Attack on Kharg Island 

Breitbart wrote on March 14: 

“Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Saturday that the conflict with Iran is ‘escalating’… 

“On Friday evening, President Donald Trump said that the U.S. Military had conducted ‘one of the most powerful bombing raids in the History of the Middle East’ on Iran’s strategically significant Kharg Island, which he dubbed the ‘crown Jewel’ of the regime… 

“President Trump remarked last night that ‘for reasons of decency, I have chosen NOT to wipe out the Oil Infrastructure on the Island. However, should Iran, or anyone else, do anything to interfere with the Free and Safe Passage of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz, I will immediately reconsider this decision.’” 

Newsmax wrote on March 14: 

“… energy and security experts have warned that striking the island’s export terminals could trigger major disruptions in global oil markets. Analysts have said destroying the facility could send crude prices sharply higher and remove most Iranian oil exports from the global market. That risk has been one reason U.S. and Israeli forces have historically avoided attacking the island’s export infrastructure directly.” 

The Ron Paul Institute wrote on March 14: 

“… only one of Iran’s 5 operational oil export terminals is located on Kharg Island… the amount of oil loaded from the tanks installed on Kharg increased by 1.5 times in the past month. This suggests that Iran, by quickly emptying Kharg’s tanks, was prepared for this attack….”

“Just For Fun” 

Daily Sabah wrote on March 15:

“Donald Trump threatened further strikes on Kharg Island, after claiming U.S. strikes Friday had ‘totally demolished’ much of the island. Speaking to NBC News Saturday, the U.S. President said: ‘We may hit it a few more times just for fun.’”

Terrible comment!

Trump Sends Marines

The Sun wrote on March 14:

“A Marine expeditionary unit with 2,500 Marines aboard three US Navy amphibious ships has been ordered to the Middle East… The flotilla is expected to number 5,000 troops and sailors… 

“Meanwhile, the US State Department announced it is offering a reward of up to $10 million to anyone who provides information on Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei and nine other senior officials in the Iranian regime… 

“Washington is also openly discussing potential missions inside Iran. War Secretary Pete Hegseth warned that no option is off the table. ‘We would be completely unwise if we did not reserve the right to take any particular option,’ Hegseth said. ‘Whether it included boots on the ground or no boots on the ground.’” 

Invading Iran? 

Daily Mail wrote on March 14: 

“Iran is a notoriously difficult country to invade, thanks to its tough terrain.

“The country is home to vast salt flats, dense and swampy marshes, and a series of rocky mountains that create a natural, nationwide fortress, in which countless military and nuclear sites hide.  Iran’s dominance over the Strait of Hormuz… means that any enemy vessels in either the Gulf of Oman or the Persian Gulf may become sitting ducks.  

“Some experts have warned that America could face a worse environment than they encountered in Afghanistan, Iraq and even Vietnam…. 

“Iran is one of the biggest countries in the world… Its total land mass is larger than France, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and Portugal combined. It also has one of the largest populations in the world, with more than 93 million citizens. 

“It is four times bigger than Iraq, and nearly three times bigger than Afghanistan… The whole country has an incredibly high elevation. Tehran, Iran’s capital, sits at 3,900ft… the vast majority of Iran’s military and nuclear assets are hidden throughout its three mountain ranges.  Mountains are notoriously difficult to fight in.” 

If Trump were to invade Iran, this would end up in total disaster for the USA.

Lost Trust 

The Telegraph wrote on March 14:

“Panic-stricken markets are losing faith in Donald Trump. The president’s contradictory statements on the Iran war have sent trading into chaos…”

Pope Against Starting and Fighting In Wars 

Newsmax wrote on March 13: 

“Pope Leo XIV… suggested on Friday that Christian political leaders who start wars should go to confession and assess whether they are following the teachings of Jesus… 

“President Donald Trump was raised in the Presbyterian Christian faith. Several of his top deputies, including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, are Catholic…” 

Of course, the Catholic Church does support wars when it determines that those wars are “justified.” This is also a perversion of the teachings of Christ. 

Thomson/Reuters wrote on March 15: 

“Pope Leo made an impassioned plea on Sunday for an immediate ceasefire in the expanding Iran war, lamenting ‘atrocious violence’ that he said had killed thousands of non-combatants and caused suffering across the region. 

“As the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran enters its third week, the first U.S. pope warned that violence would not bring the justice, stability and peace that the peoples of the region long for…. ‘In the name of Christians in the Middle East and of all women and men of good will, I appeal to those responsible for this conflict: Cease fire!’ Pope Leo said. ‘Thousands of innocent people have been killed, and many more have been forced to leave their homes. I renew my closeness to all those who have lost their loved ones in the attacks,’ he said.” 

Wars bring nothing but misery, pain, destruction and murder. War mongers will be held responsible when Christ returns. 

Pope: War Is Not a Video Game 

Al-Monitor wrote on March 16: 

“Pope Leo urged journalists on Monday to highlight the suffering caused by war, cautioning against news reports that risk sliding into propaganda by glorifying conflicts or serving as ‘a megaphone’ to amplify the voices of those in power… the pope made a direct appeal for reporters ‘to show the face of war and tell it through the eyes of the victims, so as not to turn it into a video game.’… 

“Leo’s warning against depicting war like a video game echoed remarks from a senior United States church official earlier this month. Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich sharply rebuked the White House for posting a video on social media featuring footage from the Iran war, spliced with scenes from video games and action films. Cupich called the video ‘sickening.’” 

“Thousands of Priests Call For Justice Against Israel” 

LifeSiteNews wrote on March 12: 

“A group consisting of thousands of Catholic priests issued a statement mourning the Israeli army’s killing of a brother priest in Lebanon earlier this week, demanding accountability ‘before international justice’ and calling for a day of prayer and fasting on Friday… A spokesperson for the network of clergy told LifeSiteNews that members currently include 2,200 priests in 59 countries, including two cardinals and 25 bishops/archbishops…

“Expressing solidarity with the Chrisitan communities in southern Lebanon, with candor the priests described that ‘Father Pierre did not die as a result of a tragic mistake but while carrying out the highest evangelical mandate: helping his neighbor,’ the group decried. ‘After a tank fired a first shot at a house, the priest rushed to the scene with some young people to help the wounded. It was then that a second shot struck him fatally.’ 

“‘This double-tap, which deliberately targets rescuers, is a brutal violation of humanitarian law,’ the priest association emphasized. ‘Father Pierre, 50, had chosen not to abandon his flock despite evacuation orders, bearing witness that faith does not flee in the face of threat.’… 

“‘The current Israeli government, which orders and carries out these attacks against civilians, children, and ministers of God, must be held accountable for its actions before international justice,’ the organization demanded… Echoing the words of Pope Leo XIV, the network of clergy asked that ‘the roar of bombs cease,’ pleading that ‘space be opened for true dialogue,’ and emphasizing that war ‘is never the solution, but a defeat for all humanity.’”

Right. And the alienation between Israel and the Catholic Church continues. 

Israel Claims Missile Debris Falls Near Al-Aqsa Mosque 

Aljazeera wrote on March 16: 

“Israeli police said fragments from missiles and interceptor systems landed at several sensitive religious sites in occupied East Jerusalem’s Old City during Iranian missile interceptions. Authorities said debris was discovered near the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and in the Jewish Quarter after air defence systems engaged incoming missiles over the city…

“Officers later located ‘fragments of missiles and interceptor debris, some of significant size, at multiple sites in the Old City.’…” 

Suddenly, Desperate Trump Wants Help 

The Guardian wrote on March 14: 

“Donald Trump said ‘many countries’ would send warships to keep the strait of Hormuz open, without providing details on which countries would do so. He said he hoped the UK, China, France, Japan, South Korea and others will send ships to the area.” 

So, which is it? Totally contradictory. 

The Huffington Post wrote on March 14: 

“President Donald Trump spent his Saturday begging and pleading for other countries to help the U.S. clear out Iran’s military from the Strait of Hormuz…. It was his second post of the day asking other countries to help clear the critical passage for the world’s oil that Trump has jeopardized… 

“President Donald Trump was warned by the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that Iran could close the Strait of Hormuz if attacked, The Wall Street Journal reported. Gen. Dan Caine reportedly told Trump in multiple briefings before the war that U.S. officials believed Iran would close the key oil shipping route. Trump brushed off those concerns, suggesting the U.S. military could handle it, according to the report.” 

What arrogance. 

Now Trump Needs Britain? 

Daily Mail reported on March 14:

“Trump has demanded Britain send warships to help defend the Strait of Hormuz and avert a global recession. The US President had previously slapped down Sir Keir Starmer, saying earlier this month that his offer of assistance was no longer needed because the war was already won 

“But on a day of escalating tension in which Tehran threatened to use helicopters to kidnap US soldiers, Mr Trump urged the UK to join an international armada to force open the blockaded Strait, where Iran has begun laying mines. It came as Iran’s foreign minister confirmed in an interview that his country was receiving military help from Russia and China.” 

But Europeans have different ideas. Note the next article. 

Europe Wants to Negotiate With Iran 

Financial Times wrote on March 14: 

“European countries including France have opened talks with Tehran seeking to negotiate a deal to guarantee safe passage for their ships through the Strait of Hormuz… European countries have sought to… avoid any direct participation in the conflict, and some have criticised the initial US-Israeli attack that provoked the wider regional war. 

“Italy, France and Greece have warships in the Red Sea as part of the EU’s Aspides naval protection mission. But no European navies are prepared to escort ships through Hormuz, the officials said, if there is a risk of attack, for fear of escalating the war… Britain is not talking directly to Iran about access to the strait… 

“Italian defence minister Guido Crosetto said in an interview with Corriere della Sera published on Friday: ‘We are trying to get Europe to speak with a single, united voice . . . pushing for two key points. The first is to officially request . . . to allow ships from countries that are not at war to pass through Hormuz.’” 

Were Europe’s negotiations at least partly successful? Note the next article.

Strait of Hormuz Safe Except For USA and Israel? 

The New York Post wrote on March 14: 

“Iran said Saturday that all countries besides the US and Israel may pass through the Strait of Hormuz in a desperate attempt at coalition busting… ‘As a matter of fact, the Strait of Hormuz is open,’ Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said. ‘It is only closed to the tankers and ships belong[ing] to our enemies, to those who are attacking us and their allies. Others are free to pass,’ Araghchi told MS NOW. … 

“Two Indian-flagged tankers carrying liquefied petroleum gas crossed the Strait, Reuters reported Saturday. ‘They crossed the Strait of Hormuz safely early this morning and are en route to India,’ Rajesh Kumar Sinha, the minister of ports and shipping in New Delhi, said.” 

If correct, then Trump’s request for help from other countries becomes irrelevant. If Iran grants them free access to the Strait of Hormuz, they would most certainly not want to jeopardize that by helping Trump. On the other hand, since Iran has been lying all along, one cannot trust their assurances either. 

No European Military Deployment 

Nius wrote on March 14: 

“[German] Defense Minister Boris Pistorius rejected a European military deployment to secure the Strait of Hormuz on Friday. He didn’t see ‘what European frigates could still accomplish down there,’ the SPD politician said… 

“Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in turn, said with regard to a possible German involvement that there was currently ‘no reason to even consider a military securing of the sea lanes.’ The CDU politician said: ‘Germany is not part of this war and we don’t want to be.'”

Trump in a Dead End 

t-online wrote on March 16:

“The US launched its war against Iran more than two weeks ago – without a strategy. US President Donald Trump has thus reached a dead end. An end to the war is not in sight. The US president simply lacks options – and time is running out for him. Oil prices on the world market are exploding, partly because the Iranian regime is blocking the Strait of Hormuz. 

“Trump is under massive pressure – and now he is passing it on to NATO allies. He demands that the military alliance support the Americans in protecting the Strait of Hormuz. He is threatening NATO with a ‘very bad  future’ and even indirectly calling into question American support for Ukraine. This is brazen and disrespectful… 

“The US president currently appears at a loss and has been unable to define a clear war aim in recent weeks with regard to the war in Iran. The power of the mullah regime still seems firmly established…” 

Europe Stands Up to Trump

The Guardian wrote on March 16:

“European countries have ruled out sending warships to the strait of Hormuz, despite threats from Donald Trump that Nato faces ‘a very bad future’ if members fail to help reopen the vital waterway. 

“Germany ruled out participation in any military activity, including efforts to reopen the strait. ‘There was never a joint decision on whether to intervene. That is why the question of how Germany might contribute militarily does not arise. We will not do so,’ the chancellor, Friedrich Merz, said….”

Trump vs. NATO 

ntv wrote on March 17: 

“Trump and NATO: It’s no love affair. After requesting help in the war against Iran, he received numerous rejections from the alliance partners. He reacted angrily – and suddenly no longer considers support necessary… ‘However, I am not surprised by their behavior, because I have always viewed NATO, for which we spend hundreds of billions of dollars annually to protect precisely these countries, as a one-way street,’ he said…

“Trump already sharply criticized NATO during his first term… Since the beginning of his second term, the US president has also regularly criticized the military alliance… ‘We will protect them, but they will do nothing for us, especially in times of need,’ Trump writes…” 

Trump Attacks NATO

The Independent wrote on March 17:

 “Donald Trump has launched a scathing attack on Nato, claiming the alliance abandoned the US ‘in its time of need’ by refusing to help open the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on Truth Social, the US president said Washington ‘did not need’ the help of the military alliance in securing the key waterway… His post came shortly after the head of the US National Counterterrorism Centre resigned in protest at the war with Iran, becoming the first and most senior member of Donald Trump’s administration to do so, saying Tehran posed no imminent threat to the United States.”

Not a NATO Matter 

Focus wrote on March 16: 

“US Senator Lindsey Graham, in connection with the refusal of European NATO countries to provide aid in the Strait of Hormuz, writes on X that he has ‘never seen Donald Trump so angry.’… German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has rejected German military participation in protecting oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz and sharply criticized the course taken by US President Donald Trump. NATO is a defense alliance and not an intervention alliance… The war in Iran is not a NATO matter…

Even the AfD Agrees 

Die Welt wrote on March 17:

“AfD leader Weidel sharply criticizes the US military intervention in the Persian Gulf… ‘The fact that help is now being requested suggests that this operation was undertaken without a clear plan. This should have been considered beforehand,’ she said… According to the AfD leader, Trump’s support would transform NATO from a defensive to an offensive alliance. She sees no obligation to provide assistance.”

Trump and the AfD have previously been considered strong supporters.

Why Merz’s Decision Is Right and Necessary 

Nius wrote on March 17:

“The war against Iran started by the US and Israel is not our conflict, which is why our troops have no business being in the Strait of Hormuz… Donald Trump’s bombing of Iran is… an act of hubris. With a series of targeted airstrikes against leading religious and military figures, the US president wanted to put an end to the mullah regime… Even at the beginning of the war, [the war aim] remained vague… Of course, the attacks were not discussed or coordinated with European countries like Germany… 

“Merz’s refusal is primarily correct because Germany’s navy doesn’t have to clean up the mess Trump made. The decision to bomb the mullah regime is based on a blatant miscalculation by the US president, who increasingly resembles a caricature of the ‘peace president’ he once campaigned on… When an ally leaves a trail of destruction, it is not the German government’s job to intervene and pick up the pieces.” 

“Merz’s veto is correct… It’s a clear refusal to participate in conflicts that are clearly not in Germany’s interest, but would put German soldiers in immediate danger.”

This post is also noteworthy because Nius is a media outlet that usually strongly supports Trump.

“EU Shows Cracks Over Iran War”

JNS wrote on March 12:

“… visible cracks are on display within the E.U., most visibly in Spain’s explicit opposition to the U.S.-Israeli operation and in France’s implicit criticism… Whereas Europe’s leaders are genuinely hostile to Iran’s ayatollah regime…, they also have an entrenched aversion to military solutions and distrust of U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu…

“Additionally, the aftermath of the 2003 U.S.-led invasion of Iraq, in which several European allies participated, has contributed to the European reluctance to support the Iran operation… No weapons of mass destruction were found in Iraq, contrary to pre-war intelligence that was put forward as part of the justification for going to war, and the experience of 2003 trained a generation of European elites to distrust intelligence-driven military action and to fear escalation…”

Their distrust is clearly justified. 

Russia Taking Control of Iran War?

Newsbreak wrote on March 13:

“Fears are emerging that Russian President Vladimir Putin is taking control of the Iran war, even as the U.S. turns to Russia for help in mitigating the oil crisis… U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey said on Thursday that he believes [Iran] is being aided by Putin behind the scenes following a drone strike on a British military base in Erbil, Iraq… Iran was flying its drones ‘much lower, and therefore they were more effective,’ British military officials reportedly told Healey of the attack on the Erbil base.

“The tactic mirrored evolved tactics employed by Russia as it wages an all-out war of attrition against  Ukraine, which it invaded in 2022, hoping to annex it…” 

Europe Objects to Trump Decision on Russia

Politico wrote on March 14:

“Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney joined the leaders of Germany and Norway on Friday in criticizing the Trump administration’s decision to temporarily lift sanctions on Russian oil, exposing a public split between Washington and key NATO allies…. The three NATO leaders were publicly breaking with Washington over the Trump administration’s decision to ease some sanctions on Russian oil….

“Carney, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz argued that sanctions relief would weaken efforts to force Russia to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine…

“Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the decision on Friday as ‘not very logical.’ ‘The lifting of sanctions means that [Russia] will receive more money and there will be more drone attacks’ in the Middle East, Zelenskyy said… ‘Russia will get money for its war machine, and there are a lot of drones that are built on Russian soil to destabilize the Middle East,’ he added.”

The Guardian wrote on March 13:

“European countries have pushed back against Donald Trump’s decision to ease some US sanctions on Russian oil… The UK has joined Germany, France and Norway in rejecting the move…

“Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor… insisted that support for Ukraine should continue despite the conflict in the Middle East. ‘We will not allow ourselves to be deterred or distracted from this by the war with Iran,’ he said…

“Merz’s comments follow similar remarks from the French president, Emmanuel Macron, who said… that the paralysis of the strait of Hormuz ‘in no way’ justified lifting sanctions on Russia….

“Trump’s chaotic geopolitical moves appeared to have left allies increasingly confounded as he also rejected Ukraine’s offer of help in countering Iran’s drones.” 

“Trump Is Wrong”

Politico wrote on March 13:

“Merz said, ‘…I would like to know what other factors led the U.S. government to make this decision.’ Merz said the decision by the U.S. administration had come as a surprise on Friday morning, crushing his hopes that Washington might refrain from taking such steps, as other G7 members had strongly urged Trump not to ease the pressure on Moscow during a joint video call on Wednesday…

“Merz stressed that Germany, together with its G7 partners and Israel, was working to end the war. He also reiterated his fears that the U.S. and Israel lack a strategy for ending the conflict.”

In fact, there seems to be no plan whatsoever. 

Zelensky Accuses Europe of Potential Blackmail

Politico wrote on March 15:

“Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described European allies’ attitude over the Druzhba oil pipeline as ‘blackmail.’ In remarks made public on Sunday, the Ukrainian leader criticized European pressure to allow oil to flow through the pipeline, which connects producer country Russia to Europe by way of Ukraine. The pipeline has been offline since January after a Russian attack, and has been at the center of a bitter row between Ukraine and Hungary.

“Budapest has accused Kyiv of deliberately blocking progress on repairing the infrastructure in order to engineer an energy crisis in Hungary. In response, Hungarian Prime [Minister] Viktor Orbán has been blocking the release of a €90 billion tranche of EU funding for Ukraine needed to keep the war-torn country financially afloat.

“On Thursday, the European Commission proposed sending a fact-finding mission to inspect the damage to the Druzhba pipeline in an attempt to resolve the dispute. ‘If we have decided to restore Russian oil supplies, then I want them to know that I am against it. … But if I am given conditions that Ukraine will not receive weapons, then, excuse me, I am powerless on this issue; I told our friends in Europe that this is called blackmail,’ Zelenskyy said…”

Is a rift between Ukraine and Europe coming?

Hegseth’s Attack on the Free Press

The Independent wrote on March 13:

“[As] the ex-Fox News host [appeared at the] briefing room on Friday, it was not the Supreme Leader (new or old one) that had Hegseth nearly breathless at the podium. No, it was an enemy far more insidious that revealed itself to the self-titled Secretary of War — the free press… Instead of ‘Mideast war intensifies,’ Hegseth demanded an alternative headline: ‘Iran increasingly desperate.’

“He also took issue with another ‘fake headline’ which suggested the war is ‘widening’ after Iran threatened to target shipping in the Strait of Hormuz — which, to the consternation of ‘fake news’ copy editors everywhere, he insisted on repeatedly calling the Straits of Hormuz — and Israel began attacking targets in Lebanon…. ‘Here’s a real headline for you, for an actual patriotic press. How about, “Iran shrinking, going underground,”’ Hegseth… told the reporters…  

“And on top of that, he went after CNN — the only major U.S. network to have had a correspondent inside Iran since the start of the war — for reporting that Trump administration officials told Congress they had underestimated the extent to which Iran would seek to retaliate against airstrikes…”

The Secretary of War’s demand that the “free press” enthusiastically and patriotically suppress the facts and rather “support” the Iran war is appalling. 

CNN’s Kasie Hunt Stood Her Ground

Express wrote on March 13:

“A fiery clash erupted on CNN after the news channel brought a breaking Donald Trump update. The US President had been downplaying the rising costs of oil as the Iran war rages on.

“Journalist Kasie Hunt was speaking to Republican politician Jim Jordan via video link live on air when the two clashed. He claimed that Trump makes decisions ‘that are in the best interest of our country’… But then the CNN host interrupted as she said: ‘He told them that he wouldn’t start any new wars,’ but Mr Jordan continued to rage on. He explained that the President is ‘making sure that this regime doesn’t get nuclear capability’…

“But Kasie then shared some clips of previous speeches that Trump had made as she pointed out that he said: ‘I’m not going to start a war, I am going to stop wars.’ ‘How is that an example of Donald Trump doing what he said he is going to do?’ She asked.

“Fans of the news channel took to social media to laugh about Trump being called out on his hypocrisy. One viewer wrote on X/Twitter: ‘… He quite literally broke every promise he campaigned on.’ Another fumed: ‘How do you lie so blatantly when shown evidence that you are lying. He did not say that he would start a war if negotiations fail, he said he would not start a war period!!’

“While one more raged: ‘This is why we hate politicians and can never trust them. Not an ounce of integrity.’”

That’s why you don’t vote in presidential elections!

Trump in Trouble

The Associated Press wrote on March 15:

“He’s grown more agitated with news coverage and has failed to find a way to explain why he started the war — or how he will end it — that resonates with a public concerned by American deaths in the conflict, surging oil prices and dropping financial markets…

“The longer the conflict goes, the more pronounced questions about the midterms will become. Sen. Rand Paul, a Kentucky Republican, suggested on Fox News Channel this past week that if gas and oil prices continue to stay high ‘you’re going to see a disastrous [midterm] election’ for the GOP.”

Indeed. 

Europeans Want Distance From USA… But Not From China

Politico wrote on March 15:

“European allies broadly support building closer ties to China — and believe America’s role as a global superpower is fading… Swaths of the public in Canada, Germany, France and the U.K. have soured on the U.S., driven by President Donald Trump’s foreign policy decisions… Respondents in these countries increasingly see China as a more dependable partner than the U.S…

“Critically, Europeans surveyed see it as possible to reduce reliance on the U.S. but harder to reduce reliance on China… respondents in those four allied countries believe it is better to depend on China than the U.S. following Trump’s turbulent return to office… a majority of respondents in both Canada and Germany agreed that any attempts to get closer to China are because the U.S. has become harder to depend on — not because China itself has become a more reliable partner. ..

“Respondents across all four allied countries are broadly supportive of efforts to create some distance from the U.S. .. As Washington and its allies grow more estranged, the perception of the U.S. as the dominant world power is in retreat — though most Americans don’t see it that way.

“About half of all respondents in Canada, Germany, France and the U.K. believe that China is rapidly becoming a more consequential superpower. This is particularly true among those who say the U.S. is no longer a positive force for the world. By contrast, 63 percent of respondents in the U.S. believe their nation will maintain its dominance in 10 years — reflecting major disparities in beliefs about global power dynamics between the U.S. and its European allies.”

America’s downfall is prophesied and inevitable… but many Americans are blind to that fact. 

Iran War a Distraction From Epstein Files?

People’s World wrote on March 13:

“Despite extensive redactions that blacked out entire pages, the allegations made against Trump so far are upsetting beyond belief and demand further investigation. In light of these attempts to cover up Epstein and Trump’s relationship, some have gone so far as to claim Trump is attacking foreign countries to distract people from the sex scandal.

“Some critics have sarcastically renamed ‘Operation Epic Fury’ as ‘Operation Epstein Distraction.’…

“Shaiel Ben-Ephraim, an analyst with Atlas Global Strategies and a former Israeli diplomat, told Al Jazeera that Trump ‘needs a distraction from [his domestic issues] in the form of a war’ and that Google searches for the Epstein files have ‘plummeted’ since the U.S. and Israel struck Iran.

“Republican Congressman Thomas Massie and Democratic Sen. Jeff Merkley have both made comments suggesting the Iran war is meant to distract people from the Epstein files.”

Daily Beast wrote on March 11:

“A majority of Americans think that Donald Trump’s surprise attack on Iran was an effort to distract the public from his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein… The survey… also found that at least a quarter of Republicans shared the same belief…. Additionally, a striking two-thirds of people under 45 echoed such claims.” 

Crazy California Gas Prices

The New York Post wrote on March 3:

“The Trump administration has signed an executive order to resume oil drilling operations off the Southern California coast, citing national energy security concerns. The order… will prove controversial despite the potential to bring down gas prices, which are now the highest in America. Gov. Gavin Newsom also flagged the state would challenge the order in the courts… California’s price for a regular gallon hit an average of $5.42 on Friday. That’s far above the national average of $3.60.

“Drivers pay a ‘California premium’ loaded with higher than average state excise and sales taxes, as well hefty fees for climate programs unique to the state. The state also requires an eco-friendly more costly fuel blend designed to prevent pollution.

“Last week, oil giant Chevron warned in a doomsday letter to California Gov. Gavin Newsom that the state will face economic collapse under his ‘misguided’ climate policies. State lawmakers also warned that Newsom’s green agenda risks sending the price of gas above $8 a gallon — potentially returning drivers to fuel rationing not seen since the 1970s.”

Corrupt policies contribute to the demise of America. 

America’s Suicide—Working Without Pay

npr wrote on March 13:

“TSA officers have been working without pay since funding for the Department of Homeland Security lapsed on February 14th. They’ve already missed part of one paycheck, and many security officers received no money at all in their paychecks on Friday as the partial shutdown approached the one-month mark… The majority of TSA employees work paycheck to paycheck… and don’t have enough savings to cover their expenses.

“Passengers have encountered hours-long security lines at major airports in Houston, Atlanta, New Orleans, Austin, and elsewhere, as many TSA officers have called out sick. Some officers have taken on second jobs in order to make ends meet… Meanwhile, airline passengers are still paying the security fees that help to fund the TSA’s budget, even as the partial shutdown drags on…. And that money has continued to accrue, even though none of it is finding its way into the bank accounts of TSA workers….

“Security officers also went more than 40 days without a paycheck last year during the partial government shutdown last year. The back-to-back shutdowns have only made it harder for the agency to attract and retain workers… as more than 1,000 security officers resigned from TSA during October and November of last year… An additional 300 TSA officers have quit during the current shutdown…”

Democrats and Republicans accuse each other of being responsible for the shutdown. Suffering Americans seem to matter little to them. 

Britain’s Suicide 

On March 14, the Daily Mail published the following article by Matthew Goodwin: 

“There are moments in the life of a nation when everything changes − not with a bang, not even with a conscious decision, but with a quiet, creeping loss of confidence so profound that a people start to forget who they are. Britain, I believe, is living through such a moment.

“For decades, the institutions that once embodied our nation − Parliament, the Civil Service, the courts, the police, the BBC, universities, schools, corporate executives, the Church, museums − have drifted away from the public they exist to serve.

“Our country is now in the grip of a new ruling class… Its defining ideology is ‘suicidal empathy’ – a deeply twisted worldview… Britain is not being conquered or invaded. Worse: it is being abandoned by the very people who were meant to protect it.” 

