jerusalem. [...] In response, Israel closed its embassy in the South American nation. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanhyahu on Wednesday raised concern about the move's impact on diplomatic relations. [...] The Palestinian Authority said it convinced newly-elected Paraguayan President Mario Abdo Benitez to reverse the decision to move away from Tel Aviv, which was made by his predecessor."
Comment: This is an unexpected diplomatic victory for the Palestinians, one that underscores how easy it is to manipulate opinion against Israel.
Pestilence
Topical cream tested as way to enhance bird flu vaccine
UPI reports: "A clinical trial is underway to determine the effectiveness of a topical cream to enhance the immune response to a 'pre-pandemic' influenza vaccine. [...] H5N1 causes severe respiratory illness in birds and, in rare circumstances, humans have contracted the flu through direct or indirect contact with infected birds, such as poultry. The World Health Organization reported 860 cases of H5N1 influenza, including 454 fatal ones, from 2003 through July 20."
Comment: Good news, I wish them success with the study.
UPI reports: "A clinical trial is underway to determine the effectiveness of a topical cream to enhance the immune response to a 'pre-pandemic' influenza vaccine. [...] H5N1 causes severe respiratory illness in birds and, in rare circumstances, humans have contracted the flu through direct or indirect contact with infected birds, such as poultry. The World Health Organization reported 860 cases of H5N1 influenza, including 454 fatal ones, from 2003 through July 20."
Comment: Good news, I wish them success with the study.
Wednesday, September 05, 2018
Earthquakes
UPI - 6.6-magnitude earthquake shakes Japan
UPI reports: "A powerful 6.6-magnitude earthquake shook the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido early Thursday morning, the U.S. Geological Survey said. The earthquake struck at about 3 a.m. and was centered about 17 miles east of the city of Tomakomai, with a depth of about 21 miles, the USGS said. There was no threat of a tsunami following the quake."
Comment: The "ring of fire" seems to be very active lately.
UPI reports: "A powerful 6.6-magnitude earthquake shook the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido early Thursday morning, the U.S. Geological Survey said. The earthquake struck at about 3 a.m. and was centered about 17 miles east of the city of Tomakomai, with a depth of about 21 miles, the USGS said. There was no threat of a tsunami following the quake."
Comment: The "ring of fire" seems to be very active lately.
Rumors of War - Doomed Damascus
UPI - Syrian government forces attack rebel-held city
UPI reports: "Syrian government warplanes struck the last rebel-held province of the country Tuesday. The Syrian government's attack on Idlib, located in northwestern Syria, was assisted by the Russian military, which called the area a 'cradle of terrorism,' the BBC reported. The attacks were carried out after the U.S. government urged the Syrian government, which is assisted by Russia and Iran in its civil war, not to attack the rebel stronghold where approximately 3 million people live."
Comment: I wonder how many observers are secretly hoping for a quick and successful offensive that ends the civil war and restores the status quo ante?
UPI reports: "Syrian government warplanes struck the last rebel-held province of the country Tuesday. The Syrian government's attack on Idlib, located in northwestern Syria, was assisted by the Russian military, which called the area a 'cradle of terrorism,' the BBC reported. The attacks were carried out after the U.S. government urged the Syrian government, which is assisted by Russia and Iran in its civil war, not to attack the rebel stronghold where approximately 3 million people live."
Comment: I wonder how many observers are secretly hoping for a quick and successful offensive that ends the civil war and restores the status quo ante?
Tuesday, September 04, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
Israel signals it could attack Iranian weaponry in Iraq | Reuters
Reuters reports: "Israel signaled on Monday that it could attack suspected Iranian military assets in Iraq, as it has done with scores of air strikes in war-torn Syria. Citing Iranian, Iraqi and Western sources, Reuters reported last week that Iran had transferred short-range ballistic missiles to Shi’ite allies in Iraq in recent months. Tehran and Baghdad formally denied that report. Israel sees in Iran’s regional expansion an attempt to open up new fronts against it. Israel has repeatedly launched attacks in Syria to prevent any entrenchment of Iranian forces helping Damascus in the war."
Report: U.S. tells Israel 'please leave Iraq to us' - Israel News - Jerusalem Post
The Jerusalem Post reports: "US officials have warned Israel not to strike Iraq after officials signaled that the IDF could target Iranian military positions in the country. According to a report on Israel’s public broadcaster KAN, Washington asked Israel several weeks ago to not carry out any air-strikes in Iraq, weeks before reports surfaced that Tehran had deployed ballistic missiles capable of hitting Saudi Arabia and Israel."
Comment: I was away for the holiday weekend but did not want these reports to escape notice. I think this is a pretty significant development. Would Israel attack Iranian forces in Iraq while Iraq is technically under the military protection of the U.S. and UN forces? What would it do to the close relationship between Israel and the U.S. if they did?
Reuters reports: "Israel signaled on Monday that it could attack suspected Iranian military assets in Iraq, as it has done with scores of air strikes in war-torn Syria. Citing Iranian, Iraqi and Western sources, Reuters reported last week that Iran had transferred short-range ballistic missiles to Shi’ite allies in Iraq in recent months. Tehran and Baghdad formally denied that report. Israel sees in Iran’s regional expansion an attempt to open up new fronts against it. Israel has repeatedly launched attacks in Syria to prevent any entrenchment of Iranian forces helping Damascus in the war."
Report: U.S. tells Israel 'please leave Iraq to us' - Israel News - Jerusalem Post
The Jerusalem Post reports: "US officials have warned Israel not to strike Iraq after officials signaled that the IDF could target Iranian military positions in the country. According to a report on Israel’s public broadcaster KAN, Washington asked Israel several weeks ago to not carry out any air-strikes in Iraq, weeks before reports surfaced that Tehran had deployed ballistic missiles capable of hitting Saudi Arabia and Israel."
Comment: I was away for the holiday weekend but did not want these reports to escape notice. I think this is a pretty significant development. Would Israel attack Iranian forces in Iraq while Iraq is technically under the military protection of the U.S. and UN forces? What would it do to the close relationship between Israel and the U.S. if they did?
Thursday, August 30, 2018
Rumors of War - King of the North
Russia to hold its biggest war games since fall of Soviet Union | Reuters
Reuters reports: "Russia will next month hold its biggest war games since the fall of the Soviet Union, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday, a massive military exercise that will also involve the Chinese and Mongolian armies. The exercise, called Vostok-2018 (East-2018), will take place in central and eastern Russian military districts and involve almost 300,000 troops, more than 1,000 military aircraft, two of Russia’s naval fleets, and all of its airborne units, Shoigu said in a statement. [...] The war games, which will take place from Sept. 11-15, are likely to worry Japan, which has already complained about a Russian military build-up in the Far East, something Moscow has linked to Tokyo’s roll-out of the Aegis U.S. missile system. [...] When asked if China’s involvement meant Moscow and Beijing were moving towards an alliance, Peskov said it showed that the two were cooperating in all areas. China and Russia have taken part in joint military drills before but not on such a large scale."
Comment: This is an interesting development. I think it's noteworthy that Russia is including China in these war games. I think their alliance is strong and they are not afraid to let the world (and especially the U.S.) see it.
Reuters reports: "Russia will next month hold its biggest war games since the fall of the Soviet Union, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Tuesday, a massive military exercise that will also involve the Chinese and Mongolian armies. The exercise, called Vostok-2018 (East-2018), will take place in central and eastern Russian military districts and involve almost 300,000 troops, more than 1,000 military aircraft, two of Russia’s naval fleets, and all of its airborne units, Shoigu said in a statement. [...] The war games, which will take place from Sept. 11-15, are likely to worry Japan, which has already complained about a Russian military build-up in the Far East, something Moscow has linked to Tokyo’s roll-out of the Aegis U.S. missile system. [...] When asked if China’s involvement meant Moscow and Beijing were moving towards an alliance, Peskov said it showed that the two were cooperating in all areas. China and Russia have taken part in joint military drills before but not on such a large scale."
Comment: This is an interesting development. I think it's noteworthy that Russia is including China in these war games. I think their alliance is strong and they are not afraid to let the world (and especially the U.S.) see it.
Tuesday, August 28, 2018
Rumors of War - Doomed Damascus
Russia gathers ships near Syria against U.S. threat over chemical weapons
UPI reports: "The Russian military has amassed a fleet of at least 10 warships and two submarines off Syria's northwest coast in preparation for a possible assault on militants in Idlib province, NATO and Syrian military officials said. [...] Russia said the buildup was in response to possible airstrikes by the U.S.-led coalition against Syrian government forces. Spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov told Sputnik, a Russian state-run news outlet, that rebels in Idlib province were preparing to stage chemical weapon attacks on civilians and blame the regime of President Bashar al-Assad."
Comment: This is a situation that could easily spiral out of control. Do you think the American public would be surprised to learn that U.S. troops are still on the ground in Syria?
UPI reports: "The Russian military has amassed a fleet of at least 10 warships and two submarines off Syria's northwest coast in preparation for a possible assault on militants in Idlib province, NATO and Syrian military officials said. [...] Russia said the buildup was in response to possible airstrikes by the U.S.-led coalition against Syrian government forces. Spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov told Sputnik, a Russian state-run news outlet, that rebels in Idlib province were preparing to stage chemical weapon attacks on civilians and blame the regime of President Bashar al-Assad."
Comment: This is a situation that could easily spiral out of control. Do you think the American public would be surprised to learn that U.S. troops are still on the ground in Syria?
