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 Daily news headlines in depth from TTC Publishing.Sarnia de la Mare Political Science Politics & Government
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  • Headline: U.S. Strikes Iran — Russia Steps In as Potential Mediator #politica #headlines

    Headline: U.S. Strikes Iran — Russia Steps In as Potential Mediator #politica #headlines
    Jun 23 2025


    Headline: U.S. Strikes Iran — Russia Steps In as Potential Mediator

    Lead: In a dramatic escalation of the Iran–U.S. crisis, Operation Midnight Hammer saw U.S. forces bomb Iran’s nuclear sites on June 22, prompting Iran to retaliate with missile strikes and threats to blockade the Strait of Hormuz. Russia has condemned the attacks and quietly positioned itself as a diplomatic broker—accepting a mission from Tehran to discuss aid and mediation in Moscow.

    Latest Headlines1. U.S. bombs three Iranian nuclear sitesOn June 22, U.S. forces struck Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, launching a mix of submarine-launched Tomahawks and bunker-buster bombs. The operation, dubbed “Operation Midnight Hammer,” inflicted heavy damage, according to the U.S., though Iran claims the strikes were “superficial”2. Trump threatens regime changePresident Trump publicly floated the idea of regime change in Tehran — tweeting provocatively: “If the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn't there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!!” 3. Iran retaliates — missile attacks and Hormuz threatsTehran responded with missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and threatened to block the Strait of Hormuz, a vital channel that handles roughly a quarter of global oil shipments 4. U.S. officials say diplomacy still on the tableSecretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the U.S. is “not at war” with Iran, maintaining that regime change isn’t the official goal 5. Global backlash and calls for de-escalationUN, EU, UK, France, Germany and others called for calm and urged Iran not to escalate further Israel supported the U.S. actions and carried out its own strikes on Tehran, including targeting Evin Prison 6. Russia condemns U.S. strikes — offers to mediateMoscow strongly criticized the U.S. strike. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called it “unprovoked aggression” and warned of a dangerous escalation President Putin echoed these sentiments in a meeting with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, labeling the attacks “absolutely unprovoked” and signaling deep concern Russia formally offered to mediate between the U.S. and Iran — positioning itself as a diplomatic intermediary, though specific support measures remain unclear .7. Ayatollah Khamenei seeks more from RussiaSupreme Leader Khamenei has dispatched Araqchi to Moscow requesting enhanced Russian backing — likely diplomatic, but possibly military assistance, though the absence of a mutual defense clause in the January partnership treaty complicates expectations
    What It Means
    Escalation risk remains high: Military responses from Iran and Israel, U.S. threats of further strikes, and global alarm signal serious tension.Oil markets rattled: Talks of a potential Hormuz blockade and regional unrest drove Brent crude above $80/barrel earlier today .Diplomacy being tested: Russia’s mediation offer may shift dynamics—be it soft-peace efforts or deeper involvement.
    DateEventJune 13 . Mossad‑aided missile & drone strikes by Iran at Israel launch the regional conflict June 20–21U.S.–EU nuclear talks stall as Israel ramps up its strikes .June 22U.S. bombs Iranian nuclear sites; Trump teases regime change .June 22–23Iran launches missile strikes on Israel, threats made to shut Strait of Hormuz .June 23Russia condemns strikes, Putin meets Araqchi, offers mediation; Iran presses for Russian support .
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    4 mins
  • The Trump–Mohammed bin Salman Relationship #politica

    The Trump–Mohammed bin Salman Relationship #politica
    May 13 2025
    The Trump–Mohammed bin Salman Relationship: A Strategic Alliance of Power, Profit, and Politics ©2025 Tale Teller ClubThe relationship between former and current U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has been a defining feature of recent U.S.–Saudi relations. Characterized by mutual admiration, substantial economic agreements, and shared geopolitical objectives, their alliance has significantly influenced Middle Eastern dynamics and raised questions about the intertwining of personal interests with national policy.Strategic Foundations and Mutual InterestsFrom the outset of Trump's presidency, Saudi Arabia was a focal point. In 2017, Trump chose Riyadh for his first official foreign visit, signaling a departure from traditional diplomatic norms and emphasizing the importance he placed on the U.S.–Saudi partnership. This visit culminated in the announcement of a $142 billion arms deal, touted as the largest defense sales agreement in history, and underscored the deepening military and economic ties between the two nations. The alliance was further solidified by shared regional objectives, notably countering Iranian influence and fostering economic development. Trump's administration supported Saudi-led initiatives, including the blockade of Qatar and the controversial intervention in Yemen, aligning with MBS's assertive foreign policy stance. Economic Entanglements and Business InterestsBeyond geopolitics, the Trump–MBS relationship was marked by significant economic engagements. During Trump's tenure, Saudi Arabia pledged substantial investments in the U.S., including a $600 billion commitment encompassing sectors like defense, energy, and technology. These deals were often accompanied by high-profile forums and summits, highlighting the economic synergy between the two leaders.However, these economic ties also raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest. Reports indicated that Trump's business ventures, including licensing deals and real estate projects in the Gulf region, benefited from the strengthened U.S.–Saudi relationship. Critics argued that the blurring of lines between Trump's official duties and personal business interests could undermine the integrity of U.S. foreign policy. Diplomatic Maneuvering and ControversiesThe personal rapport between Trump and MBS allowed for diplomatic flexibility, but it also attracted scrutiny. Following the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, Trump faced international pressure to hold Saudi Arabia accountable. Nevertheless, he maintained support for MBS, citing strategic interests and economic partnerships as overriding factors. This unwavering support highlighted the transactional nature of their relationship, where mutual benefits often took precedence over human rights considerations. The approach drew criticism from various quarters, suggesting that it set a precedent for overlooking ethical concerns in favor of strategic alliances.Legacy and ImplicationsThe Trump–MBS alliance has left a lasting impact on U.S.–Middle East relations. It exemplified a shift towards a more personalized and economically driven foreign policy, where individual relationships could shape national strategies. While the partnership achieved certain strategic objectives, it also underscored the potential pitfalls of intertwining personal interests with official duties.As future administrations navigate the complexities of international diplomacy, the Trump–MBS relationship serves as a case study in balancing strategic alliances with ethical considerations, and the importance of maintaining clear boundaries between personal interests and national responsibilities.On May 13, 2025, President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) convened in Riyadh, marking a significant moment in U.S.–Saudi relations. Their meeting culminated in the signing of a strategic economic partnership agreement, encompassing cooperation in sectors such as energy, mining, and defense. A central highlight was the announcement of a $142 billion arms deal, touted as the largest defense sales agreement to date. This deal is part of a broader $600 billion Saudi investment commitment in the United States, spanning various industries including infrastructure and technology. The implications of this meeting are multifaceted. Economically, the substantial investments signal a deepening of financial ties between the two nations, potentially leading to job creation and technological advancements. Strategically, the defense agreements may influence the balance of power in the Middle East, particularly concerning Iran's regional activities.Furthermore, the lifting of U.S. sanctions on Syria, announced during the visit, indicates a shift in foreign policy, aiming to stabilize the region and open avenues for reconstruction and investment. Overall, the Trump–MBS meeting underscores a transactional approach to ...
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    5 mins
  • H. G. Wells ch 19 Anticipations of the Reaction of Mechanical and Scientific Progress #democracy

    H. G. Wells ch 19 Anticipations of the Reaction of Mechanical and Scientific Progress #democracy
    May 13 2025
    21 mins
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