Canada Guilty of Attempted Murder of Cancer Patients? 

makisw.substack.com wrote on March 13: 

“Helping Cancer patients is now ILLEGAL in Canada, as Alberta Premier Danielle Smith punishes over 9000 Cancer patients for exercising their ‘Right to Try’ with Ivermectin… 

“Helping Cancer patients is now illegal in Canada. Health Coaching of Cancer patients is now illegal. Naturopathy is now illegal. Using Ivermectin and repurposed drugs is now illegal. Doing podcasts and videos on Health is now illegal. All punishable by up to 2 years imprisonment.

“Canadians have no idea what has just transpired and what Canada has recently turned into. The actions of Canadian authorities… amount to attempted murder of Cancer patients who wanted cutting edge options for their disease.” 

Big Pharma is behind this, as it is in the USA. It’s all about money! Also, a corrupt and crooked political system. Patients don’t matter… they are nothing more than numbers…. 

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer:  

These Current Events are compiled and commented on by Norbert Link. We gratefully acknowledge the many contributions of news articles from our readership. The publication of articles in this section is not to be viewed as an endorsement or approval as to contents or accuracy of the selected articles, but they are published for the purpose of pointing at worldwide developments in the light of biblical end-time prophecy and godly instruction. Our own comments are provided in italics.

Trump’s Unjust War

Judge Andrew Napolitano wrote on March 5 on the Ron Paul Institute:

“Over the past weekend, some apologists for President Donald Trump’s recently ordered attacks on Iran argued that because Trump’s plans call for a quick strike, the attacks do not constitute a war… These apologists believe that calling a war something else means it is not a war, and so moral and constitutional justifications are unnecessary.

No rational observer looking at 2,000-pound bombs being dropped on military targets and thousands of missiles being fired indiscriminately at both civilians and military personnel in Iran can conclude that these events constitute anything but a war… 

“Trump’s war… was not commenced by a legitimate authority as Congress has not declared war on Iran. The president and his folks have not identified any imminent violence Iran was about to inflict upon the US. They have confused the public on the war’s purpose…

“Only Congress can declare war and only the president can wage war. This is the power to initiate war, not to ratify it after the president has initiated it. The president can request of Congress a declaration of war, but the decision to start one is textually confined solely to Congress…

“… the administration has not articulated with credibility any imminent threat. The secretary of defense has said, at best, that Iran has ambitions to attack the US one day. That is hardly an imminent threat… the statute requires that the president report in writing the reasons for war to the full Congress so it can approve or disapprove…

“What’s going on is an immoral, unconstitutional and illegal war of choice… These are dangerous times and this is a dangerous war — for the moral order, for constitutional government and for personal freedom. If the president can get away with killing people abroad under a scheme that meets no accepted moral or legal standards and violates the plain language of the Constitution, what can he get away with at home?”

This is a very important question. 

“The Trump Administration Is Lying”

The Ron Paul Institute wrote on March 7:

“Despite the Trump administration’s efforts to downplay US casualties after seven days of war in the Persian Gulf, clues are appearing on the internet that indicate the US has suffered more combat losses than reported… on March 4, 2026 the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center (LRMC) in Germany—the largest US Department of Defense hospital outside the United States and the primary overseas trauma/evacuation hub for injured service members from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa—sent out a memo announcing the temporary suspension of its labor and delivery services ‘until further notice.’

“The memo did not explicitly define the ‘primary objective,’ but LRMC’s core role is treating combat- and training-related injuries. It also is the main medical evacuation point for wounded troops from ongoing operations. A knowledgeable friend who supervised DOD’s Wounded Warrior Program during the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars and worked with personnel at the LRMC, learned today that there is a flood of casualties arriving at the hospital. The numbers are so large that the hospital could no longer continue to spend resources on birthing babies…

“It is not a stretch to conclude that Iran’s attacks on the US bases in the Persian Gulf produced more than a few casualties. DOD/DOW [Department of War/Dow Jones] is working hard to keep this information from the public. Most Americans do not support the unprovoked war…” 

Note the next article in this regard. 

Over 200 US Personnel Killed or Wounded? 

The Times of India wrote on March 8:

“A dramatic escalation has unfolded in the growing conflict between Iran and the United States, with Iranian officials claiming hundreds of American troops were killed or wounded in coordinated retaliatory strikes across the Middle East. 

“According to Iranian military spokesperson Ibrahim Zolfaghari, attacks targeted key U.S. military assets, including the headquarters of the United States Fifth Fleet in Bahrain and the strategic Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. Iranian sources claim 220 U.S. personnel were killed or injured in the strikes, marking a major escalation.” 

By now, it was admitted that at least 150 American troops have been injured.

CNN Being Attacked for Report on Iran 

The New York Post wrote on March 6:

“CNN was accused of pushing out ‘pro-Iran regime propaganda’ by the Trump administration on Thursday after a reporter for the network said it appeared daily life was continuing [in Iran] despite the ongoing war.   

“Senior international correspondent Frederik Pleitgen said during a segment that all the shelves in shops are stocked, ‘even with fresh things,’ as he casually held a cup of coffee. ‘Fuel seems readily available, and you just don’t see any degree of panic anywhere,’ he said.”

On the other hand, there are many reports with videos showing devastation in Israel from Iran’s strikes which are usually suppressed by the mass media, classified as fake news or claimed to be AI-generated. 

Iranian Missiles Across Middle East

The Daily Mail wrote on March 6:

“Iran has unleashed a series of furious retaliatory strikes across the Middle East, launching attacks on Iraq, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Israel in a series of assaults that have left the region in flames. Drones have struck oil facilities and airports in Iraq as US-led troops gunned down several potential attacks over the Kurdish city of Erbil amid warnings of possible attacks on hotels… 

“A network of Iranian-backed Shia factions, Islamic Resistance in Iraq, claimed it launched an attack on a US military base near Baghdad Airport…”

Iran Retaliates 

Daily Mail wrote on March 8: 

“Iran has launched a series of ballistic missiles and drones at the United Arab Emirates and Israel as it furiously retaliates after an overnight bombardment which left Tehran burning. Explosions have been heard over Tel Aviv, with missile warnings in the UAE, as Iran hits out following the Israeli attack on oil depots which caused a ‘river of fire’ to engulf its capital…” 

Iran is not at this time defeated… 

Iran More and More Defiant

The Guardian wrote on March 10: 

“Iran has spurned two messages from Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, seeking a ceasefire as its leaders sense it is not losing the war and the US president is at the minimum feeling the political pressure… The foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, has further said a unilateral declaration from Trump that the US had won the war would not bring an end to the conflict…. 

“Iran believes there can be no end to the conflict until it believes Trump has been shown the economic, political and military cost is so high that it is not worth repeating. It is instead insisting on a permanent deal that includes a US commitment not to attack Iran again… But the overall mood among Iranian regime figures is that it is going to survive and should not at this stage seek any agreement.” 

Devastating Effect on Oil Prices 

The New York Post wrote on March 7: 

“A commercial oil tanker was set ablaze in the Strait of Hormuz after it was struck by an Iranian suicide drone… with a US Navy mission to safeguard ships through the region possibly still weeks away. The IRGC [Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps] claimed the tanker — the Prima, sailing under a Maltese flag — had ignored repeated warnings not to enter the strait… The flow of oil through the strait — one of the world’s most vital energy arteries connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea which sees roughly 20 million barrels of oil, about 20% of global supply, pass through it daily — has ground to a near-total halt since Iran declared it closed at the start of the war. 

“As a result, US oil prices shot up $20 a barrel in just a week, surging to $90 a barrel Friday, sparking recession fears if the US doesn’t neutralize the IRGC’s threat in the region soon… The president wouldn’t directly say what steps, if any, he planned to take to tackle rising gas and oil prices… But even once a US Navy convoy arrives, escorting the hundreds of ships that are stuck is a months-long mission… With pressure on oil prices continuing to mount, the US would need to find alternative ways to procure oil to avoid a serious economic downturn…” 

Trump Denial—The Strait of Hormuz

 Reuters wrote on March 12:

“Two tankers were ablaze in Iraqi waters on Thursday after what appeared to be Iranian strikes, the latest wave of attacks on oil and transport facilities across the Middle East, as Iran warned the world should be ready for oil to hit $200 a barrel…. So far there has been no sign that ships can safely sail through the Strait of Hormuz…

“On Wednesday, an Iranian military spokesperson said the Strait was ‘undoubtedly’ under Iran’s control and the G7 group of nations – the United States, Canada, Japan, Italy, Britain, Germany and France – agreed to examine the option of providing escort for ships so they can navigate freely in the Gulf….

“[Trump] said… ‘The straits are in great shape…’ Trump said earlier ships ‘should’ transit through the strait but sources said Iran had deployed about a dozen mines in the channel, further complicating the blockade.”

Strait of Hormuz in great shape and safe? This is so ridiculous. 

Only Two More Days of Stored Gas 

The Telegraph wrote on March 8: 

“Shrinking reserves could spark potential crisis with UK now paying highest wholesale price in Europe. Britain has as little as two days of gas stored up, raising fears of a potential crisis as supplies from the Middle East dry up…”

The End of the Dollar? 

Ron Paul wrote in the Ron Paul Institute on March 9: 

“The war has caused a big rise in gasoline prices… The increased costs will do more than raise prices at the pump. An increase in gas prices brings increased transportation costs that will be passed along to consumers. Prices of a variety of goods, including food, will increase… No wonder Energy Secretary Chris Wright, White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, and other Trump administration officials are frantically working to develop policies to lower gas prices. One possibility under consideration is deploying US troops to try to ensure ships can pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This could turn into a permanent deployment of US troops. 

“According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the US government is spending about 891.4 million dollars a day on the Iran War. These costs are likely to increase as the war drags on and the US increases its military presence… 

“These factors could also accelerate the increasing rejection of the dollar’s world reserve currency status. A loss of the reserve currency status will cause a dollar crisis, leading to an economic crash worse than the Great Depression.”

Trump has not even ruled out bringing back the draft. All of this contributes to the inevitable downfall of the USA. 

Gas Prices Will Never Go Back Down Much Again 

Forbes wrote on March 9: 

“Today, conflict with Iran has blocked the passage of oil and LNG tankers through the Strait of Hormuz… the effect is to block up to 20 million barrels a day of oil that passes through the [Strait], out of about 107 million barrels of world production. How long this will last, or what will become of it, is still an open question. But one thing that I think will happen, and which is not expected yet, is that oil prices will go up to wherever they go, but they will not come back down much…. 

“The root cause of all this is the chronic decline in the value of our currency. The dollar today is a floating fiat currency. Its value goes up and down – over time, mostly down…. We didn’t have this problem in the past, because we didn’t have a currency that loses value. The value of the dollar was fixed to gold. An ‘oil crisis’ – or.. a World War like World War I — might lead to soaring prices for commodities including oil… We are going to have a flood of Don’t-Blame-Me excuse-making from the Washington elite types … But remember that the real cause of persistent price rises is a decline in the value of our money…” 

Trump said Americans will have to live with higher gas prices for a short while, for America’s good, and then they will come down again. Incredible! 

Biggest Oil Disruption in History

CNN wrote on March 9:

“A historic disruption to the world’s oil production sent crude prices smashing through the $100 barrier Monday for the first time in nearly four years.

“Both US oil and Brent, the international benchmark, are hovering around their biggest single-day increase in dollars per barrel in history… The war with Iran has sent oil prices higher for two primary reasons: a near shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz and a slowdown in oil production in the Middle East… The war has also effectively wiped out the spare capacity, because Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have been cut off from global oil markets…

“As oil prices have surged, so too have gasoline prices. US gas prices have risen about 50 cents in a week…, higher than at any point in either of President Donald Trump’s terms…. Meanwhile, absent a compelling solution to the strait’s closure, oil prices will continue to march higher….” 

Economic Consequences of the Iran War 

The Washington Post wrote on or about March 8: 

“Iranian missile and drone attacks have disrupted the flow of commerce through one of the global economy’s most critical hubs, paralyzing much of the ocean and air traffic that carries goods between Asia and Europe while punishing investors in faraway financial markets… the war’s economic casualties extend well beyond the oil and natural gas shipments that normally transit the Strait of Hormuz. The closure of several international airports in the conflict zone, including the world’s busiest in Dubai, idled nearly one-fifth of global airfreight capacity, interrupting shipments of consumer electronics, pharmaceuticals and precious metals… The cost of shipping goods by air from Asia to Europe is up 45 percent since the war began… 

“The war is hitting the economies of Europe and Asia harder and faster than it is striking the United States… That does not mean Americans will escape unscathed… Farmers face higher bills for critical crop nutrients, and additional supply chain headaches are certain… But for now, economies such as Italy, Belgium, China, India and South Korea, which are the most dependent on oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, are feeling some of the worst effects.”

The War Has Been Won??? 

Mediaite wrote on March 8: 

“President Donald Trump told British Prime Minister Keir Starmer his help is not needed in the war against Iran on Saturday, saying ‘We don’t need people that join wars after we’ve already won!’ 

“Trump posted the following on Truth Social about it: ‘The United Kingdom, our once Great Ally, maybe the Greatest of them all, is finally giving serious thought to sending two aircraft carriers to the Middle East. That’s OK, Prime Minister Starmer, we don’t need them any longer — But we will remember. We don’t need people that join Wars after we’ve already won!’” 

Trump’s naivety—if it’s not just intentionally wrong political propaganda—is mind boggling. 

War Pretty Much Complete? No Way! 

The Sun wrote on March 10: 

“DONALD Trump has declared his war with Iran is ‘very complete, pretty much’ – and claimed Tehran would have attacked the US ‘within a week, 100 per cent”’.. His surprise statement [including floating a takeover of the Strait of Hormuz] saw global oil prices tumble below $90 following a day of highs where a barrel of crude neared $120…. He went on: ‘We’ve already won in many ways, but we haven’t won enough’… Asked if the war would end as early as this week, Trump replied: ‘No… but soon, I think soon, very soon.’.. 

“Trump also held a phone call with Vladimir Putin on Monday… The Russian leader said he wanted to be ‘helpful’ in resolving the crisis, Trump claimed… US War Secretary Pete Hegseth has also vowed that Donald Trump is prepared to ‘go as far as we need’ to achieve America and Israel’s goals in the Middle East.” 

To start with the last comment by Hegseth, nobody really knows what America’s goals are, only that they don’t seem to be in harmony with Israel’s goals.  Trump’s claim that Iran would have attacked the USA within a week is utter nonsense… unless he was afraid of it because of Israel’s attacks and Iran’s retaliation; something that Trump previously denied. To talk to Putin (!) to help him to resolve the crisis is mind boggling in the extreme. If Putin was so anxious to resolve the crisis in the Middle East, why is he not ending the war with Ukraine which he illegally occupied, and why is he not withdrawing his troops? The temporary decrease in oil prices due to Trump’s “announcement” will only hold if Trump’s words are followed by actions. His statement that the war will not end this week is also a detrimental admission. Subsequently, the oil prices rose again due to some of Trump’s “announcements.” 

Impending Dispute Between the US and Israel 

Bild Online wrote on March 6: 

“How things will proceed in Iran is currently completely open. For a week now, Israel and the US have been fighting the mullah regime in Tehran together. At the same time, a war is raging throughout the Gulf region… But now, according to Germany’s former Defense Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg (54), a dispute is threatening to erupt between the allies!… 

“’The strategies of the US government and Israel are anything but congruent. The Israeli government is aiming for the complete destruction of the revolutionary instruments of power, including the Revolutionary Guard and the proxy networks.’ The US plan is different: ‘In Washington, on the other hand, they are following a more functional understanding of regime change, similar to Venezuela… This may sound similar, but it certainly harbors potential for friction between the two partners.'” 

Trump Furious with Israel 

The Daily Mail wrote on March 9: 

“Trump also backed off his earlier threat to send US troops to destroy Iran’s uranium stockpile at a secret nuclear facility near Tehran.. . The remarks directly contradict earlier statements in which Trump said he was considering deploying soldiers as the war spiraled across the Middle East…. 

“The President was reportedly left furious over the weekend after Israel targeted Iran’s oil depots in a blitz that shocked the White House. A planned summit between the US and Israel was scrapped on Monday in the first open disagreement between the allies since the war broke out. 

“Thirty Iranian fuel depots were obliterated over the weekend, with apocalyptic images showing fires leaping into the sky, vast columns of smoke and black oily rain.  White House officials were stunned by the scale of Israel’s bombardment and concerned that images of burning oil would anger Americans facing increased gas prices. ‘The president doesn’t like the attack. He wants to save the oil. He doesn’t want to burn it. And it reminds people of higher gas prices,’ a Trump adviser told Axios. An Israeli official said the message from the US was stark: ‘What the f***’.” 

Trump feels the pressure and the overwhelming reaction of the American people regarding his Iran adventure. But in light of his ongoing shifting explanations, can one trust his words? Is he serious, or just trying to deceive the people, buying time? We will see. 

Hezbollah Attacks Israel

The New York Post wrote on March 11:

“Hezbollah terrorists in Lebanon on Wednesday launched 100 rockets at Israel — overloading Israel’s lauded Iron Dome system so much that only half were shot down…

“In response, the IDF is preparing a ground invasion into Lebanon…”

Violation of International Law by Israel? 

Focus wrote on March 9: 

“Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Israel of illegally using white phosphorus in an attack on a residential area in southern Lebanon last week. The organization was able to verify and geographically locate seven images, according to a report. A staff member spoke of severe consequences for civilians. The incendiary properties of white phosphorus can lead to death or serious injuries resulting in lifelong suffering. 

“White phosphorus ignites upon contact with oxygen in the air and continues to burn until either nothing remains or the oxygen supply is cut off. An additional protocol to the Geneva Conventions on the Law of War prohibits the use of phosphorus weapons when there is a risk that they will primarily affect civilians.” 

It’s alright then to use them against enemy soldiers! What a corrupt and evil world we are living in. 

The Iran War in Connection With the Third Temple? 

Israel 365 News wrote on March 8: 

“Commentator Tucker Carlson triggered a storm this week after accusing the global Chabad-Lubavitch movement [a major, dynamic Hasidic movement within Orthodox Judaism] of secretly pushing for the destruction of the Islamic shrines on Jerusalem’s Temple Mount and the construction of a Third Jewish Temple… Carlson… used his program to present the war as part of a Jewish religious agenda, claiming that Chabad has been quietly working to advance plans to remove the Dome of the Rock and the Al Aqsa Mosque in order to rebuild the Temple.

“Carlson opened his broadcast by asserting that ‘key players involved in this war’ believe the conflict will lead to the destruction of the Islamic structures on the Temple Mount and the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple. He then singled out Chabad, stating that the movement has been ‘pushing in a pretty subtle way’ for such a development… 

“Carlson framed the current war as a ‘global religious war’ allegedly triggered by Jewish ambitions regarding the Temple Mount. … Carlson’s remarks also revived an accusation that has fueled violence for nearly a century: the claim that Jews are plotting to destroy the Islamic shrines on the Temple Mount… 

“The hope for a restored Temple is a central belief in traditional Jewish faith, rooted directly in the Bible… The medieval sage Maimonides codified belief in the coming of the Messiah and the rebuilding of the Temple as one of Judaism’s core principles of faith… Rabbi Mordechai Lightstone, Chabad’s social media director, noted that belief in the Temple and the Messianic era is shared across the entire Jewish world…. The Temple Mount remains the holiest site in Judaism and a focal point of intense political and religious tension.” 

Carlson’s critical views against Israel’s policies under Netanyahu are well-known. His accusations against Chabad are unsupported and lack evidence. Still, his comments in general about the building of the Third Temple should not be ignored. 

Destroying Iran’s Nuclear Stockpile… an Almost Impossible Task

CNN wrote on March 10:

“Recovering Iran’s remaining highly enriched uranium stockpile believed to be sitting in a storage facility deep underground… would require a significant number of US ground troops beyond a small special operations footprint… 

“The US bombing campaign that struck three Iranian nuclear facilities last June did not destroy all of that country’s highly enriched uranium stockpile, the material needed to create a nuclear weapon. Much of it is believed to be at Iran’s Isfahan nuclear site… President Donald Trump has made complete elimination of Iran’s nuclear capability one of his stated aims of the war. 

“If the Trump administration went ahead with an operation to retrieve the uranium, it could mark the first major commitment of US ground forces as part of the campaign, an escalation that would put a large number of troops in harm’s way as part of a complex mission to move or render safe tons of highly radioactive material.

“The uranium at Isfahan is accessible to the Iranians, who had been working for months after the US military strikes last year to clear the rubble of the facility’s aboveground structures and access the underground tunnels where the uranium was hidden… UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi said on Monday that around 200 kilograms of Iran’s highly enriched uranium is probably still at Isfahan, with some also at Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility… 

“US military airstrikes alone can’t penetrate the Isfahan tunnels, primarily because the facility does not have ventilation shaft openings like some of Iran’s other nuclear sites, which serve as weak points for a storage structure. That has led to discussions within the Trump administration about deploying elite units within the US military’s Joint Special Operations Command, potentially in coordination with Israeli commando forces, to physically infiltrate the tunnels and secure or destroy the enriched uranium…

“A mission like that, however, would require dozens if not hundreds of additional troops on the ground to help support the core special operations team tasked with finding the uranium…, particularly given the Iranian military’s continued control over the sites and surrounding area. That support could entail not just troops to secure the area, but also logistical support given the challenges of working with nuclear material deep underground… ‘The logistics and risk involved would be prohibitive, to say the least,’ said one person familiar with the discussions…” 

So, if regime change and destroying Iran’s stockpile of uranium were part of the goals of Trump’s strikes, then they have NOT been achieved. 

Catastrophic Lack of Sulfur 

On March 9, Naturalnews published the following article by Mike Adams: 

“The devastating attacks on critical Gulf infrastructure have not merely disrupted markets; they have severed the global supply of elemental sulfur and its derivative, sulfuric acid. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz… coupled with the systematic destruction of storage and refining facilities in Iran, means zero spot sulfur is available on the global market. This is not a crisis about to begin; it has already been unleashed. The chemical cascade of industrial collapse is now irreversible 

“Reports of thick, choking smoke over Tehran following strikes on oil facilities are a grim foreshadowing of the acid rain and atmospheric poisoning to come, but they pale in comparison to the economic and biological warfare now underway… Sulfuric acid is the irreplaceable ‘lifeblood’ of modern industrial civilization. No single chemical has a more urgent, cascading impact across every critical sector… Without sulfur, there is no fertilizer. Without fertilizer, there is no food on an industrial scale. This is not a hypothetical supply chain hiccup; it is a guaranteed trigger for mass starvation… 

“The secondary uses of sulfuric acid are what weave the fabric of modern life: it is essential for leaching critical metals like copper, zinc, and nickel from ore; for the vulcanization of rubber in every car and truck tire; for producing battery acid; and for manufacturing… antibiotics, industrial explosives, and synthetic textiles. Every one of these chains is now broken… 

“Even if the war ended tomorrow, the crisis is locked in for years. The specialized refineries, storage tanks, and port facilities are destroyed. Rebuilding this infrastructure is a multi-year endeavor, and we do not have years… Governments and captured institutions are lying about the timeline and severity. The mainstream corporate media narrative is one of manageable disruption and future recovery. The reality is irreversible industrial collapse… 

“This is not doom on steroids; it is the factual, unflinching consequence of severing civilization’s chemical backbone… The centralized, just-in-time systems for food, medicine, and goods are failing in real-time… Relying on the corrupt, centralized medical system — which profits from sickness and has long suppressed natural, nutritional, and herbal solutions — is a guaranteed path to suffering…” 

If only a portion of what was said in this article was true, we would all be in serious trouble, caused by the stupidity of war. 

Trump’s Iran War Faces Disaster? 

The Daily Mail wrote on March 7: 

“A leaked classified report by the National Intelligence Council (NIC) has shed an unfavorable light on Donald Trump’s decision to strike Iran, warning that military involvement could be disastrous…. a report completed by the NIC just a week before raised doubts about the US’s ability to overthrow the regime… 

“NIC members bridge 18 intelligence agencies with policymakers to provide analytical assessments…. Iran would likely respond to Khamenei’s death by following protocols to preserve the regime. Sources said it was ‘unlikely’ that Iran’s opposition would seize control.” 

This was so clear from the outset. “Making Iran Great Again”—as pronounced by Trump—is an incredible pipe dream. We are facing another “never-ending” war, or Trump stops the strikes with the tail between his legs. In any event, America is NOT going to win. 

Trump Will Lose the War 

Daily Mail wrote on March 8: 

“Jiang is a Beijing-based educator and writer. He is also on the research team for Harvard’s Global Education Innovation Initiative…  in 2024 he posted a lesson titled ‘The Iran Trap.’ … the professor said he believed that the US would lose the war… During a recent interview, Jiang said he stood by his initial prediction… 

“He explained that American military strategy is designed for ‘muscle flexing’ and is not sustainable, adding that the worst calamity for the US would be to send ground troops to Iran… ‘If there’s a war going on and you can delay elections and you have emergency war powers and people rally around the flag, then he probably will get a third term,’ Jiang predicted.” 

Regime Change Won’t Happen

VG wrote on March 10:

“For over a century, countries have attempted to overthrow hostile regimes using air power alone… it has never worked…

“First, you achieve… one hundred percent tactical success. You hit your targets perfectly. You kill leaders, destroy buildings, knock out airfields. The bombing appears to be successful on the tactical level… The perspective narrows, and you begin to underestimate the enemy.

“But then the political situation changes. Instead of the regime collapsing, the opposite happens. You either get a slightly reorganized regime that continues as before, or – even worse – a much more radicalized regime that is willing to take greater risks…

“Iran has been an ‘industrial factory for drones’ for Putin in Ukraine over the past year. In 2025 alone, over 55,000 Iranian drones have been used by Putin in Ukraine… Iran’s strategy will therefore be to drag out conflicts over time… so that the real cost is ultimately paid politically at home in the United States.”

US intelligence indicates that Iran’s leadership is still largely intact and is not at risk of collapse any time soon (compare Reuters, March 12). 

Using the Mother of All Bombs? 

Geo News wrote on March 6: 

“Experts told the outlet that the U.S. could potentially use the ‘mother of all bombs’ against Iran to obliterate the underground tunnels, bunkers and missile launching sites. [It] is considered the deadliest non-nuclear weapon developed by the U.S. 

“It is a 21,000 pound explosive which creates a 1,000 ft hole in the ground, taking out underground targets…” 

MOAB has been used once before in 2017 in Afghanistan. 

The Daily Mail wrote on March 6: 

“The United States may choose to drop its largest non-nuclear weapon in the coming days and weeks. It is known as the ‘Mother Of All Bombs’ – a play on ‘MOAB,’ an acronym that stands for ‘Massive Ordnance Air Burst.’ A crater left by the blast is believed to be more than 100ft wide. Anyone at the blast site is vaporised… President Trump has long told reporters at the White House how ‘very proud’ he is of it.” 

God will deal with his “pride” very soon.

Trump Wants to Be Involved in Choice of New Iranian Leader 

BBC wrote on March 6: 

“Donald Trump says he also wants to choose who will rule Iran… That seems unthinkable for a clerical regime rooted in deep distrust of America… There has long been division between factions known as reformers and pragmatists, and the hardliners who call themselves Principlists in their defence of their revolution. But they are united on one goal: the survival of the system which keeps them in power… the US president then made it clear that he would only choose a GREAT AND ACCEPTABLE leader’… There is no sign of that… 

“The president’s comments reflected ‘the depth of the enemy’s malicious objectives in this battle’, according to the conservative Mehr News Agency, which carried a rebuke from members of the interim Leadership Council now in charge until a new leader is announced. ‘The great Iranian nation will never allow anyone to interfere in its internal affairs and its right to determine its own destiny,’ it declared in the fiery war of words…” 

That did not work. 