Monday, August 27, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
Iran has control of Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Iranian Navy chief says - UPI
UPI reports: "Iran is in full control of the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, a top Iranian Navy commander said Monday. [...] His comments suggest that Iran believes it is capable of blocking all shipping through the waterways, notably the shipment of oil. Tehran has suggested it could take military action in the Persian Gulf to retaliate for U.S. sanctions preventing the transport of Iranian oil, including blockades against countries delivering oil through the Gulf. Last month, Ayatollah Ali Khomenei, Iran's senior leader, said he supports a policy by which no country can export oil through the Gulf if Iran cannot."
Comment: Iran is in the process of salvaging the European side of the Iran Nuclear Deal and so this may be mere posturing, but I'm of the opinion that the threat to shipping is real and that they are not bluffing. Time will tell.
UPI reports: "Iran is in full control of the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, a top Iranian Navy commander said Monday. [...] His comments suggest that Iran believes it is capable of blocking all shipping through the waterways, notably the shipment of oil. Tehran has suggested it could take military action in the Persian Gulf to retaliate for U.S. sanctions preventing the transport of Iranian oil, including blockades against countries delivering oil through the Gulf. Last month, Ayatollah Ali Khomenei, Iran's senior leader, said he supports a policy by which no country can export oil through the Gulf if Iran cannot."
Comment: Iran is in the process of salvaging the European side of the Iran Nuclear Deal and so this may be mere posturing, but I'm of the opinion that the threat to shipping is real and that they are not bluffing. Time will tell.
Thursday, August 23, 2018
War
North Korea calls for end of Korean War ahead of possible Mike Pompeo visit - UPI.com
UPI reports: "North Korea is using a propaganda outlet that targets the South to
promote the signing of a declaration to end the Korean War.
The call for an end-of-war declaration comes ahead of U.S. Secretary of
State Mike Pompeo's possible fourth trip to Pyongyang, Seoul Pyongyang
News reported Thursday."
Comment: It's a bit sobering to realize that the Korean War never officially ended. There was a ceasefire agreement but no official peace treaty. Technically, the the peninsula is still at war. Perhaps the leaders would be wise to negotiate peace and conclude the war while they still have time. Events can always spiral out of control.
Comment: It's a bit sobering to realize that the Korean War never officially ended. There was a ceasefire agreement but no official peace treaty. Technically, the the peninsula is still at war. Perhaps the leaders would be wise to negotiate peace and conclude the war while they still have time. Events can always spiral out of control.
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
Covenant With Many
U.S. not discussing recognition of Israel's Golan hold: Bolton | Reuters
Reuters reports: "The Trump administration is not discussing possible U.S. recognition of Israel’s claim of sovereignty over the Golan Heights, U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton said. [...] Palestinians seek other territories that Israel occupied in 1967 - the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem - for a future state. U.S.-backed talks on that goal stalled in 2014. The Trump administration has tried to restart the diplomacy but has been cold-shouldered by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas since it recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital last December."
Comment: It's interesting to note that Mideast peace talks are continuing far from the glare of the cameras. From what I've been able to piece together, Trump's policy impresario Jared Kushner and he has been making the round of Mideast capitals sounding out leaders and pitching specifics tailored for each audience and in this way a larger plan is starting to take shape. Of course, the Palestinians have already rejected the Trump peace plan even as it is still in the works. The Hamas faction rejections all peace plans while the Fatah faction is usually more considered and diplomatic about their rejections but the end point is the same. It's clear now that the Palestinians are not all that interested in an agreement that requires each side of give a little and get a little. The only real hope I can see is that Arab countries pressure them into a negotiated settlement that will be better for them in the long-run, even if it's not something they can sell to their radical wing. Is that likely? Time will tell.
Reuters reports: "The Trump administration is not discussing possible U.S. recognition of Israel’s claim of sovereignty over the Golan Heights, U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton said. [...] Palestinians seek other territories that Israel occupied in 1967 - the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem - for a future state. U.S.-backed talks on that goal stalled in 2014. The Trump administration has tried to restart the diplomacy but has been cold-shouldered by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas since it recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital last December."
Comment: It's interesting to note that Mideast peace talks are continuing far from the glare of the cameras. From what I've been able to piece together, Trump's policy impresario Jared Kushner and he has been making the round of Mideast capitals sounding out leaders and pitching specifics tailored for each audience and in this way a larger plan is starting to take shape. Of course, the Palestinians have already rejected the Trump peace plan even as it is still in the works. The Hamas faction rejections all peace plans while the Fatah faction is usually more considered and diplomatic about their rejections but the end point is the same. It's clear now that the Palestinians are not all that interested in an agreement that requires each side of give a little and get a little. The only real hope I can see is that Arab countries pressure them into a negotiated settlement that will be better for them in the long-run, even if it's not something they can sell to their radical wing. Is that likely? Time will tell.
Thursday, August 16, 2018
Rumors of War
U.S. concerned Russian satellite could be space weapon - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Just days after the Trump administration proposed a Space Force as a new branch of the military, U.S. officials say they're concerned about 'very abnormal behavior' involving a Russian satellite. The satellite, launched in October, is displaying behavior 'inconsistent' with the kind of satellite Russia says it is, said Yleem D.S. Poblete, assistant secretary of state for the Bureau of Arms Control, Verification and Compliance ."
Comment: Welcome to a new arms race. Is it really so surprising? Humans take weapons with them everywhere we go, why would space be any different?
UPI reports: "Just days after the Trump administration proposed a Space Force as a new branch of the military, U.S. officials say they're concerned about 'very abnormal behavior' involving a Russian satellite. The satellite, launched in October, is displaying behavior 'inconsistent' with the kind of satellite Russia says it is, said Yleem D.S. Poblete, assistant secretary of state for the Bureau of Arms Control, Verification and Compliance ."
Comment: Welcome to a new arms race. Is it really so surprising? Humans take weapons with them everywhere we go, why would space be any different?
Wednesday, August 15, 2018
Roaring Waves
Sea level to increase risk of deadly tsunamis - UPI.com
UPI reports: "New research suggests sea level rise caused by manmade global warming is likely to increase the risk of devastating tsunamis. Just 12 inches of sea level, scientists at Virginia Tech found, would put coastal communities in greater danger. Climate change isn't altering the planet's tectonics, so tsunami-generating earthquakes aren't likely to become more frequent. But rising global temperatures are melting Earth's glaciers, accelerating sea level rise, which amplifies the impact of extreme flooding events."
Comment: I'm entirely persuaded the sea level rise is consistent with BP and not something to be dismissed by the anti-climate changers.
UPI reports: "New research suggests sea level rise caused by manmade global warming is likely to increase the risk of devastating tsunamis. Just 12 inches of sea level, scientists at Virginia Tech found, would put coastal communities in greater danger. Climate change isn't altering the planet's tectonics, so tsunami-generating earthquakes aren't likely to become more frequent. But rising global temperatures are melting Earth's glaciers, accelerating sea level rise, which amplifies the impact of extreme flooding events."
Comment: I'm entirely persuaded the sea level rise is consistent with BP and not something to be dismissed by the anti-climate changers.
Tuesday, August 14, 2018
Wars & Rumors of War
U.N.: Up to 30,000 Islamic State members remain in Iraq, Syria - UPI.com
UPI reports: "As many as 30,000 members of the Islamic State terrorist group remain in Iraq and Syria, a U.N. report indicates. The report released Monday states that a core of between 20,000 and 30,000 IS members, including leadership and other branches, remains intact and distributed roughly equally between the two countries. [...] U.N. experts said the group -- also identified as ISIS, ISIL and Daesh -- rallied in the early parts of 2018 after being militarily defeated in Iraq and most of Syria the year prior and will continue to survive as a 'covert network' in both countries with supporters spread throughout Libya, Southeast Asia and West Africa."
Comment: How's the war against the Islamic State going? Well, according to this report, they staging something of a comeback after having been defeated in Iraq and most of Syria. I'm wondering how they are funded? I distinctly remember the allied effort to defeat them going after their funding and then as they lost territory they found their options and ability to strike back had greatly diminished. I wonder what's changed?
UPI reports: "As many as 30,000 members of the Islamic State terrorist group remain in Iraq and Syria, a U.N. report indicates. The report released Monday states that a core of between 20,000 and 30,000 IS members, including leadership and other branches, remains intact and distributed roughly equally between the two countries. [...] U.N. experts said the group -- also identified as ISIS, ISIL and Daesh -- rallied in the early parts of 2018 after being militarily defeated in Iraq and most of Syria the year prior and will continue to survive as a 'covert network' in both countries with supporters spread throughout Libya, Southeast Asia and West Africa."
Comment: How's the war against the Islamic State going? Well, according to this report, they staging something of a comeback after having been defeated in Iraq and most of Syria. I'm wondering how they are funded? I distinctly remember the allied effort to defeat them going after their funding and then as they lost territory they found their options and ability to strike back had greatly diminished. I wonder what's changed?
Monday, August 13, 2018
Gog Alliance - Persecution
Turkish lira hits new low as U.S. conflict deepens - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Turkey accused the United States of a 'stab in back' Monday as its currency hit a new record low amid escalating tensions that have heightened an already dire economic crisis. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made the remarks Monday after weeks of a conflict over the detention of American pastor Andrew Brunson. [...] Russia said Monday it's planning to use national currencies in trade with Turkey, instead of dollars or euros, to aid the Turkish government."
Comment: This spat appears to be driving Turkey away from the U.S. and towards Russia. Of course, Russia is only too happy to welcome Turkey into their rebel alliance.
UPI reports: "Turkey accused the United States of a 'stab in back' Monday as its currency hit a new record low amid escalating tensions that have heightened an already dire economic crisis. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made the remarks Monday after weeks of a conflict over the detention of American pastor Andrew Brunson. [...] Russia said Monday it's planning to use national currencies in trade with Turkey, instead of dollars or euros, to aid the Turkish government."
Comment: This spat appears to be driving Turkey away from the U.S. and towards Russia. Of course, Russia is only too happy to welcome Turkey into their rebel alliance.
Friday, August 10, 2018
War
Taliban launches attack in Afghanistan; U.S. forces respond - UPI.com
UPI reports: "The Taliban launched an attack Friday on one of Afghanistan's key cities, seizing buildings and exchanging fire with security forces during an air and ground battle that led to U.S. forces' assistance. [...] U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman Lt. Col. Martin O'Donnell said U.S. forces responded using attack helicopters and drones."
Comment: So in this unending Afghan War, the Taliban are once again staging a comeback? How many times have they been declared defeated only to return? I wish this was more on the national agenda instead of the sensational issues we seem to be obsessed with. An aimless war that costs lives and treasure seems like it should be an issue up for discussion.
UPI reports: "The Taliban launched an attack Friday on one of Afghanistan's key cities, seizing buildings and exchanging fire with security forces during an air and ground battle that led to U.S. forces' assistance. [...] U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman Lt. Col. Martin O'Donnell said U.S. forces responded using attack helicopters and drones."
Comment: So in this unending Afghan War, the Taliban are once again staging a comeback? How many times have they been declared defeated only to return? I wish this was more on the national agenda instead of the sensational issues we seem to be obsessed with. An aimless war that costs lives and treasure seems like it should be an issue up for discussion.
Pestilence
New Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo kills 37 in first week - UPI.com
UPI reports: "The strain of Ebola virus in Democratic Republic of Congo's latest outbreak has killed at least 37 people in its first week, the country's health ministry reported on Thursday. It is the 10th outbreak since 1976 for the central African country, and was discovered on Aug. 1 in North Kivu province, hours after the World Health Organization declared another outbreak, in Equateur province, over. The newer outbreak has no connection to the prior one, but involves the deadlier Zaire strain of the virus."
Comment: Hope they get that under control quickly. I thought they had a vaccine ready to go?
UPI reports: "The strain of Ebola virus in Democratic Republic of Congo's latest outbreak has killed at least 37 people in its first week, the country's health ministry reported on Thursday. It is the 10th outbreak since 1976 for the central African country, and was discovered on Aug. 1 in North Kivu province, hours after the World Health Organization declared another outbreak, in Equateur province, over. The newer outbreak has no connection to the prior one, but involves the deadlier Zaire strain of the virus."
Comment: Hope they get that under control quickly. I thought they had a vaccine ready to go?
Thursday, August 09, 2018
Rumors of War - Jerusalem Security
AP - Hamas says Gaza cease-fire reached with Israel
The AP reports: "Gaza’s Hamas rulers said late Thursday that a truce had been reached with Israel, ending an intense two-day burst of violence that had pushed the region closer to war. But the deal did not appear to address the deeper issues that have prevented the bitter enemies from reaching a longer cease-fire arrangement. [...] the agreement merely ended the latest round of violence, in which Gaza militants fired some 200 rockets at Israel and the Israeli military carried out a similar number of airstrikes in Gaza. He said Egypt, which often serves as a mediator between the sides, would continue the more difficult task of brokering a long-term cease-fire. [...] Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since the Islamic militant group seized control of Gaza in 2007."
Comment: There is a very important difference between now and when the last three wars were fought between Israel and Hamas. Today we don't know what will happen in the north if Israel fights a war in the south. If Gaza erupts into a full fledged war, what will those Iranian troops and Islamic militias do just over the international border in Syria? Will they be tempted to open a second front and challenge Israel in the north to support Hamas? I know there are many who think that if Israel and Hamas have another war that's not a very big deal, but the situation has changed greatly and I think it will indeed be a very big deal.
The AP reports: "Gaza’s Hamas rulers said late Thursday that a truce had been reached with Israel, ending an intense two-day burst of violence that had pushed the region closer to war. But the deal did not appear to address the deeper issues that have prevented the bitter enemies from reaching a longer cease-fire arrangement. [...] the agreement merely ended the latest round of violence, in which Gaza militants fired some 200 rockets at Israel and the Israeli military carried out a similar number of airstrikes in Gaza. He said Egypt, which often serves as a mediator between the sides, would continue the more difficult task of brokering a long-term cease-fire. [...] Israel and Hamas have fought three wars since the Islamic militant group seized control of Gaza in 2007."
Comment: There is a very important difference between now and when the last three wars were fought between Israel and Hamas. Today we don't know what will happen in the north if Israel fights a war in the south. If Gaza erupts into a full fledged war, what will those Iranian troops and Islamic militias do just over the international border in Syria? Will they be tempted to open a second front and challenge Israel in the north to support Hamas? I know there are many who think that if Israel and Hamas have another war that's not a very big deal, but the situation has changed greatly and I think it will indeed be a very big deal.
Wednesday, August 08, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
AP - US braces for possible cyberattacks after Iran sanctions
The AP reports: "The U.S. is bracing for cyberattacks Iran could launch in retaliation for the re-imposition of sanctions this week by President Donald Trump, cybersecurity and intelligence experts say. Concern over that cyber threat has been rising since May, when Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal, under which the U.S. and other world powers eased economic sanctions in exchange for curbs on Iran’s nuclear program. The experts say the threat would intensify following Washington’s move Tuesday to re-impose economic restrictions on Tehran."
Comment: Praying that this does not get out of hand.
The AP reports: "The U.S. is bracing for cyberattacks Iran could launch in retaliation for the re-imposition of sanctions this week by President Donald Trump, cybersecurity and intelligence experts say. Concern over that cyber threat has been rising since May, when Trump pulled out of the 2015 nuclear deal, under which the U.S. and other world powers eased economic sanctions in exchange for curbs on Iran’s nuclear program. The experts say the threat would intensify following Washington’s move Tuesday to re-impose economic restrictions on Tehran."
Comment: Praying that this does not get out of hand.
Tuesday, August 07, 2018
Persecution
AP - For God or party? China's Christians face test of faith
The AP reports: "Under President Xi Jinping, China’s most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. The crackdown on Christianity is part of a broader push by Xi to 'Sinicize' all the nation’s religions by infusing them with “Chinese characteristics” such as loyalty to the Communist Party."
Comment: China has a long and well established history of Christianity and it has been a positive force in Chinese life and culture. Watchman Nee would be very sad to see how the persecution he endured has not abated for his countrymen. The government of China should understand that they have nothing to fear from Christians who are instructed to be peaceful law-abiding citizens (see Romans 13:1).
The AP reports: "Under President Xi Jinping, China’s most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, believers are seeing their freedoms shrink dramatically even as the country undergoes a religious revival. Experts and activists say that as he consolidates his power, Xi is waging the most severe systematic suppression of Christianity in the country since religious freedom was written into the Chinese constitution in 1982. The crackdown on Christianity is part of a broader push by Xi to 'Sinicize' all the nation’s religions by infusing them with “Chinese characteristics” such as loyalty to the Communist Party."
Comment: China has a long and well established history of Christianity and it has been a positive force in Chinese life and culture. Watchman Nee would be very sad to see how the persecution he endured has not abated for his countrymen. The government of China should understand that they have nothing to fear from Christians who are instructed to be peaceful law-abiding citizens (see Romans 13:1).
Monday, August 06, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
AP - Once-eased US economic sanctions against Iran back in effect
The AP reports: "The first set of U.S. sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early Tuesday under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, targeting financial transactions that involve U.S. dollars, Iran’s automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold. U.S sanctions targeting Iran’s oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November."
Comment: I wish Trump did a better job of explaining exactly why he is doing this. A very good argument can be made that Iran remains a rogue actor and a danger to the Middle East but so far this very good argument has not been well articulated by Trump or his team. I would like to think that Iran will now decide to seek a better deal with Trump. Somehow though, I don't think that will happen. From everything I've read, the "moderates" are not in power in Iran and this kind of move only boosts the hard-liners who will allow no compromise with the Great Satan.
The AP reports: "The first set of U.S. sanctions against Iran that had been eased under the landmark nuclear accord went back into effect early Tuesday under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, targeting financial transactions that involve U.S. dollars, Iran’s automotive sector, the purchase of commercial planes and metals including gold. U.S sanctions targeting Iran’s oil sector and central bank are to be reimposed in early November."
Comment: I wish Trump did a better job of explaining exactly why he is doing this. A very good argument can be made that Iran remains a rogue actor and a danger to the Middle East but so far this very good argument has not been well articulated by Trump or his team. I would like to think that Iran will now decide to seek a better deal with Trump. Somehow though, I don't think that will happen. From everything I've read, the "moderates" are not in power in Iran and this kind of move only boosts the hard-liners who will allow no compromise with the Great Satan.
Saturday, August 04, 2018
Pestilence
Midwest universities join to fight antibiotic resistence - UPI
UPI reports: "In an effort to slow the increasingly rapid spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the United States, a group of Midwestern universities plans to unite to research the troubling trend. [...] Today, bacteria are evolving ways to resist new kinds of antimicrobials almost as soon as scientists develop them. Health professionals fear that without intervention, bacteria will become resistant to antimicrobials faster than humans can create new ones. If this happens, humans may lose the ability to treat many bacterial infections. That would have profound impacts on human health worldwide."
