A World of War ⚔️
Where news meets rational thinking
Good morning, It’s Tuesday, August 6th. In today’s news, the UK is on fire as clashes between citizens, immigrants, and police erupt, Venezuela’s Maduro targets political opposition for arrest and murder while detaining 2,000 citizens for dissent, Class-action lawsuits pile up against social media platforms for being too addictive, US and Western allies prepare to defend Israel as Russia intensifies support for Iran, and much more.
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UK On Fire: Is Britain Heading Towards Civil War?
Protests and riots have surged across the UK following the stabbing deaths of three young girls last week, resulting in some of the worst civil unrest in years. The UK government has pointed fingers at the 'far-right' as the source of the chaos, but the reality on the ground is more complex.
In Birmingham, videos showed Palestinian-flag-waving protesters attacking vehicles and clashing with police. In Plymouth, violence erupted between protesters and officers, with fireworks and physical confrontations escalating the situation.
While the government attributes the unrest partly to far-right extremists, many of the protesters involved are of foreign descent. The clashes have seen significant violence between these groups and other UK citizens. One video depicted anti-Israel protesters attacking a man outside a pub, resulting in severe physical assault, highlighting the intense local and community-based conflicts.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has vowed to deploy a special police force to address the unrest and has condemned the violence against mosques and Muslim communities. He has also criticized social media for spreading misinformation, which fuelled the riots. More
In related news, several countries have issued travel warnings for the UK.
Malaysia was the first to issue a warning on August 4th, advising its citizens to avoid protests and register with the High Commission in London for safety updates.
Indonesia and Nigeria soon followed with similar advisories. Nigeria’s warning highlighted the increased risk of violence, noting the dangerous proportions of the unrest.
Australia also advised its citizens to exercise high caution and avoid areas with ongoing protests due to potential violence and disruption. More
Tiny Thought: The media narrative seems to be fixated on blaming the “far-right” for the unrest, while largely ignoring the impact of new immigrants. The government, unwilling to acknowledge its role in allowing these immigrants to enter, has instead turned against its own citizens—the very people it was elected to represent. The real issue is that the UK seems to be teetering on the brink of civil war.
Venezuelan Nightmare: Maduro Targets Opposition for Arrest and Murder, 2,000 Detained for Dissent
Venezuela is in a battle between democracy and authoritarianism, with international support crucial for freedom to prevail.
In 2023, the democratic opposition unified behind a single candidate, leading to a primary where Machado won with 90% of the votes. However, she was disqualified by the National Electoral Council, controlled by President Nicolás Maduro. After Machado stepped aside, Edmundo González, a diplomat, became the placeholder candidate.
Despite severe repression, including arrests and roadblocks, Machado led González's campaign, resulting in massive rallies. On election day, high voter turnout led to the regime deploying forces to prevent verification of results. However, a civic effort digitized records showing González's victory with over seven million votes, compared to Maduro's three million.
Maduro responded with brutal repression, clashes between security forces and protesters have led to at least 20 deaths, according to Human Rights Watch. Maduro, defiant amid calls for vote disclosure, announced 2,000 civilian arrests and vowed harsh punishment, declaring "no forgiveness" for dissent. More
Opposition leaders, including María Corina Machado and Edmundo González, face arrest warrants amid allegations of electoral fraud. Despite repression, demonstrators demand transparency, asserting González's victory. Internationally, countries urge Maduro to reveal voting details, with the US Senate recognizing González as president-elect. Venezuela faces deepening unrest amidst economic collapse and a mass exodus. More
Class-action Lawsuits Pile Up Against Social Media Platforms for Being Too Addictive
A Montreal man has launched a class-action lawsuit against several social media companies, alleging that their platforms are too addictive and harmful. Defendants include Meta (parent company of Facebook and Instagram), TikTok, YouTube, and Reddit. The plaintiff, represented by Lambert Avocats, claims excessive use of these platforms has led to mental health issues and low self-esteem, citing his own experience of using them for up to four hours daily since 2015.
The lawsuit argues that high dopamine levels from social media use negatively affect users' mental health. It seeks compensatory and punitive damages but requires judicial authorization to proceed. Following the lawsuit's announcement, Lambert Avocats received numerous inquiries from affected individuals.
Similar lawsuits have been filed by Ontario school boards against tech giants, claiming that addictive social media platforms harm students' mental health and disrupt education. These lawsuits seek $4.5 billion in damages. Ontario Premier Doug Ford criticized the school board lawsuits as a distraction from educational priorities.