Mojtaba Khamenei Succeeds His Father 

Reuters wrote on March 9: 

“Iran’s clerical leadership chose confrontation over compromise in appointing Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father, Ali Khamenei, a move regional officials say is a direct rebuke to U.S. President Donald Trump, who had declared the son ‘unacceptable’…. The appointment of Mojtaba as his successor by the Assembly of Experts locks hardliners firmly in control in Tehran… ‘Having Mojtaba take over is the same playbook,’ said Alex Vatanka, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute. ‘It’s a big humiliation for the United States to carry out an operation of this scale, risk so much, and end up killing an 86-year-old man, only to have him replaced by his hardline son.’ 

“Analysts say the choice of Mojtaba, a deeply hardline cleric whose wife, mother and other family members were also killed in U.S.–Israeli strikes – sends an unequivocal message: Iran’s leadership has rejected any prospect of compromise to preserve the system and sees no path forward except confrontation, revenge and endurance…. ‘Mojtaba is even worse and more hardline than his father,’ said Alan Eyre, former U.S. diplomat and Iran specialist.” 

Iran Is Not Venezuela 

Ynet wrote on March 6: 

“Encouraged by the operation that captured Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro, President Donald Trump now wants a say in choosing Iran’s next leader, but experts warn the Shiite theocracy is built to survive pressure — not become a US-backed puppet… 

“Diplomats and analysts around the world are skeptical of that expectation, stressing that the Islamic Republic differs greatly from the South American oil power and warning that Trump is mistaken if he believes the same methods can be applied…. [They] warn that drawing parallels between Venezuela and Iran is a serious mistake.” 

Unconditional Surrender and the Day After 

ABC News wrote on March 6: 

“Trump, in a social media post on Friday, demanded ‘unconditional surrender’ from Tehran, after which he said would come the selection of ‘acceptable’ new leaders and a rebuilding of the Middle Eastern nation… Trump told Axios in a phone interview: ‘Unconditional surrender could be that [the Iranians] announce it. But it could also be when they can’t fight any longer because they don’t have anyone or anything to fight with.’… 

“But on what comes after for civilians in Iran, particularly who will take control…, Trump and his team have sent mixed messages… On Friday, in an interview with CNN, Trump elaborated somewhat on his vision, saying Iran does not need to become a democratic state and that he is open to a religious leader ruling the country.” 

Iran Could Attack California

The New York Post wrote on March 11:

“Iran could use drones to make a deadly strike on California at any time, a top US Army expert says — and we’re nowhere near ready for what could happen… America’s enemy is almost certainly trying to launch an attack on California shores with drones…. Iran doubtless has in its possession thousands of attack drones that can be controlled from thousands of miles away and can fly hundreds of miles before striking their targets… such drones could be launched… from unmanned drone ships…

“Iran’s connections with Mexico and nations in South America mean that drone attacks could also be launched from south of the border… Sporting events, hotels, office buildings, government offices and military bases are all possible targets… the drones used to attack California would carry explosives to their targets with pinpoint accuracy, needing only GPS coordinates to set their aim.”

Russia Assists Iran 

Newsmax wrote on March 6: 

“Russia is providing Iran with targeting information to attack U.S. troops and military assets in the Middle East, an American defense official confirmed to Newsmax on Friday. First reported by The Washington Post, the development puts one of the United States’ chief nuclear-armed competitors in the rapidly expanding conflict. 

“Iran has, for years, provided Russia with its Shahed drones to attack Ukraine, and now Russian intelligence is returning the favor by aiding Iran in its retaliatory attacks across the Middle East.” 

When a Fox reporter asked Trump about this, he castigated him, saying this was a stupid question. How was this important question stupid??? Subsequently, Trump called Putin to discuss ending the war! Incredible! 

Russia’s “Unwavering” Support 

The New York Post wrote on March 9, 2026: 

“Putin declared ‘unwavering support’ for Iran as he congratulated Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei on being tapped as the Islamic Republic’s new leader. Putin fired off a telegram to Khamenei — the son of slain Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei — on Monday, vowing the Kremlin would remain a ‘reliable partner’ to Iran amid the ongoing war. 

“‘At a time when Iran is opposing armed aggression, your tenure in this high post will undoubtedly require great courage and dedication,’ Putin’s message said. ‘I am sure that you will honorably continue your father’s work and unite the Iranian people.’” 

Until now, Putin has done nothing for Iran, except provide them with intelligence. But this may change. 

Not Enough European Support? 

DNYUZ wrote on March 7: 

“President Donald Trump’s administration spent the past year dismissing Europeans as pathetic and irrelevant. Now, as he wages a war alongside Israel to force regime change in Iran, he wants Europe to cheer him on… But the European moves so far fall short of the applause Trump is seeking for an assault without [a]clear end that is violently reshaping the region… 

“The White House is not exactly trying to forge a coalition of the unwilling. Washington did not consult European allies before the attack and has not asked them to join in bombing Tehran… Trump is rebuking countries that don’t offer unflinching support… ‘The war in Iran began “unbeknownst to the world” and was not a decision’ shared by anyone,’ Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto told lawmakers in Rome on Thursday. ‘Of course, it was well outside the rules of international law. We don’t need to say it.’… 

“Trump has praised one European leader, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who visited Washington this week after he declared there was little use ‘lecturing’ about the illegality of war. Back home, however, Merz faced European criticism for abandoning support of international law, which he has touted on Ukraine and Greenland, and for not defending Spain from Trump’s criticism in the Oval Office…” 

“For European politicians, joining a U.S. war will be unpopular after the stained legacies of the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, and the deadly withdrawal from Afghanistan. Following Israel into war will also be divisive in many European nations, with some European officials having accused Israel of genocide in Gaza.” 

The alienation between Europe and the USA is continuing. 

EU Vows Strong Response to Trump’s Spain Threat 

Tempo wrote on March 6: 

“The European Union (EU) will deliver a ‘strong and swift’ response if United States President Donald Trump imposes additional tariffs or discriminatory trade measures on Spain, stated a spokesperson for the European Commission. ‘If President Trump was to unfairly target Spanish imports into the US for extra tariff treatment or whatever, then that would be considered a very serious escalation, and I think you would certainly see a strong and swift response from the EU side,’ the spokesperson said on Thursday… 

“The statement came after Trump threatened to impose a total trade embargo on Spain for refusing to grant permission for the U.S. military to use its base in operations against Iran. The spokesperson emphasized that although the U.S. statements so far have only been threats, any step to impose additional tariffs on Spanish goods would trigger a coordinated response from the European Union…. 

“A day earlier, President of the European Council Antonio Costa expressed ‘full solidarity’ of the European Union to Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez following the United States’ threat over Madrid’s stance on Iran.” 

Will Trump’s threats and actions bring the core nations of Europe closer together? 

Merz’s Shifting Opinions 

Die Welt wrote on March 6: 

“Friedrich Merz (CDU) has warned of uncontrollable consequences from a protracted war in Iran… Such scenarios could have far-reaching consequences for Europe… ‘The Iranian people have the right to freely decide their own destiny,’ the Chancellor emphasized. ‘An endless war is not in our interest…’… 

“At his meeting with Donald Trump this week, Merz had still emphasized Germany’s agreement with the US on Iran policy… With the warning against a protracted war, Merz is now acting more defensively. Together with France, Great Britain, and partners in the Gulf region, Germany is working on a perspective for ending the hostilities.” 

Merz is just a weak leader, and under pressure, he will cave and give in. Note the next article.

“This Is Not Our War” 

Nius wrote on March 7: 

“Lars Klingbeil (SPD) expressed sharp criticism of Trump’s Iran war. The Vice Chancellor told the editorial network Germany (RND): ‘I say very clearly: This is not our war. We will not take part in this war.’ 

“Klingbeil further explained that he sees ‘the great danger that we will slip ever more into a world in which there are no more rules. We do not want to live in a world in which only the law of the strongest applies.’ He also has ‘great doubts that this war is legitimized under international law’. This statement contains enormous explosives for the government coalition…. 

“Klingbeil explained that he also considers the mullahs in Tehran to be a ‘terrorist regime’. He literally said: ‘I don’t shed a tear for the mullah leadership that was killed in the attacks. This regime is a terrorist regime that threatens Israel and the entire region.’ However, he doubted that the attacks could really lead to a regime change: ‘Just because leading people in the regime have been eliminated does not mean that this regime is over. On the contrary: we hear that successors are available for many leaders.’ 

“He fears that the regime is ‘quite consolidated’, which is why he doesn’t believe that anything is improving for the population in Iran.” 

Merz Under Critic 

Deutsche Welle wrote on March 9: 

“Friedrich Merz is displaying a type of quiet tolerance of Trump’s approach. He does not fully approve of it, expresses doubts, but does not condemn it… This approach has not been well-received across German politics, even within the governing coalition… In an interview with the private NTV channel, Tino Chrupalla, the co-leader of Germany’s largest opposition party, the far-right Alternative for Germany [AfD], clearly distanced himself from the attack by the US and Israel, also criticizing President Donald Trump. He said Trump started out as a peace president, but would end up as a ‘war president.’” 

Britain Has Become Trump’s Enemy 

Newsbreak wrote on or about March 9: 

“Trump’s White House increasingly resembles a madhouse. War aims shift daily… Trump is now at war with US allies… Britain and Europe mostly want no part of it, but are being sucked in anyway… It’s long been obvious Trump is no friend to Britain. But this latest act… shows he and his administration must now be considered an enemy…. 

“This is Trump’s war of choice. But Britain has choices, too. Two hundred and fifty years after the American colonists broke free of [the] empire, it’s time for a British declaration of independence.” 

Popular MAGA Voices Turn Against Trump 

ABC News wrote on March 7: 

“President Donald Trump’s decision to carry out strikes on Iran has further exposed a fracture among some of the president’s fiercest supporters inside MAGA world — one that many supporters say will only widen with every week the conflict continues. 

“Since the first strike last week, Trump’s actions in Iran have faced stark criticism from some of the most popular voices in MAGA media who helped boost his 2024 campaign, ranging from longtime adviser Steve Bannon to more recent converts like conservative media personalities Tucker Carlson and Megyn Kelly.” 

Not to forget Marjorie Greene. 

Stephen Miller an Embarrassment 

The Independent wrote on March 8: 

“A GOP senator tore into Stephen Miller, the architect of Donald Trump’s mass deportation campaign, on Sunday and said that the two-time White House official was ‘out of his depth.’ 

“Sen. Thom Tillis, a retiring Republican lawmaker… has become one of the… critics of the president within his own party on the Hill. But the tone of his attacks against Miller in particular shifted in the wake of the shootings of two Americans killed while protesting ICE and DHS agents in Minneapolis in early 2026, and the senator has come to assert that the president’s mass deportation program is riddled with incompetent leadership… ‘It was Stephen Miller who said it was the position of the United States that we should go after Greenland. It’s Stephen Miller that’s been repeatedly responsible for embarrassments for the president of the United States, speaking first and asking questions later.’ 

“The senator went on to trash Miller for having an ‘outsized influence on the Cabinet’… ‘He’s a big problem in this administration, he has been from the beginning.’” 

Tillis is correct in his criticism of Miller. He should have been fired a long time ago; in fact, he should never have been in the position of “advisor” to Trump. But this is also true for many others in Trump’s cabinet.

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer:  

These Current Events are compiled and commented on by Norbert Link. We gratefully acknowledge the many contributions of news articles from our readership. The publication of articles in this section is not to be viewed as an endorsement or approval as to contents or accuracy of the selected articles, but they are published for the purpose of pointing at worldwide developments in the light of biblical end-time prophecy and godly instruction. Our own comments are provided in italics.

Major Combat Operation 

The Associated Press wrote on February 28:

“The U.S. and Israel launched a major attack on Iran on Saturday, and President Donald Trump called on the Iranian public to ‘seize control of your destiny’ by rising up against the Islamic leadership that has ruled the nation since 1979. Iran retaliated by firing missiles and drones toward Israel and U.S. military bases in the region… In a video announcing the ‘major combat operations,’ Trump told Iranians that ‘when we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations.’ 

“Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed that goal, saying, ‘Our joint operation will create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their fate into their own hands.’ 

“The strikes during the holy fasting month of Ramadan opened a stunning new chapter in U.S. intervention in Iran and marked the second time in eight months that the Trump administration has used military force against the Islamic Republic… 

“The targets included members of Iran’s leadership… Even if Iran’s top leaders were to be killed, regime change is not guaranteed and neither the U.S. nor Israel have articulated a vision for what new leadership would look like… The immediate trigger for Saturday’s strikes appears to be the unsuccessful latest round of nuclear talks. But they also reflect the dramatic changes across the region that have left Iran’s leadership in its weakest position since the Islamic Revolution nearly half a century ago… 

“Iran responded to the latest strikes as it had been threatening to do for months, including by launching missiles and drones targeting Israel as well as strikes targeting U.S. military installations in Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar... Israel said the operation has been planned for months with the U.S. Trump, in seeking to justify the military action, claimed Iran has continued to develop its nuclear program despite asserting last year the program had been ‘obliterated’ by an earlier round of strikes… The U.S. president said he was aiming to ‘annihilate’ the Iranian navy and destroy regional proxies supported by Tehran. 

“He also called on the Iranian Revolutionary Guard to lay down arms, pledging members would be given immunity, while warning they would face ‘certain death’ if they didn’t… 

“Iran has said it hasn’t enriched uranium since June, but it has blocked international inspectors from visiting the sites America bombed during a 12-day war then. Satellite photos analyzed by The Associated Press have shown new activity at two of those sites, suggesting Iran is trying to assess and potentially recover material there. Iran currently has a self-imposed limit on its ballistic missile program, limiting its range to 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles). That puts the entire Middle East and some of Eastern Europe within range… 

“The strikes could rattle global markets, particularly if Iran is able to make the Strait of Hormuz unsafe for commercial traffic. A third of total worldwide oil exports transported by sea passed through the Strait of Hormuz in 2025… 

“Saudi Arabia said in an announcement on state-run media that Iran had targeted its capital and its eastern region in an attack that was repelled. Bahrain said a missile attack targeted the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in the island kingdom… The Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen vowed to resume attacks on Red Sea shipping routes and on Israel…” 

Iran’s Leaders Dead 

The New York Post wrote on February 28: 

“Iran’s tyrannical Supreme Leader Alio Khamenei was killed Saturday in an unprecedented,  joint military attack by the US and Israel called Operation Epic Fury.  ‘Khamenei, one of the most evil people in History, is dead,’ Trump declared on his Truth Social about 15 hours after the start of the onslaught… Hours later, Iranian state media confirmed that Khamenei had been ‘martyred.’… 

“The tyrant’s daughter, grandchild, daughter-in-law and son-in-law were also killed in the joint military attack, according to Iranian state media, though it’s unclear where they died. Israeli officials told Fox News that more than 40 top Iranian security and regime figures were eliminated in the opening strikes this morning, and as many as 10 high-ranking leaders were killed in the initial strike on Khamenei’s fortified compound.” 

It was also reported that at least six US service members have been killed so far. 

Iran’s New Supreme Leader?

The Daily Mail wrote on March 3: 

“Mojtaba Khamenei, the [second] son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reportedly been appointed Iran’s new Supreme Leader.  Mojtaba… has strong links to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) [and the Basij volunteer paramilitary force] and was chosen by Iran’s Assembly of Experts… He has been touted as a possible successor to his father for years… 

“The regime’s 88-person assembly is tasked with appointing, supervising and potentially dismissing the supreme leader.  It met on Tuesday in Qom to find a successor to Ali Khamenei, who was killed on Saturday by joint US-Israeli strikes. Israel and US strikes flattened the building where the assembly met. There was no information on any potential casualties.” 

Other reports claim that he was not appointed yet, but that he is the most likely successor to his father. Trump said that he would view this as the most undesirable outcome.  

Closing Strait of Hormuz? 

Haaretz wrote on February 28: 

“Iran Reportedly Closes Strait of Hormuz, the World’s Most Vital Oil Export Route… The U.K. Maritime Trade Operations agency said it received multiple reports from vessels in the Gulf that they had been notified of the Strait of Hormuz’s closure. There was no immediate confirmation from Iran…” 

The Daily Mail wrote on March 1: 

“Iran claims to have struck British oil tankers with missiles leaving them ‘burning’…  

“Iran has told ships not to pass through the Strait of Hormuz… although a number of Iranian and Chinese vessels have continued to pass through it today.  The halting of shipping in the strait has seen markets brace for a surge in global oil prices.  Motorists in the UK were warned of potential ‘record prices at the pumps’ while economists predicted fragile economies could be pushed ‘closer to recession in a matter of weeks’. The threat of Iranian reprisal attacks saw at least 150 tankers drop anchor as shipping companies refused to sail through the 100-mile passage which is just 24 miles wide.” 

The Times of India reported on March 3: 

“Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have declared the Strait of Hormuz closed, warning that any vessel attempting to pass will be attacked… The threat of closure has already rattled energy markets, with oil prices jumping sharply amid fears of prolonged disruption.” 

Sky News wrote on March 1: 

“By March 1, very few ships were in the strait, and vessels appeared to cluster around large ports on either side of the strait. Maritime activity has been almost brought to a standstill as the US and Iran have traded strikes…” 

MEGA Melts Down Over Iran War 

Daily Beast wrote on February 28: 

“A Trump-authorized strike on Iran took place just hours after JD Vance tried to allay MAGA fears of another conflict without a clear end. President Donald Trump is facing a furious MAGA backlash after embarking on an unauthorized strike in Iran that he admits will kill U.S. citizens [after being urged from parts of his own base not to enter another foreign war.]… 

“The fact that American soldiers could die is set to infuriate the anti-interventionist wing of the Republican Party…. Former Trump ally Marjorie Taylor Greene [wrote]: ‘End of MAGA.’” 

Imminent Threat? 

ABC News wrote on February 28: 

“In making his new case for the strikes, the president is arguing attacks are warranted to ‘defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime’ without providing clear evidence of that. Trump also argued Iranian missiles could ‘soon’ reach the U.S —  but the president has provided no details… 

“Whether the Iranian missile threat was ‘imminent’ — and whether Congress should vote on committing American troops to an extensive military operation — aimed at pursuing such a broad goal of regime change in Iran — will likely dominate the debate when lawmakers return to Washington this week.” 

USA War Against Iran Because of Israel? 

JTA wrote on March 3: 

“Secretary of State Marco Rubio inflamed critics of the U.S.-Israel war on Iran on Monday when he suggested that Israel had pulled the United States into the conflict. ‘We knew that there was going to be an Israeli action, we knew that that would precipitate an attack against American forces, and we knew that if we didn’t preemptively go after them before they launched those attacks, we would suffer higher casualties,’ Rubio told reporters in Washington, D.C… 

“The conservative commentator Matt Walsh… shared a video of Rubio’s initial statement and tweeted, ‘So he’s flat out telling us that we’re in a war with Iran because Israel forced our hand. This is basically the worst possible thing he could have said.’… 

“Rubio was not the only prominent voice close to the decision-making table to implicate Israel as a driver of the war plans… Speaker of the House Mike Johnson said the United States had to prepare for war because it knew it would be embroiled if Israel acted alone. ‘Because Israel was determined to act with or without the U.S., our commander in chief and the administration and the officials had a very difficult decision to make,’ he told reporters… 

“The war is placing stress on Trump’s coalition ahead of a midterm election season that is expected to be rocky for the Republicans. The MAGA wing of the party…  appears unlikely to be easily convinced by the Trump administration’s explanations for war….” 

Trump disputed what Rubio and Johnson had claimed, saying that, if anything, he was leading the attack, and Rubio backpedaled, saying he had been “misquoted.” Johnson also waffled on the issue. Johnson also said that the USA is not at war right now with Iran.. a totally ridiculous comment (compare The Independent, dated March 4). 

“Wars and Rumors of Wars” 

The Ron Paul Institute wrote on February 28: 

“This is a major mis-step that could easily turn out very badly as it is a pointless war of choice that could easily escalate to neighboring states and become nuclear if… Navy vessels might also find themselves vulnerable to Iranian missiles. 

“… the grounds for the act of war as elaborated by President Donald Trump are completely fatuous, to include Iranian presumed development of a nuclear weapon and its possession of ballistic missiles that will be able to strike the United States. Both claims are denied by US intelligence and other sources. They are lies…” 

Where Is the Plan? 

The Ron Paul Institute wrote on March 2: 

“It was supposed to be like the Venezuela operation. Quick and painless for the US. Kill the leadership and the long-suffering people would take to the streets and reclaim their country… in real life these regime change operations have never worked. Millions did take to the streets in Iran, but it was to mourn the slain Ayatollah and to reaffirm support for their government… with the Pentagon warning that the operation may go weeks instead of days, we are quickly running out of missiles. 

“Billions of dollars have already been spent on this unprovoked attack, and when the smoke clears – if it does – we may see hundreds of billions or maybe much more having been wasted on yet another Middle East war. Just what President Trump promised he would not do… 

“Launching a military strike during negotiations will have lasting negative effects for the United States. Who would ever trust US diplomacy again if talks are used as a distraction for pre-planned attacks? The Administration is doing its best to spin this unfolding disaster as all going according to plan, but what is the plan? No one knows. Do they know?” 

Trump also said that the war may go on for five more weeks or so, and he does not rule out “boots on the ground.” 

Trump’s Planless Attacks 

The Huffington Post wrote on March 3: 

“From tanking stocks to spiking oil prices to tens of thousands of Americans stranded overseas with no easy way home, the president has unleashed a global mess… In his meeting with [German Chancellor Friedrich] Merz, Trump also acknowledged the lack of a plan for after Iran’s Islamic regime loses control of the country.”

Divided Opposition 

The New York Post wrote on February 28: 

“Rival opposition figures are jockeying for position in a new Iran, in the wake of the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In dueling messages on Saturday, opposition leader Maryam Rajavi and exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi urged Iranians to unite — while making clear they have different visions for the country’s future. 

“Rajavi — president-elect of the Paris-based National Council of Resistance of Iran — called for the overthrow of Iran’s ruling clerical regime and the creation of a democratic republic as conflict… 

“Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last monarch…  also has plans for a democratic transition… In a post on X, Pahlavi described the US action as a ‘humanitarian intervention’ aimed at the regime — not the Iranian people… ‘It is we, the people of Iran, who will finish this task in this final battle…’ 

“The competing appeals highlight a brewing struggle for legitimacy among Iran’s opposition…” 

International Reactions 

Fox News reported on February 28: 

“World leaders reacted swiftly Saturday after the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran, exposing a deep divide between governments backing the attack on Iran and those warning the attacks risk a wider regional war.” 

It continued that Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom supported the strike unconditionally. The European reaction was more reserved. The article continued: 

“French President Emmanuel Macron warned, ‘The outbreak of war between the United States, Israel and Iran carries grave consequences for international peace and security.’ He added, ‘The ongoing escalation is dangerous for all. It must stop,’ and called for an urgent meeting of the United Nations Security Council. In a joint statement, the leaders of France, Germany and the United Kingdom also  said they had ‘consistently urged the Iranian regime to end Iran’s nuclear program, curb its ballistic missile program, refrain from its destabilizing activity in the region and our homelands, and to cease the appalling violence and repression against its own people.’ The three governments [called E3] said they ‘did not participate in these strikes,’ but remain ‘in close contact with our international partners, including the United States, Israel, and partners in the region’ [However, Keir Starmer said subsequently that their airplanes are in the sky in the Middle East.] … 

“European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described developments as ‘perilous,’ saying Iran’s ‘ballistic missile and nuclear programmes… pose a serious threat to global security,’ while emphasizing that ‘Protection of civilians and international humanitarian law is a priority.’” 

Other European countries condemned the USA/Israel strike. 

“Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez [of Spain] said, ‘We reject the unilateral military action by the United States and Israel, which represents an escalation and contributes to a more uncertain and hostile international order.’… Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said the strike ‘is not in line with international law.’” 

Finland also stated that the USA/Israel strike was “outside traditional international law.” 

Other countries commented in the same negative way: 

“Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry… ‘strongly condemned the unwarranted attacks against Iran’… A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Washington, wrote on X that Beijing is ‘highly concerned over the military strikes against Iran launched by the U.S. and Israel.’ … Russia sharply criticized the operation [under “peacemaker” Donald Trump.] Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, said, ‘All negotiations with Iran are a cover operation.’” 

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Saturday condemned the “unprovoked armed attack” on Iran by the US and Israel. Amazing, since Russia began its unprovoked armed attacks on Ukraine four years ago. 

Putin wrote, according to Fox News on March 1: 

“Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader  Ali Khamenei on Sunday, calling the death, which came amid strikes from Israel and the U.S., a ‘cynical violation’ of norms. Putin made the statement in a letter to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian… ‘”In our country, Ayatollah Khamenei will be remembered as an outstanding statesman who made a huge personal contribution to the development of friendly Russian-Iranian relations,’ [Putin wrote].” 

While Brazil and Lebanon condemned the strike, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, as well as Ukraine, blamed and condemned Iran’s retaliation. 

Also, NPR reported the following on February 28: 

“[UN] Secretary General António Guterres condemned what he described as the ‘use of force’ by the US and Israel, and the subsequent retaliation by Iran, which, he said, ‘undermine international peace and security.’… Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who has been mediating between the U.S. and Iran, says there had been active and serious nuclear talks taking place. In a post on X, he wrote that he was ‘dismayed’ by coordinated Israeli-U.S. attacks on Iran…” 

Newsmax wrote on February 28: 

“Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Saturday that U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran violated Iran’s sovereignty… 

“Erdogan said Iran’s attacks on Gulf countries were also unacceptable, and he warned that without restraint and diplomacy the region risked being ‘dragged into a circle of fire.’” 

Pope Condemns Strike 

In “the Letters from Leo,” the following was stated on February 28: 

“… the pontiff views the strikes as ‘immoral, illegal, and a grave threat to the entire human family’… 

Thomson/Reuters wrote on March 1: 

“Pope Leo said on Sunday that he is following events after U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran with ‘deep concern’ and made an impassioned appeal to stop what he called a ‘spiral of violence.’ ‘I address a heartfelt appeal to the parties involved to assume the moral responsibility to stop the spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss,’ said the pope. ‘Stability and peace are not built through mutual threats or through weapons … but only through reasonable, genuine, and responsible dialog,’ the pope said.” 

Transatlantic Unity? 

Politico wrote on February 28: 

“The European stance — particularly that of France, Germany and Britain [saying they did not participate in these strikes] — drew a blistering response from U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump, underscoring the geopolitical tensions now rippling across the Atlantic. ‘To say I’m disappointed in the joint statement … is an understatement,’ Graham wrote on X, accusing Western Europe of having ‘gone pathetically soft’ and urging European leaders to back efforts to confront the regime in Tehran… 

“The unusually sharp language highlights how the Middle East crisis is fast becoming a real-world stress test of transatlantic unity… Brussels is now shifting into crisis mode… Amid the geopolitical shocks, European officials are bracing for a confrontation that could further strain Western unity in the days and weeks ahead.” 

UK Not Part of It 

Daily Mail wrote on March 2: 

“Keir Starmer today insisted he ‘stands by’ his decision to snub Donald Trump’s Iran strikes because they were ‘not thought through’ – despite a brutal rebuke from the US… But in a dramatic escalation of tensions in the Special Relationship, Sir Keir insisted he did not believe in ‘regime change from the skies’…. 

“Sir Keir is bracing for a battering from his own left-wing MPs after conducting a partial U-turn last night, agreeing that American forces can use British bases for ‘defensive’ actions against Iranian retaliation. As he tries to quell the backlash, the PM told the Commons: ‘The use of British bases is limited to the agreed defensive purposes… We are not joining the US-Israeli strikes.’ … 

“Earlier, Mr Trump said he was ‘very disappointed’ with the Labour leader – complaining he ‘took far too long’ to change his mind and permit the strikes. Amid fears over a major blow to the Special Relationship, Mr Trump suggested the initial refusal was unprecedented.” 

On March 3, Trump strongly condemned Starmer again for his stance, saying he is no Churchill, but Starmer doubled down and said he will not be part of a war against Iran. 

Hegseth Attacks Allies 

Daily Mail reported on March 2: 

“Mr Hegseth took aim at the UK’s stance as he hailed Israel as a ‘capable’ partner. ‘Unlike so many of our traditional allies who wring their hands and clutch their pearls, humming and hawing about the use of force,’ he added.” 

He appeared to address Britain, Spain and perhaps other European countries. Trump later confirmed this. 

Iran Can Strike Europe 

The Sun wrote on March 2: 

“Fears over the rogue state’s ability to attack Europe with its lethal arsenal were sparked after an Iranian drone struck a British RAF base in Cyprus… Iran has been steadily building up its long-range missiles… Designed to give Tehran reach even without a modern air force, these include the Shahab-3 with a range of 1,300km, and the Khorramshahr which can reach up to 3,000km.The terrifying range of strikes could impact European nations such as Romania, Hungary and Greece… 

“Iran has also been exporting missiles to proxy states, which would be closer in range to potential targets on US and European soil… 

“In order to protect their nuclear programme, the Iranians developed a whole series of underground bunkers, underground storage and underground manufacturing sites. These are the facilities being targeted by Trump and Israel in the latest wave of strikes… 

“Iran has also developed a sophisticated programme of drones. Shahed suicide drones have a range of up to 2,000km – meaning they could also strike parts of Europe.” 

No Regime Change? 

WABE wrote on March 3: 

“‘This is not a so-called regime-change war, but the regime sure did change, and the world is better off for it,’ Hegseth said. He added that it was ‘no nation-building quagmire, no democracy-building exercise.’” 

This totally contradicts what Trump had said. 

President of Peace 

DNYUZ wrote on March 2: 

“Donald Trump has now ordered more attacks against a greater number of countries than any other president in modern U.S. history… On the campaign trail, Trump repeatedly pledged to reduce American military engagements abroad. After assuming office for the second time last January, he modeled himself as the ‘President of Peace’… Trump’s latest assault [on Iran] flies directly in the face of his promises to voters on the campaign trail. ‘I’m not going to start a war. I’m going to stop wars,’ he told the nation in his 2024 election night victory speech… 

“Conservative pundit Tucker Carlson, an otherwise staunch ally of the president, has called ongoing strikes against Iranian targets ‘absolutely disgusting and evil.’” 

According to recent polls, a majority of Americans oppose Trump’s strike on Iran. Most Republicans support it. 

Trump Anointed by Christ to Bring About Armageddon 

The Mirror wrote on March 3: 

“… a fresh report found that hundreds of U.S. troops across dozens of units and installations have submitted complaints to the non-profit watchdog, the Military Religious Freedom Foundation (MRFF), since the attack about combat unit commanders providing Christian reasoning for the war, during which at least [six] U.S. troops have already been killed… 

“Non-commissioned officers (NCO) who attended a briefing Monday told the MRFF that a combat-unit commander ‘urged us to tell our troops that this was “all part of God’s divine plan” and he specifically referenced numerous citations out of the Book of Revelation referring to Armageddon and the imminent return of Jesus Christ.’

“The commander also argued that Trump [was] ‘anointed by Jesus to light the signal fire in Iran to cause Armageddon and mark his return to Earth’ and that the Iran war is part of God’s plan, the NCO claimed. 

“The remarks were submitted in more than 110 complaints about commanders across all military branches, including more than 40 units across 30 military installations.” 

“The Toothless Fighter” 

In regard to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit to Washington this week, Welt Online wrote on March 3: 

“Friedrich Merz disapproves of Donald Trump’s actions in Iran and beyond – but the Washington visit confirms the new European powerlessness in world politics.” 

Trump dominated during the press conference, and Merz got hardly a word in. But he did not seem to mind. 

Attack on Pakistan 

India TV reported on February 27: 

“Afghan Taliban forces launched a bold counteroffensive against Pakistan, striking high-value military targets just six kilometers from the Prime Minister’s Office…, using precision airstrikes on specialized ‘Atomic’ facilities, resulting in heavy casualties and escalating the border war to the heart of Pakistan’s capital… 

“The airstrikes came as direct payback for Pakistan’s overnight Operation… on Kabul, Kandahar and Paktia, which killed over 130 Taliban fighters and destroyed vital assets like a Nangarhar ammo depot.” 

Gaza War Not Over? 

LifeSiteNews wrote on February 27: 

“Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, stated that the international community applies different standards to Israel’s military actions in Gaza compared with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine… the cardinal observed that many in the region express deep anger toward international institutions such as the UN or U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed ‘Board of Peace,’ [and] that with Gazans there was significant consternation and frustration across the region ‘because the international community won’t allow Russia to do in Ukraine what it allows Israel to do in Palestine’… noting his nearly 40 years living in the Holy Land… 

“He emphasized that ‘the war, from a political and social point of view, is not concluded,’ and that ‘the hatred this war has created is profound,’ making discussions of reconstruction challenging.” 

Friendly Takeover of Cuba? 

USA Today wrote on February 27: 

“President Donald Trump said the U.S. could have a ‘friendly takeover of Cuba’ as fuel shortages squeeze Havana’s authoritarian government in the wake of the U.S. military raid that captured the leader of nearby Venezuela… 

“Trump has called on Cuban leaders to ‘make a deal’ and said Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who’s Cuban American,  is engaging at ‘a very high level’ with Havana.” 

The Guardian added on February 27: 

“The president’s comments come as relations between the two countries have sunk to one of their lowest points in an often bitter 67-year history… 

“Pressure from Washington… prompted Venezuela to cut off oil exports to Cuba. The US has imposed an oil blockade on the island, strangling what was left of the island’s already [perilous] economy.”

Trump had made very clear which countries he wanted or wants to become part of the USA. In addition to Venezuela, he has been desirous of taking over Cuba, Greenland, Mexico, Canada, Panama and Colombia. 

Europe’s Deadliest War 

Le Monde wrote on February 26: 

“Between 500,000 and 600,000 deaths, both military and civilian. That is the approximate toll, four years after Vladimir Putin decided to launch the invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. 

“The war has become the deadliest bloodshed in Europe since World War II, far surpassing the wars in Yugoslavia. If war-disabled people are included, the total nears 2 million people… However, this is only an estimate, as both Ukraine and Russia have classified their military losses.” 

A terrible statistic… and still no end in sight. 

Don’t Use AI to Write Sermons 

The Independent wrote on February 27: 

“Pope Leo XIV has urged Catholic priests to resist the ‘temptation’ to use artificial intelligence to write sermons…. During the meeting, the pope told listeners that giving a ‘homily is to share faith,’ before arguing that artificial intelligence ‘will never be able to share faith.’… 

“The 70-year-old also took aim at social media platforms and asked members of the clergy to be mindful about chasing ‘likes’ and ‘followers’ through an ‘illusion on the internet, on TikTok.” 

He is right. 

Insane California Taxes 

The New York Post wrote on February 26: 

“Higher taxes, Californians are told, will improve education, reduce traffic, and even fight climate change. But they never do. Instead, we face more and more taxes, like an insanely tall layer cake on some crazed reality-TV cooking show…. 

“It’s rare that a tax in California is ever repealed, reduced or allowed to expire. The last major tax cut was Proposition 13 — nearly 50 years ago… California has the nation’s highest poverty rate, when the cost of living is considered.” 

California is one of the most expensive and highest-taxed states of the USA, due in large part to incompetent governmental rule. 

Censorship of Freedom of Speech in the UK 

Fox News wrote on February 27: 

“Podcaster Joe Rogan and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. marveled at how the United Kingdom has become one of the countries most infamous for cracking down on freedom of speech… RFK Jr. argued that the modern Democratic Party, which he left in 2023, had become increasingly pro-censorship… 

“RFK Jr. and Rogan were both aghast at how online censorship had seemed to become normalized in both the United States over the past decade [and] across the Atlantic. ‘And then you look at what’s happening in England now, you know, with people going to jail for Twitter posts,’ RFK Jr. said… Rogan agreed, citing a report, ‘12,000 in the last year.’ ‘And then this, where the Magna Carta was, you know, written,’ RFK Jr. lamented. ‘Now it’s just a dictatorship.’… [The] Magna Carta became a cornerstone of English law and later inspired the Founding Fathers as they shaped the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights… 

“‘It’s the Soviet system. It’s like Kafka,’ RFK Jr. warned, referring to Franz Kafka’s famous dystopian novel ‘The Trial,’ in which the main character is arrested and prosecuted by a mysterious authority, but he is never clearly told what crime he is accused of. Rogan shared his shock at how quickly social media arrests in the U.K. have spiked in recent years, usually over criticism of mass immigration. He argued that the British government, rather than solving the crimes that have been caused as a result of mass migration, are instead punishing people for complaining.” 

They could have mentioned continental Europe as well. 

Catholic Bishops for Birthright Citizenship 

LifeSiteNews wrote on February 27: 

“The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is attacking President Donald Trump’s efforts to end birthright citizenship as ‘immoral’ [and that it would] ‘“deny the dignity of the human person and harm innocent children.’… 

“‘The intended and unintended effects of [Trump’s] Executive Order are immoral and contrary to the Catholic Church’s fundamental beliefs and teachings regarding the life and dignity of human persons, the treatment of vulnerable people – particularly migrants and children – and family unity,’ the bishops wrote. ‘The Conference is saddened by the “climate of fear and anxiety” and the “vilification of immigrants” that is all too common in the rhetoric concerning immigration policy.’” 

Trump on Internal Enemies and Mortality 

Newsbreak wrote on February 28: 

“President Donald Trump signaled a deepening sense of isolation and personal vulnerability this week, suggesting in back-to-back public appearances that members of his own Cabinet may be eyeing his office while explicitly acknowledging his own mortality…. Trump claimed that many…  believe they are better suited for the presidency… ‘I don’t know how long I’ll be around,’ Trump told the audience. ‘I got a lot of people gunning for me, don’t I?” 

“..  the remark underscores a president increasingly preoccupied with the physical and political ‘knives’ he perceives to be closing in… As the 2026 political calendar intensifies, the President’s focus on ‘internal enemies’ may complicate administration stability.” 

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer:  

These Current Events are compiled and commented on by Norbert Link. We gratefully acknowledge the many contributions of news articles from our readership. The publication of articles in this section is not to be viewed as an endorsement or approval as to contents or accuracy of the selected articles, but they are published for the purpose of pointing at worldwide developments in the light of biblical end-time prophecy and godly instruction. Our own comments are provided in italics.

Huckabee: Israel Has Right to Much of Middle East 

Politico wrote on February 21: 

“Arab and Muslim nations on Saturday sharply condemned comments by the U.S. ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, who said Israel has a right to much of the Middle East. Huckabee made the comments in an interview with conservative commentator Tucker Carlson that aired Friday. Carlson said that according to the Bible, the descendants of Abraham would receive land that today would include essentially the entire Middle East, and asked Huckabee if Israel had a right to that land. Huckabee responded: ‘It would be fine if they took it all.’ Huckabee added, however, that Israel was not looking to expand its territory and has a right to security in the land it legitimately holds. 

“His comments sparked immediate backlash from neighboring Egypt and Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the League of Arab States. Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry described Huckabee’s comments as ‘extremist rhetoric’ and ‘unacceptable,’ and called for the State Department to clarify its position on them. Egypt’s foreign ministry called his comments a ‘blatant violation’ of international law, adding that ‘Israel has no sovereignty over the occupied Palestinian territory or other Arab lands.’ ‘Statements of this nature — extremist and lacking any sound basis — serve only to inflame sentiments and stir religious and national emotions,’ the League of Arab States said… 

“Since its establishment in 1948, Israel has not had fully recognized borders. Its frontiers with Arab neighbors have shifted as a result of wars, annexations, ceasefires and peace agreements. During the six-day 167 Mideast war, Israel captured the West Bank and east Jerusalem from Jordan, Gaza and the Sinai Peninsula from Egypt and the Golan Heights from Syria. Israel withdrew from the Sinai Peninsula as part of a peace deal with Egypt following the 1973 Mideast war. It also unilaterally withdrew from Gaza in 2005. 

“Israel has attempted to deepen control of the occupied West Bank in recent months. It has greatly expanded construction in Jewish settlements, legalized outposts and made significant bureaucratic changes to its policies in the territory… 

“Huckabee has long opposed the idea of a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinian people. In an interview last year, he said he does not believe in referring to the Arab descendants of people who had lived in British-controlled Palestine as ‘Palestinians.’ 

“In the latest interview, Carlson pressed Huckabee about his interpretation of Bible verses from the book of Genesis, where he said God promised Abraham and his descendants land from the Nile to the Euphrates. ‘That would be the Levant, so that would be Israel, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon. It would also be big parts of Saudi Arabia and Iraq,’ Carlson said. Huckabee replied: ‘Not sure we’d go that far. I mean, it would be a big piece of land.’” 

In a common declaration, Huckabee’s comments were strongly condemned. The declaration was signed by Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, the United Emirates, Indonesia, Pakistan, Qatar, Turkey, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Lebanon, Syria and Palestine. 

What is being overlooked is the fact that God gave the Promised Land at the time prior to Israel’s and Judah’s captivity to all the tribes of Israel, the sons of Jacob. Judah is just one tribe among twelve. They most certainly do not have the right to the entire Promised Land—neither now nor in the future.  

 Carlson’s Ridiculous Idea Regarding Ashkenazi Jews 

The Algemeiner wrote on February 21: 

“In a combative interview with US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, right-wing firebrand Tucker Carlson made a host of contentious and often demonstrably false claims that quickly went viral online. Huckabee, who repeatedly challenged the former Fox News star during the interview, subsequently made a long post on X, identifying a pattern of bad-faith arguments, distortions and conspiracies in Carlson’s rhetorical style… ‘What I wasn’t anticipating was a lengthy series of questions where he seemed to be insinuating that the Jews of today aren’t really same people as the Jews of the Bible,’ Huckabee wrote, adding that Tucker’s obsession with conspiracies regarding the provenance of Ashkenazi Jews obscured the fact that most Israeli Jews were refugees from the Arab and Muslim world. 

“The idea that Ashkenazi Jews are an Asiatic tribe who invented a false ancestry ‘gained traction in the 80’s and 90’s with David Duke and other Klansmen and neo-Nazis,’ Huckabee wrote. ‘It has really caught fire in recent years on the Internet and social media, mostly from some of the most overt antisemites and Jew haters you can find.’

Carlson branded Israel ‘probably the most violent country on earth’ and cited the false claim that Israel President Isaac Herzog had visited the infamous island of the late, disgraced sex offender Jeffrey Epstein [Carlson subsequently reneged on that claim.] 

“Another misleading claim made by Carlson was that there were more Christians in Qatar than in Israel.” 

The idea regarding the “Ashkenazi Jews” is utter nonsense. 

Time to Build Third Temple 

Israel 365 News wrote on February 20: 

“A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck southern Iran on February 19, 2026, at 7:13 a.m. local time, with its epicenter 35 kilometers southwest of Mohr in Fars province… This tremor erupted from the ancient core of Persia, the very region where Cyrus the Great launched his empire in 559 BCE, conquering Babylon and issuing the decree that rebuilt Jewish life in Jerusalem after decades of exile… 

“God called Cyrus His mashiach (anointed one) to end the Babylonian oppression. In 539 BCE, Cyrus captured Babylon without a fight, then proclaimed freedom for the exiles… Cyrus supplied timber from Lebanon, returned 5,400 gold and silver vessels looted from the First Temple, and appointed Sheshbazzar to lead the returnees. By 516 BCE, the Second Temple rose on its foundation, a direct result of this Persian king’s command. 

“President Trump mirrors this role in modern times as Israel’s staunchest defender. His 2017 recognition of Jerusalem as the capital echoed Cyrus’s charge to rebuild the city and Temple. Trump declared in his White House speech, ‘We finally acknowledge the obvious: that Jerusalem is Israel’s capital. This is nothing more or less than a recognition of reality.’ He relocated the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem in 2018, affirming the city’s unity under Israeli control. In 2019, he extended sovereignty recognition to the Golan Heights, securing Israel’s northern border against Syrian and Iranian threats… 

“The quake in Fars province awakens more than memory. It signals the urgency to fulfill Cyrus’s unfinished work. The Temple Mount, site of the First and Second Temples, now hosts foreign structures and trees planted to obscure its sanctity. Jewish law demands the area be cleared of all alien elements, from domes and mosques to the cypress and olive groves that dot the plateau, to prepare for reconstruction… 

“Groups like the Temple Institute have already crafted the vessels, the red heifer program advances, and architects draw plans based on Ezekiel’s vision. President Trump’s policies have set the stage by strengthening Israel’s position globally, making the moment ripe. Jerusalem rises when Jews act on the divine mandate, building the Third Temple as the house of prayer for all nations. The enemies plot in vain… The tremors from Persia declare it: the time for restoration has arrived, and Jerusalem will shine as the eternal capital with its Temple rebuilt.” 

Even though drawing a connection between the earthquake in Iran (which did not cause major damage) and the building of the Third Temple is clearly overblown, it still shows that the idea of building the Third Temple is clearly alive in Israel, and repeatedly, a parallel between King Cyrus and Donald Trump is being drawn.

Reza Pahlavi: A Beacon of Hope? 

The Tagesspiegel wrote on February 21: 

“The jubilation is immense. Last weekend, up to 250,000 people gathered in Munich to pay homage to their hero. ‘The Shah is returning,’ chanted the assembled supporters of the man who, by his own admission, wants to lead Iran into a new era without the mullah regime: Reza Pahlavi. 

‘Not only in Munich, but worldwide, the Shah’s eldest son was honored. A million exiled Iranians are said to have followed his call to demonstrate against the rulers in Tehran and for freedom. For ‘His Majesty,’ as many of his fans call Pahlavi, this is a major PR success, not least for his own cause… to ‘make Iran great again.’ 

“But large sections of the fractured Iranian opposition don’t trust Pahlavi. His opponents accuse him of wanting to revive the absolute monarchy of his hated father and of being out of touch with the everyday realities of people in Iran… 

“He has become a prominent advocate for the overthrow of the mullahs. Since the end of December, Pahlavi has been a sought-after guest on talk shows, frequently speaks out on social media, and manages to mobilize his supporters… 

“He has repeatedly stated that he wants to return to Iran for the ‘liberation struggle.’ ‘My influence on the ground would be greater than in exile.’ As long as the mullahs are in charge, however, that is unlikely to be possible… Which doesn’t stop Pahlavi from repeatedly urging Donald Trump to… launch an attack. America’s president has the chance to make history, says Pahlavi. Trump, in turn, distances himself. Pahlavi seems ‘nice,’ but… ‘a meeting with him would probably not be appropriate at this time,’ Trump indicated.” 

Bank Accounts Only For American Citizens? 

Newsmax wrote on February 24: 

“The Trump administration is considering a bold new step in its effort to curb illegal immigration — potentially requiring U.S. banks to collect citizenship information from customers… According to reports, officials are discussing an executive order that would direct financial institutions to gather proof of citizenship — such as a passport — from both new applicants and possibly existing account holders who want to keep their accounts. If enacted, the move would mark a significant expansion of current banking rules. 

“Under existing ‘Know Your Customer’ (KYC) regulations, banks must verify identities to prevent money laundering and criminal activity. However, they are not currently required to collect or verify citizenship status, and there is no federal ban on noncitizens opening bank accounts.” 

Huge Blow to Trump’s Tariffs Plan? 

Daily Mail wrote on February 21: 

“President Donald Trump has hiked worldwide tariffs to 15 percent after the Supreme Court ruled [in a 6-3 decision] his reciprocal tax plan was unconstitutional.  Infuriated by the high court’s ruling, Trump on Friday ordered an immediate 10 percent tariff on all imports, in addition to any existing tariffs, citing a different law as the basis. The new tariff is being applied under Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act, which allows the president to increase levies up to a maximum of 15 percent. It has never been imposed before, making it a historic moment for the Trump Administration. The law allows him to impose the levy for 150 days, although it could face legal challenges… 

“On Saturday, Trump… hit out at the Supreme Court justices and their ‘Anti-American’ ruling. [He] made it clear he is going to war with Conservative Chief Justice John Roberts, [whom he] branded ‘unpatriotic’ and a ‘disloyal’ member of the Court… he suggested the conservative justices owed him some loyalty. The job of a Supreme Court justice is to uphold the Constitution, not party values. He took particular issue with Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Neil Gorsuch, both of whom he appointed [and who voted with the majority of the ruling]… 

“The Supreme Court ruled that Trump issuing tariffs without the permission of Congress was unconstitutional… Trump said he was ‘ashamed’ of the ruling, adding that America’s highest court had been ‘swayed by foreign interests’… Trump said the judges who threw out his plan were ‘a disgrace to our country’…

“There are a few other Sections Trump could use to continue to carry out his tariff plan.  

“Section 301, which Trump used in his first term, allows the president to issue tariffs against ‘discriminatory’ foreign trade practices and opens up an investigation by US Trade Representatives. Trump used this law to impose tariffs on Chinese imports in his first term.  The president has also used Section 232 of the US Trade Expansion Act of 1962, which allows him to restrict imports that could threaten national security.  He used the policy for steel and aluminum. Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 also allows him to use tariffs against countries that discriminate ‘against the commerce of the United States.’” 

By one estimate, the U.S. government could owe more than $175 billion in refunds to importers following the Supreme Court decision. But it is highly doubtful that importers will see any of that money. Trump suggested he was ready to fight any compensation claims in the courts for years. 

Trump Has the Right to Destroy Countries? 

The New Republic wrote on February 20: 

“President Donald Trump claimed Friday the Supreme Court had granted him the power to destroy other countries,  after the high court took away his weapon of choice: sweeping reciprocal tariffs. Speaking to reporters, Trump rambled about how ‘ridiculous’ it was for the Supreme Court to block the illegal tariffs he’d imposed… 

“‘The court has given me the unquestioned right to ban all sorts of things from coming into our country—to destroy foreign countries,’ Trump claimed. ‘But a much more powerful right than many people thought we even had, but not the right to charge a fee. ‘I can destroy the trade, I can destroy the country, I’m even allowed to impose a foreign country-destroying embargo. I can do anything I want—but I can’t charge one dollar,’ Trump fumed…”

EU Freezes US Trade Deal Over Tariffs Uncertainty 

Deutsche Welle wrote on February 23: 

“EU lawmakers decided Monday to delay the approval of the bloc’s trade deal with the US due to uncertainty over President Donald Trump’s tariff policy. It comes after Trump imposed a new blanket 15% duty… The European Parliament’s trade committee planned to vote on Tuesday to remove import duties on US industrial goods — a key part of the EU-US trade deal. But that vote has now been postponed… The legally binding deal needs to be approved by the European Parliament and EU governments… 

“The chairman of the European Parliament’s trade committee, Bernd Lange, said the new US duties could result in the EU potentially facing higher levies on some products, despite the 15% limit agreed under the EU-US deal. ‘We want to have clarity from the United States that they are respecting the deal,’ Lange said. EU lawmakers are expected to convene on March 4 to assess if Washington has clarified the situation. 

“It’s not the first time the approval process has been delayed. EU lawmakers also halted the process last month when Trump threatened to impose extra tariffs on European allies who opposed his goal to annex the Danish territory of Greenland… German Chancellor Friedrich Merz… floated the possibility of using the EU’s ‘trade bazooka,’ an instrument under which access to the bloc’s market can be restricted, as ‘a final option’ in the trade dispute with the US. ‘I am confident that we will find a way to resolve these trade disputes without resorting to this instrument,’ Merz said. ‘But if it is necessary, then it is necessary, and I will be the last person to say “no.”’” 

E6 Supergroup 

Politico wrote on February 19: 

“U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats to annex Greenland were the ‘epiphany moment’ for Europe’s six largest economies to club together and speed up financial market reform, Spanish Economy Minister Carlos Cuerpo told POLITICO. The new group, dubbed ‘E6’ in Brussels, is an exclusive club among the EU’s six largest economies — France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Poland — designed to break political deadlocks that have hamstrung efforts to create a U.S.-style financial market over the last decade. 

“Without action, the six countries fear that Europe’s economy will fail to keep pace with the U.S. and China… The E6 club has only convened twice and is already aiming to present EU leaders with specific proposals at the next European Council summit… on March 9 [when it] will home in on promoting investment in defense and how to promote the euro on the international stage…. Critics, such as Ireland and Portugal, fear the six-country club could trigger a two-speed Europe, in which the biggest nations will sideline smaller countries that disagree with E6’s agenda… 

“Legally speaking, the E6 needs at least nine countries to pursue enhanced cooperation… Meanwhile, securing a qualified majority to push legislation through requires the backing of 15 countries that represent at least 65 percent of the total EU population. So, the E6 will need allies to advance its goals in any case.” 

Another Big European Five? 

The Jerusalem Post wrote on February 20: 

“Europe’s five biggest defense powers are set to announce a plan to invest in military drones, as part of wider efforts to boost the defense industry in the face of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and concerns about the US commitment to NATO. 

“According to a document seen by Reuters…, the five aim to cooperate in developing autonomous drones…. The European Group of Five Defence Ministers [known as the E5]… brings together the continent’s biggest military spenders – France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Britain.” 

Further Threats From the Pentagon 

Politico wrote on February 19:

“U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration has threatened to retaliate against European countries if the EU favors domestic weapons-makers in a drive to rearm the continent. The U.S. Department of Defense objected to any EU effort to limit American arms-manufacturers’ access to the European market and warned that would trigger a reciprocal response… 

“Washington’s comments highlight a paradox in the U.S. approach to Europe: While the Trump administration has repeatedly told Europeans that it wants them to shoulder the bulk of the continent’s conventional defense, the U.S. doesn’t want that to come at the expense of American defense firms… It will test how far European countries are willing to go in becoming more independent from the U.S., which has become an increasingly unreliable partner in the age of Trump.” 

Needed—a European Army 

The Financial Times wrote on or about February 20: 

“The Germans and the Poles are re-arming hard, raising defence spending both in absolute terms and as a share of GDP. France, Italy and Spain don’t see the urgency or can’t afford to. The result is new imbalances. On current trends, by 2029 German military spending will be roughly twice that of France… 

“But what Europe needs far more than yet another inter-governmental solution — a ‘solution’ that perpetuates the grotesque inefficiency of its 27 separate armies — is truly joint action. It needs a European army. 

“This was the solution preferred back in the early 1950s, when the project of a European Defence Community was launched at the same time as the Coal and Steel Community. Five years after the end of the second world war, the idea was that it would be safe to re-arm west Germany if German units were integrated into a single European force… 

“Given the collapse of the Atlanticist dispensation, it is time to return to that fork in the road. As was clear in backroom conversations during the Munich Security Conference, the idea of a European army is both unavoidable and controversial. Those clinging to Atlanticism fear that it will accelerate America’s exit from Europe without offering a realistic alternative. But what today is realistic? If US backing is in fact no longer real, while German military spending is, Europe risks sleepwalking into a dramatic rearrangement of European power without a stabilising adjustment in the political framework. To advocate for lopsided, nation-state rearmament as the path of least resistance, while rejecting deep military integration and common financing, is not just short-sighted. It is a betrayal of the most basic wisdom of European integration.”

According to a new “Allensbach” poll, 65 percent of Germans view the USA as a danger to world peace. In a ZDF Talk show, German European Minister and President of the European People’s Party (EPP) Manfred Weber said on February 19 that we must now have to have the strength to build a European Army—to create a situation in Europe which cannot be revoked.

Europe Has a Choice 

The Oldenburg online newspaper wrote on February 20: 

“According to leading CDU politicians, Europe must reduce its dependence on the USA and strengthen its own security and economic power. In a guest article for the Handelsblatt, CDU/CSU parliamentary group leader Jens Spahn and CDU foreign policy expert Norbert Röttgen write: ‘We must act… The goal must be to gradually reduce dependence on US strategic capabilities – from reconnaissance and air defense to long-range precision strikes.’ This requires a group of pioneers – European trailblazers: governments that are willing and able to lead the way should deepen their security and defense cooperation. ‘Only one rule must apply: no veto,’ write Röttgen and Spahn…” 

“The time for illusions is over. Europe is facing a crucial decision. ‘It can manage its relative loss of importance – or the European states can recognize that together they possess economic and political power that they can use for freedom, security and prosperity. Germany has chosen the latter.'” 

No US Hospital Ship For Greenland 

BBC wrote on February 23: 

“Greenland’s prime minister has asked US President Donald Trump to talk to him instead of making ‘random outbursts on social media’, after Trump said he was sending a US hospital boat to ‘take care’ of people on the island. Trump wrote on Truth Social that he was going to send a boat filled with medical supplies, alleging ‘many people’ on the island are sick and ‘not being taken care of’. 

“Jens-Frederik Nielsen responded ‘it’s going to be a no thanks from us,’ and said that Greenland provides free healthcare for all citizens, unlike the US [‘where it costs money to go to the doctor’.] Trump has long coveted the vast arctic island… A month on from Trump announcing a ‘framework for a future deal’ over Greenland, details are still unclear, though earlier this month US vice president JD Vance alleged that European countries were ‘willing to make a lot of accommodations’.” 

That remains to be seen. 

Chaos in Mexico 

The Associated Press wrote on February 23: 

“School was canceled in several Mexican states and local and foreign governments alike warned their citizens to stay inside, as widespread violence erupted following the army’s killing of the powerful leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel [CJNG]. Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as ‘El Mencho’ was the boss of one of the fastest-growing criminal networks in Mexico, notorious for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine to the United States and staging brazen attacks against government officials who challenged it. 

“He was killed during a shoot-out in his home state of Jalisco as the Mexican military attempted to capture him. Cartel members responded with violence across the country, blocking roads and setting fire to vehicles… The White House confirmed that the U.S. provided intelligence support to the operation to capture the cartel leader and applauded Mexico’s army for taking down a man who was one of the most wanted criminals in both countries. [President Donald Trump has demanded Mexico do more to fight the smuggling of the often-deadly drug fentanyl, threatening to impose more tariffs or take unilateral military action if the country does not show results.] 

“Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco state and Mexico’s second-largest city, was almost completely shut down on Sunday as fearful residents stayed home. Passengers arriving to the city’s international airport Sunday night were told it was operating with limited personnel because of the burst of violence… Most flights into the city were suspended on Sunday… it may also pave the way for more violence as rival criminal groups take advantage of the blow dealt to the CJNG…” 

The New York Times on February 23: 

“In at least 13 states, apparent cartel operatives sought to cause havoc by setting fires and blocking roads with burning vehicles. Cartels have often lashed out following the capture of their top bosses in a bid to show their power and discourage the authorities from confronting them again… The U.S. government warned its citizens to ‘shelter in place until further notice’ in parts of five states: Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero and Nuevo León…” 

Remembering Buchenwald 

Israel365News wrote on February 24: 

“The annual commemoration of the liberation of the Buchenwald concentration camp has long stood as one of Germany’s most solemn acts of national reckoning… 

“Buchenwald, established in 1937 near Weimar, was one of the largest concentration camps within Germany’s borders. Approximately 280,000 prisoners passed through the camp between 1937 and 1945. About 56,000 were murdered through execution, starvation, forced labor, medical experimentation, and disease. An estimated 55,000 to 60,000 Jews were imprisoned there, representing roughly 20–22 percent of all inmates. Between 11,000 and 15,000 Jews were murdered at Buchenwald and its subcamps… 

“Palestinian Arab nationalism in the 20th century was shaped in part by the leadership of Hajj Amin al-Husseini, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem. During World War II, Husseini fled to Berlin, met personally with Adolf Hitler in 1941, and aligned himself with the Nazi regime. He reportedly toured death camps and urged the Führer to expand the Final Solution to the Holy Land… 

“Historical evidence indicates that a special SS unit under Walther Rauff was prepared to implement mobile killing operations, including the use of gas vans, in the Middle East had Rommel’s forces succeeded in 1942. These units were formed to target Jewish populations in Palestine and Egypt, following the Nazis’ planned expansion into the region. These plans were part of the wider Nazi aim to extend the Holocaust into the Middle East, which was planned to take place behind the front lines of Rommel’s campaign. In October-November 1942, British General Bernard Montgomery’s Eighth Army defeated Rommel at the Second Battle of El Alamein, forcing a full retreat. This victory, known as a turning point in the war, stopped the planned Nazi invasion of Egypt and Palestine. With the defeat, the specialized extermination unit was repurposed and moved to Tunisia, where it implemented forced labor and anti-Jewish policies.  

“During the war, al-Husseini broadcast antisemitic propaganda in Arabic, recruited Muslims for Waffen-SS units in the Balkans, and urged resistance to Jewish immigration to the Land of Israel. His influence extended beyond rhetoric. He supported the Axis cause and opposed any rescue of Jews to Mandatory Palestine. His name is also associated with the 1941 Farhud pogrom in Baghdad, in which Iraqi Jews were murdered and injured during the Jewish festival of Shavuot.

“The relationship between Nazi Germany and sectors of the Arab world was not incidental. Arab volunteers served with German forces, including units attached to the Afrika Korps in North Africa… Germany continues to grapple with its responsibility for the murder of six million Jews….”  

We hasten to add that Rommel was not part of the Nazi plans to bring the Holocaust to the Middle East. Rather, he was an opponent of Hitler and sympathized with the attempt to assassinate him in 1942, but he preferred to arrest and try Hitler. Rommel was forced to commit suicide by the Nazis to protect his family. 

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer:  

These Current Events are compiled and commented on by Norbert Link. We gratefully acknowledge the many contributions of news articles from our readership. The publication of articles in this section is not to be viewed as an endorsement or approval as to contents or accuracy of the selected articles, but they are published for the purpose of pointing at worldwide developments in the light of biblical end-time prophecy and godly instruction. Our own comments are provided in italics.

What ICE Can Do!

Judge Andrew Napolitano wrote on February 12 the following on Ron Paul Institute: 

“… the president has used ICE to fulfill his promise of aggressive enforcement of immigration laws while cutting constitutional corners — even to the point of arresting Americans, immigrants and aliens without arrest warrants; arresting infants, killing two Americans who posed no threat to ICE killers and then lying about it… 

“The Supreme Court has already ruled that even though it is a crime to lie to the government, it is not a crime for the government to lie to any person. This… judge-made rule that has no basis in history, constitutional text or morality has led to a host of false confessions and trick home invasions as federal agents have lied their way into folks’ thinking and into their living rooms… 

“Entering the United States illegally is a federal crime. When the government seeks to arrest a person it suspects has committed any federal crime, unless its agents have witnessed the crime being committed, the Fourth Amendment requires the government to present evidence of probable cause against the person to a federal judge and seek a warrant specifically describing the place to be searched or the persons or things to be seized. 

“Entering the US legally and remaining here beyond the time limits imposed at the time of entry is not a crime and thus cannot be the basis for an application for an arrest warrant, as no judge would sign such a warrant. 

“In the Fifth Circuit [Court of Appeals for Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi], the feds no longer need an arrest warrant. A panel of two judges ruled last weekend that ICE agents can authorize each other to arrest whomever they suspect of being in the US without authorization and do so without an arrest warrant or presentation of evidence… [In] the Fifth Circuit… ICE can effectively arrest whomever it wishes, without evidence, without a judicial warrant, without knowing the name of the person arrested and without bail.”

 Incredible. 

Trump’s De-Naturalization Plans 

NBC wrote on February 17: 

“The Trump administration is dramatically expanding an effort to revoke U.S. citizenship for foreign-born Americans as it works to curb immigration… The goal of emphasizing naturalized citizens is to supply the office of immigration litigation with 100 to 200 possible cases per month…

“The Justice Department has already told attorneys to focus on denaturalization cases…

“Trump has long been preoccupied with the notion of citizenship — who gets to be an American and who doesn’t — and has expressed displeasure with immigrants from what he calls third world nations. He is separately seeking the power to strip citizenship from those born to foreigners in the U.S., though ‘birthright citizenship’ appears in the Constitution…. 

“Trump’s Truth Social message to Americans on Thanksgiving Day last year was that he would remove anyone who wasn’t a ‘net asset’ to the U.S. ‘or is incapable of loving our Country, end all Federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens of our Country, denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquility, and deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or non-compatible with Western Civilization.’” 

To fully grasp Trump’s plans, let us emphasize that we are speaking of naturalized citizens. 

Further Attacks on Boats in the Caribbean 

Deutsche Welle wrote on February 13: 

“The United States military said on Friday that it had struck another vessel suspected of trafficking drugs in the Caribbean, killing three people… The Trump administration has carried out at least 38 strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean since early September… 

“Friday’s attack takes the death toll from such operations to at least 133, as per official figures. But the US has offered little evidence to back its claims of killing ‘narcoterrorists.’ Critics have also voiced concerns over the legality of the deadly strikes in international waters.” 

Newsbreak added on February 17: 

“The U.S. military said Tuesday that it carried out strikes on three boats accused of smuggling drugs in Latin American waters, killing 11 people…” 

Epstein Was Murdered? 

The New York Post wrote on February 13: 

“A renowned pathologist who was at Jeffrey Epstein’s autopsy is demanding a fresh investigation, insisting newly released info only confirms his belief that the notorious pedophile was murdered. Dr. Michael Baden, who was New York City’s chief medical examiner in the 1970s, was so alarmed by what he saw in the August 2019 exam that he publicly declared ‘the evidence points toward homicide rather than suicide.’ ‘That was my opinion at that time, and I still stand by it,’ the famed pathologist told the Telegraph in an interview published Friday. 

“‘The autopsy findings are much more consistent with a crushing injury caused by homicidal strangulation than caused by hanging by suicide.’ In fact, Baden insisted, documents released in the Epstein files reinforce his belief that the medical examiner rushed to call the death a suicide.” 

The Daily Mail added that Baden said: “‘The autopsy findings are much more consistent with a crushing injury caused by homicidal strangulation than caused by hanging by suicide.’” 

It continued: “According to the official post-mortem, three distinct fractures were identified on the financier’s neck: one on the left hyoid and one in the thyroid cartilage on the right side, and one on the left. The 92-year-old said he has never seen hanging by suicide with three neck fractures throughout the 50 years he spent reviewing post-mortem reports for prisoner deaths in all New York state and local jails…. 

“Discrepancies found in the three million files related to the disgraced financier released on January 30 have further fuelled speculation surrounding Epstein’s cause of death. For example, a federal statement announcing his death surfaced in the newly released documents, but it carries a date (August 9) that appears to precede the moment he was officially found dead inside his New York prison cell (on August 10).” 

MSN added: 

“Some of the world’s most powerful people have been found to have questionable ties with the late sex offender, after the US government released millions of new files from its investigation.” 

Epstein was awaiting his trial for conspiracy and sex trafficking. The suggestion has been made that one of the powerful people might have been responsible for his murder so he could not testify. 

Trump Still Determined to Occupy Greenland 

The Guardian wrote on February 13: 

“Pushed further on Greenland and if the US interest is now over, [Prime Minister of Denmark Mette] Frederiksen says ‘unfortunately not.’ ‘I think the desire from the US president is exactly the same,’ she says, adding Trump remains ‘very serious about controlling the territory… Can you put a price on it, if Trump keeps pushing?, she gets asked. ‘Of course not. Can you put a price on a part of Spain, or a part of the US, or a part of anywhere else in the world?,’ she responds… 

“‘And the Greenlandic people have been very clear: they don’t want to become Americans,’ she says… Frederiksen gets asked how likely is it that she will need to have to defend Greenland from the US… she says that essentially, ‘if one Nato country attacks another Nato country, then Nato ends; it’s game over.’” 

European “Rapid Reaction Force”? 

Politico wrote on February 13: 

“European countries need to create a ‘rapid reaction force’ of up to 100,000 troops to replace American soldiers currently stationed on the continent, EU Defense Commissioner [and former Lithuanian prime minister] Andrius Kubilius said… 

“Last month, he said:  ‘We need to start to invest our money in such a way that we would be able to fight as Europe, not just as [a] collection of 27 national ‘bonsai armies.'”… However, he acknowledged that even such a force would face difficulties as it would be controlled by member countries, making rapid and coherent action very difficult… To get around the problem of leadership, Kubilius suggested creating a European Security Council, made up of five or six big EU countries… as well as smaller EU countries on a rotating basis…” 

No More German Appeasement? 

Deutsche Welle wrote on February 13:

“The Munich Security Conference kicked off on Friday with a speech by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who did not hold back in calling out a ‘rift’ between Europe and the United States under President Donald Trump… Merz… fired a departing shot for Europe to stop wanting the old America back and instead focus on building up its own security and trade strength… 

“… after the Greenland standoff, the Europeans have dropped appeasement as a strategy to deal with Trump.” 

The Guardian added on February 13: 

“The US acting alone has reached the limits of its power and may already have lost its role as global leader, Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor, warned Donald Trump…” 

Merz’s Statements in Munich 

En.ilsole24ore wrote on February 13: 

“In Munich, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz once again listed the many initiatives taken in Germany to strengthen NATO and to enable the country to defend itself if necessary, explaining once again that Berlin’s goal is to have the strongest conventional army in Europe. [He also said:] 

“‘… a gap has opened up between Europe and the US… The cultural struggle of the MAGA movement is not ours… We do not believe in tariffs and protectionism, but in free trade. We remain loyal to climate agreements and the WHO because we are convinced that only together can we solve global challenges’… 

“Merz… announced that he has ‘entered into confidential talks’ with the French president on the subject of European nuclear deterrence…  [He continued:] ‘Russia’s gross domestic product amounts to about two trillion euros. That of the European Union is almost ten times higher. Yet Europe today is not ten times stronger than Russia… Our military, political, economic and technological potential is enormous. But for a long time we have not exploited it to the necessary extent.’”

Merz to Trump 

Bild wrote on February 13: 

“…what Chancellor Friedrich Merz said today in Munich is historic for the Federal Republic… Merz is offering US President Donald Trump nothing more than to take up the fight… Trump is relying on a hard line. Merz wants to counter that… Merz is calling for a new Europe – with Germany (and others) as a leading power… 

“If everything is as Merz describes it, then he has to deliver. He has to become faster, tougher, and better. He has to become a leader of Europe… Many have given speeches before… It’s time to become the chancellor for whom this speech was written.” 

Interesting observation. 

Rubio’s “Deceptively Friendly Speech” 

ntv wrote on February 13: 

“US Secretary of State Rubio’s appearance [in Munich] does indeed seem remarkably harmless—but not if you listen more closely… [Rubio is] a career politician… Rubio is considered the diplomat in Donald Trump’s inner circle—probably the only one. And he has mastered the art of jovial interaction. Highlighting common ground, getting personally involved: Rubio refers to his Spanish ancestors… 

“Rubio speaks with great appreciation about Europe, where the ideas were born ‘that sowed the seeds of freedom and changed the world.’ He makes sweeping references from Beethoven to the Beatles, and the Sistine Chapel even fits in. Moreover, German farmers and craftsmen transformed the empty plains in the heart of the USA into an agricultural powerhouse, and incidentally, the quality of the… American beer dramatically improved… 

“Rubio sounds good; he sounds exactly the kind of American that people in Europe like: intelligent, educated, charming, witty, and full of appreciation. In the same charming tone, however, the US representative also mentions that they [Europeans] have imposed an energy policy on themselves ‘that is impoverishing our people’; he calls it ‘climate cult,’ while the competition is exploiting coal, oil, and natural gas… 

“A world without borders—for Rubio, not a vision, but ‘a foolish idea,’ he says in the heart of Schengen Europe. Mass migration threatens ‘the continued existence of our societies, the continuity of our culture, the future of our peoples’… 

“Rubio’s conclusion: … The US wants to take a different path, not alone, but rather with ‘our friends from Europe.’ ‘We belong together,’ says Rubio… JD Vance, Trump’s vice president, … would probably have put a bag over his head in the same spot rather than say that. But Rubio also makes it clear: In this new relationship, the USA calls the shots… 

“With everything the US Secretary of State said on Saturday morning, it’s worth looking at what Rubio didn’t mention: NATO: 0 times; Customs: 0 times; Greenland: 0 times; Volodymyr Who? 

“Rubio’s invocation of friendship and partnership would be self-defeating if he were to honestly address even one of these transatlantic points of contention. But his actions speak for themselves: After attending the MSC, Rubio is traveling to Hungary and Slovakia. There, he will visit the two heads of government who play the most destructive role within the European Union and are relatively close to Russia’s dictator Vladimir Putin, within the limits of their power. During his stay in Munich, Rubio made sure that the NATO flag was not visible in the background of official photos.” 

The relationship between the USA and Europe will NOT improve, but continue to deteriorate, in spite of the nice and “highly praised” words by “diplomat” and “career politician” Marco Rubio. 

Rubio’s Misunderstood Speech 

BBC wrote on February 14:

“… many leading European figures in the audience jumped on the warmth of [Rubio’s] words, rising to their feet to applaud the US Secretary of State. They were clearly relieved he hadn’t threatened or berated Europe as the US Vice President JD Vance famously did at last year’s MSC. But for those listening closely, Rubio’s speech was loyal to themes close to the heart of the Trump administration and hard for many European leaders to swallow: anti climate action, sceptical of globalisation, multilateralism, migration and pro the building of a new era of Christian western civilisation. 

“Rubio was clear: the US wasn’t interested in allies clinging to the old status quo. It wanted to forge a new path, ideally alongside Europe, but only if it shared the same values. This US offer of close partnership was conditional and absent of a sense of compromise… ‘A bit like a (psychologically) abusive partner,’ said one European diplomat, speaking candidly on condition of anonymity. ‘He reminded Europe how wonderful the (transatlantic) relationship used to be, but he then switched to coercion: If you want things to be good between us in the future, you have to do as I say!’” 

Rubio’s Soft Tone 

The Tagesschau wrote on February 14: 

“As soft as the tone was in large parts of the speech, Rubio remained firm on the substance. The carefully packaged core message was: Our offer of a continued close partnership only applies if you follow our worldview… It is the worldview of the ‘Make America Great Again’ movement… 

“Rubio may have thought and spoken differently as a US senator, but he has completely fallen in line with Trump… Marco Rubio by no means backed down in Munich.” 

Dangerous Applause 

t-online wrote on February 14:

“Anyone who listened closely could see… that Rubio’s supposedly friendly speech was not a speech of alliance between equal partners… Rubio’s dangerous message: If others don’t follow the rules, why should we?… 

“That such a speech received so much recognition from Europe’s politicians in Munich is worrying. Their reactions demonstrate once again their strategic nervousness, their own lack of direction, and their willingness to continue turning a blind eye to the truth.” 

Poisoned Declaration of Love 

Die Welt wrote on February 16: 

“The chairwoman of the European Parliament’s defense committee, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann (FDP), warned against interpreting the speech as a sign of easing transatlantic tensions. ‘It was a poisoned declaration of love,’ Strack-Zimmermann [said]… 

“‘There was absolutely nothing reassuring about this speech.’” 

Nuclear Bomb—Merz Unleashes a Dangerous Genie 

Focus wrote on February 16: 

“The genie as a question: Do we need our own nuclear missiles to defend ourselves against Russia? Because we can no longer rely on the Americans?

“The CDU Chancellor is filled with the idea of ​​a ‘strong and sovereign Europe.’ One that will even become ‘a global political force.’ Which only works if Germany is protected by the most dangerous of all weapons: nuclear missiles. ‘I have begun initial talks with French President Emmanuel Macron about nuclear deterrence.’ With this statement, the Chancellor has unleashed the genie…” 

“This is where Jens Spahn comes in. The CDU/CSU parliamentary group leader occasionally thinks for himself. And he says this, quite matter-of-factly: ‘If there were elections tomorrow, Farage would win in the UK and Le Pen in France. I don’t know if I want to rely on either of them.’ Which begs the question: So, in Germany, should we rely on Donald Trump rather than [on] Nigel Farage and Le Pen?… Spahn says Europe needs its own independent nuclear defense. And Weber says: ‘We need a European nuclear weapon.’… 

“The European atomic bomb – that’s only possible in a European defense community. Ergo, in a European federal state. That is, after the de facto dissolution of Germany as a sovereign nation-state… On the digital platform X, Barron Trump, the US president’s influencer son, reacted: ‘This is what a true ally sounds like, when weak leaders start whispering about cutting ties with America.’ It reads as if he’s referring to Merz.” 

Focus wrote on February 18 that Merz does not support a “German” atomic bomb, but that he can envision that Germany would participate in using one. 

Germany’s Rearmament and AI 

Modern Diplomacy wrote on February 16: 

“A recent survey indicates that one in three of the German populace is in favor of greater use of artificial intelligence in its society. And this includes a military use—AI-controlled killer bots… roughly one-third of Germans embrace the use of autonomous AI-powered weapons systems in war instead of human decision-makers… 

“Moreover, the idea of obtaining nuclear weapons is no longer taboo for German politicians and the military… Berlin should receive access to French and British nuclear weapons and lead the charge on the issue of their modernization, [Jens] Spahn said in September. ‘Germany needs nuclear weapons,’ Alternative for Germany party lawmaker Kay Gottschalk stated in January. Former Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer has urged Berlin to take the lead in the EU’s nuclear rearmament… 

“Perhaps Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov had a point when he remarked last year, ‘With their current leaders, modern Germany and the rest of Europe are transforming into a Fourth Reich.’” 

Technically, it will be the Tenth Reich (or the Seventh Reich, depending on how one wants to count). 

Media Freedom? 

The Ron Paul Institute wrote on February 16: 

“Big media and big government are in bed together and they hate the fact that we can communicate with each other without their filters and influence. They long for the days when they could shovel down our throats just what they wanted us to hear and believe… We must remember just a few years ago during COVID that all it took to have your platform wiped off the face of the earth was to dare question the ‘wisdom’ of Anthony Fauci… 

“In Europe, free speech is under attack by totalitarian measures like the Digital Services Act, which creates a police state in the name of ‘protecting’ citizens from ‘disinformation.’ Of course, ‘disinformation’ is simply information that governments or elites don’t want to get out. You can go to jail for an X post in Europe, while violent criminals are set free. 

“Make no mistake – many in the US would love to have such a system in place to protect speech they like and punish speech they don’t like… The truth is, ‘cancel culture’ exists in both the left and the right and everywhere in-between.” 

EU Accession for Ukraine? 

Report 24 wrote on February 13: 

“The Ukrainian president wants a lot: Currently, he is demanding a ‘precise date‘ for Ukraine’s EU accession on Twitter. This must be enshrined in a ceasefire agreement or peace treaty… 

‘It is important that Ukraine does everything possible to be technically ready for EU accession by 2027,’ Zelenskyy wrote on Twitter on February 11… He demands: ‘I want a concrete date.’ This should then be fixed in a future ceasefire or peace agreement… 

‘Zelenskyy’s constant demands are clearly not well received. The comments on his tweet were sometimes quite harsh…'” 

Euro-Bashing? 

The Guardian wrote on February 15: 

“The EU’s foreign policy chief has denied claims levelled by the US that Europe is facing civilisational erasure, rejecting what she condemned as ‘fashionable euro-bashing’ by Washington… She challenged the US criticism of media freedom in Europe, pointing out that her own country, Estonia, ranked second in the world press freedom index and the US 58th…

“Kallas, a fierce opponent of Russia, has repeatedly clashed with the Trump administration. She said she did not think the EU was ready to give Ukraine a date for membership, suggesting accession as early as 2027 is unrealistic.”

Core Europe 

ntv wrote on February 10: 

“MSC [Munich Security Conference] Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger [calls for]… a core Europe, greater military strength, and coordinated diplomacy – also towards the USA.” 

Israel Preparing For War 

Ynet wrote on February 13: 

“Israel is preparing to defend its home front if Iran talks collapse — including a scenario in which Tehran launches a massive missile barrage as a last resort… 

“Iran views its missile array as a primary tool of deterrence and decisive force, intelligence assessments conclude it will not relinquish it even under U.S. pressure in negotiations. That hard line places the region on what officials describe as a collision course — either signing an agreement that leaves Israel exposed to a significant threat, or sliding toward all-out war….”

Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has emerged as an interesting opposition figure to the current Tehran regime. He has repeatedly pleaded for better relationships with Israel and he has been reminding the audience of King Cyrus who built the Third Temple. He continues to speak of the “Cyrus Accords” to follow the 2020 Abraham Accords. 

Putin Murdered Navalny 

Daily Mail wrote on February 13: 

“Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was killed by the Russian state, the Foreign Office has revealed. Navalny’s death was the result of poison from a South American dart frog toxin called epibatidine. The politician died aged 47 while in a remote Arctic penal colony two years ago. He had been sentenced to decades of imprisonment on dubious embezzlement charges… 

“The toxin epibatidine is said to be 200 times stronger than morphine and is used by some indigenous tribes in South America in darts or blowguns during hunts. It attacks nerves, causing numbness and paralysis.  It is not clear how the frog poison was allegedly administered to Navalny… 

“The UK and its allies Sweden, France, Germany and the Netherlands said the ‘barbaric’ act – using a neurotoxin that is classed as a chemical weapon – could only have been carried out by Vladimir Putin’s government.”

The fact that Navalny had been murdered by the Russian government under mass murderer Putin was clear from the outset. 

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer:  

These Current Events are compiled and commented on by Norbert Link. We gratefully acknowledge the many contributions of news articles from our readership. The publication of articles in this section is not to be viewed as an endorsement or approval as to contents or accuracy of the selected articles, but they are published for the purpose of pointing at worldwide developments in the light of biblical end-time prophecy and godly instruction. Our own comments are provided in italics.

A Softer Touch With ICE? Don’t Be Fooled!

The Huffington Post wrote on February 8: 

“Top Trump administration officials certainly put on a show last week about changing tactics in Minnesota… Border Patrol chief Gregory Bovino lost his job. Border czar Tom Homan said he’s pulling 700 federal agents out of the state. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said she’s sending body cameras to every DHS field officer in Minneapolis. Even President Donald Trump sort of registered problems with his surge of Immigration Customs and Enforcement officers in the state that continues to spark widespread protests, traumatize immigrant communities and has left two Americans dead, Pretti and Renee Good. ‘Maybe we could use a little bit of a softer touch,’ Trump told NBC News on Wednesday, when asked if he’s learned anything from how his massive ICE operation has played out… 

“Local school officials here say ICE officers continue to circle their schools, looking for immigrant children to nab. Federal officers are still grabbing brown and Black people on the streets,  regardless of whether they’re in the country legally or have no criminal record… On Tuesday, ICE was in the parking lots of all of [the] schools… 

“There are still more than 2,000 federal agents swarming the region… despite the hundreds Homan said he’s withdrawing. And even if every DHS agent wears a body camera, which remains to be seen… that doesn’t mean the public will be able to see the footage from their encounters… 

“While the Trump administration may not be easing up at all in its efforts to intimidate and hunt down immigrants, neither are the residents of the Minneapolis-St.Paul region. In interviews with dozens of people over the past two weeks, it was clear that virtually everybody is hunkering down together and coordinating to carry out sophisticated operations to keep their neighbors safe during ICE’s ‘occupation’ here. 

“They take part in daily ICE patrols through neighborhoods, with people watching for unmarked cars and alerting each other to sightings. They drive each other’s kids to and from school, and even walk them into their homes, when those kids’ parents are too scared to go outside. They coordinate trips to grocery stores for immigrant neighbors and food deliveries to their homes. Schools and churches have become pantries. Between getting their children ready for school and cooking dinner for their families, parents use secure messaging apps like Signal to keep their constant communication with each other secret. 

“In Columba Heights, grandparents and retired teachers stand outside various public schools with whistles, blowing them when they see agents driving by when children are outside. School officials promptly provide cover…” 

These are horrible and appalling conditions in the land of the “brave and the free.” 

Brutal Conduct of ICE and Refusal to Investigate 

The Associated Press wrote on February 7: 

“Alberto Castaneda Mondragon says his memory was so jumbled after a beating by immigration officers that he initially could not remember he had a daughter and still struggles to recall treasured moments like the night he taught her to dance. But the violence he endured last month in Minnesota while being detained is seared into his battered brain. 

“He remembers Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents pulling him from a friend’s car on Jan. 8 outside a St. Paul shopping center and throwing him to the ground, handcuffing him, then punching him and striking his head with a steel baton. He remembers being dragged into an SUV and taken to a detention facility, where he said he was beaten again. He also remembers the emergency room and the intense pain from eight skull fractures and five life-threatening brain hemorrhages. ‘They started beating me right away when they arrested me,’ the Mexican immigrant recounted this week to The Associated Press… 

“Castaneda Mondragon, 31, is one of an unknown number of immigration detainees who, despite avoiding deportation during the Trump administration’s enforcement crackdown, have been left with lasting injuries following violent encounters with ICE officers. His case is one of the excessive-force claims the federal government has thus far declined to investigate… 

“The officers told nurses Castaneda Mondragon ‘purposefully ran headfirst into a brick wall,’ an account his caregivers immediately doubted. A CT scan showed fractures to the front, back and both sides of his skull — injuries a doctor told AP were inconsistent with a fall. ‘There was never a wall,’ Castaneda Mondragon said in Spanish, recalling ICE officers striking him with the same metal rod used to break the windows of the vehicle he was in. He later identified it as an ASP, a telescoping baton routinely carried by law enforcement… 

“Castaneda Mondragon entered the U.S. legally in March 2022, and… the agency determined only after his arrest that he had overstayed his visa. A federal judge later ruled his arrest had been unlawful and ordered him released from ICE custody.” 

And ICE gets upset when their methods are being compared with that of the Gestapo? 

ICE to Withdraw From Minnesota

CNBC wrote on February 12:

“Border czar Tom Homan on Thursday said President Donald Trump has agreed to conclude the monthslong federal immigration enforcement surge in Minnesota… The total withdrawal ‘will continue to the next week,’ he said Thursday morning. Homan added that a ‘small footprint’ of personnel will stay in the area ‘for a period of time’ to transition command back to a local field office, and to ensure ‘agitator activity’ does not flare back up…

“The killings [of two American citizens] massively inflamed tensions over the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement efforts in Minnesota, spurring widespread protests and rapidly souring public opinion toward ICE…

“Homan stressed that the Trump administration’s efforts to remove vast numbers of undocumented immigrants will continue. ‘For those who say we are backing down from immigration enforcement or the promise of mass deportations, you are simply wrong,’ he said.”

Racism and Lies 

Deadline wrote on February 6: 

“While Democrats have condemned Donald Trump’s Truth Social post of a video featuring a racist AI depiction of Barack and Michelle Obama as apes, one of the president’s strident defenders also called it out. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC), who is [the only Black Republican in the Senate and who is] chairing the GOP’s Senate campaign efforts this year, wrote on X, ‘Praying it was fake because it’s the most racist thing I’ve seen out of this White House. The President should remove it.’ A couple hours after Scott’s statement, the Trump post was taken down, with a White House official saying, ‘A White House staffer erroneously made the post. It has been taken down.’   

“Earlier on Friday morning, the White House acknowledged that Trump posted the video, and defended the president for doing so. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement, ‘This is from an internet meme video depicting President Trump as the King of the Jungle and Democrats as characters from The Lion King. Please stop the fake outrage and report on something today that actually matters to the American public.’ [The video did not portray Trump as the King of the Jungle, or other Democrats; just the Obamas were depicted as apes.] 

“Another Republican, Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), who faces a competitive reelection race this cycle, wrote, ‘The President’s post is wrong and incredibly offensive — whether intentional or a mistake — and should be deleted immediately with an apology offered.’… The NAACP said in a statement, ‘Trump posting this video — especially during Black History Month— is a stark reminder of how Trump and his followers truly view people. And we’ll remember that in November.’” 

The Daily Mail added on February 6: 

“Donald Trump has deleted a video depicting Barack and Michelle Obama as apes after a furious backlash from senior Republicans…. Other prominent Republican senators joined Scott in demanding that Trump take down the video.  

“Senator Roger Wicker of Mississippi posted on X: ‘This is totally unacceptable. The president should take it down and apologize.’  Senator Pete Ricketts of Nebraska wrote: ‘Even if this was a Lion King meme, a reasonable person sees the racist context to this. The White House should do what anyone does when they make a mistake: remove this and apologize.’   

The Daily Mail stated in its headline, “Trump DELETES Obama ape video as White House throws junior staffer under the bus.” 

Also in light of the long history of racist posts depicting black people as apes or monkeys – a tool of slave traders and segregationists to dehumanize them –Trump’s racist post was clearly highly inappropriate and offensive, and the subsequent “excuse” in blaming a staffer only made matters worse. 

ABC News wrote: 

“President Donald Trump told reporters he didn’t see the entire video before it was shared on his social media platform… Trump said he only saw the first part… Asked if he would apologize for the video, Trump said, ‘No, I didn’t make a mistake…’” 

He is responsible for whatever he retweets and posts. 

Grand Jury Refuses to Indict Six Democratic Lawmakers 

The New York Post wrote on February 11: 

“A federal grand jury refused to hand up an indictment Tuesday against six Democratic lawmakers accused by President Trump of ‘seditious behavior’ this past fall. DC US Attorney Jeanine Pirro led the failed effort to indict Reps. Jason Crow (D-Colo.), Maggie Goodlander (D-NH), Chris Deluzi (D-Pa.) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.) and Sens. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) over a video posted on social media urging members of the military and intelligence community to ‘refuse illegal orders.’.. 

“Kelly called the attempt to bring charges an ‘outrageous abuse of power by Donald Trump and his lackies.’…

“… the Pentagon [had] opened an investigation into Kelly, citing a federal law that allows retired service members to be recalled to active duty for possible court-martial or other punishment. War Secretary Pete Hegseth has censured Kelly for participating in the video and is trying to retroactively demote Kelly from his retired rank of captain.

“The senator is suing Hegseth to block those proceedings, calling them an unconstitutional act of retribution.” 

The rare refusal of a federal grand jury to indict the defendants in question was the only correct decision in this case. Subsequently, a federal judge, appointed by George W. Bush in 2002, sided with Mark Kelly, accusing Hegseth of “trampling” on Kelly’s right to free speech and suggested that Hegseth should be more “grateful” for the wisdom of retired service members. Hegseth announced that he would appeal the decision, but should really have no chance for success. The witch hunt against especially former astronaut Mark Kelly for only stating the law is terrible. 

Strong Accusations Against Trump in the Epstein Matter 

C-Span wrote on February 3, 2026: 

“Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus Ted Lieu (D-CA) tells reporters the Epstein files contain allegations that President Trump raped and threatened to kill children. He says House Republicans are trying to ‘distract’ from those allegations by seeking testimony on Epstein from former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. He also says the Justice Department ‘violated the privacy’ of victims by failing to redact some explicit images from the files…” 

Lieu repeated these charges on Wednesday, February 11, during a contentious bi-partisan House “hearing” with Attorney General Pam Bondi. The congressional circus bordered on the ridiculous and showed the world again a deeply-divided America. 

The Future of Trump’s Tariffs 

Axios wrote on February 11:

“House Democrats are… planning to force votes overturning at least two of President Trumps’s tariffs, with more likely to follow… House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has repeatedly blocked these votes over the past year, but his attempt to do so on Tuesday was thwarted by a trio of Republican defectors in a late-night vote…

“‘We are going to do Canada today and follow with Mexico,’ House Foreign Affairs Committee ranking member Greg Meeks (D-N.Y.) told Axios in a text message Wednesday morning. The New York Democrat later told Axios that he also plans to force votes overturning the Brazil and global ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs…

“While the measures could garner the simple majority needed for Senate passage,  Trump could then simply veto it. It’s highly unlikely Congress has the two-thirds majorities in both chambers to overturn his veto. That means the House votes would effectively be symbolic rebukes of the president’s tariffs.”

Real clearance can only come through the US Supreme Court which has taken an unusually long time to address the issue. 

Merz in the Gulf Region 

Deutsche Welle wrote on February 6: 

“German Chancellor Friedrich Merz wrapped up a three-day tour to the Gulf region in Abu Dhabi on Friday by positioning Germany as a reliable investment partner, and eyeing a central role in a potential EU trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE)… The chancellor’s trip, which included stops in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, comes as Germany seeks to diversify its economic and strategic partnerships amid increasing global economic instability, particularly brought on by US President Donald Trump’s erratic trade policies… 

“Summing up his three-day tour, Merz said his meetings in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE showed ‘what great potential we have.’ After meeting with the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha on Thursday, Merz said Germany would work ‘more intensively in arms cooperation than in recent years’ with what he described as reliable partners in the Gulf region.  

“Seeking closer ties with the autocratically governed Gulf states that have dubious human rights records — especially Saudi Arabia —  represents a turnaround from previous German governments… Saudi Arabia is notorious for its treatment of women and a draconian justice system. In 2018, the brutal murder and dismemberment of Saudi journalist and crown prince critic Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Turkey shocked the world. Western intelligence agencies like the CIA assess Khashoggi was killed at the behest of the crown prince, who has denied all involvement. According to Shuman Rights Watch, Saudi Arabia carried out a record number of 356 executions in 2025….” 

Germany’s involvement with Arab nations is remarkable in light of Psalm 83. 

Europe as a Superpower

Apollo News wrote on February 5:

“In a speech at the Catholic University of Leuven, where he was receiving an honorary doctorate, Mario Draghi called for drastic reforms to the European Union. He stated that the continent faces a choice: either to remain a mere single market or to become an independent superpower through closer integration. This leads him to demand that the European Union become a ‘true federation’ to maintain its global standing…

“Draghi’s demands would ultimately amount to the abolition of nation-states. Key competencies—including fiscal policy, defense, industrial policy, and foreign policy—would have to be transferred to the EU level. The member states of the European Union would no longer be sovereign.”

Draghi served as Prime Minister of Italy in 2021 and 2022. 

Spahn’s Fault For the Health Insurance Funds’ Bankruptcy

ntv wrote on February 11:

“‘I don’t think we’ll have to raise health insurance contributions again in 2026.’ That’s what Karl Lauterbach told the ‘Bild’ newspaper in October 2024, when he was still Federal Minister of Health. The prediction was wrong: At the turn of the year, almost half of all statutory health insurance funds in Germany raised their contributions, including large funds like Techniker Krankenkasse and DAK-Gesundheit, as well as AOK Sachsen-Anhalt and HKK…

“The statutory health insurance funds are notoriously bankrupt. The funds’ reserves have been depleted… Why are their finances in such a bad state? GKV (National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds) head Oliver Blatt offered an explanation on Deutschlandfunk radio: The last grand coalition government with Health Minister Jens Spahn ‘dug into the funds’ reserves’ – and now they’re paying the price… The former health minister used that money to pay for part of the high costs of the coronavirus crisis.”

Spahn, who has often been accused of incompetence and ruthlessness, has caused considerable damage in the past, including during his time as Health Minister. His popularity plummeted. Few seriously considered his return to the political arena. But now he’s back at the top—virtually second only to Merz—and is certainly striving, as he has for many years, to become Chancellor. Stranger things have happened in Germany. 

Germany’s Painful Estrangement From the USA 

Financial Times wrote on February 9: 

“Today that [German] community is in disarray. After repeated blows by the Trump administration to Nato and the EU, [Wolfgang] Ischinger [German Chair of the Munich Security Conference] wonders whether the first warning signs of American estrangement were already visible two decades ago, during the US invasion of Iraq. ‘Maybe I should have started worrying when America tried to drive a wedge into Europe by talking about “old Europe” and “new Europe’’, he says. ‘These are the friends of the United States, who are going with us into Iraq. And these are the old guys, the Germans and the French, whom we don’t like anymore because they’re not sharing our views.’ 

“Claudia Major, senior vice-president at the German Marshall Fund [said:] ‘The Americans taught the Germans democracy. It feels like a betrayal.’ 

“German Atlanticists took particular offence a year ago, when US vice-president JD Vance used the Munich Security Conference — which fell during the German federal election campaign — to lecture Europe over democratic values, before meeting far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) leader Alice Weidel on the sidelines. Shaken, [German Chancellor Friedrich] Merz… later described it as an ‘epochal rupture’… he declared it urgent for Europe to ‘achieve independence from the US’… 

“Long reluctant to assume a leading military role because of its Nazi past, Berlin, with its ample fiscal power, is now being pushed to the forefront of Europe’s rearmament…

“Since Donald Trump’s return to the White House, German attitudes towards America have flipped from broadly positive to overwhelmingly negative… Last month, a Forsa poll conducted after Trump threatened to seize Greenland found that 71 per cent of Germans now viewed the US as an adversary rather than a partner. A majority of AfD sympathisers agreed. 

“During Trump’s first term, his administration announced plans to withdraw 12,000 troops from Germany — a move later blocked by Congress. European officials now await the Pentagon’s so-called Global Posture Review, which will determine the future for the 80,000 American soldiers stationed in Europe, about 37,500 of them in Germany… 

“Merz’s plan to pour billions into building the Bundeswehr into ‘Europe’s largest conventional army’ has broad backing across Germany’s mainstream parties, from conservatives to Greens and Social Democrats. 

“Yet policymakers remain torn over how far emancipation from the US should go — balancing fears that assertiveness might hasten US troop withdrawals and leave a deterrence gap, against hopes that, perhaps, the Trump administration proves to be an aberration… 

“But Julia Friedlander, the first American chief executive of Berlin-based Atlantik-Brücke, and a former Trump administration security adviser in charge of Europe, says it is high time that Germany steps up. A self-described ‘cold-hearted realist’, the 41-year-old argues that Europe’s most populous country must shed sentimentality. ‘The good old unipolar days, when everyone could feel very happy under the US umbrella, those are all gone,’ she says. 

“Friedlander describes her experience during her time in the Trump administration of growing ‘bitterness’ in Washington towards the EU, and Germany in particular, for failing to take its defence seriously… 

“Under pressure from Trump, Merz is now trying to ‘flip the narrative’, Friedlander says. Germany has overtaken the US as Ukraine’s largest provider of military aid, according to the Kiel Institute… 

“[Karsten] Voigt [former commissioner for German-American co-operation in parliament under SPD Chancellor Gerhard Schröder], feels this transformation is in full swing. ‘That’s uncharted territory but Germany is ready. We no longer feel guilty and we don’t feel completely alone. Our role has changed a great deal already. We look at ourselves in amazement and we wonder: is that really you? No, that’s no longer us. We are something new.’” 

This transformation will continue, and “new” Germany WILL BECOME the uncontested military leader in Europe. At the same time, the alienation with the USA will continue, leading to outright hostility and animosity. Germany’s mistrust of Trump is shared worldwide. Note the next article. 

Global Mistrust 

The Jerusalem Post wrote on February 8: 

“Global mistrust of Donald Trump has moved beyond mere partisan debate. It has become a driving force reshaping diplomacy, currency stability, and the very psychology that underpins alliances. The unease isn’t just about his grandiose claims, such as insisting he ended eight wars and his desire for a Nobel Prize. The real damage lies in the erratic warnings, personal threats, and refusal to follow any recognizable international norms... 

“The world now sees Trump as a financial predator whose actions threaten the very stability Switzerland depends on. When a neutral country openly expresses such disgust, not toward a dictator but toward an American president, it speaks volumes about how far trust has fallen.” 

European Pride Opposes JD Vance 

Politico wrote on February 9:

“The people who jeered U.S. Vice President JD Vance at the Winter Olympics were displaying ‘European pride’ following a string of critical comments about Europe from American officials, top EU diplomat Kaja Kallas said Monday. Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, were greeted with a smattering of boos and jeers at the San Siro stadium in Milan last week when they briefly appeared on a giant screen waving U.S. flags during the opening ceremony. 

“Asked about the booing…, the bloc’s foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said: ‘Well, I guess we have heard a lot of not-so-nice words from the United States regarding Europe. Of course, our public also has a pride, a European pride. So it shows,’ she added. The remarks capture the tense state of EU-U.S. relations…” 

Some Trump-supporting conservative outlets denied that JD Vance was booed, saying instead that he was cheered. That claim is blatantly false. The American athletes were cheered, but he was booed mercilessly when he was seen on the screen.

America’s Cost-Of-Living Crisis 

StudyFinds wrote on February 6: 

“Rent is due. The electric bill sits on the counter. The grocery receipt from last week still stings. For half of Americans, keeping up with basic monthly bills has become nearly impossible… Nine in 10 people believe the U.S. is experiencing a full-blown cost-of-living crisis, and nearly eight in 10 said everything became more expensive in 2025… 

“Half of respondents said they expect a tax refund this year, and among those, 73% admitted they need it more than ever before. Six in 10 said they need their refund earlier than usual just to stay afloat… When tax refunds stop feeling like extra money and start functioning as a financial backstop, something fundamental has shifted about what it means to get by in America.” 

Sadly, America is in an absolutely horrible state, financially. 

America’s Financial Doom Certain? 

Fortune wrote on February 7: 

“Elon Musk doubled down on his warnings about U.S. debt, predicting financial doom will be guaranteed without the transformative effects of AI and robotics on the economy. 

‘In the absence of AI and robotics, we’re actually totally screwed because the national debt is piling up like crazy,’ he added. Interest payments alone on the $38.5 trillion debt pile are about $1 trillion a year, exceeding the U.S. military budget, Musk pointed out…. ‘We are 1,000% going to go bankrupt as a country, and fail as a country, without AI and robots,’ he predicted… 

“While it’s ‘impossible’ to know when disaster will strike, ‘some form of crisis is almost inevitable’ without a course correction, the [Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget] said in a report.” 

How AI and robots could save us from national bankruptcy is a mystery only Musk seems to “understand.” 

AI Researcher Warns of the End of Humanity

Business Insider wrote on February 10:

“Nate Soares is the CEO of the non-profit Machine Intelligence Research Institute (MIRI) in Berkeley, California. Previously, the computer scientist worked at Microsoft and Google. In an interview with the Handelsblatt newspaper, the prominent AI researcher spoke about the growing dangers of the technology… and how much time humanity has left. His central thesis: AI is becoming increasingly powerful, and we humans have less and less to counter it…

“Soares warns urgently of the dangers of superintelligent AI systems… Platforms like Moltbook have already demonstrated how bizarre and autonomous AIs can behave when unleashed. They are not yet malicious – but that could change. His worst-case scenario: that every human being on this planet dies. As soon as AIs can build their own infrastructure, they will form their own species with their own goals. They will create factories, their own economy, their own world – and be much faster than we are…

“The problem is indifference… According to the researcher, this development must be stopped… Once superintelligence is achieved, it can no longer be stopped… According to Soares, there isn’t much time left, perhaps two to ten years…” 

Turkey’s Ploy to Become Central Actor 

The Jerusalem Post wrote on February 9: 

“The emerging move points to a substantial deepening of Turkish involvement in the Palestinian arena and is advancing in clear opposition to Israel’s stated position… the combination of overt meetings with Hamas’s leadership and the sustained series of contacts with the Palestinian Authority reveals a broader and more coherent picture… 

“Turkey is working to advance a framework in which Hamas would be recognized and integrated into any future Palestinian arrangement, both on the political level and within governing mechanisms, including in Gaza… 

“This Turkish initiative does not exist in a vacuum. Ankara is seeking to position itself as a central actor in the Palestinian arena, in line with a neo-Ottoman worldview that identifies Jerusalem as a key strategic hub of influence.” 

America’s vision of peace in Gaza has been doomed from the outset. 

Jewish Presence Rising on the Temple Mount 

Israel365News wrote on February 8, 2026: 

“The flow of people on the Temple Mount has shifted in a way that would have been unthinkable only a few years ago. Jewish presence is rising steadily, openly, and visibly, while Arab attendance is declining… the number of Arabs ascending the Temple Mount has dropped by roughly half, even as Jewish ascent has surged to record levels… 

“Over the past year, approximately 70,000 Jews ascended the holiest place to the Jewish people, with a stated goal of reaching 100,000 annually… When Jews bow there in humility before G-d, even Israel’s adversaries understand what that signals. The retreat of Arab presence alongside the return of Jewish worship is not coincidence. It is a declaration, visible on the stones themselves, that the heart of the Jewish people is beating again in the place where it always belonged.” 

And so, the next major visible step will be the building of the Third Temple on the Temple Mount. 

Putin’s Ukraine Cooperation Proposal With USA 

The Sun wrote on February 8: 

“Vladimir Putin covertly offered the United States a $9 trillion economic cooperation deal behind Ukraine’s back, according to Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian leader hinted that the proposal may be a ploy by the Kremlin to gain leverage in ongoing peace talks… 

“Ukraine once again confirmed its positions on the Donbas issue. ‘We stand where we stand’ is the fairest and most reliable model for a ceasefire today, in our opinion.’ He added that Kyiv will not tolerate Russia and the US making deals about Ukraine behind its back.” 

Putin’s intentions are clear, and so the question is: Is Trump willing to throw Ukraine under the bus? 

Orbán: Ukraine Our Enemy

DPA wrote on February 8: 

“Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has labelled Ukraine, which is under attack by Russia, an ‘enemy’ of his own country. ‘The Ukrainians must stop constantly demanding in Brussels that Hungary be cut off from cheap Russian energy,’ the right-wing populist said in an election campaign speech… on Sunday. ‘As long as Ukraine does this, it is our enemy,’ he added… 

“Orbán is considered Vladimir Putin’s closest ally in the European Union, and his country is highly dependent on Russian gas and oil supplies… 

“Parliamentary elections are due to be held in Hungary on April 12. For the first time in his 16 years in office, Orbán faces a strong challenger [conservative Péter Magyar].” 

In his speech, Orbán reiterated his opposition to Ukraine joining the EU, arguing that a “military or economic alliance” with Kiev “will lead to trouble.” He also claimed that Europe is planning to give Ukraine within the next ten years 800 billion Euros in financial aid, in addition to 700 billion Euros in military aid. He said that Hungary will not participate in those payments.   

Xi Warns Trump 

Irish Times wrote on February 4: 

“China’s president Xi Jinping has told US president Donald Trump that the United States should handle arms sales to Taiwan with caution, describing the future of the self-governing island as the most important issue in China-US relations. The warning came during a call on Wednesday during which they also discussed Ukraine, Iran and the economic relationship between China and the US. ‘Taiwan is Chinese territory, and China must defend its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. It will never allow Taiwan to be separated from China…’ 

“Earlier on Wednesday, Xi had a video call with Russian president Vladimir Putin during which they discussed their relations with the US as well as the deepening economic co-operation between China and Russia… Xi said he wanted to work with Putin on a new blueprint for the relationship between Beijing and Moscow, declaring that they should ‘use a historic opportunity to continue deepening strategic co-operation.’” 

China’s desire to invade Taiwan is clear. Will America come to Taiwan’s defense when that happens? 

China’s Decline of Press Freedom 

npr wrote on February 9: 

“Jimmy Lai, the pro-democracy former Hong Kong media tycoon and a fierce critic of Beijing, was sentenced on Monday to 20 years in prison in the longest punishment given so far under a China-imposed national security law that has virtually silenced the city’s dissent… The democracy advocate’s arrest and trial have raised concerns about the decline of press freedom in what was once an Asian bastion of media independence… 

“Lai founded Apple Daily in 1995, two years before the former British colony returned to Chinese rule. Its closure in 2021 shocked the local press scene.” 

Britain’s transfer of Hong Kong to China was a colossal mistake, but it was biblically prophesied to happen. Hong Kong had been under British rule for 156 years (from 1841 to 1997). Whatever little is left of any press freedom in China (or Hong Kong, which is under China’s autocratic rule) is disappearing quickly. 

Trump’s Continued Threats Against Canada 

The Washington Post wrote on February 10: 

“President Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of a bridge between Michigan and Ontario, claiming Canada is trying to ‘take advantage of America’ and calling for compensation [for everything we have given them for decades] in the latest flash point in the simmering tensions between the United States and its northern neighbor. The Gordie Howe International Bridge — a six-lane bridge between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, that has cost about $4.7 billion to build — has been under construction since 2018 and is due to open early this year… 

“The complaint is the latest in a string of blows he has leveled at Canada and Prime Minister Mark Carney, rupturing the traditionally close relationship between the two allies… 

“The bridge is financed by the Canadian government but is publicly owned by the governments of Canada and Michigan… 

“The latest comments mark a sharp contrast to Trump’s previous support for the project… Trump [had] highlighted the closeness of the two countries and praised the bridge as a ‘vital economic link.’” 

Trump’s threats against Canada will continue.

Satellite Images Point to the Garden of Eden 

The Daily Mail wrote on February 8: 

“A series of orbital scans has revealed an ancient, now-dry riverbed in Saudi Arabia that some scholars believe aligns with the biblical description of Eden’s main river, the Pishon. The Book of Genesis describes Eden as a paradise watered by a single river that split into four: Pishon, Gihon, Tigris, and Euphrates.  

“While the Tigris and Euphrates are well-known rivers in modern-day Iraq, the Pishon and Gihon have long been lost to history, until now.

The dry riverbed, called Wadi al-Batin, stretches from the western highlands of Hejaz near Medina northeast to the northern Persian Gulf near Kuwait. Its winding course corresponds closely with the biblical description of the Pishon, which Genesis states ‘compasseth the whole land of Havilah, where there is gold; and the gold of that land is good: there is bdellium and the onyx stone.’… 

“Complementing this, Iran’s Karun River, a twisting waterway flowing through the Zagros Mountains, may correspond to the Gihon. The Hebrew word ‘sabab,’ meaning to circle or twist, aptly describes the Karun’s meanders… The alignment of these rivers with biblical text is striking, as together with the Tigris and Euphrates, Wadi al-Batin and the Karun would have converged into the Persian Gulf, forming a fertile cradle of civilization.” 

Another proof that the Bible is true after all. 

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer:  

These Current Events are compiled and commented on by Norbert Link. We gratefully acknowledge the many contributions of news articles from our readership. The publication of articles in this section is not to be viewed as an endorsement or approval as to contents or accuracy of the selected articles, but they are published for the purpose of pointing at worldwide developments in the light of biblical end-time prophecy and godly instruction. Our own comments are provided in italics.

America Needs to Hear: “You Are Fired!” 

The Editorial Board of the New York Post wrote on January 28: 

“If the second Trump term turns out to be like ‘The Apprentice’ without ‘You’re fired!,’ its ratings are going to resemble President Joe Biden’s. That means… big losses in the coming midterms and an end to — or even reversal of — President Trump’s agenda. 

“Biden never accepted blame for the Afghanistan debacle, for economic malaise and record inflation or any of his other disasters… But he also never even implicitly admitted his team had failed by axing an obvious author of those debacles… Nor did he change the course that produced those debacles….

“…  if [Trump] wants to keep winning after something’s clearly gone wrong in the public’s eye, he should send the message that his administration will do better. Decisive action will calm the nerves of independent voters; anything else comes off as inauthentic and shady, raising fears that Team Trump will slide back into the same blundering approach. A high-level firing… is easily the best way to signal — to the public and to his whole team — that things are going to change.

“Put a face on failure, and get rid of it… To move on, the prez should ax someone… You need a high-profile firing, sir.” 

There are quite a few high-profile people in Trump’s administration who should be fired. The trouble is, he did not fire anyone, and he even praised all of them for their actions. That is a sure road to disaster. 

Detained Boy and Father Released

BBC wrote on February 1:

“A five-year-old boy and his father who were detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minnesota have returned home… The detainment of the pair sparked protests outside the detention facility where they were being held, and led to a national outcry…

“Their return home came after US District Judge Fred Biery granted an emergency request from the family’s lawyer, and ordered their release on Saturday. The judge condemned their detention as driven by a ‘perfidious lust for unbridled power’. ‘The case has its genesis in the ill-conceived and incompetently implemented government pursuit of daily deportation quotas, apparently even if it requires traumatising children,’ Biery [a Bill Clinton appointee] wrote in his ruling.”

Biery also wrote: “… apparent also is the government’s ignorance of an American historical document called the Declaration of Independence.” npr added on January 31: “Stephen Miller, the White House chief of staff for policy, has said there’s a target of 3,000 immigration arrests a day. It’s that figure which the judge seemed to describe as a ‘quota.’’

In a complete turnaround, Trump defended Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, writing the following defamatory and nonsensical post early morning on January 31: “The Radical Left Lunatics, Insurrectionists, Agitators, and Thugs, are going after Kristi Noem, the Secretary of Homeland Security, because she is a woman, and has done a really GREAT JOB!” Incredible and laughable at the same time. The uproar over ICE and DHS agents [and Trump’s sanctioning their conduct]  is not going to end any time soon. 

Latino Voters Running Away From Trump 

The Daily Mail wrote on January 28: 

“Latino Republican lawmakers are warning that the GOP could lose the midterms as Hispanics flee over President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown… ‘I do think that he will lose the midterms because of Stephen Miller,’ state Senator Ileana Garcia, who stands to lose reelection in her swing district, told the New York Times… 

“’I warned about this months ago, before the headlines caught up. Today we are watching it unfold in real time,’ [GOP Representative Maria Elvira] Salazar posted to X Tuesday night. ‘Hispanics are leaving the GOP in large numbers, and pretending otherwise won’t fix it.’ She implored her party to ‘reverse course and act now.’… 

“Things on the immigration front have only gotten more heated… with Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection agents descending on Minneapolis, killing two American citizens and detaining a 5-year-old child… 51 percent of Latino voters said [Monday] they disapproved of the Trump administration’s record on immigration… Fifty-eight percent of Latino voters disapproved of ICE specifically… 57 percent of Latino voters said they believed that ICE should pull out of U.S. cities… Another 48 percent of Latino voters said that Noem should be fired, and 49 percent said she should be impeached by Congress….” 

The GOP could lose the midterm election big time. 

The American Gestapo 

Judge Andrew P. Napolitano wrote the following on January 29 in the Ron Paul Institute: 

“Last week, a half-dozen masked and unidentifiable Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents killed a 37-year-old federal employee, a nurse, by spraying pepper spray into his eyes, pushing him to the ground, stealing his lawfully owned and carried handgun, and then shooting him [at least] nine times in the back. The thugs from ICE whom the federal government has sent to Minneapolis have produced murder and mayhem on a scale far more violent, disruptive and disturbing to human life than have the immigrants residing there without papers… 

“The White House has defended the ICE killings of two innocent Americans in the maelstrom of Minneapolis by using phrases like terrorist, agitator, assassin and self-defense. In the process of politically smearing two dead victims, it has tried to divert attention away from the ICE Gestapo-like tactics in the streets… 

“Federal and state laws mandate — and all police, even DHS agents, know this — that if the driver of a vehicle moving less than 5 miles per hour is trying to turn away from you, you don’t kill the driver; you let her turn or get out of the way. If somehow you feel threatened by a man on all fours on the ground whose lawfully carried handgun you have already seized, and whom you have temporarily blinded with pepper spray because he photographed you, you restrain him, you don’t shoot him in the back… 

“More dangerous than American Gestapo is American Psycho — an attitude of government devoid of moral principles. One that — as authoritarians throughout history have done — targets a helpless, hopeless, politically weak minority and justifies murdering those who protest the violence employed in the targeting… 

“The same psychotic mentality that argued last year it can execute people on the high seas without trial has brought that might-makes-right nihilism into our streets…” 

God calls the USA an “ungodly nation” (Isaiah 10:6). 

“Military Helping Trump Build Massive Network of ‘Concentration Camps’”

Newsbreak wrote on February 3:

“In the wake of immigration agents’ killings of three US citizens within a matter of weeks, the Department of Homeland Security is quietly moving forward with a plan to expand its capacity for mass detention by using a military contract to create… ‘a nationwide “ghost network” of concentration camps.’…

“According to a source familiar with the project, ‘the goal is for the facilities to house as many as 10,000 people each, and are expected to be built in Louisiana, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Utah, and Kansas’…

“Amid its push to deport 1 million people each year, the White House has said it needs to dramatically increase the scale of its detention apparatus to add more beds for those who are arrested. But… ‘this isn’t just about bed space; it’s about the rapid deployment of self-contained cities.’…

“The new reporting… comes on the heels of a report last week from Bloomberg that US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has used some of [a] $45 billion [increase of a Navy contract] to purchase warehouses in nearly two dozen remote communities, each meant to house thousands of detainees, which it said ‘could be the largest expansion of such detention capacity in US history’…” 

Another Broken Promise of a “Great” Housing Market?

 USA Today wrote on January 29: 

“Amid growing affordability concerns across the nation, President Donald Trump said he is looking to drive housing prices further up, not down. Trump said at a Jan. 29 Cabinet meeting he wants to make it easier for Americans to buy homes ‒ but not by making housing less expensive. Instead, he suggested lower interest rates… will allow more Americans to buy homes even as housing prices rise… 

“Yet Trump made clear in his meeting with Cabinet secretaries that greater opportunities to buy homes shouldn’t mean lowering costs, even as Americans voice concerns about the price tag to buy a home… Housing prices remain elevated relative to income growth after adjusting for inflation, pushing homeownership out of reach for many Americans.” 

Trump’s proposals are utter nonsense. 

“It’s Beyond Naive to Think Trump’s ‘Retreats’ Are Real” 

The Guardian published on January 30 the following opinion piece by Jonathan Freedland: 

“Don’t be fooled. When it comes to Donald Trump, what might look like a full retreat is almost always a mere tactical withdrawal, designed to buy time. He’ll step back when he’s forced to, under pressure, but will then revert the instant the pressure lets up. Too often, his opponents, whether at home or abroad, allow themselves to be played, confusing a mere pause for a surrender – and the risk is strong that they’re making that same mistake all over again. 

“This week, the US president won praise in some quarters for moving to ‘de-escalate’ the war he has been waging on the people of Minneapolis… He shipped out the man who had become the face of the campaign of terror conducted by both CBP and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, Gregory Bovino… Next, Trump subjected his homeland security secretary… Kristi Noem, to an emergency Oval Office meeting… 

“But, remember, it’s only ever a pause. The instant the pressure eases, normal service resumes… for all the earlier talk, both Noem and Miller [as well as Bovino] remain in their jobs… 

“The pattern is clear. Trump will do just enough to get through a damaging news cycle, wait for it to pass – then carry on as before. We saw the first half of that manoeuvre last week, which began with threats to seize Greenland and ended with those threats seemingly withdrawn under international and domestic fire. Nato and European leaders probably thought they’d seen off the danger. But this week Trump’s Greenland envoy was back demanding ‘total, unfettered access’ to the island, so who knows what his boss might say next week…” 

Please view our StandingWatch program, titled, “Trump’s Greenland Deal—Defeat or Distraction?” 

Trouble Brewing for Trump and Others in the Epstein Scandal?

The Jerusalem Post wrote on February 1:

“The Department of Justice has removed files containing hundreds of mentions of US President Donald Trump from the latest wave of Epstein files documents that were released on Saturday. The removed files included descriptions of Trump sexually assaulting several women, some of them being underage.

“In the removed files, which still have a preview and broken link on the DOJ’s website, Trump is described by victims and friends of victims as, among other things, engaging in ‘big orgy parties’ with young girls alongside former president Bill Clinton and the Alexander brothers.

“Additionally, a removed file stated Trump was involved in human trafficking, with one statement reading the president would host parties at his home in Mar-A-Lago called ‘calendar girls,’ where Jeffrey Epstein would bring children for Trump to auction off. Some of the people named at these parties were Elon Musk. Donald Trump jr., Ivanka Trump, Eric Trump, attorney Allan Dershowitz, and attorney Bob Shapiro.

“The full documents were screenshotted and saved by internet users following the release, who uploaded them to multiple online archives. The DOJ stated that its release of the second wave of files – about 3.5 million, bringing the total to over 6 million –  was in compliance with the Epstein Files Transparency Act, despite being released over a month after the deadline…

“When asked about the newly released files, Trump stated that while he had not seen them, he was told that ‘not only does it absolve me, it’s the opposite of what people were hoping, you know, the radical left.’ Trump also stated that the files revealed that author Michael Wolff conspired with Epstein against the president, and that we’ll probably sue Wolff for that.”

It was also reported by the Independent and Daily Mail that Trump is suggesting suing the Epstein estate as well. Why, if the released files allegedly absolved him, even though he did not give a rationale for that claim? Trump is mentioned more than 3,000 times in the latest Epstein files release. There is no finding that Trump is guilty of any wrongdoing, and the removed reports are unverified. However, the question remains why those files were removed. 

No Saudi Bases or Airspace for USA

Fox News wrote on January 30: 

“As President Donald Trump weighs his options on a possible military strike on Iran, a senior Gulf official told Fox News Saudi Arabia will not allow the U.S. to use its airspace or bases for such an attack… 

“‘Saudi Arabia wouldn’t allow airspace to be used to target Israel, Houthis, Iran. The position is the same now. Saudi Arabia wouldn’t allow airspace to be used in a war Saudi Arabia is not a part of,’ the official said…” 

Iran threatened the USA with a regional war if the USA were to attack Iran. 

JFK Assassination Film Could Prove Second Shooter

The New York Post wrote on February 1:

“A 62-year-old home movie could blow the JFK assassination wide open — and prove once and for all there was a second shooter on the grassy knoll that fateful day.

“The grainy 8mm footage, captured by Dallas air conditioner repairman Orville Nix as bullets ripped through Dealey Plaza on Nov. 22, 1963, hasn’t been seen since 1978, when it was sent away for analysis by an LA company and later fell under federal ownership – although the feds claim they don’t have it. Nix died in 1972, and his granddaughter picked up from her late dad the legal war to recover his film — which she’s convinced is worth more than $900 million as it may hold the key to exposing one of history’s biggest coverups.

“Now a federal judge has ruled that the battle over the film can go forward — and the footage might finally see the light of day… The film could reveal evidence that gunman Lee Harvey Oswald didn’t act alone — thanks to new optic technologies and AI…”

The idea that Oswald acted alone was laughable from the outset 

An All-Powerful European Leader? 

Politico wrote on January 28: 

“The jobs of president of the European Commission and president of the European Council should be merged so the EU can speak with one voice on the global stage, European People’s Party boss Manfred Weber said Wednesday. Reforming the EU’s leadership structure in such a way would…simply mean giving one person both jobs. He said this could happen after the next EU election, in 2029. ‘We are blocked, we are speechless, we are voiceless, we have no say on the global stage, and that has to be stopped,’ said Weber, the president of Europe’s largest political family. 

“The European Commission president (currently Ursula von der Leyen) leads the bloc’s executive arm, which has power over trade, agriculture, the single market and other internal policy areas — although foreign affairs is handled by the EU’s top diplomat (Kaja Kallas) and the European Council president (António Costa), with both reporting directly to EU countries. This fragmented division of power is not ‘up to the task’ at a time of geopolitical uncertainty, Weber said, with Donald Trump’s U.S. administration turning the international order upside down 

“Asked by POLITICO if he would be in the running for a future ‘president of Europe’ role, Weber declined to rule it out… Weber has led the EPP in the European Parliament since 2014, and in 2019 campaigned for the job of European Commission president, but EU leaders instead chose von der Leyen, then Germany’s defense minister. 

“In his speech, Weber also said EU countries should switch to qualified majority voting on foreign and security policy issues rather than by unanimity… If such reform is not possible, as it would require the backing of all current members, those countries willing to advance integration ‘should go forward with a special sovereignty treaty’ on foreign policy, Weber said.” 

In other words, a powerful European leader ruling over core nations (the countries of the willing). 

Two-Speed Europe

Reuters wrote on January 27:

“Germany will push for a ‘two-speed’ European Union to break decision-making inertia in the 27-member bloc and galvanise its economies, calling for a core group of member states to move ahead on key policies to make Europe stronger and more independent. ‘Now is the time for a Europe of two speeds,’ German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil said at an event hosted by Welt on Tuesday in Berlin…

“Klingbeil invited partners in France, Poland, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands to a video conference on Wednesday to set an ambitious and concrete agenda to strengthen the sovereignty, resilience and competitiveness of Europe…

“Regarding defence spending, Klingbeil called for better cooperation among member states and for firmly embedding defence as a priority in the next EU multiannual budget, ‘turning defence into an engine for growth.’ 

Ulrich Siegmund—the Rising Star of the AfD? 

Politico wrote on January 30: 

“In recent months, this 35-year-old regional politician [Ulrich Siegmund] has turned into a new leading figure on Germany’s far right, now one of the two largest parties in the national parliament, the Bundestag, neck-and-neck with the Christian Democrats, known as the CDU, and its sister party, the CSU… 

“Later this year, Siegmund has a realistic chance to deliver the AfD its first outright victory one of Germany’s 16 states. Recent polls put the AfD in Saxony-Anhalt at 39 percent, once even at 40. A gain of just two or three points could be enough for Siegmund to secure an absolute majority in the 83-seat state parliament and take over the premier’s office… 

“As long as the firewall holds, the only way the AfD can take power is by winning a straight-up majority. Which is what it seems poised to do in the September elections… And that would immediately launch Siegmund to the forefront of German politics. Nationally, the AfD is led by 46-year-old Alice Weidel, whose cool, abrasive style attracts attention but little affection. Her co-chair Tino Chrupalla, a 50-year-old painter, appears more down-to-earth yet often awkward. By contrast, the young candidate from Saxony-Anhalt presents a more personable, media-savvy image…. Success… would make him a contender for the party’s top candidacy in the next national elections, presumably in 2029.” 

It will be interesting to see how successful Siegmund will become. 

How the Tides Turn 

Politico wrote on February 2: 

“FIFA President Gianni Infantino said on Monday that the world football governing body should lift its ban on Russia competing in international tournaments. Russia was banned from the football events by FIFA immediately following the country’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The ban has remained in place… The suggestion drew a furious response from Ukraine,… 

“Infantino maintains close ties with U.S. President Donald Trump and in December awarded him the newly created FIFA Peace Prize… after the American president was not awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, despite having campaigned heavily for the honor…” 

The Athletic wrote on February 2: 

“The leader of world football’s governing body has been described as a ‘moral degenerate’ by Ukraine’s foreign minister Andrii Sybiha… ‘Future generations will view this as a shame reminiscent of the 1936 Olympics.’” 

In 1936, the Summer Olympics were held in Berlin, Germany, under Adolf Hitler. 49 countries with nearly 4,000 athletes participated. While there were significant international calls and movements to boycott the 1936 Berlin Olympics due to Nazi persecution, ultimately no major country officially boycotted. 

World Cup Boycott? 

Bild Online published on January 31 the following article by Filipp Platov: 

“There is the reasonable, clear, even harsh criticism of Donald Trump that German politicians must offer. Of course, the German government must speak out when the US president criticizes our soldiers or doesn’t rule out deploying his military in Greenland. Then, a rebuttal is necessary, even if the target is the most powerful man in the world. 

“However, there is also a form of Trump criticism that is so excessive and so recklessly damaging to national interests that it borders on hysteria. 

“The best example of this is the call for a World Cup boycott. The debate was sparked by CDU foreign policy expert Juergen Hardt and DFB Vice President Oke Goettlich. The SPD’s sports policy spokesperson, Bettina Lugk, has already announced that she will not travel to the USA. Journalists from major media outlets expressed their support and criticized those who refused to acknowledge the issue. 

“Germany participated in the 2018 World Cup in Russia, even though Vladimir Putin had already been waging a barely disguised war in eastern Ukraine for four years. Germany participated in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, even though the emirate co-finances virtually every Islamist terrorist organization in the world. But suddenly, the USA is supposed to be the red line?” 

The author has a valid point. 

Trump Sleepwalks into a Forever War in Europe 

The Hill published on January 29 the following opinion of Jonathan Sweet and Mark Toth. Col. (Ret.) Jonathan Sweet served 30 years as a military intelligence officer and led the U.S. European Command Intelligence Engagement Division from 2012 to 2014.  Mark Toth writes on national security and foreign policy.  

“Tragically, we have witnessed this trainwreck coming for months… As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky left Davos following his meeting with Trump last week, he told reporters that a document with the U.S. dealing concerning security guarantees for Ukraine was ‘done’… 

“Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner sped off to Moscow to brief Russian President Vladimir Putin, then proceeded to the United Arab Emirates to participate in the trilateral talks. The talks commenced and concluded in Abu Dhabi the next day. The outcome? Russia refused to back off their maximalist demands and continued to demand Ukraine unilaterally withdraw from the Donbas. 

“The U.S. is now 0 for 7 in its negotiations with Russia to end the war — chiefly because Ukraine stubbornly refuses to commit national suicide.

Kyiv will not give Moscow in negotiations what the Russians cannot take on the battlefield. Nor should they be persuaded or coerced into doing so… 

“On Tuesday, Trump pulled a 180. The security guarantees he offered were contingent upon Ukraine withdrawing from the Donbas. That is a hard no for Zelensky and for the Ukrainian people… 

“For now, the sticking point is the Donbas. But what if Ukraine agreed to withdraw from the region? Would Russia end the war? Probably not. It will just lead to the next bone of contention… 

“Putin is the ‘root cause’ of the war. The killing stops when Putin stops attacking. Witkoff’s negotiations have done nothing to bring the war to an end. They only prolong it, creating a ‘forever-war.’ Trump has the cards to end the war, but those cards need to be played against Russia and not Ukraine…” 

Trump’s ever-changing policy regarding the Russia-Ukraine war is hard to follow. 

Ukraine Agrees to US-Backed Security Deal? 

The U.S. Sun wrote on February 3: 

“VOLODYMYR Zelensky has reportedly agreed to a Trump-backed security plan to protect Ukraine from future Russian ceasefire violations. The US president said yesterday that he may have ‘some good news’ on the ongoing efforts to end the war in Ukraine as it nears its four-year anniversary… 

“[The plan] would involve coordinated US-Europe military action against the Kremlin in the event of future peace pact breaches…[It] would trigger a military response against Russia in a day, starting with a ‘diplomatic warning’ and message from the Ukrainian army…  Should fighting continue, a second phase would be initiated involving the military intervention from the ‘coalition of the willing’, made up of more than 20 of Ukraine‘s allies… A western-backed military coalition involving US forces would step in after three days if the ceasefire developed into a wider attack… 

“The Kremlin said on Monday that any foreign military deployment to Ukraine would be treated as unacceptable foreign intervention and legitimate targets in ongoing fighting, citing foreign minister Sergei Lavrov… The sticking point remains whether Kyiv is willing to cede the entire Donbas region or whether [Putin] will row back on his imperialist ultimatum.” 

How would this “plan,” unacceptable to Russia and perhaps even Ukraine, end the Ukraine war??? 

No EU Army With Ukraine 

MENAFN wrote on February 1: 

“The concept of a consolidated European military, promoted by Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelensky, is unfeasible, according to Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s chief for foreign policy and security… Last week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Zelensky advocated for a ‘united armed forces’ of Europe, asserting that Ukraine’s experience in combat against Russia could offer valuable insights… 

“During his speech, he also criticized what he described as hesitation and division among European supporters, while insisting that Ukraine should join the EU by 2027—a demand that has been met with skepticism by some member states… Kallas told reporters, ‘I can’t imagine that countries will create a separate European army. It has to be the armies that already exist’…”  

Ukraine will ultimately be part of or in collaboration with Russia, not the EU. 

EU Militaries a Terrorist Group? 

The Associated Press wrote on January 31: 

“German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on Sunday slammed Iran over its decision to designate European Union militaries as terrorist groups, a move that came in response to the EU adding Iran’s elite paramilitary force [Iranian Revolutionary Guards, IRGC] to its terror list… 

“The IRGC is Iran’s elite military force and far superior to the regular army. In recent decades, the force has not only undergone a massive rearmament, but also expanded its social and economic influence – for example, through investments in hotel chains and airlines.” 

Terrible Death Toll 

The Ron Paul Institute published on February 3 the following article by Brian McGlinchey: 

“…  after more than two years of casting doubts, the IDF has finally admitted its own estimates match the Gaza Health Ministry’s accounting of some 70,000 confirmed dead… in Gaza since the Oct 7, 2023 invasion of Israel by Hamas militants… 

“Importantly, both the IDF official and the Gaza Health Ministry says these numbers do not include bodies yet to be discovered under the incomprehensible volume of rubble across Gaza. The Gaza ministry says its numbers only reflect deaths directly resulting from military fire, excluding those who’ve died from disease and malnutrition. Neither party has yet broken down the death toll into combatants and civilians… 

“President Biden was among the first to who sought to discredit the fatality figures coming from Gaza… Beyond dismissing the top-line number of deaths reported by the Gaza Health Ministry, Israel has also denied credible accusations that IDF soldiers have frequently and deliberately targeted civilians… 

“Israel has also denied widespread reports —substantiated by video — that soldiers shot at civilians gathering at aid distribution points set up last May as malnutrition surged in Gaza and global outrage mounted…” 

“There is none righteous, no, not one” (Romans 3:10). 

When Will the Knesset Act? 

Israel 365 News wrote on February 3: 

“A massive stone vessel, carved 1,800 years ago and used by Jews in the Galilee to maintain ritual purity, now sits in the halls of Israel’s Knesset. The timing is deliberate. As the Parliament building marks its 60th anniversary…, this archaeological treasure forces an unavoidable question: Can the Knesset truly claim to be the heir of the Sanhedrin while ignoring the institution that made the ancient court legitimate—the Temple in Jerusalem?… The exhibition celebrates continuity but avoids the uncomfortable truth: the original Sanhedrin derived its authority from the Temple, and without actively pursuing the Temple’s restoration, the modern Knesset remains an incomplete successor… 

“The Sages understood this as a positive commandment incumbent on each generation—to build and maintain the Temple when circumstances permit. Israel today has sovereignty over Jerusalem. It has the political and military capability to control the Temple Mount. The technological and architectural expertise to construct the Third Temple exists. What is missing is not ability but will, particularly the Knesset’s will to assert Jewish rights at the site… 

“The Knesset passes laws about the Supreme Court and the economy, but avoids legislation addressing Jewish worship rights on the Temple Mount or advancing plans for the Temple’s reconstruction… 

“The modern Knesset… must take concrete steps toward enabling the Third Temple. This means passing legislation affirming Jewish sovereignty over the Temple Mount, allocating resources for preparation of Temple service, and supporting the training of kohanim, priests, for eventual Temple duties… 

“… visitors should see… a challenge to the current leadership to complete what the Sanhedrin in exile could only dream of—the restoration of full Jewish sovereignty over the Temple Mount and the rebuilding of the House that gives the Knesset its true legitimacy as heir to Israel’s ancient institutions of governance.” 

Please view our new StandingWatch program, titled, “The Third Temple—Coming Soon?”

Deep Fraternal Relations Between Iraq and Jordan 

Militia Man and Crew wrote on February 1:

“Minister of Industry and Minerals [of Iraq], Khalid Battal Al-Najm, affirmed the deep fraternal relations between Iraq and Jordan and the importance of strengthening existing cooperation in the industrial sector to achieve the best interests of both brotherly nations…

“The two sides discussed bilateral relations and available cooperation opportunities in several industrial sectors, as well as a number of joint projects… For his part, the Jordanian ambassador affirmed his country’s desire and keenness to solidify cooperation and joint work to serve the industries of both countries.”

According to the Bible, Iraq and Jordan will be part of an anti-Israel confederation. 

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer:  

These Current Events are compiled and commented on by Norbert Link. We gratefully acknowledge the many contributions of news articles from our readership. The publication of articles in this section is not to be viewed as an endorsement or approval as to contents or accuracy of the selected articles, but they are published for the purpose of pointing at worldwide developments in the light of biblical end-time prophecy and godly instruction. Our own comments are provided in italics.

“Jared Kushner Presents Plan for ‘New Gaza’”

JTA wrote on January 22:

“Jared Kushner presented a phased vision for the future of Gaza at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Thursday, saying that there was ‘no plan B’ when it comes to reconstructing the territory battered during the two-year war between Israel and Hamas… The 20-point vision… reflects elements of that ceasefire deal, which has been only partially implemented. It calls for… moving steadily northward until the entire Palestinian territory has been rebuilt, to include a seaport, airport and tourism infrastructure… [Not quite the Riviera of his father-in-law, but close.] 

“Kushner said the most important step is to disarm Hamas, which still controls a portion of Gaza. Emphasized that reconstruction will take place only in portions of Gaza where Hamas is demilitarized, he said some Hamas members who agree to lay down their arms will be given amnesty and could become part of a new security apparatus in Gaza. 

“Kushner suggested that he understood that his vision, which would take many years and at least $25 billion to implement, could encounter obstacles… 

“Kushner’s presentation came as Trump held a ‘signing ceremony’ for his new ‘Board of Peace,’ an entity devised initially to oversee Gaza but whose mandate Trump has indicated could include other world conflicts. (Its charter does not mention Gaza specifically.) Of the 60 countries that the United States invited to join, representatives from about 20 attended the ceremony, including Hungary’s Viktor Orban, Argentina’s Javier Milei and officials from Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

“Orban was the only European leader present [Bulgaria was also represented]; other European countries have turned down the invitation to join the board or expressed concerns about its composition — potentially to include Russia — and potential to undercut other international bodies, about which Trump has expressed disdain. 

“Israel also did not have a representative at the ceremony. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that Israel would join despite misgivings about the presence of Turkey and Qatar, which have backed Hamas, on the board. Netanyahu is not in Davos (Switzerland is party to the International Criminal Court, which has issued a warrant for his arrest) but Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who is present, did not attend.” 

This peace plan and the new Board of Peace are all destined to fail. 

Military Alliance Between Israel, Greece, and Cyprus 

Handelsblatt reported on December 28: 

“Greece, Cyprus, and Israel are deepening their partnership. High-ranking military officials from the three countries signed a joint action plan for military cooperation last week in the Cypriot capital, Nicosia. Political observers see the rapprochement between the three countries as a response to Turkey’s increasingly aggressive behavior in the region. 

“Turkey, under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, is in dispute with Greece and Cyprus over territorial rights and economic zones in the eastern Mediterranean. In Israel, there is particular concern about Turkey’s military presence in Syria… Against the backdrop of growing tensions between Turkey and Israel, military cooperation is now coming to the forefront.

“In Syria, the two countries are in direct confrontation. There, Turkey is attempting to gain political and military influence following the fall of the Assad regime. An Israeli government commission warned earlier this year that a Syria supported by Turkey could pose a greater threat than Iran.

“Concern is also growing in Athens. Turkish drones, as well as fighter and reconnaissance aircraft, have repeatedly violated Greek airspace in recent weeks.  Although both countries are formally allies within NATO, this has not ended the rivalries that have been simmering for decades…” 

“Today’s Israel, Greece, and Cyprus were part of the Ottoman Empire for almost 400 years… Israel also strictly rejects the participation of Turkish soldiers in the planned Gaza peacekeeping force – due to the close ties between the Turkish government and Hamas, which Erdogan describes as a ‘liberation movement’.” 

Frosty Relationship Between Canada and USA 

Politico wrote on January 23: 

“President Donald Trump revoked Canada’s invitation to participate in his ‘Board of Peace’ initiative, in the latest blow to the increasingly frosty relations between the North American neighbors… ‘Canada doesn’t live because of the United States. Canada thrives because we are Canadian,’ Carney said earlier Thursday [responding to Trump’s slur in Davos.] 

“The withdrawn invitation deepens the fracture in the relationship between Trump and Carney, who stood with other NATO allies in opposition to the president’s campaign to wrest control of Greenland from Denmark… 

“… many Western allies have yet to sign on, and France and the United Kingdom have said they will not participate in the plan. Yvette Cooper, the U.K.’s top diplomat, cited Trump’s invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin as part of the reason the U.K. won’t sign on.” 

To invite Putin to the Board is perceived to be an incredible affront to all of Europe (except for Prime Minister of Hungary, Viktor Orban). 

Trump Threatens Canada 

The Associated Press wrote on January 24: 

“President Donald Trump on Saturday threatened to impose a 100% tariff on goods imported from Canada if America’s northern neighbor went ahead with its China trade deal… Trump initially said that agreement was what Carney ‘should be doing and it’s a good thing for him to sign a trade deal.’… 

“Trump’s threat came amid an escalating war of words with Carney as the Republican president’s push to acquire Greenland strained the NATO alliance. Trump had commented while in Davos, Switzerland, this week that ‘Canada lives because of the United States.’ Carney shot back that his nation can be an example that the world does not have to bend toward autocratic tendencies. 

“Trump later revoked his invitation to Carney to join the president’s ‘Board of Peace’ that he is forming to try to resolve global conflicts. Trump’s push to acquire Greenland has come after he has repeatedly needled Canada over its sovereignty and suggested it also be absorbed into the United States as a 51st state. 

“He resumed that rhetoric this week, posting an altered image on social media showing a map of the United States that included Canada, Venezuela, Greenland, and Cuba as part of its territory. In his message Saturday, Trump continued his provocations by calling Canada’s leader ‘Governor Carney.’… 

“Carney has emerged as a leader of a movement for countries to find ways to link up and counter the U.S. under Trump…. Canada is the top export destination for 36 U.S. states. Nearly $3.6 billion Canadian (US $2.7 billion) worth of goods and services cross the border each day.

About 60% of U.S. crude oil imports are from Canada, as are 85% of U.S. electricity imports. Canada is also the largest foreign supplier of steel, aluminum, and uranium to the U.S. and has 34 critical minerals and metals that the Pentagon is eager for and investing in for national security.” 

Canada could become unpleasant for the USA. In Europe, Carney is praised as a hero for his stance against Trump. 

Canada Preparing for US Invasion 

Financial Post wrote on January 20: 

“Canada’s military has modelled [a] hypothetical U.S. invasion, reports say. ‘Canada will never be the 51st state,’ [Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita] Anand said.” 

Obviously, Canada is taking Trump’s threats quite seriously. 

Invading Canada? 

The Guardian wrote on January 27: 

“First, American forces would strike with poison gas munitions, seizing a strategically valuable port city. Soldiers would sever undersea cables, destroy bridges and rail lines to paralyze infrastructure. Major cities on the shores of lakes and rivers would be captured in order to blunt any civilian resistance. The multipronged invasion would rely on ground forces, amphibious landing and then mass internments. According to the architects of the plan, the attack would be short-lived and the besieged country would fall within days.

“The target was Canada, part of a classified 1930 strategy – War Plan Red – for a hypothetical war with Great Britain where the US would seek to deny it any foothold in North America. But the invasion plans, once dismissed as a fumbling historical quirk, have taken on fresh relevance as the US pivots its foreign policy to an increasingly aggressive view of its ‘pre-eminence’ in the western hemisphere and turns its sights on both foes and allies.

“In early January, the fusion of economic nationalism and belligerent foreign policy championed by Donald Trump was on full display when his government ordered the capture of Venezuela’s president, Nicolás Maduro, and the US president announced on social media the US would seize control of the South American country’s oil. Days after, both Trump and prominent officials spoke openly of using military force to invade and capture Greenland for its strategic position and its immense mineral wealth. In late January,…  Canada’s military had modelled a hypothetical invasion of Canada, suggesting guerrilla tactics, similar to those used to repel both Russian and US forces in Afghanistan, would supplant conventional war.

“… threats from Trump that he intends to annex Canada have rattled the country. Last year, Trump said the centuries-old border between the two nations was no more than an ‘artificially drawn line’ that, with force and persuasion, might be redrawn. ‘Somebody drew that line many years ago with, like, a ruler – just a straight line right across the top of the country,’ Trump told Canada’s prime minister, Mark Carney – adding a unified continent was ‘the way it was meant to be’.

“On 20 January, Trump posted an altered image on his social media account that features the US flag covering Canada, Greenland and Venezuela. His comments, condemned by Canadian lawmakers, nonetheless exposed a deep and persistent anxiety that the country, despite decades of tight economic integration, remains vulnerable to US aggression.

“War Plan Red, first devised in 1927 and then approved in 1930, was drawn up amid fears from American military planners that Britain could launch a war against the US where Canada would be the most likely theatre for battle. US planners conceded that if they lost, Canada would​ ‘demand that Alaska be awarded to her’. But the plan highlighted both how Americans believed Canada… would fall quickly – and the broader flimsiness of political alliances… battle designs such as War Plan Red underscore fears within Canada of its continued vulnerability to US military action… Trump and his allies could deploy a sustained campaign to ‘demonize’ Canada by warning the 5,500-mile (8,850km) border has grown increasingly lawless and drugs are ‘pouring across’ in order to shift how Americans perceive of their northern neighbour…

“Last year, the then prime minister, Justin Trudeau, warned business leaders Trump’s threats to annex Canada were a ‘real thing’ and the president wanted to access the country’s critical minerals… A 2025 poll found that 43% of Canadians believed a military attack by the United States within five years was at least somewhat likely, with 10% deeming it highly likely or certain… “

Given subsequent events, a new poll would undoubtedly find that more than just 43% believe that a military attack by the USA is at least somewhat likely. 

“Europe Must ‘Play the Power Game’ with Trump Over Greenland” 

ABC News wrote on January 23, after Trump had announced the nebulous framework of an even more nebulous deal pertaining to Greenland: 

“Greenland is a self-governing territory of the Kingdom of Denmark. Trump’s second term has seen the president double down on his ambition to acquire the minerals-rich island — despite Danish and Greenlandic politicians repeatedly rebuffing him. Trump has suggested that U.S. sovereignty over Greenland is necessary to ensure American security and blunt Chinese and Russian influence in the Arctic region. A 1951 defense agreement already grants the U.S. military access to Greenland, but Trump has suggested the accord is inadequate and has demanded ‘ownership.’… 

“[Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette] Frederikson said in a Thursday morning statement that Copenhagen ‘cannot negotiate on our sovereignty.’ Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said at a Thursday press conference… that they have some ‘red lines’ including territorial integrity, international law and sovereignty... 

“For [former Danish Foreign Minister Jeppe] Kofod… any deal should be twinned with a European show of force. ‘The first step is power,’ Kofod said. Trump may soften his attacks ‘if he sees that he will have all of Europe — including the U.K., France, Germany — against him, and they are ready to defend Greenland,’ Kofod said, plus if he sees that European ‘retaliation is so massive that it will hurt the U.S. economy and interests.’ ‘Trump plays with all the instruments he has. Europe has to learn to play the power game,’ Kofod said… 

“The turbulence will undermine European, American and collective NATO security, Kofod warned. ‘For the U.S. it’s also a big self-inflicted problem,’ he said. ‘But I don’t think Trump looks at the world like that. He  thinks that NATO is there, it’s important, but it’s not something you cannot live without, because you just can form another alliance.’” 

He already tried this with the Gaza Board of Peace, but that one will fail. Europe’s concerns that Trump may continue to try to acquire ownership of Greenland by whatever means continue. 

Europe’s Power in Relation to the USA 

Focus Online wrote on January 24: 

“In Davos, there were negotiations, attempts at appeasement, and ultimately a sigh of relief. FOCUS columnist Jan Fleischhauer asks why Europe once again forgets the power it actually holds in relation to the USA… 

“Fleischhauer reminds us that the EU is the largest economic area in the world. Larger than the USA, larger than China.  Nevertheless, it’s celebrated as a success if they simply manage to avoid being completely taken advantage of… 

“Fleischhauer considers this subservience unnecessary. Because Europe certainly has the means to exert pressure…” 

Schulz Interview with German Public Broadcaster ARD 

SWR reported on January 23: 

“The EU must act faster in the future.  Therefore, former European Parliament President Martin Schulz advocates that some countries should move ahead – if not all EU member states agree – or if countries like Hungary block decisions. He sees the trio of Germany, France, and Italy as an important driving force for Europe. Schulz emphasizes that Germany should effectively utilize the remaining time of French President Macron’s term to advance joint projects.  

“He believes Germany should also try to negotiate with the French about a European nuclear defense shield… Europeans should forge stronger economic and security alliances with democracies such as Canada and Australia in order to stand up to the current major powers and become more independent from the USA.” 

In particular Schulz said this: 

There should be no right of veto for all members.  Instead, decisions should be made by majority vote. At least nine countries can join together without the others being able to prevent it.  And if they want to do so. These could include: Germany, France, Italy, Poland, the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania), Spain, and the other founding members of the EU (Belgium, Luxemburg and the Netherlands). 

He said that Europe must become independent of American military power, but that a European nuclear army is not possible without France. He emphasized that if one wants to, one can act very quickly. He also stated that people are afraid of war. When asked if he wanted to become chancellor, he gave only a vague answer. 

America’s Limited Support for Europe 

Deutsche Welle wrote on January 24: 

“The US will concentrate mostly on protecting the homeland and combating the threat posed by China, while expecting allies to look after their own defense with reduced help from Washington, according to a strategy document released by the Pentagon on Friday… 

“The document describes Russia as ‘a persistent but manageable threat to NATO’s eastern members for the foreseeable future’ and calls on the US’s [European] NATO allies to ‘take the lead’ in defending Ukraine against Moscow’s invasion’ with critical but more limited US support.’’ 

npr added on January 24: 

“The Pentagon released a priority-shifting National Defense Strategy late Friday that chastised U.S. allies to take control of their own security and reasserted the Trump administration’s focus on dominance in the Western Hemisphere… 

“The 34-page document, the first since 2022, was highly political for a military blueprint, criticizing partners from Europe to Asia for relying on previous U.S. administrations to subsidize their defense. It called for ‘a sharp shift — in approach, focus, and tone’… 

“It capped off a week of animosity between President Donald Trump’s administration and traditional allies like Europe… As allies confront what some see as a hostile attitude from the U.S., they will almost certainly be unhappy to see that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s department will provide ‘credible options to guarantee U.S. military and commercial access to key terrain’… It specifically points to access to the Panama Canal and Greenland… Trump previously suggested that the U.S. should potentially consider retaking control of the Panama Canal and accused Panama of ceding influence to China… 

“In another example of offloading regional security to allies, the document says, ‘South Korea is capable of taking primary responsibility for deterring North Korea with critical but more limited U.S. support.’” 

Spain Demands European Army 

Euronews wrote on January 22: 

“The chief of Spain’s diplomacy, José Manuel Albares… called on Europe to take full control of its own security, arguing that the continent must move ‘towards a European army’… 

“‘… we need firstly a coalition of the willing of European security, secondly, an integration of our industries of defence and in the end a European army.’” 

Most Germans View Trump as a Threat 

Deutsche Welle wrote on January 24: 

“A new nationwide poll of Germans shows that a large majority (61%) views US President Donald Trump as a threat to their country… 

“52% of respondents called on German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his administration to take a harder line when dealing with the nation’s longtime ally…” 

Warning For World Cup Soccer Fans: Don’t Travel to America 

Fox News wrote on January 26: 

“Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter says soccer fans should avoid traveling to the United States for the 2026 World Cup this summer… Blatter cited Mark Pieth, an anti-corruption expert and law professor [who] told soccer fans to, ‘Stay away from the USA!’… Pieth added in his interview: ‘… upon arrival, fans should expect that if they don’t please the officials, they’ll be put straight on the next flight home. If they’re lucky.’… 

“Trump’s stance toward Greenland has led to a call to boycott the World Cup this summer by German soccer federation executive Oke Göttlich… 

“‘The country itself is in a state of tremendous turmoil,’ [Pieth] said. ‘What we’re witnessing domestically — the marginalization of political opponents, the abuses by immigration authorities, and so on — doesn’t exactly entice a fan to travel there… Pieth believes the U.S. has become ‘increasingly authoritarian.’” 

According to Bild Online, dated January 26, Pieth also said that soccer fans could be deported to Middle America, and agents could confiscate their smartphones to see whether something negative had been written about Trump. This is clearly overblown, but it shows the growing antagonism of Europe towards Trump. 

Trust in USA Gone 

The Huffington Post wrote on January 23: 

“Though Trump backed down by the end of the day, his two weeks’ worth of assaults over Greenland have rattled European diplomatic officials like nothing in recent memory,.. The alarm blended with disappointment in their own leaders’ response. On Thursday, an E.U. official told HuffPost they compared most European countries’ approach to the president to the fable of the frog and the scorpion: Both die after the former foolishly trusts that the latter will not sting and paralyze him. The scorpion, the official noted, was at least clear about its toxic nature. 

“European institutions ‘don’t seem able to adapt to a world in which the U.S., that played such a crucial role in European integration, not to mention NATO, may actually turn into a threat,’ said Nathalie Tocci, the director of the Istituto Affari Internazionali in Rome.  

“Philip Bednarczyk, an American who… works at the German Marshall Fund’s office in Poland… said this week led proponents of close ties with the U.S. in countries such as Germany, France, Italy and Poland to have ‘a painful recognition that we’re losing what we had.’ He expects pro-American voices in policymaking will lose out to rising anti-American sentiment…’” 

No More Trust 

Politico wrote on January 23: 

“Diplomats and officials now fear the breakdown in personal trust between European leaders and Trump has potentially grave ramifications… Given how unreliable Trump has been as an ally to Europe, officials are now privately asking what [Trump’s] guarantees are really worth… 

“While these leaders know they can no longer trust Trump’s America with Europe’s security, many of them lack the trust of their own voters to do what might be required instead.”  

Trump Destroys NATO and Britain Is Left Behind 

Daily Express published on January 24 the following article by Andrew Neil: 

“… the wiser Nato allies in Europe know there can be no return to business as usual – that we’ve reached a watershed in global politics. That the Atlantic Alliance will never be the same again. That America under Trump must be now be regarded as an unreliable and capricious ally — and at times (Ukraine, Greenland, tariffs) to behave as an enemy. That European Nato, along with Canada, has no time to waste in preparing for a new world order in which they no longer depend for security on the USA…

“This is a wake up call for the British Government, which should take stock… Britain is being left behind – and nothing will change under the current Government. Starmer has neither the vision nor aptitude to meet the challenge. His Labour Party is a prisoner to old ways of thinking and redundant priorities… Our politics dwells on the frivolous, the insignificant, the irrelevant – when what’s at stake is nothing less than national survival. Until we recognise that we cannot be regarded as a serious country.” 

Trump Causes More Outrage 

The Daily Mail wrote on January 23: 

“Keir Starmer led a chorus of fury against Donald Trump today after the president’s vile slur against British soldiers who fought and died in Afghanistan…. Politicians and military veterans reacted with outrage after the president told Fox News that Nato troops, including those from Britain, stayed ‘a little off the front lines’ during the war in Afghanistan. 

“Some [455] British service personnel were killed in the conflict in Afghanistan, fighting alongside the US, and countless more were severely wounded…. The UK suffered the second-highest number of military deaths in the Afghanistan conflict [followed by Canada with 158 deaths]… The US saw [2,465] deaths. America’s allies suffered 1,160 deaths during the conflict – around a third of the total coalition deaths.” 

Trump Backs Down 

The Daily Mail wrote on January 24: 

“Donald Trump has paid tribute to the UK’s ‘great and very brave soldiers’ – after sparking fury with claims British troops dodged the Afghanistan front line. In a statement, the US President said: ‘The GREAT and very BRAVE soldiers of the United Kingdom will always be with the United States of America! In Afghanistan, 457 died, many were badly injured, and they were among the greatest of all warriors…’ 

“Earlier this week Mr Trump was accused of ‘trampling on the memories’ of Britain’s 457 war dead with his claim they had stayed ‘a little off the frontlines’. The President made no mention of the Danes or other NATO soldiers who died in the country.” 

Bowing to pressure and sharp criticism, including from King Charles, Keir Starmer, Rod Stewart, Prince Harry, Denmark, Germany and Poland, and many others, Trump backpedals, without apologizing. As mentioned above, he did not retract his defamation against other NATO soldiers who had died in Afghanistan, including those from Germany and Poland. 

Another Killing in Minnesota 

Focus reported on January 25: 

“Deadly shots fired at another opponent of the U.S. immigration authorities during an ICE operation in Minneapolis are fueling anger against President Donald Trump’s administration. The parents of the man who was shot accused the officers of killing their son, Alex Pretti, without legitimate reason. They accused Trump’s administration of spreading lies about the incident in the state of Minnesota. The Department of Homeland Security is portraying the case as self-defense on the part of the officer, but videos from the scene are fueling criticism of ICE raids against migrants and the heavy-handed tactics used against protesting civilians.  Earlier in January, when 37-year-old U.S. citizen Renee Good was shot and killed in her car during an ICE operation in Minneapolis, the government also described the action as self-defense by an officer whose life was in imminent danger. But in that case, too, videos painted a different picture…” 

“Several eyewitness videos of the incident on the street are circulating online, filmed from different perspectives. One of them, which the German Press Agency has verified, shows several masked individuals in tactical gear violently forcing a person to the ground and attempting to restrain him. This person is clearly Alex Pretti.  He is eventually surrounded by eight officers. Then shots are fired; judging by the sound, there are about ten shots… Even after the man is lying motionless on the ground, at least one of the masked individuals continues to shoot at him. 

“Regarding the question of whether Pretti was armed—he was, according to police, generally authorized to carry a firearm—the videos reviewed by dpa do not provide a clear answer. In one of the videos circulating on social media, it appears that ICE officers may have confiscated a pistol from him—but this was before the first shots were fired, which would further call into question the claim of an alleged imminent threat to the lives of the officers… 

“Since the US government and its subordinate agencies under Trump regularly spread false claims or at least selectively present the truth, many people no longer believe their statements.” 

This will continue. The next fatal shooting is inevitable. 

Trump Replaces Kristi Noem With Tom Homan! 

Daily Mail wrote on January 26: 

“Donald Trump has sidelined Kristi Noem and ordered her longtime rival [Tom Homan] to lead a rapidly deteriorating Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation in Minneapolis… Trump’s immigration crackdown plunged into yet another scandal on Saturday when ICE agents shot dead American citizen Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old nurse. 

“It came amid weeks of riots in Minneapolis following the killing of anti-ICE protester Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three.  Republican lawmakers in Washington have raised concerns that Noem’s operation has spiraled out of control… Trump himself has privately expressed that Noem’s department mishandled the public messaging in the immediate aftermath of Pretti’s shooting… 

“Noem and Homan have battled for control of Trump’s mass deportation agenda from the start of the administration. Under Noem’s leadership, non-law enforcement DHS officials have feuded with career ICE officers, who are loyal to Homan, over how to detain and deport illegal migrants.  

“Corey Lewandowski, a longtime Trump insider and Noem’s rumored lover, has publicly accused Homan of leaking to the Press and has sought to oust immigration officers close to the border czar. Homan now appears to have the President’s support after Trump appointed him to clean up the mess caused by Noem’s leadership in the Twin Cities.” 

Replacing “incompetent” Noem with “radical” Homan? Insofar as the power struggle between DHS and ICE is concerned, it reminds us of the power struggle between the SA (Sturmabteilung)  and the SS (Schutzstaffel) in Hitler’s Germany. Noem, Miller and Bovino immediately justified the horrible shooting of Alex Pretti as self-defense, misrepresented the facts, and labeled the victim as a domestic terrorist. Even the IRA objected to such classification. 

Noem Demanded Meeting With Trump 

The New York Post wrote on January 27: 

“Noem demanded a two-hour meeting with President Trump in the Oval Office late Monday after she was elbowed aside amid backlash over her handling of the latest deadly shooting in Minneapolis by ICE agents… Numerous videos… showed the ICU nurse only holding a cellphone and trying to get away from the agents… 

“Trump… didn’t suggest Noem’s job was on the line during the sit-down, sources told the outlet.” 

In fact, according to Fox News, dated January 27, Trump said that Noem is doing a “great job.” This is not very promising. 

Daily Mail added on January 27: 

“Video showed eight agents surrounding Pretti and tackling him to the ground. The nurse, who was carrying a licensed firearm, appeared to have been disarmed before he was shot ten times in less than five seconds. 

Demonstrating Peacefully? 

Fox News wrote on January 27: 

“Melania Trump called for national unity Tuesday as tensions remain high following the fatal shootings of two civilians by federal agents in Minneapolis. ‘We need to unify… I know my husband, the president, had a great call yesterday with the governor [Tim Walz] and the mayor [Jacob Frey], and they’re working together to make it peaceful and without riots,’ Mrs. Trump said…  ‘I’m against violence so, please, if you protest, protest in peace.’” 

What about “peaceful” conduct of brutal ICE and DHS agents??? 

Gregory Bovino Out? 

The Atlantic wrote on January 26: 

“Gregory Bovino has been removed from his role as Border Patrol ‘commander at large’ and will return to his former job in El Centro, California, where he is expected to retire soon, according to a DHS official and two people with knowledge of the change… 

“For the past seven months, Bovino has been the public face of a traveling immigration crackdown on cities governed by Democrats. Noem and other Trump officials gave Bovino the ‘commander’ title and sent him and his masked border agents to Chicago, Charlotte, New Orleans, and then Minneapolis. Bovino… traveled the country with his own film crew and used social media to hit back at Democratic politicians and random critics online. Veteran ICE and CBP officials grew more and more uneasy as Bovino worked outside his agency’s chain of command and appeared to relish his role as a political actor.”  

The White House disputed that Bovino, a close ally of Noem, was relieved of his duties, calling him a “great American,” but did not deny that he would leave Minneapolis. Bovino’s actions and conduct have been highly controversial. He even called the agents “victims” who shot Pretti on January 24. Bovino has found in November by a court to have lied dealing with his conduct against demonstrators. He has been nicknamed “little Napoleon.” He liked to dress in a Nazi-like outfit, being described by Der Spiegel as looking like “an elegant SS officer.” He has been nicknamed by some as “Gestapo Greg.” He has warned that those who compare him and his methods with the Gestapo will have to face consequences. 

“Being Incited Into Civil War”? 

Newsweek wrote on January 26: 

“Former U.S. representative Marjorie Taylor Greene has warned that Americans are being ‘incited into civil war,’  following the death of Alex Pretti… 

“Writing on X, Greene… urged people from both sides of the political spectrum ‘to take off their political blinders’ and appeared to ask her supporters to question the events.”

Greene might have a point. 

Trump’s Watershed Moment 

The Daily Mail wrote on January 28: 

“For all presidents there comes an event that history will record as the tipping point moment of their administration. Joe Biden’s was when he disastrously withdrew US troops from Afghanistan seven months into his presidency, and his poll numbers never recovered. Jimmy Carter was torpedoed by his inability to solve the Iran hostage crisis. George W. Bush’s popularity never rebounded after Hurricane Katrina. 

“Now, Donald Trump is facing his own reckoning as his approval rating sinks to a record low following the shootings of Alex Pretti and Renee Good by immigration officers in Minneapolis. 

“An exclusive Daily Mail/JL Partners poll shows Trump at 45 percent approval, his equal worst ever showing in the survey…  It reveals 55 percent of Americans now disapprove of his overall performance. Worst of all for Trump, immigration, his signature issue for the last decade, is now proving to be an albatross around his neck, one of the areas where he has least support. Just 39 percent approve of his handling of the issue, with 47 percent disapproving.  

“According to the Daily Mail poll, 53 percent of voters say the chaos in Minneapolis has been a ‘turning point’ moment for them personally. That includes 39 percent of Republicans. It marks, without question, a key watershed in his presidency…. 

“The zealousness with which ICE has pursued its mission is now the number one driver of disapproval of the president, the Daily Mail poll revealed…  there has been a constant deluge of news reports about undocumented foreign nannies and gardeners being arrested by masked and heavily armed ICE operatives, culminating in the disaster that has now engulfed Minneapolis….  the Daily Mail poll shows America holds him responsible for events in Minneapolis…. ICE itself was viewed favorably by only 32 percent, and unfavorably by 55 percent… 

“Beyond ICE and Minneapolis, there is a wider problem too. Trump is struggling on all issues, according to the poll. Only 36 percent of Americans approve of his handling of the economy, with 51 percent disapproving. Even less, 33 percent, approve of his efforts to tackle inflation, with 53 percent disapproving. 

“Just 31 percent approve on healthcare, with 49 percent disapproval. Foreign policy – where he has focused much of his time – stands at 36 percent approval and 47 percent disapproval…. 

“Republicans face losing control of the House [during the Midterm elections], leaving Trump fighting an uphill battle for the final two years of his presidency, along with the possibility of being impeached for a third time.” 

While prior impeachments were doomed to fail, due to the strictly political nature of the allegations and the absence of judicial violations, this time around may be different, as an impeachment for some of Trump’s perceived illegal actions might very well be justified.   

A Fourth Term? 

The Huffington Post wrote on January 23: 

“Donald Trump on Thursday reignited speculation about serving beyond January 2029, when his second term in office is due to end. Posting on his Truth Social platform, the president wrote: ‘RECORD NUMBERS ALL OVER THE PLACE! SHOULD I TRY FOR A FOURTH TERM?’… 

“It is unclear what Trump exactly meant by a ‘fourth’ term. The remark could reference his… claim that he won the 2020 election against Joe Biden… [or] it could suggest a bid to serve two additional terms.” 

“Record numbers all over the place”? Trump is really hallucinating. So is J.D. Vance. Note the next article. 

J.D. Vance’s Titanic 

Yahoo! News wrote on January 23: 

“JD Vance needed an analogy for the Trump economy and landed on… the Titanic. The vice president, 41, got mocked relentlessly on social media after making a head-scratching metaphor in a speech intended to tout the Trump administration’s economic policies. 

As he stood in front of a massive banner that promised “lower prices” and “bigger paychecks” in the manufacturing town of Toledo, Ohio, Vance blamed the affordability crisis—once dismissed as a ’hoax’ by President Donald Trump—on the Biden administration… ‘You don’t turn the Titanic around overnight. It takes time to fix what was broken.’” 

Of course, the Titanic was never “fixed.” The “indestructible” ship sank in 1912 after it struck an iceberg, leaving over 1,500 passengers dead.  However, Vance’s analogy inadvertently and unintentionally told the Truth: America, the Titanic, will not be fixed, but it will go down.   

The Coming Storm With Iran 

The Sun wrote on January 23: 

“IRAN has issued a chilling threat to Donald Trump after he ordered a military armada towards the Ayatollah’s regime and warned that Washington was ‘watching’… 

“A top Khamenei crony said on Friday that the mullahs may target US-linked investments in the Middle East – if Trump were to step in and strike Iran… Ayatollah henchman Mohammad Javad Haj Ali Akbari said: ‘The one trillion dollars you have invested in the region is under the watch of our missiles.’… 

“Fears that the Iranian regime is still killing protesters under the guise of a total internet blackout are resurfacing. President Trump said he had received assurances that the killing had stopped earlier this month, but speculation is mounting that Supreme Leader Khamenei may continue executing civilians. Iran’s top prosecutor even denied claims that Iran had permanently called off some 800 executions – as Trump had previously claimed.” 

The Mother of All Deals 

npr wrote on January 27: 

“After nearly two decades of negotiations, India and the European Union announced Tuesday they have reached a free trade agreement to deepen economic and strategic ties. The accord, which the EU chief described as the ‘mother of all deals,’ could affect as many as 2 billion people. The deal between two of the world’s biggest markets comes as Washington targets both India and the EU with steep import tariffs, disrupting established trade flows and pushing major economies to seek alternate partnerships. ‘This agreement will bring major opportunities for the people of India and Europe,’ India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in a virtual address to an energy conference. ‘It represents 25% of the global GDP and one-third of global trade.’

“The accord will see free trade on almost all goods between the 27 members of the EU and India, covering everything from textiles to medicines and bringing down high import taxes for European wine and cars… India is expected to reduce or eliminate tariffs for 96.6% of EU exports, while Brussels will reciprocate with similar reductions in phases that eventually cover nearly 99% of India’s shipments by trade value…” 

Germany and Italy Sign Defense Cooperation Agreement 

Deutsche Welle wrote on January 23: 

“Germany and Italy are deepening defense and economic cooperation with the leaders of the two countries signing an agreement in Rome. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni agreed on closer cooperation in the production of drones, naval vessels, underwater systems and air and missile defense systems. 

“The leaders are also looking to collaborate in the development of electronic warfare and aerial combat defense systems.”

The European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) added on January 23: 

“The Italy-Germany partnership could knock down the barriers that are holding Europe back… Today’s meeting in Rome marked a qualitative shift from alignment to structured co-governance… This sends a signal that Italy and Germany intend to shape the European defence pillar together rather than merely contribute to it separately.” 

More than 20 ministers from Italy and Germany met in Rome to discuss the implementation of the signed agreements. It reminds us somewhat of the infamous “Pact of Steel” between Italy and Germany which was signed in Berlin on May 22, 1939, declaring cooperation concerning the military and the economy.

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer:  

These Current Events are compiled and commented on by Norbert Link. We gratefully acknowledge the many contributions of news articles from our readership. The publication of articles in this section is not to be viewed as an endorsement or approval as to contents or accuracy of the selected articles, but they are published for the purpose of pointing at worldwide developments in the light of biblical end-time prophecy and godly instruction. Our own comments are provided in italics.

Trump’s Tariffs For Countries Supporting Greenland 

Yahoo! Finance wrote on January 17:

“President Trump said the US would implement 10% tariffs on eight European countries he says are getting in the way of a US purchase of Greenland. [He specified that the tariffs are imposed on those countries that have sent military forces to Greenland]. The tariffs would begin Feb. 1 and apply to ