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Thursday, December 31, 2015

December 31, 2015

Crusading former Pentagon chief says nuke danger is growing
The 88-year-old former defense secretary is troubled by the risks of catastrophe from the very weapons he helped develop. Atop his list: a nuclear terror attack in a major U.S. city or a shooting war with Russia that, through miscalculation, turns nuclear. A terrorist attack using a nuclear bomb or improvised nuclear device could happen "any time now - next year or the year after," he said in an interview with reporters earlier this month.  
Large Hadron Collider discovers 'mega particle that could hold key to other dimensions
SCIENTISTS believe they have discovered a new "game changing" particle through the bizarre experiments of the Large Hadron Collider.  
Increased activity at Vanuatu volcanoes
Disaster authorities in Vanuatu are closely monitoring unprecedented simultaneous increases in activity at three of the country's volcanoes. The Vanuatu Geohazards Department has put out level 2 alerts for both the northern and southern volcanoes of Ambrym and Tanna with local communities and tourists banned from visiting the rim of these craters.  
Rising tensions over EU migrant influx exposed as TWO THIRDS of Germans expect ISIS attack
A shock poll revealed the deep-seated fear that jihadi maniacs who have sneaked into Europe disguised as refugees will wreak carnage on the streets of European cities. The disturbing survey, carried out by respected pollsters YouGov, showed that 66 per cent of Germans believe an Islamist terror attack is inevitable within the next year.  
Paris Concert Crowd Was Singing ‘Kiss The Devil’ The Moment Terror Attacks Began
Amazingly, the song that was playing the moment the shooting started was called ‘Kiss The Devil‘, and here are some of the lyrics from that tune:  
Iranian Rocketfire ‘Close Call’ With US Vessel in Strait of Hormuz
The Iranian Revolutionary Guards fired a rocket close to an American military vessel on Saturday, in the Strait of Hormuz. The missile was test-fired 1.3 kilometers (barely 3/4 of a mile) from the USS Harry S. Truman. U.S. Central Command told Reuters the drill was “provocative, unsafe and unprofessional.”  
ISIS plotting 'to slaughter THOUSANDS' in 2016 in bid to spark huge FINAL BATTLE with West
The sick terror group will activate hundreds of sleeper cells in "dozens of countries" in an unprecedented bid to destabilise western governments and spark a huge military retaliation in the Middle East. The shock claim, from one of the world's leading authorities on the death cult, comes amid fears of a New Year's Eve terror plot in London and other major world cities.  
China preps for space warfare
Following recent tests of anti-satellite missiles and near-space hypersonic vehicles, China’s military will soon create a new Space Force...a sign Beijing is preparing for future space warfare. Military analysts say...the unit will be part of a new Strategic Support Forces service that will include nuclear missiles...along with an electronic information forces, cyber warfare units and electronic and signals intelligence.  
Online surveillance is OK for most
A majority of Americans say they support warrantless government surveillance of the Internet communications of U.S. citizens, according to a new poll by The Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. It's at least somewhat important for the government to sacrifice freedoms to ensure safety, most say in the survey.  
Freak storm pushes North Pole 50 degrees above normal to melting point
A powerful winter cyclone — the same storm that led to two tornado outbreaks in the United States...has driven the North Pole to...50 degrees above average for this time of year. From Tuesday evening to Wednesday morning...pressure drop was recorded in Iceland: 54 millibars in just 18 hours. This triples the criteria for “bomb” cyclogenesis...a rapidly intensifying mid-latitude storm.  
This Is the Year's Weirdest Weather Moment Yet
It will be a "meteorological marvel," he writes. "In a region famous for ship-sinking waves and relentless blizzards, this storm may stand out for its sheer intensity." Expect 230mph winds "roaring across the North Atlantic at aircraft cruising altitudes," and lots more rain for an already soaked UK.  
Syria conflict: 'At least 16 dead' in three restaurants blasts
At least 16 people have been killed and 30 wounded in three blasts in a Kurdish-controlled city in Syria, a monitoring group has said. The attacks targeted restaurants in Qamishli, near the border with Turkey, according to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). At least one of the blasts was a suicide attack, the Observatory said.   
Migrant crisis: Merkel urges Germans to see 'opportunity'
German Chancellor Angela Merkel is to use her New Year's speech to urge Germans to see the influx of refugees as an opportunity for the future. Warning against support for xenophobic groups, she says "it's important we don't allow ourselves to be divided". Germany has taken in more than a million asylum seekers this year, far more than any other European country.  
Exclusive: Microsoft to warn email users of suspected hacking by governments
Microsoft Corp said on Wednesday it will begin warning users of its consumer services including Outlook.com email when the company suspects that a government has been trying to hack into their accounts. The policy change comes nine days after Reuters asked the company why it had decided not tell victims of a hacking campaign, discovered in 2011, that had targeted international leaders of China's Tibetan and Uighur minorities in particular.  
California Methane Leak is Environmental Disaster in Slow Motion
Since October, the gas has been spilling out of a former oil field-turned-storage site owned by Southern California Gas Company at the rate of 70,000 pounds per hour, CBS reports, equal to roughly a quarter of the state's methane emissions. Residents knew something was wrong when they kept getting sick. Headaches, nosebleeds, nausea and other issues were reported by the locals of this town located in the San Fernando Valley  
Egyptian warplanes bomb targets near Gaza border
Palestinian witnesses in the Gazan side of Rafah said on Thursday that Egyptian warplanes hit targets in the Egyptian side of Rafah. ...Egyptian army have demolished thousands of homes in the Egyptian side of Rafah during the past year to create a buffer zone with nearby Gaza, an effort by Egypt to end what it says is the smuggling of arms via secret tunnels.  
'Hamas activated cells to carry out suicide attacks, target Israeli political figures'
Amid a wave of lone wolf terror attacks that has plagued Israel over the past three months, Hamas has decided to renew military activities against the Jewish state, including suicide bombings, Beirut-based daily Al-Akhbar reported on Thursday. "Hamas sleeper cells have received orders to strike targets inside occupied Palestine," Al-Akhbar quoted Hamas sources as saying.  
Moderate earthquake, 5.4 mag has occurred near Southeast Indian Ridge
A moderate earthquake magnitude 5.4 (ml/mb) has struck on Saturday, Southeast Indian Ridge (0 miles). A tsunami warning has not been issued.  
Moderate earthquake, 5.7 mag was detected near Masachapa in Nicaragua
A moderate earthquake with magnitude 5.7 (ml/mb) was detected on Thursday, 68 kilometers (42 miles) from Masachapa in Nicaragua. The earthquake was roughly at a depth of 36.49 km (23 miles). Global time and date of event 31/12/15 / 2015-12-31 10:57:00 / December 31, 2015  
British Floods: Raging River Destroys Bridge Dating From 1700
Widespread flooding across northern Britain has turned streets into raging torrents, forced thousands of residents to evacuate their homes and destroyed many historic buildings including a bridge dating back to 1700.  
Jihadi Couple Who Plotted London Bomb Attack Jailed For Life
A husband and wife convicted of plotting to bomb a shopping mall or subway train on the anniversary of London's 2005 terror attack have been sentenced to life in prison.  
Brussels Cancels New Year's Eve Festivities Over Terror Threat
Brussels canceled its New Year’s Eve fireworks display and other festivities because of a “significant” risk of a terrorist attack.  
U.S.-trained commandos in Philippines kill 10 militants
U.S.-trained army commandos in the Philippines killed 10 al Qaeda-linked militants in a clash on a southern island, a military spokesman said on Thursday, as security forces intensify a search for foreign hostages.  
North Korea says top aide to leader Kim dies in car crash
A senior North Korean official and a top aide to leader Kim Jong Un has died in a car accident, state news agency reported on Wednesday, the latest dramatic death or disappearance in the close circle of deputies to the country's leader.  
Freed Afghan village reveals key to Taliban 'success'
Flanked by shaggy-haired gunmen, commander Ghulam Farooq peered out from a hilltop at the biggest military prize of his storied career as a warlord -- a mud-walled Afghan village captured after five years of Taliban control.  

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

December 30, 2015

Rabbi Reveals Conflict Between Russia and Turkey the Precursor to Messiah
According to the understanding passed down in his family, Rabbi Shtern explained that each letter in the entire verse is used in an acronym for: אם תום אלף שישי רובו יפול קיסר רוסיה אלכסנדר אז תהינה כמה מלחמות בעולם אז חריבה רוסיה ירושלים תבנה הגלות יסור מעלינו יבוא משיחנו. At the end of six thousand the Caesar of Russia Alexander will fall, there will be several wars in the world, Russia will be destroyed and Jerusalem will be built, the Diaspora will leave us, and the Messiah will come.  
Iran conducts 'provocative' live rocket tests near US ships
Iran's navy conducted rocket tests last week near US warships and other commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, the American military has said. The tests threaten to cause new tensions between the two nations following their landmark nuclear deal. Iran fired "several unguided rockets" about 1,370m (1,500 yards) from two US vessels and a French frigate, US military spokesman Kyle Raines said.  
US storms: Missouri floods close Mississippi near St Louis
A five-mile (8km) section of the Mississippi River near St Louis, Missouri, has been closed to vessels as rising water levels caused "hazardous conditions", the US Coast Guard said. Storms and tornadoes have lashed the region in recent days, swelling rivers and causing flash flooding. Missouri Governor Jay Nixon said 13 people in the state had died in the floods.  
Israel-Indian missile system Barak 8 carries out successful trial in Indian Ocean
The Israeli-Indian developed Barak 8 missile system carried out two successful interceptions from an Indian Navy ship over the past day. Israel Aerospace Industries said that the weapons system successfully hit its target and completed a series of three tests that demonstrate its readiness.  
Netanyahu: We've been in Hebron, Cave of the Patriarchs for 4 millennia, we will not be moved
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent his condolences to the family of Gennady Kaufman, the Israeli who was stabbed by a terrorist in the West Bank near the Cave of the Patriarchs... "...I say to all those who wish to uproot us from the Cave of the Patriarchs: with the exception of a few years in the previous century, we have been there close to 4,000 years,"..."And there we will stay forever. You cannot defeat us," he added.  
A Special Message from Pastor John Hagee Regarding His Book In Defense of Israel
...It has come to my attention that my choice of language and some of the interpretation...in Chapter Ten has caused some confusion and actually led some readers to question whether I believe that Jesus is the Messiah... I have decided to release a new edition of In Defense of Israel with an expanded Chapter Ten. The new version will make the same point as the prior one, but using language which cannot mislead anyone about my bedrock belief that Jesus was and is Lord, Savior and Messiah.  
MEP says Turkish EU bid now linked to refugee issue
Faced with the worst migrant crisis since World War II, the EU is in the process of negotiating with Turkey on a refugee action plan. The 28-nation bloc has offered Turkey funds to reduce the flow of asylum seekers coming into Europe in exchange for easier visa travel rules for Turkish citizens.  
Latinos: Fastest-growing group of Muslims in US
Latinos in the U.S. are considered to be the fastest-growing demographic as well as the fastest-growing group of Muslims in America, the Press-Enterprise reported. Although the statistics haven't been widely tracked, there are an estimated 150,000 Islam converts among the Latino community in the U.S.  
With ISIS Rising in Europe, Queen Elizabeth Boldly Declares Faith in Christ
"It is true," she said, "that the world has had to confront moments of darkness this year, but the Gospel of John contains a verse of great hope, often read at Christmas carol services: 'The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it.'"  
Officials warn thousands of homes in Missouri, Illinois threatened by floods
Federal officials were monitoring 19 vulnerable levees on the rising Mississippi River and its tributaries, warning that hundreds of homes in Illinois and Missouri could be threatened by a rare winter flood that already forced the partial closure of interstate highways and widespread evacuations.  
Putin calls for cooperation with US in message to Obama
Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a New Year's message to US President Barack Obama, has called for cooperation between their countries to respond to international challenges.  
4.8 earthquake rattles Northwest Washington
A 4.8 earthquake has rattled northwestern Washington and Vancouver Island, according to the USGS. The quake struck at 11:39 p.m. and was centered about 11 miles east of Victoria, B.C. at a depth of about 36 miles.  
Islamic State suffers double blow as Ramadi falls, leaders killed
U.S.-led forces have killed 10 Islamic State leaders in air strikes, including individuals linked to the Paris attacks, a U.S. spokesman said, dealing a double blow to the militant group after Iraqi forces ousted it from the city of Ramadi. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi planted the national flag in Ramadi after the army retook the city center from Islamic State  
Turkey supports ISIS, wants to revive Ottoman Empire – Syria’s UN envoy
Syria’s envoy to the UN has accused Turkey of supporting terrorist groups and covering for their invasion into Syria. Urging the UN to end Ankara’s “violations and crimes,” Bashar al-Ja’afari also warned that Erdogan’s goal is to “revive” the Ottoman Empire.  
Most Americans back Trump's call to halt Muslim influx
Americans are strongly backing GOP presidential primary front-runner Donald Trump’s suggestion that all Muslim immigration be halted until the nation can figure out how to handle the threat of imported terrorists. Nearly 70 percent of those responding to a poll question about halting refugees from Syria agreed with Trump, and almost the same percentage said America should ban all Muslim immigration at least temporarily.  
Moderate earthquake, 5 mag strikes near La Gomera in Guatemala
A moderate earthquake magnitude 5 (ml/mb) strikes 10 kilometers (6 miles) from La Gomera in Guatemala on Tuesday. A tsunami warning has not been issued (Does not indicate if a tsunami actually did or will exist). The earthquake was roughly at a depth of 88.44 km (55 miles). Date and time of earthquake in UTC/GMT: 30/12/15 / 2015-12-30 03:25:35 / December 30, 2015 @ 3:25 am.  
Earthquake hits Greater Victoria, shakes houses
An earthquake shook Greater Victoria at 11:39 p.m. Tuesday. The U.S. Geological Survey reported it as a 4.8 magnitude quake while it registered as 4.3 at the Natural Resources Canada website. There were no immediate reports of damage, but it was strong enough shake buildings. Greater Victoria residents reported the quake lasted several seconds, with some saying they felt it in two waves within about 30 seconds.  
4.4-magnitude quake strikes near San Bernardino
An earthquake of 4.4 magnitude struck about 4 miles from San Bernardino, Calif., on Tuesday, the U.S. Geological Survey reported, jangling nerves but not resulting in any reports of damage.  
Obama to Require Background Checks for All 'In the Business' of Selling Firearms
The next shoe to drop on gun control may come by mid-January, when President Barack Obama is expected to issue an executive order requiring everyone "in the business" of selling firearms to perform background checks.  
Migrant crisis: Over one million reach Europe by sea
More than one million refugees and migrants have reached Europe by sea since the start of 2015, the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) says.  
The guy made famous by 'The Big Short' for predicting the housing crash has a dark warning
Michael Burry thinks the “risk-pricing mechanism” of the global economy is broken and we’re “building up terrific stresses in the system.” Burry is the central character of “The Big Short,” a blockbuster now in theaters that focuses on the latest financial crisis.  
US criticizes Russia over civilian deaths in Syria
The United States criticized Russia on Tuesday for killing hundreds of civilians in airstrikes in Syria and accused Moscow of undermining hopes for a cease-fire between Bashar Assad's government and leading rebel groups.  
A Massive Solar Storm will Hit Earth Before New Year's Eve
A massive solar eruption is about to hit Earth, and the resulting northern lights could be spectacular just before New Year's Eve for those in the right latitudes. NOAA forecasts the aurora borealis will dip clear down to Oregon, with a small chance of even the Bay Area seeing the northern lights.  
Orthodox Rabbis Bring Jesus Home for Christmas
“Jesus brought a double goodness to the world,” declare the group of well-known rabbis. “On the one hand he strengthened the Torah of Moses majestically… and not one of our Sages spoke out more emphatically concerning the immutability of the Torah,” and on the other hand “he removed idols from the nations.”  

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

December 29, 2015

Bill Calling for Non-Muslim Prayer on the Temple Mount Brings Prophetic Vision One Step Closer
The Third Holy Temple is at the core of the Jewish view of the End of Days. A new bill was recently proposed by member of Knesset Bezalal Smotrich that, if passed, would allow Jews and Christians to pray on the Temple Mount.  
The Latest Hagee Heresy: “In Defense of Israel”
If this volume lives up to the promotion, namely that Jesus did not claim to be, and was not, the promised Messiah of Old Testament literature, it is heresy at its worst. If the promo is some sort of theological subterfuge designed to accelerate sales, it is duplicity in its vilest manifestation.  
Pope Francis assures atheists: You don’t have to believe in God to go to heaven
In comments likely to enhance his progressive reputation, Pope Francis has written a long, open letter to the founder of La Repubblica newspaper, Eugenio Scalfari, stating that non-believers would be forgiven by God if they followed their consciences.  
Large earthquake rocks Oklahoma early Tuesday morning; damage & power outages reported
A powerful earthquake rattled many Oklahomans out of bed early Tuesday morning. The U.S. Geological Survey reports a 4.3 earthquake hit near Midwest Boulevard and Covell Road at 5:39 a.m. Casey Moore, City of Edmond Spokesperson says right after the quake 4.400 customers in east Edmond were without power.  
Trident nuclear deterrent under threat from underwater drones, expert warns
Rapid advances in underwater drone technology – autonomous underwater vehicles that can be controlled by ship- or land-based operators – threaten to make the controversial Trident nuclear submarines vulnerable, according to Paul Ingram, the chief executive of the British American Security Information Council  
Here comes Storm Frank: NASA release pic of WORST STORM in year to smash into UK TONIGHT
Coastal regions are on alert for violent 120mph gales to send colossal waves tumbling over sea defences over the next 48 hours. More than month’s worth of rain is forecast to fall in Scotland and the north with flood-hit regions braced for more misery. It will be followed by a bitter Arctic plunge unleashing freezing winds and dumping inches of snow in parts of Britain, experts warn.  
'Affluenza' teen and his mother detained in Mexico
The hunt for an 18-year-old Texas man who had pleaded guilty in the drunk-driving deaths of four people, but avoided jail time by successfully claiming his family's affluence — or "affluenza" — was to blame, ended Monday night when Mexican authorities detained him and his mother in a popular resort city.  
Court rules raising hands permitted on Temple Mount
The Jerusalem District Court accepted Monday the appeal of the Temple Mount activist Yehuda Etzion, and in canceling his expulsion from the holy site ruled that it was permitted to raise one’s hands while visiting there.  
SUNSPOT ERUPTS, HURLS CME TOWARD EARTH
After several days of pent-up quiet, big sunspot AR2473 erupted on Dec. 28th (12:49 UT), producing a slow but powerful M1.9-class solar flare.  
'Shadow CIA' 2016 Forecast: Turkey Set to Make a 'Military Move' Into Syria
"This is the year when Turkey, nervous but more politically coherent than it was last year, will likely make a military move into northern Syria while trying to enlarge its footprint in northern Iraq," the Texas-based think tank noted in its forecast for 2016. The intelligence company maintains that Washington will likely "facilitate" Ankara's predicted "heavy air campaign" in Syrian provinces bordering Turkey.  
Papua New Guinea Rocked by 5.6-Magnitude Quake
The quake was registered at 01:51 GMT. The epicenter was located about 92 kilometers (57 miles) south of the town of Panguna at the depth of 47.2 kilometers.  
5.1 magnitude earthquake jolts Swat, adjoining areas
A 5.1-magnitude earthquake hit parts of Pakistan’s northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Tuesday, the met office said. The quake’s epicenter was determined at Afghanistan’s Hindu Kush Mountain range with a focal depth of 186 km, the met office said.  
Palmyra arch from Syrian heritage site to be recreated in London's Trafalgar Square
A monument from a temple in the ancient city of Palmyra destroyed by so-called Islamic State (IS) is to be recreated in London's Trafalgar Square. The 2,000-year-old arch is all that remains of the Temple of Bel, part of the Syrian Unesco World Heritage site, captured by militants in May. It will be recreated from photographs, using a 3D printer.  
Pakistan suicide bombing kills 'at least 22' in Mardan
A suspected suicide attack at a government office in north-west Pakistan has killed at least 22 people, police say. The bomb went off outside the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) office in the town of Mardan. A splinter faction of the Pakistani Taliban said it carried out the attack, which left more than 30 others wounded.  
IDF Inaugurates New All-Commando Brigade
The new brigade, dubbed the Commando Brigade, will be comprised solely of infantry special-operations units removed from their previous chain of command structures to create this new tactical formation.“The dangerous winds blowing from Lebanon, threats by the Islamic State, the escalation in Judea and Samaria as well as threats from the southern border, demand the capability of the personnel in this new brigade now more than ever,  
ISIS fatwa aims to settle who can have sex with female slaves
Islamic State theologians have issued an extremely detailed ruling on when "owners" of women enslaved by the extremist group can have sex with them, in an apparent bid to curb what they called violations in the treatment of captured females. The ruling or fatwa has the force of law and appears to go beyond the Islamic State's previous known utterances on the subject, a leading Islamic State scholar said.  
Oil slump weighing on housing markets in Texas, North Dakota
There's a dark side to those delightfully low gas prices: Housing markets are slumping in communities that were recently flush from the U.S. shale oil fracking boom.  
State Dept. counts 'bringing peace' to Syria as a 2015 win
The State Department is counting "bringing peace" to Syria as one of its wins in 2015. A boastful recap of the State Department’s accomplishments, written by spokesman John Kirby, includes the bold subheadline of "Bringing Peace, Security to Syria" above a more modest entry talking about U.S. aid for those affected by the country's turmoil and the U.S. push for a political transition from President Bashar Assad.  
ISIS Finally Comes After the Jews
The Kurds have essentially been the only group doing anything to battle ISIS on the ground and save Yazidi men, women, and children from enslavement and death.  
A Nervous George Soros Lashes Out At Donald Trump: He Wants You To Be Afraid
It appears The Establishment has decided to bring in the big guns to dislodge The GOP's nightmare scenario as Donald Trump goes from strength to strength in the polls. Writing in an op-ed for The Guardian, billionaire puppet-master George Soros urges Americans "to resist the siren song of the likes of Donald Trump," adding that "the terrorists and demagogues want us to be scared. We mustn’t give in."  

Monday, December 28, 2015

December 28, 2015

Florida Muslim Leader Commemorates Hamas, Calls Jews Monkeys and Pigs
When South Florida Muslim leader Sofian Zakkout wants people to believe he is a man of peace, he speaks or writes it in English. But when Zakkout wants to show his true colors and curse Jews or call for violence against people, he does so in Arabic. This month, Zakkout’s real self came out once again, as he labeled Jews the “grandsons of monkeys and pigs,” while commemorating the 28th anniversary of Hamas.  
Strong deep earthquake below the coast of Saint-pierre, Martinique
Although relatively close to the island of Martinique the quake only resulted in a max. moderate shaking due to the depth of the hypocenter. Most important Earthquake Data: Magnitude : 5.6 GMT/UTC Time : 2015-12-28 06:55:30  
An Actual Death Panel in Texas
The Act, which was signed into law in 1999 by then-Governor George W. Bush, allows hospitals to withdraw life-sustaining treatments if an ethics committee agrees that further treatment is futile. Their only responsibility to the family is a written ten-day notice.  
Saudi mufti: ISIS are soldiers of Israel
"his threat against Israel is entirely false. The reality of ISIS is that they are soldiers of Israel."  
Exclusive: Seized documents reveal Islamic State's Department of 'War Spoils'
Islamic State has set up departments to handle "war spoils," including slaves, and the exploitation of natural resources such as oil, creating the trappings of government that enable it to manage large swaths of Syria and Iraq and other areas.  
2,000-strong Kentucky mall brawl leads to shutdown, no arrests
"As they were responding to those disturbances, others were breaking out. ... Disturbances started to feed on themselves,” police spokesman Dennis McDonald said. "They were just overwhelmed with the number of calls for service and reports of disorder." The officers had to call for backup, and 50 more officers arrived from five different agencies.  
At Least 24 Dead After Texas Tornadoes and Midwest Flooding
At least 24 people have been killed and one person is missing after tornadoes barreled through Texas and heavy rain inundated parts of the Midwest. The Dallas area was ravaged by several massive tornadoes that left at least 11 people dead Saturday night. Five people died in a flash flood in Illinois, and eight deaths have been confirmed in Missouri...  
Surveillance powers will help to unmask online bullies
Police are to use sweeping new surveillance powers to unmask anonymous internet bullies and bring them to justice. A new power that forces internet providers to retain web browsing information will help police to hunt down and identify the most serious cyberbullies and trolls, Theresa May has said.  
80 primary school pupils a year seeking help to change gender – charity
Up to 80 primary school-aged children a year in the UK are now seeking help towards potentially changing their gender amid signs of classmates encouraging each other to do so... In some cases children as young as four are already in the process of “transitioning” to another sex, according to Susie Green, chair of Mermaids, a charity which provides support for families of children and teenagers with gender identity issues. Islamic State leader Baghdadi goads West in rare audio statement
The leader of the self-declared Islamic State issued a defiant message to the West, warning “crusaders” not to dare fight on his turf. ..."Crusaders and Jews don't dare to come on the ground because they were defeated in Iraq and Afghanistan,"... "Jews, soon you shall hear from us in Palestine which will become your grave," the voice, purporting to be Baghdadi, is heard saying.  
Gonorrhoea 'could become untreatable'
Gonorrhoea could become an untreatable disease, England's chief medical officer has warned. Dame Sally Davies has written to all GPs and pharmacies to ensure they are prescribing the correct drugs after the rise of "super-gonorrhoea" in Leeds. Her warning comes after concerns were raised that some patients were not getting both of the antibiotics needed to clear the infection.  
Five ways to celebrate a digital Christmas
Log on to a virtual church and talk about Star Wars...Everyday Church Online...runs virtual services every Sunday for a net-based congregation from around the world. Everyone's invited to log on and chat while a recorded sermon is streamed... Carry out a Christmas mission in a virtual world...Guardians of Ancora is a recently launched, free-to-play fantasy game available on Android, iPhone and Kindle platforms...  
Dozens dead in US Christmas storms
At least 43 people have been killed over the past five days by severe storms across southern and western parts of the United States. Flash floods, tornadoes and now snow have destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses and snarled transport links. The National Weather Service has issued tornado warnings for Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Mississippi.  
Syria fighters' evacuation from Zabadani 'under way'
Dozens of Syrian rebel fighters are being evacuated from the village of Zabadani near the Lebanese border under a UN-brokered deal. A convoy of buses and ambulances has reached Zabadani to take the fighters, and some civilians, to Beirut. The evacuation is part of a truce agreed in September covering Zabadani and two towns in the north which had been under siege from rebel forces.  
Anti-Islamic State journalist murdered in Turkey
An anti-Islamic State activist and filmmaker has been shot dead by assassins in broad daylight in Turkey. Naji Jerf, 38, was shot with a silenced pistol in downtown Gaziantep, near the Syrian border, Turkish media reported. Mr Jerf was the film director for Raqqa is Being Slaughtered Silently (RBSS), a group of journalists who risk their lives daily to report on IS abuses.  
Milan and Rome ban cars as pollution rises
Two of Italy's largest cities, Milan and Rome, are restricting car use as smog levels build up. Milan is banning cars, motorcycles and scooters for six hours a day over the next three days. In Rome, cars with odd-numbered plates have been banned for nine hours on Monday. On Tuesday, cars with even-numbered plates will be restricted.  
'Department of Slaves' and other ISIS horrors revealed in documents seized by US
Islamic State has set up departments to handle "war spoils," including slaves, and the exploitation of natural resources such as oil... The hierarchical bureaucracy, including petty rivalries between officials, and legal codes in the form of religious fatwas are detailed in a cache of documents seized by US Special Operations Forces in a May raid in Syria that killed top IS financial official Abu Sayyaf.  
Sudan Hopes for Strategic Partnership with Russia
"We are counting on this ministerial committee to improve relations with Russia in all fields, we consider it the most successful ministerial committee and we hope to become a strategic partner of Russia," the vice president said at the end of the third Sudanese-Russian Joint Ministerial Committee.  
Magnitude-4.2 quake strikes northwest of Barstow
A magnitude-4.2 earthquake struck about 26 miles northwest of Barstow in the Mojave Desert early Sunday and could be felt in the Victor Valley and as far as Los Angeles, according to U.S. Geological Service.  
Hitler's 'Mein Kampf' returns to German market in new form
For 70 years since the Nazi defeat in World War II, copyright law has been used in Germany to prohibit the publication of "Mein Kampf" — the notorious anti-Semitic tome in which Adolf Hitler set out his ideology.  
Damage from sinking land costing California billions
A canal that delivers vital water supplies from Northern California to Southern California is sinking in places. So are stretches of a riverbed undergoing historic restoration. On farms, well casings pop up like mushrooms as the ground around them drops.  
2015: The Year That Exposed The "Experts" And Left The "Smart-Crowd" Dumbfounded
It wasn’t supposed to be this way. We were all told by the “experts” and the so-called “smart crowd” ad nauseam the economy and markets of 2015 were “ready for lift off.”  
Shale's Running Out of Survival Tricks as OPEC Ramps Up Pressure
In 2015, the fracking outfits that dot America’s oil-rich plains threw everything they had at $50-a-barrel crude. To cope with the 50 percent price plunge, they laid off thousands of roughnecks, focused their rigs on the biggest gushers only and used cutting-edge technology to squeeze all the oil they could out of every well.  

Sunday, December 27, 2015

December 27, 2015

Magnitude 5.2 quake hits Siargao Island
A 5.2-magnitude earthquake yesterday rattled Siargao Island residents and tourists along the islands’ Pacific Ocean facing coastal areas.  
Media Watchdog Blasts Haaretz, Daily Mail for Anti-Israel Bias in “Dishonest Reporting” Awards
Among this year’s winners are left-wing Israeli newspaper Haaretz and Britain’s Daily Mail. Also listed are the New York Times, reporter Brian Williams, and MSNBC.  
The truth behind ISIS leader's threats against Israel and Jews
Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi's rare statement...in which he threatened Israel and Jews, bares witness more to the fact that he and his organization are under pressure... Baghdadi addressed the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. "The Israelis thought that we forgot Palestine and that they diverted our attention from the issue, but that is not the situation. We have not forgotten Palestine for a moment," he stressed.  
Nasrallah: Israelis hiding like rats along border, Kuntar revenge will come
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, speaking on the...assassination of Samir Kuntar, praised the terrorist...saying he was an icon for the school of resistance... "The Israelis are hiding like rats along the border," he said. They are worried and they should be worried along the border and inside Israel. Their threats will not benefit them."  
Ukrainian legislator toasts Adolf Hitler
A video of a Ukrainian opposition lawmaker saluting Adolf Hitler made its way online...days after his country’s President apologized for Ukrainian collaborators’ role in the Holocaust... ...Artyom Vitko...a member of the Radical Party of Oleh Lyashko, can be seen sitting in the back of a car wearing camouflage fatigues and singing along to a song by a Russian neo-Nazi band extolling the virtues of the Nazi dictator.  
Webb Attacks Clinton With Eye on Independent Run
When Jim Webb quit the Democratic presidential race on Oct. 20 amid low poll numbers and a minimal debate presence, the former Virginia senator left open the possibility he'd return for a White House run in a different political guise. Now he appears to be edging closer to making good on it.  
Jerusalem knife attacker shot dead, Israeli police say
A Palestinian man tried to stab an Israeli police officer on Saturday near Jerusalem's Old City and was killed, a police spokeswoman said.  
Over 100,000 flee flooding in Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay
More than 100,000 people have had to evacuate from their homes in the bordering areas of Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil and Argentina due to severe flooding in the wake of heavy summer rains brought on by El Niño, authorities said on Saturday.  
Islamic State leader Baghdadi goads West in rare audio statement
The leader of the self-declared Islamic State issued a defiant message to the West, warning “crusaders” not to dare fight on his turf. In a rare public statement - his first in seven months - Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi said Western countries had "learned from" previous wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.  
In Sweden, a Cash-Free Future Nears
Parishioners text tithes to their churches. Homeless street vendors carry mobile credit-card readers. Even the Abba Museum, despite being a shrine to the 1970s pop group that wrote “Money, Money, Money,” considers cash so last-century that it does not accept bills and coins.  
Tornadoes sweep through Dallas area; significant damage
Tornadoes swept through the Dallas area after dark on Saturday evening causing significant damage while a blizzard was blanketing parts of New Mexico and West Texas with snow, the latest in the nation's freakish winter weather pattern that sent temperatures plunging to near zero wind chill in the western Plains even as numerous record highs are forecast for the eastern U.S.  
Boko Haram kills at least 14 in Christmas Day attack in Nigeria
At least 14 people were killed and several others injured by Boko Haram gunmen in a Christmas Day attack on a village in northeastern Nigeria, vigilantes said Saturday.  

Saturday, December 26, 2015

December 26, 2015

Islamic State conflict: Iraqi forces push deeper into Ramadi
Iraqi forces have moved deeper into Ramadi, pressing an offensive to drive Islamic State militants from the city. Bombs and booby traps have been slowing their advance, army officials say. Troops and Sunni tribal fighters were about 500m (550 yards) from the main local government office.  
Syria war: Yarmouk camp evacuation 'on hold'
The expected evacuation of thousands of rebels from in and around Yarmouk refugee camp in southern Damascus has been put on hold, reports say. Safety issues and the killing of a top rebel have been blamed for the delay. Militants and their families were due to be bussed to areas under the control of their respective groups, under a deal between rebels and the government.  
Paraguay, Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay flooding displaces 150,000
More than 150,000 people in Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil have been driven from their homes by some of the worst flooding in years. Heavy summer rains have caused rivers to swell across a vast area. In Paraguay, the most affected country, President Horacio Cartes declared a state of emergency, freeing up $3.5m (£2.3m) in relief funds.  
'Many missing' in Myanmar landslide
Dozens of people are reportedly missing and feared dead after a landslide hit a jade mining region in Myanmar's northern Kachin state. Officials say a search for survivors and bodies is continuing after Friday's accident in the area around Hpakant. Last month, more than 100 people were killed in the same area after a massive landslide.  
Christmas Day blaze guts Australia homes
A Christmas Day bushfire has destroyed more than 100 homes in Australia's Victoria state, officials say. Officials said 98 homes had been razed in Wye River and 18 at Separation Creek. No injuries are reported. Hundreds of firefighters have been battling the blaze along the famous Great Ocean Road in Victoria's south-west, popular with holidaymakers.  
Diplomats trying to talk Hezbollah out of taking revenge on Israel for Kuntar killing
International diplomats are working feverishly with Lebanese officials in an effort to prevent a revenge attack against Israel by Hezbollah following the killing of one of its top commanders in Damascus, Samir Kuntar, earlier this week... The report cites European sources as saying that “Lebanese officials are aware that the threats made by the Netanyahu government are very serious.”  
Turkey to Israel: No renewal of ties without unlimited access to Gaza
Turkey is demanding that Israel permit unfettered access to the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip as one of the conditions before a formal renewal of diplomatic ties between Jerusalem and Ankara, according to a report in Saturday editions of the Hurriyet Daily News. The report states that the government headed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will not accept any Israeli restrictions on the flow of Turkish aid to the Palestinian coastal enclave.  
Christmas tornado pounds Birmingham, Alabama, weather havoc rages on
The funnel was spotted by witnesses outside the state's biggest city, Birmingham, at about 5pm Central time, (2300 GMT) on Friday, and whipped through some of its neighborhoods.  
Pro-Assad forces declare victory as Islamists surrender position in Damascus
The besieged militants include fighters of Islamic State and the Nusra Front, al-Qaida's offshoot in Syria. Hezbollah's Manar TV said 18 buses had arrived to start taking them and 1,500 family members to areas under the control of IS and other rebel groups.  
Flood warnings as Britain is braced for torrential Boxing Day rain
More than 110 flood alerts and warnings have been issued across England and Wales as Britain is braced for a Boxing Day marred by torrential rain and flooding. Up to 120mm of rain is expected to fall in parts of the North West between now and Saturday, feeding already-swollen rivers in Cumbria that now threaten to burst for the fourth time this month.  
89 people injured as 6.9 magnitude earthquake hits Pakistan
At least 89 people were injured in Pakistan today when a powerful earthquake measuring 6.9-magnitude on Richter Scale jolted several parts of the country including areas bordering Afghanistan. The centre of the quake with 196-km depth was Afghanistan and it was also felt in parts of Tajikistan and India, said Ghulam Rasool, Meteorological Department Director General.  
Afghanistan says 12 people injured in late-night earthquake that jolted country
The magnitude 6.2 quake struck at around 11:45 p.m. on Friday and lasted about a minute. It was also felt in the capital, Kabul, sending residents rushing into the street for safety.  
There’s a theory going around that Donald Trump might be in an even better position than you think
In 1982, California voters were supposed to elect former Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley as the state's next governor. Bradley went into the election with a sizable lead over George Deukmejian. Exit polls projected a Bradley win. But when the ballots were counted, Deukmejian came out the winner. Thus, the "Bradley effect" was born — named as such because many white voters, who told pollsters they were voting for an African-American (Bradley), ended up breaking for the white candidate (Deukmejian). Could Donald Trump be the 2016 version of a reverse "Bradley effect?"  
Welby: Christians Face Middle East Elimination
hristianity is facing "elimination" in the Middle East at the hands of an Islamic State "apocalypse", the Archbishop of Cantebury has warned. The Most Reverend Justin Welby used his Christmas Day sermon at Canterbury Cathedral to say IS is "igniting a trail of fear, violence, hatred and determined oppression".  
Top Syrian Rebel Killed in Airstrike Near Damascus
An airstrike near the Syrian capital on Friday killed top rebel commander Zahran Allouch, the head of one of the most powerful Saudi-backed insurgent groups fighting against President Bashar Assad's government near the seat of his power Damascus, opposition activists said.  
Prominent Putin foe Khodorkovsky may seek asylum in UK after 'arrest in absentia' in Russia
Mikhail Khodorkovsky, a prominent critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin and once Russia's richest man, may seek asylum in Britain following the declaration in Moscow that he had been arrested in absentia for possible involvement in a 1998 murder. The former chief of the now-closed Yukos oil firm told the BBC on Thursday it's now clear that Putin sees him as "a serious threat." He said he feels safe in London and is interested in seeking asylum.  
Iran delusional about its oil potential
After 37 miserable years of the so-called Islamic Republic (IR) and more than $1.6 trillion of oil income, Iran's oil and gas infrastructure has become ineffective and is suffering from poor management and chronic corruption. As a result, the well-respected healthy national oil company, with a 6.3 million b/d crude production prior to the revolution, plunged to a near bankrupt industry with at best a little above 3 million b/d production.  
Here's what the next big Middle Eastern crisis could look like
A host of Middle East nightmare scenarios have unfolded in recent years, from chemical warfare to attempted genocide to state collapse to the takeover of significant territory by an unprecedentedly brutal jihadist group. One of the region's most dangerous frontlines has remained quiet through it all.  
Israelis are calling attacks a ‘new kind of Palestinian terrorism’
Young Palestinians with kitchen knives are waging a ceaseless campaign of near-suicidal violence that Israeli leaders are calling “a new kind of terrorism.” Four attacks occurred in the past 48 hours alone — two stabbings and two vehicular assaults.  

Friday, December 25, 2015

December 25, 2015

UK condemns Muslim Brotherhood in break from Obama administration
A powerful report by the U.K. government accuses the Muslim Brotherhood of being sympathetic to terrorists and a risk to British national security, striking a contrast with the Obama administration’s more conciliatory approach – and fueling criticism that the U.S. government should wake up to the threat.  
When Obama leaves the White House
Many Israelis tend to see the source of all our troubles, the root of all evil, in Barack Hussein Obama. They tend to stress his middle name, Hussein, so that whoever has yet to understand will finally understand where the American president draws his outlook from. His middle name is enough to free the demons from their crypts.  
Pope calls in Christmas message for unity against militant atrocities
Pope Francis urged the world in his Christmas message on Friday to unite to end atrocities by Islamist militants that he said were causing immense suffering in many countries.  
Hezbollah TV: Buses arrive to take 2,000 Syrian Islamist fighters out of south Damascus
Two thousand Syrian Islamist fighters, including Islamic State and Nusra Front militants, were expected to be evacuated soon from besieged, rebel-held areas of southern Damascus in a deal brokered by the UN, Hezbollah TV station said on Friday.  
ISIS sanctions organ harvesting from living ‘apostates’… even if it kills them
Islamic State’s human organ harvesting is sanctioned by a fatwa issued last January, when the group’s Islamic scholars explained that internals of ‘apostates’ could be extracted from their bodies for the needs of Muslims, even if the ‘donors’ die. A document obtained by Reuters reveals that organs harvesting is charitable deed by codes of Islamic State (IS, former ISIS/ISIL), maintains IS’ Research and Fatwa Committee.  
Moderate earthquake, 5.1 mag was detected near Port-Olry in Vanuatu
A moderate earthquake with magnitude 5.1 (ml/mb) was reported 56 kilometers (35 miles) from Port-Olry in Vanuatu on Friday. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 121.41 km (75 miles). A tsunami warning has not been issued (Does not indicate if a tsunami actually did or will exist).  
Earthquake swarm rattles Reno
A series of more than 30 earthquakes that rattled the Reno area over the past two days occurred on the most significant fault structure in the area, and scientists are monitoring for potentially bigger shock waves to follow, experts said Wednesday. No significant damage was reported.  
Central Vietnamese province hit by quake series, with cause unknown
Five earthquakes have been recorded this month in a district of the central Vietnamese province of Thua Thien-Hue, whose cause has yet to be clearly identified by experts.  
Series of earthquakes hits Indonesia’s Maluku Islands
The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) said a magnitude-5.1 earthquake hit West Halmahera regency, North Maluku province, followed by magnitude-5.9 tremors in West Southeast Maluku regency to the south.  
Archbishop gives warning over IS threat to Christianity
Christianity faces "elimination" in the Middle East, the region where it began, the Archbishop of Canterbury is warning in his Christmas Day sermon. The Most Reverend Justin Welby says so-called Islamic State is "igniting a trail of fear, violence, hatred and determined oppression". He also brands IS as "a Herod of today" - a reference to the Biblical king at the time of Jesus's birth.  
Argentina floods force thousands to evacuate
At least 7,000 people have been evacuated in north-eastern Argentina as heavy rains cause rivers to swell. Those living close to the Uruguay River in Entre Rios province are reported to be among the worst affected. The mayor of the town of Concordia, on the border with Uruguay, was quoted as saying a quarter of the town was underwater.  
Indian and Russian leaders praise partnership
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have proclaimed the partnership between their two countries as they signed defence, energy and other deals. President Putin announced that Russia would build a series of nuclear plants in India over the next two decades. He said work on the first two reactors was now in preparation.  
PA boosts security in Bethlehem amid concerns over ISIS Christmas attacks
Palestinian Authority security forces bolstered their presence in Bethlehem on Friday, amid concern over possible attacks targeting pilgrims and Palestinian Christians by Islamic State supporters during the Christmas holiday. According to Palestinian news agency Ma'an, the PA security force had been warned of the intention by radical Salafi activists of disturbing the order.  
UK Muslim schools may institute Jewish studies
The heads of a British network of Islamic schools has announced that it will recommend that its members institute classes in Judaic studies in order to “reciprocate” the country’s Chief Rabbi’s recent call for Jewish schools to educate their pupils about Islam.  
Iran Hostage Crisis: Victims Get Compensation 36 Years Later
Thirty-six years after their capture, the Americans taken hostage in Tehran in 1979 are set to receive millions in compensation for their 444 days of captivity.  
Pope Francis celebrates Christmas Eve Mass
In his Christmas Eve homily Thursday, Pope Francis noted the simplicity of Jesus' birth as he rebuked what he called societies' intoxication with consumerism, pleasure, abundance and wealth.  
About 100 'Black Christmas' protesters block shoppers on Mag Mile
Throngs of protesters descended Thursday on the Magnificent Mile, the city's busiest shopping district, in hopes of barring last-minute shoppers and disrupting commerce for local retailers to call attention to the 2014 fatal shooting of Laquan McDonald by a police officer.  
As Islamic State threat mounts on its doorstep, Indonesia scours a jungle
Indonesian forces are mobilizing for a manhunt in steamy jungles on the far-flung island of Sulawesi to flush the country's most-wanted man from his hideout and deal a pre-emptive blow to Islamic State. The real threat could be much closer to home.  
Christmastime tornadoes ravage South; at least 14 killed
Instead of doing some last-minute shopping or wrapping gifts, families across the South spent Christmas Eve taking stock of their losses after an unusual outbreak of December tornadoes and other violent weather killed at least 14 people and damaged or destroyed dozens of homes.  
“And It’s Gone… It’s All Gone” – The One Gold Scandal That Goes To The Very Top
Long before Turkey was flagrantly arming and funding the CIA-created“terrorist organization” known as ISIS, there was another, far more elaborate way in which Turkey was flaunting international sanctions against an ostracized state – in this case Iran – which involved an epic gold smuggling triangle of Hollywood-thriller proportions, all made possible thanks to the United Arab Emirate city of Dubai.  

Thursday, December 24, 2015

December 24, 2015

Rare Full Moon to Light Up the Skies This Christmas
This year, those who celebrate Christmas will receive a rare treat from the Heavens: for the first time since 1977, a full moon will rise on Christmas, illuminating the night sky. The full moon will peak just as Christmas Day begins: 6:11 a.m. EST on December 25....  
China says tech firms have nothing to fear from anti-terror law
Technology companies have nothing to fear from China's new anti-terrorism law which aims to prevent and probe terror activities and does not affect their copyright, China's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday... The draft anti-terrorism law has caused concern in Western capitals as it could require technology firms to install "back doors" in products or to hand over sensitive information such as encryption keys to the government.  
Syria conflict: Government 'ready to attend peace talks'
Syria's government is prepared to take part in UN-brokered peace talks aimed at finding a political solution to the four-year conflict in the country. Foreign Minister Walid Muallem said it would be "ready as soon as we receive a list of the opposition delegation". The warring parties and the world powers backing them have to agree on which rebel groups will be designated as "terrorists" and not represented.  
German migrant crisis: Arson suspected in refugee home fires
Twelve people were hurt, including seven teenagers, when fires broke out at two neighbouring refugee hostels in the south German region of Bavaria. A man was arrested after the fires at Wasserstein and police suspect arson. No-one in the hostels was badly hurt. More than a million refugees and migrants have arrived in Germany this year, and for most their first stop has been in Bavaria.  
Beijing security: 'Possible threat to Westerners' governments warn
The UK and US governments have issued a warning about possible threats against Westerners in the Chinese capital Beijing on or around Christmas Day. British and US officials say they have received information of possible threats in Sanlitun, which is a busy bar and shopping district. The Australian and French governments have also urged their citizens to remain vigilant.  
Iran urges China to join fight against ISIS
China should play a more active role in fighting Islamic State, a senior figure in a body that advises Iran's Supreme Leader said on Thursday, according to the country's Fars news agency. China relies on the Middle East for oil supplies, but tends to leave diplomacy there to other permanent members of the UN Security Council -- the United States, Britain, France and Russia.  
Pope REFUSES to wear bullet proof vest for Christmas speech amid ISIS threat
..the Pope's spokesman said the pontiff was aware of threats made by ISIS against him but was "not afraid" of the sick Daesh fighters. He said Pope Francis is also refusing to have alterations made to his Popemobile to protect himself during this year's Christmas Day message.  
Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders, of the ancient world to return
Now architects plan to build a new monument, albeit one five times larger than the original. The new Colossus will straddle the two outer piers of the harbour. Facing the Aegean, it will clutch a huge beacon in its raised right hand which will be visible not only to passing ships, but as far as the Turkish coast, 35 miles away.  
Get Out your Knives: MK Smotrich Bill Lets Jews Pray on Temple Mount
MK Bezalel Smotrich (Bayit Yehudi) on Wednesday submitted a bill permitting Jews to pray on Temple Mount, altering the present status quo arrangement in which Jews are allowed to visit the site but not pray.  
U.S. mayor calls Obama 'Muslim,' stands firm as critics rage
"Michelle Obama and her Muslim partner have destroyed the fabric of democracy that was so very hard fought for,” Bench wrote in one response to a friend’s comment. Another said Obama “destroyed world relationships.” The mayor was asked on his page why he called Obama a Muslim. He replied that many Americans do not believe the president is a Christian.“I have huge respect for the office of the president, but no respect for the current administration,” Hagen told Fox 21.  
Christians in Bethlehem mark Christmas amid violence
Christian faithful from around the world are descending on the biblical city of Bethlehem for Christmas Eve celebrations at the traditional birthplace of Jesus.  
'Large & extremely dangerous:' 7 dead after 21 tornadoes sweep through South, Midwest
At least seven people, including a child, were killed after at least 21 tornadoes swept through the South and Midwest of the United States. Forty others were injured by the powerful twisters, with two people still missing.  
Woman with swine flu dies in Petah Tikva hospital; 4 people with disease treated in South
A woman with pre-existing medical conditions died of the H1N1 strain of the flu known as the swine flu at the Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Campus in Petah Tikva on Thursday and four women with the disease were being treated at Soroka Uinversity Medical Center in Beersheba.  
Temple Mount in Jewish hands? The Egyptian intellectual who handed over al-Aksa
Ziedan sat in the Egyptian CBC studios and explained at length to his host why, in his opinion, Muslim claims over al-Aksa mosque in Jerusalem are baseless. The CBC interviewer, Khairy Ramadan, challenged Zieden while taking in his words eagerly. At the end of a two-hour long session, the well-known Egyptian intellectual Ziedan stepped out of the studio into the fresh air and began his journey home to Alexandria.  
Shin Bet: Jewish extremists seek to overthrow Israel's gov't and crown a king
The organization added that the terror cell's vision is "overthrowing the government of Israel through violent means (including the murder of Palestinians), starting a rebellion in order to crown a king......  
CHRISTMAS FULL MOON
the Moon will be full on Christmas. The last time the full Moon fell on Dec. 25th was 1977, and it won't happen again until 2034. That makes the Christmas Full Moon of 2015 a rare event. Enjoy the holiday moonlight. [  
Hundreds of civilians killed in Russian airstrikes in Syria — Amnesty
Russia's air campaign in Syria has killed hundreds of civilians and caused massive destruction in residential areas, according to a report released Wednesday by Amnesty International.  
Burmese pair to be executed for murder of British backpackers in Thai paradise
Two Burmese men have been sentenced to death after being found guilty of murdering two British backpackers on a Thai resort island in 2014.  
Somalia banned Christmas and New Year’s — even though it celebrates neither. Here’s why.
The government of Somalia has banned Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, calling them “contrary to Islamic culture” and citing such festivities as potential targets for terrorists.  
Black Lives Matter protest snarls Minneapolis-St. Paul airport
Several hundred Black Lives Matter activists shut down at least one terminal at the Minneapolis-St.Paul International airport Wednesday for about two hours in an afternoon of protest that began miles away at the huge Mall of America.  
Two Israelis, two Palestinian attackers killed in Jerusalem
Two Palestinians went on a stabbing spree along a popular walkway in Jerusalem on Wednesday, killing one person, and were then shot dead by Israeli security forces in what police described as a terrorist attack.  
Boy Among 7 Dead, 40 Injured in Tornado and Severe Storm Outbreak
Storms and tornadoes hit the south Wednesday afternoon, leaving at least seven dead -- including a 7-year-old boy -- and injuring at least 40 more while leveling homes and causing other damage, according to officials and the National Weather Service.  

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

December 23, 2015

Seymour Hersh: US Military Shared Intelligence with Assad, Defied Obama
The secret missives were transmitted with the understanding they would be forwarded to Assad in his quest to defeat Jabhat al-Nusra and the Islamic State. "We weren't intent on deviating from Obama's stated policies. But sharing our assessments via the military-to-military relationships with other countries could prove productive," a former Joint Chiefs of Staff adviser adviser told Hersh.  
The Pope Says This Christmas Is A ‘Charade’ And That For Some People ‘It May Be Their Last’
Pope Francis sure does say a lot of strange things. I don’t think that any other Pope throughout history has ever called Christmas a “charade” or has suggested that for many people this Christmas “may be their last”. What in the world would cause Pope Francis to adopt such an ominous tone?  
White House Inadvertently Admits That a Child Is a Child 'Even Before Birth'
Barack Obama -- released a document in the days leading up to Christmas that proves once again that reality conspires against even the most careful liars.  
Moscow ‘Alarmed’ by Escalation on Lebanon-Israel Border
“Over the past few days we have been witnessing an escalation of tension on the border between Israel and Lebanon,” the ministry said, adding, “According to media reports, several rockets were fired from the Lebanese territory on December 20, to which the Israeli army retaliated with artillery fire. No deaths or injuries have been reported.”  
Erdogan warns Putin: Don't play with fire
"We very sincerely recommend to Russia not to play with fire," Erdogan told supporters during a speech in Bayburt, in northeast Turkey. "We really attach a lot of importance to our relations with Russia... We don't want these relations to suffer harm in any way."  
US State Department rejects lawmakers' calls to close PLO office
The US State Department on Tuesday rejected calls by 32 congressional lawmakers, including Republican presidential candidate Ted Cruz, to close the Washington office of the Palestinian Liberation Organization.  
Russia, Armenia unite air defenses, create regional system in the Caucasus
Russia and Armenia have signed a collective security deal on a united regional air defense system in the Caucasus. Moscow is currently working on a similar system with Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. The air defense agreement between Russia and Armenia has been signed by the heads of defense of the two countries, Sergey Shoigu and Seyran Ohanyan.  
Virginia revokes handgun permit agreement with 25 states
Mark Herring, a Democrat, said the state will revoke its reciprocity agreement with the states because their concealed weapon laws don't meet Virginia's standards.  
Greek parliament calls for recognition of ‘Palestine’
The Greek parliament, as expected, became the latest European legislative body to recommend recognition of a Palestinian state, adopting the measure in a nearly unanimous show of support on Tuesday. The vote took place during a special parliament meeting attended by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, who addressed the body afterward.  
Apocalyptic scenes of Damascus suburb obliterated by violent clashes
The Jobar neighborhood of Damascus is the epicenter of some of the fiercest fighting in Syria with Islamist rebels refusing to give up their only stronghold. Once densely populated, the area has now been completely obliterated, RT’s Murad Gazdiev reports. Most of the pre-conflict population has fled the rebel-held neighborhood of Jobar in the eastern suburb of Ghouta in Damascus, while fighting between the Syrian army and rebel groups has devastated the suburb over the past years.  
Man who beheaded his boss kills himself in French jail
A man jailed in France for beheading his boss and trying to blow up a chemicals plant in June has committed suicide, a prison official said on Wednesday. Yassin Salhi, who French authorities said had links to Islamist militants, had denied that the attack was politically motivated, saying he had had an argument with his boss.  
Iraqi troops expected to drive ISIS from Ramadi in days: State TV
Iraq's army chief was quoted on Wednesday as saying he needed only days to drive Islamic State from the city of Ramadi, whose fall in May exposed the weakness of the Baghdad government and dampened hopes of restoring control in the north and west.  
Earthquakes Hit Reno Area
The activity started December 22, 2015 at 10:18PM with a 1.3 magnitude quake north of Galena High School, south of Reno-Tahoe International Airport and southeast of downtown Reno. That was followed by magnitude 1.9, 3.2, 3.0, 4.4, 3.4 and 2.4 quakes all in the same area within about 45 minutes. Most were at least ten kilometers deep.  
IRS gains power to revoke tax scofflaws' passports
It might be wise to pay your overdue income taxes before packing for that European river cruise. A new enforcement provision passed by Congress and signed into law earlier this month allows the government to revoke the passports of seriously delinquent tax scofflaws — people who owe more than $50,000 to Uncle Sam.  
Could we soon IMPLANT memories into other people?
...Neuroscientists have already begun trialling implants that boost memory loss, and in the future they believe these implants could be used to replicate memories in the brains of others. Research teams from the University of Southern California and University of Pennsylvania have been testing the technology on epilepsy patients.  
Judicial Watch Sues for Documents Withheld From Congress in New Climate Data Scandal
Judicial Watch announced today that it filed a lawsuit...seeking records of communications from National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) officials regarding methodology for collecting and interpreting data used in climate models...Less than week after Judicial Watch served its lawsuit on NOAA, the agency finally turned over the targeted documents to Congress.  
Syria conflict: Russia air strikes 'killed 200 civilians'
At least 200 civilians were killed in Russian air strikes in Syria from 30 September to 29 November, an Amnesty International report says. Quoting witnesses, the human rights group accuses Russia of using cluster bombs in civilian areas, and says such attacks could constitute war crimes. Moscow insists it is targeting only the positions of "terrorist" groups.  
Shin Bet disrupts Hamas cell that planned suicide bombings in Israel
The Shin Bet domestic intelligence agency announced on Wednesday that it had disrupted a large-scale Hamas terrorist cell that was based in the Abu Dis area of the West Bank, near Jerusalem, and which plotted bombings and suicide bombing attacks in Israel. Had the attacks not been thwarted, they would have led to mass casualty incidents and plunged the region into a security escalation, the Shin Bet warned in a statement. 
Iranian casualties rise in Syria as Tehran ramps up role
...The death of [Iranian Brigadier General Hossein] Hamedani...in mid-October...was an event that marked the start of a new development in Iran's military involvement in Syria, where experts believe Tehran may have as many as 3,000 troops. Since early October, nearly 100 Revolutionary Guard fighters or military advisers...have been killed there, according to a tally from Iranian websites.  
'We’ve never been bombed like this': Russia's military campaign in Syria has escalated to new levels
On Sunday, Russian airstrikes over a busy marketplace in the rebel-held city of Idlib, Syria, killed at least 70 civilians and wounded dozens more.  
Iraq forces advance into centre of IS-held Ramadi
Iraqi security forces advanced Tuesday into the centre of Ramadi for a final push aimed at retaking the city they lost to the Islamic State group in May, officials said.  
DHS placing patriots on domestic terror watch lists in unlawful attempt to escalate violent interactions with police
The Department of Homeland Security is intentionally placing local law enforcement in harm's way by knowing (and falsely) entering the license plates of patriot-oriented radio hosts in the federal "terror watch" database. The aim of this tactic is to intentionally cause escalations of high-tension interactions between local police and pro-gun patriots, knowing that local law enforcement will respond to terror watch list hits with an escalated engagement posture involving firearms being drawn and pointed at the suspects.  
Will Franklin Graham Lead an Evangelical Exodus From the GOP?
Franklin Graham announced this week he was leaving the Republican Party as a result of the inclusion of Planned Parenthood funding in the spending bill that sailed through Congress last week. While he’s the first to formally bail, he might not be the last.