Social media companies argue that usage is voluntary and users can limit or delete the apps if necessary. More
US and Western Allies Prepare to Defend Israel as Russia Intensifies Support for Iran
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel is engaged in a "multi-front war" with Iran and its proxies. This announcement comes as the US and its allies prepare to defend Israel from anticipated retaliatory actions and prevent a broader regional conflict. Jordan's foreign minister visited Iran to advocate for de-escalation, while the Pentagon has increased its military presence in the region. In Israel, bomb shelters are being prepared, recalling Iran's direct military assault in April. More
As the US pledges to defend Israel, Russia is reportedly intensifying support for Iran. According to a report, Russian military planes have been landing in Iran regularly, while Iran has deployed Russia's advanced Murmansk-BN jamming communication system at key locations. Analysts suggest that Iran might be preparing a significant retaliation against Israel, potentially surpassing the impact of the April 13th strike. More
Violence in Bangladesh Leaves Hundreds Dead, as PM Resigns and Flees Country
Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country amid weeks of violent protests against a quota system for government jobs, which escalated into a broader challenge to her 15-year rule. Thousands of demonstrators stormed her residence and other buildings linked to her party. The resignation threatens further instability in Bangladesh, already plagued by high unemployment and corruption.
The violent crackdown on protesters has resulted in nearly 300 deaths since mid-July, with at least 95 people, including 14 police officers, killed in clashes in the capital on Sunday alone. Hundreds more were injured, and at least 11,000 people have been arrested in recent weeks.
Protests began peacefully with students demanding changes to the quota system, but a harsh government response led to widespread outrage. The military’s role in restoring calm is crucial, given Bangladesh’s history of coups. More
Several US Personnel Injured in Rocket Attack at Al Asad Air Base
Several US personnel were injured in a suspected rocket attack at the Ain al-Asad air base in western Iraq, according to US defence officials. At least two Katyusha rockets were fired towards the base. The exact number of injuries has not been released, and a post-attack damage assessment is underway. This incident occurred amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. The US is urging all parties to calm regional tensions and avoid further escalation. More
Immigration Minister Says Ottawa Will not be Granting Residency Status to Illegal Immigrants
Immigration Minister Marc Miller confirmed that Canada has no plans to grant residential status to illegal immigrants. Initially, the Trudeau government had considered regularizing undocumented workers, but this idea has been shelved due to a lack of public support. An estimated 300,000 to 600,000 illegal immigrants live in Canada, many of whom are failed refugee claimants, overstaying visitors, or foreign students. Ottawa aims to reduce temporary residents from 6.2% to 5% of the population by 2027. More
UN Probe Finds that 9 UNRWA Employees Were Involved in October 7th Attack
A United Nations investigation found that nine employees from its main agency for Palestinian humanitarian relief, UNRWA, were involved in the October 7th attack and no longer work there. UNRWA, which has 14,000 staff members in Gaza, launched the investigation in January after Israel accused some employees of participating in the attack that killed 1,200 people in Israel. Evidence against the accused employees led to their dismissal at different times this year.
The UN's Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) investigated 19 employees in total. They found sufficient evidence against nine, leading to their termination, while in nine other cases, the evidence was insufficient for firing, but further actions were planned. One case was dismissed due to a lack of evidence. More
Meltdown: Dow Jones Plunges 1,000 Points Amid Global Market Selloff
On Monday, US stocks plummeted amid global market turmoil, raising fears of a potential US recession. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 1,033.99 points to 38,703, the Nasdaq Composite dropped 3.43% to 16,200, and the S&P 500 declined 3%. Japan's Nikkei 225 experienced a 12% drop, its worst in history, and the Topix index fell 12.2%. US government bond yields also hit multi-month lows, with the 10-year note at 3.68% and the two-year at 3.69%.
A weak US jobs report, shrinking manufacturing activity, and poor forecasts from major tech companies contributed to the market decline. Goldman Sachs estimated a 25% chance of a U.S. recession, while JPMorgan assigned a 50% probability. Analysts expect the Federal Reserve to implement rate cuts, with projections for a 25 basis point cut in September and a 50 basis point cut in November. More
The cryptocurrency market also had a tough week, culminating in a severe decline early Monday. Major assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana dropped further, leading to a lot more liquidations.
Bitcoin's price dipped below $50,000 for the first time since February, reaching a low of $49,351 before recovering to around $51,000. More
Organ Supplements: Nature’s Multi-vitamin
I was recently asked why I take organ supplements - What benefits do they offer? How are they different from other vitamins? And how do I know they aren’t just filler?
So, here are just some of the benefits of taking organ supplements and why I get mine from Higher Healths:
Boost Your Immune System: Organ supplements provide high levels of vitamins A, C, D, and E, as well as zinc and selenium, which are crucial for maintaining and boosting immune function.
Support Cognitive Function and Heart Health: With high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, choline, and antioxidants like CoQ10, organ supplements support memory, mental clarity, brain health and heart health.
Strengthen Bones and Joints: Organ supplements are rich in collagen, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are essential for bone strength and joint flexibility
Enhance Your Mood and Energy Levels: Organ supplements are rich in B vitamins, particularly B12, which are essential for energy production and combating fatigue.
Organ supplements will also improve digestion and gut health, naturally balance your hormones, boost your metabolism and support weight management.
As for why I choose Higher Healths organ supplements: their organ supplements are sourced from 100% grass-fed, grass-finished cattle raised by Canadian regenerative farmers. I also have a personal relationship with the founders, who created this company to tackle their own health issues.
So, perhaps the better question is: why haven’t you started taking them yet?
Improve your health with natures multi-vitamin - Head over to HigherHealths.ca and use promo code ‘Blendr’ (case sensitive) for a 10% discount on any bundle purchase of organ supplements. Higher Healths—connecting people to real food.
Canadian Insolvency Rate Highest Since 2019
Canadian insolvencies have risen to a four-year high in Q2, according to the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy. The increase in both business and consumer bankruptcies and proposals is attributed to higher interest rates and inflation. Consumer insolvencies surged 12.3%, with 35,082 filings, the highest since 2019, and business insolvencies jumped 41.1% annually. Renaud Brossard from the Montreal Economic Institute blames government spending for high inflation and interest rates. More
US Federal Court Rules Google's Search Engine Dominance Violates Antitrust Laws
A judge has ruled that Google’s search engine has been illegally exploiting its dominance to stifle competition, marking a major antitrust decision. US District Judge Amit Mehta's ruling follows a year-long trial and asserts Google is a monopolist. The case, filed by the US Justice Department, focused on Google's agreements to make its search engine the default on many devices, spending $26 billion in 2021 alone. This decision could lead to significant changes in Google's operations and a more competitive market. Google plans to appeal, and further legal proceedings will determine the specific remedies or penalties. More
Extracting Drinking Water from the Moon
A Waterloo, Ontario-based company, WaterPuris, is developing technology to extract and purify water on the moon. WaterPuris aims to extract 70% of water from lunar soil and purify it for drinking. This innovation will support food growth and generate hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis, aiding fuel and life support systems. The technology will be tested in low-gravity environments like the International Space Station. The project also has potential applications for remote communities on Earth. More
Injectable ‘Goo’ Could Fix Joints Without Surgery
Scientists have developed an injectable "goo" that can regrow cartilage. The injectable "goo" is made from a biomaterial that includes a protein to recruit transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-b1) and a complex carbohydrate called hyaluronic acid. This innovation aims to treat damage from osteoarthritis and sports injuries, such as ACL tears. The new biomaterial promotes the growth of hyaline cartilage, which is stronger and more durable. Successful tests in sheep show promise for future applications in humans, potentially reducing the need for joint replacement surgeries.
With Golden Slam, Novak Djokovic Makes His Case for World's Greatest Living Athlete
Novak Djokovic, at 37 and weeks after knee surgery, won Olympic singles gold in Paris by defeating Carlos Alcaraz of Spain in a 7–6, 7–6 match lasting nearly three hours. This victory marks Djokovic's first title of the year and fulfills his long-time goal. Having won every major event at least three times, every Masters 1000 title, and now a gold medal, Djokovic's career is unparalleled. Despite a recent loss to Alcaraz at Wimbledon, Djokovic showcased flawless play, particularly on serve, to dominate the match. This win adds to his legacy as possibly the greatest living athlete, further cementing his place in tennis history. More
‘John Wick’ Sequel Series in the Works at Lionsgate TV
The John Wick franchise is expanding with a new TV series titled John Wick: Under the High Table, currently in development at Lionsgate Television. Keanu Reeves and director Chad Stahelski are executive producers, however, Reeves will not be playing John Wick. The series will continue from the events of John Wick: Chapter 4 and introduce new characters while integrating familiar ones. This series follows the 2023 miniseries The Continental and is part of a broader expansion including spinoff films like Ballerina and a feature on Donnie Yen's character, Caine. More
Yahoo Sports and NBC Sports Team up for $1 Million Fantasy Football Sweepstakes
Yahoo Fantasy and NBC Sports are offering a $1 million prize for players in private Yahoo Fantasy Football leagues. To enter, create or join a private league by September 5. Players can earn bonus entries if their fantasy team members score touchdowns in specific Week 1 NFL games on NBC or Peacock. More
Rare Prototype 'Star Wars' Boba Fett Action Figure from 1979 up for Auction - An extremely rare prototype 1979 Star Wars Boba Fett action figure described as the "Holy Grail" of collecting is up for auction. A similar Boba Fett figure became the most expensive vintage toy in the world when it was auctioned for $525,000 in June.
4-Year-Old Boy Survives 16th-Floor Fall with Only Minor Injuries - Enzo, a 4-year-old boy from Aubervilliers, France, miraculously survived a 150-foot fall from his 16th-floor apartment with only a scratch and no fractures, and no one understands how… It just wasn’t his time.
Bigfoot Sighting Alleged in Resurfaced Nature Documentary Footage - Conspiracy theory sleuths on Reddit believe they’ve spotted a sprinting Bigfoot in the background of a two-decades-old nature documentary. The clip in question is from the 2001 film “Great North,” during which director William Reeve and his “skeleton crew” explored the “high north of Quebec” near the Arctic Circle in Canada. It’s semi-compelling footage.
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