Comment: I'm glad they are calling attention to this problem, I don't think this is one that on the public's radar.
UPI reports: "In an effort to slow the increasingly rapid spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the United States, a group of Midwestern universities plans to unite to research the troubling trend. [...] Today, bacteria are evolving ways to resist new kinds of antimicrobials almost as soon as scientists develop them. Health professionals fear that without intervention, bacteria will become resistant to antimicrobials faster than humans can create new ones. If this happens, humans may lose the ability to treat many bacterial infections. That would have profound impacts on human health worldwide."
Comment: I'm glad they are calling attention to this problem, I don't think this is one that on the public's radar.
Friday, August 03, 2018
Rumors of War
Osama bin Laden's son Hamza avenging his death in Afghanistan, family says - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Relatives of former world public enemy No. 1 Osama bin Laden have told a
British newspaper the dead leader's youngest son is involved in
terrorism in Afghanistan.
Members of the bin Laden family, interviewed by The Guardian in a story
published Thursday, said Hamza bin Laden is somewhere in Afghanistan --
and they believe he's fighting U.S. and coalition forces there to avenge
his father.
At least 20 killed in suicide bombings at Afghan mosque - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Afghan police said 20 people were killed Friday and at least 30 others were injured in suicide bombings at a Shi'ite mosque in eastern Afghanistan. The two suicide bombers, armed with assault rifles, stormed the mosque during Friday prayers and sprayed worshipers with bullets before blowing themselves up, said Raz Mohammad Mandozai, the police chief of Paktia Province."
Comment: Well, that's unfortunate, the last thing we need is for them to have a celebrity terrorist to rally around.
At least 20 killed in suicide bombings at Afghan mosque - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Afghan police said 20 people were killed Friday and at least 30 others were injured in suicide bombings at a Shi'ite mosque in eastern Afghanistan. The two suicide bombers, armed with assault rifles, stormed the mosque during Friday prayers and sprayed worshipers with bullets before blowing themselves up, said Raz Mohammad Mandozai, the police chief of Paktia Province."
Comment: Well, that's unfortunate, the last thing we need is for them to have a celebrity terrorist to rally around.
Thursday, August 02, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
Iran naval drills underway amid tensions with U.S. | Reuters
Reuters reports: "The United States believes Iran has started carrying out naval exercises in the Gulf, apparently moving up the timing of annual drills amid heightened tensions with Washington, U.S. officials told Reuters on Thursday. [...] The U.S. military’s Central Command on Wednesday confirmed it has seen an increase in Iranian naval activity, including in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway for oil shipments that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have threatened to block."
Netanyahu warns Iran: Block mouth of Red Sea and be met by force - Haaretz.com
Haaretz reports: "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday that any attempt by Iran to block the Straits of Bab al-Mandab at the mouth of the Red Sea would be met by an international coalition that would include Israel."
Comment: This is a situation that could easily spiral out of control. Iran's regional ambitions area clear, their presence in Syria is apparently secure and now they are demonstrating resolve in the face of sanctions. They do have leverage in the Gulf, but Israel and Saudi Arabia are signalling they are willing to counter Iran. It's a very dangerous situation. Stay tuned!
Reuters reports: "The United States believes Iran has started carrying out naval exercises in the Gulf, apparently moving up the timing of annual drills amid heightened tensions with Washington, U.S. officials told Reuters on Thursday. [...] The U.S. military’s Central Command on Wednesday confirmed it has seen an increase in Iranian naval activity, including in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway for oil shipments that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have threatened to block."
Netanyahu warns Iran: Block mouth of Red Sea and be met by force - Haaretz.com
Haaretz reports: "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday that any attempt by Iran to block the Straits of Bab al-Mandab at the mouth of the Red Sea would be met by an international coalition that would include Israel."
Comment: This is a situation that could easily spiral out of control. Iran's regional ambitions area clear, their presence in Syria is apparently secure and now they are demonstrating resolve in the face of sanctions. They do have leverage in the Gulf, but Israel and Saudi Arabia are signalling they are willing to counter Iran. It's a very dangerous situation. Stay tuned!
Rumors of War - King of the North
Russia trying to divide U.S. ahead of election, Donald Trump's national security team says - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Russia is trying to 'weaken and divide' the United States ahead of the 2018 midterm elections, members of President Donald Trump's national security team said Thursday, pointing to efforts to combat election interference this fall. U.S. intelligence officials [...] said they were working with state and local election officials to protect voting systems from threats by Russia and other foreign actors."
Comment: While I won't blame Facebook for this, I don't understand how malicious actors create so many fake accounts to manipulate public opinion. It's not easy to do right, fake people don't have social networks of family and friends. I would think their sophisticated computer systems would be able to spot fake accounts very quickly.
UPI reports: "Russia is trying to 'weaken and divide' the United States ahead of the 2018 midterm elections, members of President Donald Trump's national security team said Thursday, pointing to efforts to combat election interference this fall. U.S. intelligence officials [...] said they were working with state and local election officials to protect voting systems from threats by Russia and other foreign actors."
Comment: While I won't blame Facebook for this, I don't understand how malicious actors create so many fake accounts to manipulate public opinion. It's not easy to do right, fake people don't have social networks of family and friends. I would think their sophisticated computer systems would be able to spot fake accounts very quickly.
War
Top U.S. envoy to Seoul: Too early to end 1950-53 Korean War - UPI.com
UPI reports: "New U.S. Ambassador to Seoul Harry Harris said there must be "demonstrable moves" from North Korea toward denuclearization before any declaration of the end of the 1950-53 Korean War is made between the two sides. Harris, who held a news conference for local media on Thursday at the U.S. ambassador's residence, is making his views known only a few weeks after arriving in South Korea."
Comment: Itsn't it amazing to think that the Korean War is still going on, that it never officially ended? Sure, there was an armistice agreement, a ceasefire, but there was never a formal peace treaty ending the war. It's kind of mind blowing.
UPI reports: "New U.S. Ambassador to Seoul Harry Harris said there must be "demonstrable moves" from North Korea toward denuclearization before any declaration of the end of the 1950-53 Korean War is made between the two sides. Harris, who held a news conference for local media on Thursday at the U.S. ambassador's residence, is making his views known only a few weeks after arriving in South Korea."
Comment: Itsn't it amazing to think that the Korean War is still going on, that it never officially ended? Sure, there was an armistice agreement, a ceasefire, but there was never a formal peace treaty ending the war. It's kind of mind blowing.
Wednesday, August 01, 2018
Pestilence
Another Ebola outbreak hits DRC days after previous outbreak declared over - UPI.com
UPI reports: "A new Ebola outbreak was reported Wednesday in the Democratic Republic of Congo, days after a previous outbreak there was declared to be over. Four cases of the disease were positively confirmed in the country's North Kivu province and more are anticipated, Dr. Oly Ilunga Kalenga, the country's health minister, said. The health ministry is investigating reports of viral hemorrhagic fever. Since last weekend, 20 have died and 26 more have symptoms suggesting any of several viral infections, including Ebola."
Comment: Hopefully they will get the vaccines there as quickly as possible and contain the outbreak.
UPI reports: "A new Ebola outbreak was reported Wednesday in the Democratic Republic of Congo, days after a previous outbreak there was declared to be over. Four cases of the disease were positively confirmed in the country's North Kivu province and more are anticipated, Dr. Oly Ilunga Kalenga, the country's health minister, said. The health ministry is investigating reports of viral hemorrhagic fever. Since last weekend, 20 have died and 26 more have symptoms suggesting any of several viral infections, including Ebola."
Comment: Hopefully they will get the vaccines there as quickly as possible and contain the outbreak.
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Doomed Damascus
We can't force Iran out of Syria, Russia tells Israelis - Reuters
Reuters reports: "Russia cannot compel Iranian forces to quit Syria, Moscow’s ambassador to Tel Aviv said on Monday, rebuffing Israel’s long-standing demand that it should work to ensure their total withdrawal from the country. Ambassador Anatoly Viktorov said Moscow could equally do nothing to prevent Israeli military strikes against Iranian forces in Syria, which along with Russia and Tehran-backed Lebanese militias are supporting President Bashar al-Assad in combating rebel fighters."
Comment: I think that Netanyahu hoped his good relationship with Putin would provide a diplomatic solution and that Russia would order Syria's Assad to kick out the Iranians. Netanyahu has traveled to Moscow and met several times with Putin to make his case. There is no doubt that the situation is crystal clear to both Putin and Assad, Israel considers Iranian forces in Syria to be a threat and wants Russia to use their influence over Assad to solve the problem. According to this news report from the Reuters news service, it has been confirmed that Russia will not do that. So, from what I can see, this is a VERY important development. It suggests that there will be war between Israel and Iran inside Syria that could draw in Russia as well. Could the destruction of Damascus be near (Isaiah 17)?
Reuters reports: "Russia cannot compel Iranian forces to quit Syria, Moscow’s ambassador to Tel Aviv said on Monday, rebuffing Israel’s long-standing demand that it should work to ensure their total withdrawal from the country. Ambassador Anatoly Viktorov said Moscow could equally do nothing to prevent Israeli military strikes against Iranian forces in Syria, which along with Russia and Tehran-backed Lebanese militias are supporting President Bashar al-Assad in combating rebel fighters."
Comment: I think that Netanyahu hoped his good relationship with Putin would provide a diplomatic solution and that Russia would order Syria's Assad to kick out the Iranians. Netanyahu has traveled to Moscow and met several times with Putin to make his case. There is no doubt that the situation is crystal clear to both Putin and Assad, Israel considers Iranian forces in Syria to be a threat and wants Russia to use their influence over Assad to solve the problem. According to this news report from the Reuters news service, it has been confirmed that Russia will not do that. So, from what I can see, this is a VERY important development. It suggests that there will be war between Israel and Iran inside Syria that could draw in Russia as well. Could the destruction of Damascus be near (Isaiah 17)?
Monday, July 30, 2018
Earthquake
500 hikers stranded on Indonesian mountain after earthquake - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Over 500 hikers await evacuation from Indonesia's volcanic Mount Rinjani on Monday after a 6.4-magnitude earthquake and landslide. Two groups, which include 135 foreign tourists, were trapped at Segara Anak Lake in Mount Rinjani National Park and in Batu Ceper, a nearby district. [...] At least 16 people died in the earthquake on Sunday morning, and hundreds of buildings were destroyed."
Comment: Prayers for their quick rescue.
UPI reports: "Over 500 hikers await evacuation from Indonesia's volcanic Mount Rinjani on Monday after a 6.4-magnitude earthquake and landslide. Two groups, which include 135 foreign tourists, were trapped at Segara Anak Lake in Mount Rinjani National Park and in Batu Ceper, a nearby district. [...] At least 16 people died in the earthquake on Sunday morning, and hundreds of buildings were destroyed."
Comment: Prayers for their quick rescue.
Friday, July 27, 2018
Temple Mount
Muslim worshipers, Israeli police clash at Jerusalem's Temple Mount - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Clashes between Muslim worshipers and Israeli security forces broke out on Friday at Jerusalem's Temple Mount, police said. [...] The violence came at the end of Friday prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound and after a parade marking the one-year anniversary of the removal of temporary metal detectors from the holy site. Palestinians regarded the installation of the security measures as a move by Israel to assert control over the site."
Comment: You have to appreciate the twisted logic of the Palestinians, protesting the need for security with acts of violence, because that makes sense. This is a reminder that the Temple Mount remains a flashpoint that could erupt into violence at any time.
UPI reports: "Clashes between Muslim worshipers and Israeli security forces broke out on Friday at Jerusalem's Temple Mount, police said. [...] The violence came at the end of Friday prayers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque Compound and after a parade marking the one-year anniversary of the removal of temporary metal detectors from the holy site. Palestinians regarded the installation of the security measures as a move by Israel to assert control over the site."
Comment: You have to appreciate the twisted logic of the Palestinians, protesting the need for security with acts of violence, because that makes sense. This is a reminder that the Temple Mount remains a flashpoint that could erupt into violence at any time.
Thursday, July 26, 2018
False Christs
Japan hangs 6 remaining Aum cult members - UPI.com
UPI reports: "The six remaining Aum Shinrikyo cult members on death row were executed Thursday, the last of the 13 Japanese cult members to be hanged in the past three weeks. The six were convicted in a 1995 sarin nerve gas attack on the Tokyo subway system that killed 12 people and injured hundreds. They were also convicted of committing a sarin attack in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, in 1994, and for killing a lawyer, his wife and their baby son in 1989. [...] Chizuo Matsumoto, the mastermind of the attack on Tokyo's subway system, was hung earlier this month along with six former senior members of the cult. Matsumoto, known as Shoko Asahara, was the founder of the Aum Shinrikyo cult."
Comment: That was one dangerous cult, glad they faced justice for their crimes.
UPI reports: "The six remaining Aum Shinrikyo cult members on death row were executed Thursday, the last of the 13 Japanese cult members to be hanged in the past three weeks. The six were convicted in a 1995 sarin nerve gas attack on the Tokyo subway system that killed 12 people and injured hundreds. They were also convicted of committing a sarin attack in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, in 1994, and for killing a lawyer, his wife and their baby son in 1989. [...] Chizuo Matsumoto, the mastermind of the attack on Tokyo's subway system, was hung earlier this month along with six former senior members of the cult. Matsumoto, known as Shoko Asahara, was the founder of the Aum Shinrikyo cult."
Comment: That was one dangerous cult, glad they faced justice for their crimes.
Tuesday, July 24, 2018
Pestilence
Woman may have passed on Ebola a year after recovery - UPI.com
UPI reports: "A new report suggests that people can survive Ebola and still possibly infect others up to a year later. The finding could mean that continued monitoring for the disease is still necessary after a country has been declared Ebola-free, the researchers said. [...] More than 17,000 people survived the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, and the new findings 'could lead to additional stigma around survivors of Ebola because of the potential persistence of Ebola virus in their body fluids,' wrote Lorenzo Subissi in an accompanying editorial."
Comment: That's unfortunate but I wonder if there might have been some rare and extenuating factors at play in that one case? They should be sure before they make all Ebola survivors fear that they remain carriers.
UPI reports: "A new report suggests that people can survive Ebola and still possibly infect others up to a year later. The finding could mean that continued monitoring for the disease is still necessary after a country has been declared Ebola-free, the researchers said. [...] More than 17,000 people survived the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, and the new findings 'could lead to additional stigma around survivors of Ebola because of the potential persistence of Ebola virus in their body fluids,' wrote Lorenzo Subissi in an accompanying editorial."
Comment: That's unfortunate but I wonder if there might have been some rare and extenuating factors at play in that one case? They should be sure before they make all Ebola survivors fear that they remain carriers.
Monday, July 23, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
Iran's Rouhani warns Trump about 'mother of all wars' | Reuters:
Reuters reports: "Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday cautioned U.S. President Donald Trump about pursuing hostile policies against Tehran, saying “war with Iran is the mother of all wars”, but did not rule out peace between the two countries."
Iran dismisses angry Trump warning against threatening U.S. | Reuters:
Reuters reports: "Iran on Monday dismissed an angry warning from U.S. President Donald Trump that Tehran risked dire consequences “the like of which few throughout history have suffered before” if it made threats against the United States. [...] The Trump administration has launched an offensive of speeches and online communications meant to foment unrest and help pressure Iran to end its nuclear program and its support of militant groups. Despite the heightened rhetoric, both sides have reasons to want to avoid starting a conflict."
Comment: Negotiations have taken an odd turn. Stay tuned.
Reuters reports: "Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Sunday cautioned U.S. President Donald Trump about pursuing hostile policies against Tehran, saying “war with Iran is the mother of all wars”, but did not rule out peace between the two countries."
Iran dismisses angry Trump warning against threatening U.S. | Reuters:
Reuters reports: "Iran on Monday dismissed an angry warning from U.S. President Donald Trump that Tehran risked dire consequences “the like of which few throughout history have suffered before” if it made threats against the United States. [...] The Trump administration has launched an offensive of speeches and online communications meant to foment unrest and help pressure Iran to end its nuclear program and its support of militant groups. Despite the heightened rhetoric, both sides have reasons to want to avoid starting a conflict."
Comment: Negotiations have taken an odd turn. Stay tuned.
Friday, July 20, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia - Doomed Damascus
Syria: Rebels give up positions near Golan Heights - AP
The AP reports: "Syrian rebels laid down their weapons and started evacuating their positions near the Golan Heights on Friday, paving the way for President Bashar Assad’s forces to retake their positions along the Israeli frontier for the first time since 2011. [...] Since June 19, government forces aided by Russian air power have swept through southwestern Syria to consolidate Assad’s control over this strategic corner of the country. It puts the government back on the front-line again with Israel, and opens a sorely needed corridor for trade between Damascus and Jordan. [...] Israel has refrained from taking sides in Syria’s seven-year-long civil war, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated he does not object to the government’s return to southwest Syria — as long as Israel’s archenemies Iran and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah stay clear of the frontier."
Comment: This is very good news for Israel. On the surface, it suggests that some kind of status quo might be in the offing in which Syrian forces man the border and respect the agreement with Israel without any trouble from Iranian forces. Looking deeper though, we have to wonder if those Iranian forces might dig in for a long-term presence as long as they don't go near the border. I was under the impression that Israel made it clear to Assad and his Russian patrons that any permanent Iranian presence in Syria would be considered a threat to Israel and dealt with accordingly.
The AP reports: "Syrian rebels laid down their weapons and started evacuating their positions near the Golan Heights on Friday, paving the way for President Bashar Assad’s forces to retake their positions along the Israeli frontier for the first time since 2011. [...] Since June 19, government forces aided by Russian air power have swept through southwestern Syria to consolidate Assad’s control over this strategic corner of the country. It puts the government back on the front-line again with Israel, and opens a sorely needed corridor for trade between Damascus and Jordan. [...] Israel has refrained from taking sides in Syria’s seven-year-long civil war, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated he does not object to the government’s return to southwest Syria — as long as Israel’s archenemies Iran and the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah stay clear of the frontier."
Comment: This is very good news for Israel. On the surface, it suggests that some kind of status quo might be in the offing in which Syrian forces man the border and respect the agreement with Israel without any trouble from Iranian forces. Looking deeper though, we have to wonder if those Iranian forces might dig in for a long-term presence as long as they don't go near the border. I was under the impression that Israel made it clear to Assad and his Russian patrons that any permanent Iranian presence in Syria would be considered a threat to Israel and dealt with accordingly.
Thursday, July 19, 2018
Peace of Jerusalem
Israel passes controversial Jewish nation-state bill - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Israeli lawmakers passed a Jewish nation-state bill Thursday, that's been steeped in controversy, after a long debate. The bill officially defined Israel as the national homeland of the Jewish people. It says Jerusalem is the united capital and the official language is Hebrew, with Arabic having 'special status.'"
Comment: The world is shocked to discover the Israel is the Jewish state, cue the outrage.
UPI reports: "Israeli lawmakers passed a Jewish nation-state bill Thursday, that's been steeped in controversy, after a long debate. The bill officially defined Israel as the national homeland of the Jewish people. It says Jerusalem is the united capital and the official language is Hebrew, with Arabic having 'special status.'"
Comment: The world is shocked to discover the Israel is the Jewish state, cue the outrage.
Wednesday, July 18, 2018
Wickedness Increases
‘An Entire Community Got Together to Rape a Child.’ India Recoils at Girl’s Assault - NYT
The New York Times reports: "For months, the police say, a group of men took turns raping an 11-year-old girl. In the gated community in Chennai, India, where the girl lived with her parents, the men gave her soft drinks laced with drugs, the police said. They filmed themselves raping her, brandishing knives and threatening to release the videos if the girl told her family, the police said. The men were not intruders in the gated community, but employees who greeted residents, operated the elevator or brought water coolers to apartments. [...] 'This story has shaken me to the core,' Rohini Singh, an Indian journalist, wrote on Twitter. 'An entire community got together to rape a child. I cannot even fathom the depravity and horror of this act.'"
Comment: I think that quote says it all, it's just inhumanly depraved. What a horrible injustice. Hopefully some good will come out of it, perhaps some reforms and cultural change in India. What is needed, of course, is spiritual transformation.
The New York Times reports: "For months, the police say, a group of men took turns raping an 11-year-old girl. In the gated community in Chennai, India, where the girl lived with her parents, the men gave her soft drinks laced with drugs, the police said. They filmed themselves raping her, brandishing knives and threatening to release the videos if the girl told her family, the police said. The men were not intruders in the gated community, but employees who greeted residents, operated the elevator or brought water coolers to apartments. [...] 'This story has shaken me to the core,' Rohini Singh, an Indian journalist, wrote on Twitter. 'An entire community got together to rape a child. I cannot even fathom the depravity and horror of this act.'"
Comment: I think that quote says it all, it's just inhumanly depraved. What a horrible injustice. Hopefully some good will come out of it, perhaps some reforms and cultural change in India. What is needed, of course, is spiritual transformation.
Tuesday, July 17, 2018
Rumors of War - Doomed Damascus
Putin says he and Trump agreed on securing Israel's border with Syria | The Times of Israel
The Times of Israel reports: "Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday said he and US President Donald Trump agreed on securing Israel’s border with Syria, in accordance with the 1974 disengagement of forces deal following the Yom Kippur War. When terrorist forces are wiped out in south and west Syria, Putin said, 'the situation on the Golan Heights must be restored to what it was after the 1974 agreement, which set out the terms for the disengagement of forces between Israel and Syria.'"
Comment: This is one of the few reports I managed to find that contained any details at all about what Putin and Trump discussed about Syria and Israel. From what I can tell, Israel can be encouraged that the 1974 agreement will be respected once Syria feels confident enough in victory over those annoying rebels (what do they have against dictatorship?) but at the same time discouraged that no agreement was made regarding the presence of Iranian militias in Syria. This will presumably become a problem at some point in the future. We can expect that if Russia does not force Syria to expel the Iranians then Israel will do it for them.
The Times of Israel reports: "Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday said he and US President Donald Trump agreed on securing Israel’s border with Syria, in accordance with the 1974 disengagement of forces deal following the Yom Kippur War. When terrorist forces are wiped out in south and west Syria, Putin said, 'the situation on the Golan Heights must be restored to what it was after the 1974 agreement, which set out the terms for the disengagement of forces between Israel and Syria.'"
Comment: This is one of the few reports I managed to find that contained any details at all about what Putin and Trump discussed about Syria and Israel. From what I can tell, Israel can be encouraged that the 1974 agreement will be respected once Syria feels confident enough in victory over those annoying rebels (what do they have against dictatorship?) but at the same time discouraged that no agreement was made regarding the presence of Iranian militias in Syria. This will presumably become a problem at some point in the future. We can expect that if Russia does not force Syria to expel the Iranians then Israel will do it for them.
Monday, July 16, 2018
King of the North
Presidents Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin express optimism at Helsinki summit - UPI.com
UPI reports: "U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin each
expressed optimism at their summit in Helsinki on Monday, a meeting that
ended with a controversial joint news conference. [...] Trump's remarks
at the news conference were met by some with strong criticism --
particularly for slamming Special Counsel Robert Mueller's Russia
investigation and appearing to back Putin's denial that Moscow did not
interfere in the 2016 U.S. election.[...] Multiple members of Trump's
own government and the entire U.S. intelligence community have already
concluded that Russia did indeed attempt to sway the vote in Trump's
favor."
Comment: That was a sad spectacle. I really thought Trump would give a grouchy "no comment" on these questions and then privately grill Putin about the election meddling. I mean, the evidence is compelling and no one seriously doubts Russia's hand in it. Trump, the "great negotiator" gained nothing by throwing the US. intelligence community under the bus and gained nothing from Putin in return for his obsequiousness. No deals were struck, no bargains made, nothing at all gained for Trump or the American side. Much was gained for Putin though, whose good word has now been vouched for by the American president and his stature as a great leader cemented for his loyal followers back home, who no doubt will be reminded that the American president did not make an issue of the Russian annexation of Crimea, the invasion of Ukraine or the brazen interference in the American democratic process. Trump gave Putin a free pass and what did he get in return? I'll have to read more analysis, but early reports suggests that Trump, the great deal-maker, came away empty handed.
Comment: That was a sad spectacle. I really thought Trump would give a grouchy "no comment" on these questions and then privately grill Putin about the election meddling. I mean, the evidence is compelling and no one seriously doubts Russia's hand in it. Trump, the "great negotiator" gained nothing by throwing the US. intelligence community under the bus and gained nothing from Putin in return for his obsequiousness. No deals were struck, no bargains made, nothing at all gained for Trump or the American side. Much was gained for Putin though, whose good word has now been vouched for by the American president and his stature as a great leader cemented for his loyal followers back home, who no doubt will be reminded that the American president did not make an issue of the Russian annexation of Crimea, the invasion of Ukraine or the brazen interference in the American democratic process. Trump gave Putin a free pass and what did he get in return? I'll have to read more analysis, but early reports suggests that Trump, the great deal-maker, came away empty handed.
Rumors of War - Jerusalem Security
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu warns of 'prolonged struggle' after Gaza strikes - UPI.com UPI reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday warned local
leaders near the Gaza border hit by rocket fire over the weekend of a 'prolonged struggle.' [...] The visit came after a weekend of an exchange of attacks between Israeli
forces and Palestinian militants. Rockets fired from Gaza injured three people at a home in Sderot. [...] Netanyahu has been previously criticized for not visiting communities near the Gaza border and accepting a cease-fire that excluded mention of incendiary kites and balloons militants have sent over the border into Israel, The Jerusalem Post reported. "
Comment: I wonder if the Israelis are misinterpreting the Palestinian peace kites and balloons as something other than gestures for peace? Surely, after everything they've said in the press, the Palestinians are doing everything possible to demonstrate how much they want peace with Israel.
Comment: I wonder if the Israelis are misinterpreting the Palestinian peace kites and balloons as something other than gestures for peace? Surely, after everything they've said in the press, the Palestinians are doing everything possible to demonstrate how much they want peace with Israel.
Friday, July 13, 2018
Rumors of War - King of the North
South Korea scrambles fighter jets after Russian bombers trespass zone - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Two Russian military aircraft entered South Korea's Air Defense Identification Zone multiple times on Friday afternoon, according to Seoul's joint chiefs of staff. [...] A South Korean official told Segye Ilbo the intrusion marks the first time Russian military planes entered the KADIZ four times in one day. South Korea's military broadcasted warnings in addition to scrambling fighter jets, according to reports. The Russian strategic bombers that entered South Korean airspace were identified as the Tupolev TU-95."
12 Russians accused of hacking Democrats in 2016 US election - AP
The AP reports: "Twelve Russian military intelligence officers hacked into the Clinton presidential campaign and Democratic Party, releasing tens of thousands of stolen communications, in a sweeping effort by a foreign government to meddle in the 2016 U.S. election, according to a grand jury indictment announced days before President Donald Trump’s summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. [...] U.S. intelligence agencies have said the meddling was aimed at helping the Trump campaign and harming the election bid of his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton. The effort also included bogus Facebook ads and social media postings that prosecutors say were aimed at influencing public opinion and sowing discord on hot-button social issues."
Comment: When Trump looks at Russia he sees friendly oligarchs that he has done business with. When the rest of the Western establishment looks at Russia they see a former Cold War rival lead by a man who was raised in the Cold War and who has a sizable chip on his should about his country having lost that struggle and wants more than anything to revive the old empire. Russia is not a business competitor, they are a strategic rival and leader of nations opposed to U.S. global hegemony. That is simply a fact. Trump ignores it to our peril.
UPI reports: "Two Russian military aircraft entered South Korea's Air Defense Identification Zone multiple times on Friday afternoon, according to Seoul's joint chiefs of staff. [...] A South Korean official told Segye Ilbo the intrusion marks the first time Russian military planes entered the KADIZ four times in one day. South Korea's military broadcasted warnings in addition to scrambling fighter jets, according to reports. The Russian strategic bombers that entered South Korean airspace were identified as the Tupolev TU-95."
12 Russians accused of hacking Democrats in 2016 US election - AP
The AP reports: "Twelve Russian military intelligence officers hacked into the Clinton presidential campaign and Democratic Party, releasing tens of thousands of stolen communications, in a sweeping effort by a foreign government to meddle in the 2016 U.S. election, according to a grand jury indictment announced days before President Donald Trump’s summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. [...] U.S. intelligence agencies have said the meddling was aimed at helping the Trump campaign and harming the election bid of his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton. The effort also included bogus Facebook ads and social media postings that prosecutors say were aimed at influencing public opinion and sowing discord on hot-button social issues."
Comment: When Trump looks at Russia he sees friendly oligarchs that he has done business with. When the rest of the Western establishment looks at Russia they see a former Cold War rival lead by a man who was raised in the Cold War and who has a sizable chip on his should about his country having lost that struggle and wants more than anything to revive the old empire. Russia is not a business competitor, they are a strategic rival and leader of nations opposed to U.S. global hegemony. That is simply a fact. Trump ignores it to our peril.
Thursday, July 12, 2018
Kings of the East
China’s Xi Jinping to visit UAE, South Africa in state visit - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Chinese President Xi Jinping is to visit four countries in the Middle East and Africa, following the signing of documents related to Beijing's One Belt, One Road Initiative. Xi's visit was made public on the Chinese foreign ministry's website on Thursday and the schedule includes stopovers in the United Arab Emirates, Senegal, Rwanda and South Africa."
Comment: China's ambitious plan to revitalize the ancient Silk Road trade routes is showing progress.
UPI reports: "Chinese President Xi Jinping is to visit four countries in the Middle East and Africa, following the signing of documents related to Beijing's One Belt, One Road Initiative. Xi's visit was made public on the Chinese foreign ministry's website on Thursday and the schedule includes stopovers in the United Arab Emirates, Senegal, Rwanda and South Africa."
Comment: China's ambitious plan to revitalize the ancient Silk Road trade routes is showing progress.
War - Doomed Damascus
Syrian forces recapture Daraa, birthplace of Assad revolt - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Syrian forces recaptured Daraa, the southwestern Syrian city where the revolt against President Bashar al-Assad's regime was born in 2011, the government said Thursday. Assad's forces, along with Russian troops, entered the city after an agreement with rebels, who surrendered in exchange for amnesty or safe passage to other rebel-held areas."
Comment: It's always a fluid situation in war, but it does look like Syria and allies are wrapping things up. Damascus is looking pretty secure these days. Of course, we all know how quickly things can change.
UPI reports: "Syrian forces recaptured Daraa, the southwestern Syrian city where the revolt against President Bashar al-Assad's regime was born in 2011, the government said Thursday. Assad's forces, along with Russian troops, entered the city after an agreement with rebels, who surrendered in exchange for amnesty or safe passage to other rebel-held areas."
Comment: It's always a fluid situation in war, but it does look like Syria and allies are wrapping things up. Damascus is looking pretty secure these days. Of course, we all know how quickly things can change.
Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
Benjamin Netanyahu visits Vladimir Putin in Russia - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to Russia Wednesday to meet with Kremlin President Vladimir Putin, for visit he called a 'very important.' Netanyahu said he planned to discuss Syria, Iran and Israeli security needs with the Russian leader. [...] Talks also are expected to concentrate on Israel's fight against Iranian presence in Syria."
Comment: It seems that Russia's relationship with Iran is coming under increased pressure from Israel and the U.S. as both countries press to have Iranian troops booted out of Syria. Will Russia value it's relationship with Israel (including trade and tech deals) over the relationship with Iran?
UPI reports: "Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu traveled to Russia Wednesday to meet with Kremlin President Vladimir Putin, for visit he called a 'very important.' Netanyahu said he planned to discuss Syria, Iran and Israeli security needs with the Russian leader. [...] Talks also are expected to concentrate on Israel's fight against Iranian presence in Syria."
Comment: It seems that Russia's relationship with Iran is coming under increased pressure from Israel and the U.S. as both countries press to have Iranian troops booted out of Syria. Will Russia value it's relationship with Israel (including trade and tech deals) over the relationship with Iran?
Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Fearsome Events
Death toll rises to 155 in Japan flooding, mudslides - UPI.com
UPI reports: "The death toll on Tuesday rose to more than 150 people in the flooding and mudslides in western Japan, the government said. [...] The toll, up from 141 previously, is the highest Japan has seen from a flood in more than three decades, UNI reported. The extreme rainfall that Japan's Meteorological Agency called 'historic' began Thursday and continued to pummel the region through Sunday."
Comment: I take notice when "historic" weather events occur. Does it seems like such events are happening more often?
UPI reports: "The death toll on Tuesday rose to more than 150 people in the flooding and mudslides in western Japan, the government said. [...] The toll, up from 141 previously, is the highest Japan has seen from a flood in more than three decades, UNI reported. The extreme rainfall that Japan's Meteorological Agency called 'historic' began Thursday and continued to pummel the region through Sunday."
Comment: I take notice when "historic" weather events occur. Does it seems like such events are happening more often?
Monday, July 09, 2018
Gog Alliance
Turkey's Recep Erdogan sworn in for new term with more powers - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Recep Tayyip Erdogen, Turkey's president for 15 years, took the oath of office on Monday for a new term, which comes with a whole new set of powers. The new presidential term comes with constitutional changes to presidential powers Erdogan won in a referendum last year. He said the changes are needed for economic growth. [...] Erdogan has ruled mostly by fiat since 2016 when he imposed a state of emergency after surviving a failed military coup. [...] Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev attended the ceremony with other leaders, including Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban."
Comment: The gradual transformation of Turkey from a secular republic and member of the Western alliance to an Islamic dictatorship and member of Putin's rebel club is one of the most prophetically significant events of the last few decades.
UPI reports: "Recep Tayyip Erdogen, Turkey's president for 15 years, took the oath of office on Monday for a new term, which comes with a whole new set of powers. The new presidential term comes with constitutional changes to presidential powers Erdogan won in a referendum last year. He said the changes are needed for economic growth. [...] Erdogan has ruled mostly by fiat since 2016 when he imposed a state of emergency after surviving a failed military coup. [...] Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev attended the ceremony with other leaders, including Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban."
Comment: The gradual transformation of Turkey from a secular republic and member of the Western alliance to an Islamic dictatorship and member of Putin's rebel club is one of the most prophetically significant events of the last few decades.
Tuesday, July 03, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
Hassan Rouhani says Iran 'committed' to nuclear deal - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Tuesday his country is committed to the 2015 nuclear deal, even though it's been abandoned by the United States. In Switzerland campaigning to save the deal, Rouhani made clear Tehran will stick to the agreements it made in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action."
Iranian diplomat arrested over alleged Paris bomb plot - UPI.com
UPI reports: "An Iranian diplomat was arrested in Germany in connection with a plot to bomb an Iranian opposition event in France. [...] Belgian authorities said the Iranian diplomat was detained in Germany on Monday as a contact of a Belgian married couple of Iranian heritage. The couple was arrested earlier by Belgian police in Brussels after they were caught with 500 grams of TATP explosive and a detonator hidden in a toiletries bag."
Comment: I think Trump's point was that Iran was not acting like a well-behaved country under a deal with much to lose, but like a belligerent country, as in exporting terrorism.
UPI reports: "Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Tuesday his country is committed to the 2015 nuclear deal, even though it's been abandoned by the United States. In Switzerland campaigning to save the deal, Rouhani made clear Tehran will stick to the agreements it made in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action."
Iranian diplomat arrested over alleged Paris bomb plot - UPI.com
UPI reports: "An Iranian diplomat was arrested in Germany in connection with a plot to bomb an Iranian opposition event in France. [...] Belgian authorities said the Iranian diplomat was detained in Germany on Monday as a contact of a Belgian married couple of Iranian heritage. The couple was arrested earlier by Belgian police in Brussels after they were caught with 500 grams of TATP explosive and a detonator hidden in a toiletries bag."
Comment: I think Trump's point was that Iran was not acting like a well-behaved country under a deal with much to lose, but like a belligerent country, as in exporting terrorism.
Monday, July 02, 2018
Rumors of War - Kings of the East
India to introduce ICBM to strategic forces - UPI.com
UPI reports: "India is planning to induct its latest intercontinental ballistic missile into strategic forces, according to multiple press reports. Agni-V, the fifth missile in a series, is a long-range projectile that could bring into range targets across China, Defenseworld.net reported Monday. The ballistic missile was tested in June for the sixth time, is nuclear capable and has a striking distance of 3,100 miles, according to India TV News. [...] India is one of a handful of countries that have retained long-range missiles, a list that includes the United States, China, Russia, France and North Korea."
Comment: Your move China. Whatever happens with North Korean disarmament, the fact remains that the world is set on a course of nuclear proliferation and not much is being done to stop that trend. We currently have a system where bad actors get nukes and those countries that play by the rules don't. We need to turn that upside down.
UPI reports: "India is planning to induct its latest intercontinental ballistic missile into strategic forces, according to multiple press reports. Agni-V, the fifth missile in a series, is a long-range projectile that could bring into range targets across China, Defenseworld.net reported Monday. The ballistic missile was tested in June for the sixth time, is nuclear capable and has a striking distance of 3,100 miles, according to India TV News. [...] India is one of a handful of countries that have retained long-range missiles, a list that includes the United States, China, Russia, France and North Korea."
Comment: Your move China. Whatever happens with North Korean disarmament, the fact remains that the world is set on a course of nuclear proliferation and not much is being done to stop that trend. We currently have a system where bad actors get nukes and those countries that play by the rules don't. We need to turn that upside down.
Saturday, June 30, 2018
False Prophets
Self-styled Utah prophet gets additional 15-year prison term - AP
The AP reports: "A self-styled prophet who led a doomsday cult and secretly married young girls because of his beliefs in polygamy and has already been sentenced to 26 years in prison has been given a 15-year term following another guilty plea. [...] Prosecutors say Shaffer led a group called the Knights of the Crystal Blade based on arcane Mormon ideas long abandoned by the mainstream church."
Comment: It's been a while since we noted a news report about a doomsday cult. This news report does not offer many details about the beliefs of the cult other than their belief in child marriage. It will be interesting to look for other reports to see if we can find more about the doomsday focus. Like most modern cults, it's never about what they say it is, it's just about sex and power.
The AP reports: "A self-styled prophet who led a doomsday cult and secretly married young girls because of his beliefs in polygamy and has already been sentenced to 26 years in prison has been given a 15-year term following another guilty plea. [...] Prosecutors say Shaffer led a group called the Knights of the Crystal Blade based on arcane Mormon ideas long abandoned by the mainstream church."
Comment: It's been a while since we noted a news report about a doomsday cult. This news report does not offer many details about the beliefs of the cult other than their belief in child marriage. It will be interesting to look for other reports to see if we can find more about the doomsday focus. Like most modern cults, it's never about what they say it is, it's just about sex and power.
Friday, June 29, 2018
Final Kingdom
EU leaders agree on screening centers to ease migrant crisis - UPI.com
UPI reports: "EU leaders struck the agreement at their summit in Belgium overnight Thursday. The conference is geared toward Britain's departure from the 28-nation bloc, but immigration became a chief subject as leaders addressed a controversial new screening plan for immigrants. [...] Under the agreement, the locations of the screening centers will be in countries where migrants first arrive, but it's not yet clear which countries will host the centers. Nations in northern Africa were previously mentioned as possible sites."
Comment: The EU is now on a path toward greater affiliation, involvement and/or control over Northern Africa and the Mideast, mirroring the borders of the old Roman Empire. Sure, a few processing centers is not a big deal, but you know how these things grow, they expand organically. As relationship with the host countries deepen, workers are hired, structures are built, money flows, processes and procedures replicated across the region, all the European specifications. Eventually the EU may find it expedient to offer some kind of association agreement or path to accession for the countries involved. It reminds me of Sarkozy's defunct idea for a Union of the Mediterranean. Perhaps that old idea will be new again.
UPI reports: "EU leaders struck the agreement at their summit in Belgium overnight Thursday. The conference is geared toward Britain's departure from the 28-nation bloc, but immigration became a chief subject as leaders addressed a controversial new screening plan for immigrants. [...] Under the agreement, the locations of the screening centers will be in countries where migrants first arrive, but it's not yet clear which countries will host the centers. Nations in northern Africa were previously mentioned as possible sites."
Comment: The EU is now on a path toward greater affiliation, involvement and/or control over Northern Africa and the Mideast, mirroring the borders of the old Roman Empire. Sure, a few processing centers is not a big deal, but you know how these things grow, they expand organically. As relationship with the host countries deepen, workers are hired, structures are built, money flows, processes and procedures replicated across the region, all the European specifications. Eventually the EU may find it expedient to offer some kind of association agreement or path to accession for the countries involved. It reminds me of Sarkozy's defunct idea for a Union of the Mediterranean. Perhaps that old idea will be new again.
Thursday, June 28, 2018
Rumors of War - Persia
Iran reopens uranium feedstock plant in preparation to boost enrichment - Reuters
Reuters reports: "Iran has reopened a nuclear plant idle for nine years, its atomic energy agency (AEOI) said on Wednesday, as Tehran prepares to increase uranium enrichment capacity if a nuclear deal with world powers falls apart after the U.S. withdrawal. [...] Under the deal, Iran restricted its enrichment programme to ease concerns it could not be put to developing nuclear weapons and in return won relief from sanctions. European signatories are trying to save the accord [....] However, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ordered the AEOI this month to start preparations to upgrade enrichment capacity in case the European efforts fail."
Comment: This is likely a bargaining chip, part of Iran playing hardball with the European powers, but it signals an Iranian willingness to return to business as usual.
Reuters reports: "Iran has reopened a nuclear plant idle for nine years, its atomic energy agency (AEOI) said on Wednesday, as Tehran prepares to increase uranium enrichment capacity if a nuclear deal with world powers falls apart after the U.S. withdrawal. [...] Under the deal, Iran restricted its enrichment programme to ease concerns it could not be put to developing nuclear weapons and in return won relief from sanctions. European signatories are trying to save the accord [....] However, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ordered the AEOI this month to start preparations to upgrade enrichment capacity in case the European efforts fail."
Comment: This is likely a bargaining chip, part of Iran playing hardball with the European powers, but it signals an Iranian willingness to return to business as usual.
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
Global Community
Facebook scraps plans to build Internet drones - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Facebook announced it would be scrapping plans to develop its own flying Internet drones, an initiative that started four years ago. In a Tuesday blog post, the social network said work on Project Aquila, which was intended to bring Internet access to remote parts of the world by using gigantic drones running on solar power, would come to an end."
Comment: The dream of one seamless global internet community powered by Facebook and flying drones has come to an end. The report does note that other companies continue to invest in bringing the internet to the far corners of the world that have yet to experience the joys of promoting themselves on social media.
UPI reports: "Facebook announced it would be scrapping plans to develop its own flying Internet drones, an initiative that started four years ago. In a Tuesday blog post, the social network said work on Project Aquila, which was intended to bring Internet access to remote parts of the world by using gigantic drones running on solar power, would come to an end."
Comment: The dream of one seamless global internet community powered by Facebook and flying drones has come to an end. The report does note that other companies continue to invest in bringing the internet to the far corners of the world that have yet to experience the joys of promoting themselves on social media.
Rumors of War
Taiwan holds drills to fend against invasion amid China tensions - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Taiwan held drills simulating the repelling of invading forces on Wednesday, as the country prepared to conduct joint drills with the United States amid rising tensions with China. [...] Taiwan's military is expected to conduct more activities that could anger China, including plans to take part in U.S. naval exercises in the Solomon Islands in August, according to Taiwanese media."
Comment: Taiwan remains a flashpoint, one that could easily convulse major powers into armed conflict. I'm convinced that China has a long-term plan to annex Taiwan and unless something changes, that would mean war.
UPI reports: "Taiwan held drills simulating the repelling of invading forces on Wednesday, as the country prepared to conduct joint drills with the United States amid rising tensions with China. [...] Taiwan's military is expected to conduct more activities that could anger China, including plans to take part in U.S. naval exercises in the Solomon Islands in August, according to Taiwanese media."
Comment: Taiwan remains a flashpoint, one that could easily convulse major powers into armed conflict. I'm convinced that China has a long-term plan to annex Taiwan and unless something changes, that would mean war.
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Pestilence
WHO: Polio returns to Papua New Guinea after 18 years - UPI.com
UPI reports: "Five years after world leaders aimed to wipe out polio worldwide, the disease has turned up in Papa New Guinea for the first time in nearly two decades, the World Health Organization said. [...] Polio is a crippling and potentially deadly infectious disease spread from human contact or contaminated food or water. It can affect the brain and spinal cord and cause paralysis."
Comment: That is really sad to see. Hopefully they will get it under control quickly.
UPI reports: "Five years after world leaders aimed to wipe out polio worldwide, the disease has turned up in Papa New Guinea for the first time in nearly two decades, the World Health Organization said. [...] Polio is a crippling and potentially deadly infectious disease spread from human contact or contaminated food or water. It can affect the brain and spinal cord and cause paralysis."
Comment: That is really sad to see. Hopefully they will get it under control quickly.
Monday, June 25, 2018
Covenant With Many
Kushner rips Abbas, says Mideast peace plan due 'soon' - AP
AP reports: "President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and senior adviser said in an interview published Sunday that the administration will soon present its Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, with or without input from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. [...] The interview came out after a weeklong trip around the region by Kushner and Mideast envoy Jason Greenblatt. The team met with leaders of Israel, Jordan, Qatar, Egypt and Saudi Arabia to discuss the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and the administration’s proposals for a peace deal."
Comment: I find it ironic that the Palestinians think they have a veto if their Arab sponsors sign on to the Trump plan. Of course, we mean the Fatah "faction" that relies on Saudi Arabia and other wealthy Arab donors, the rival Hamas factions relies mostly on Iran, and you know where they stand on the matter of peace with Israel. It's possible to imagine an Israeli peace deal with Fatah in the West Bank, but it's hard to imagine any kind of peace deal with Hamas in Gaza. Hamas has already rejected peace, so there appears to be no deal to be had there.
AP reports: "President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and senior adviser said in an interview published Sunday that the administration will soon present its Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, with or without input from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. [...] The interview came out after a weeklong trip around the region by Kushner and Mideast envoy Jason Greenblatt. The team met with leaders of Israel, Jordan, Qatar, Egypt and Saudi Arabia to discuss the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza and the administration’s proposals for a peace deal."
Comment: I find it ironic that the Palestinians think they have a veto if their Arab sponsors sign on to the Trump plan. Of course, we mean the Fatah "faction" that relies on Saudi Arabia and other wealthy Arab donors, the rival Hamas factions relies mostly on Iran, and you know where they stand on the matter of peace with Israel. It's possible to imagine an Israeli peace deal with Fatah in the West Bank, but it's hard to imagine any kind of peace deal with Hamas in Gaza. Hamas has already rejected peace, so there appears to be no deal to be had there.
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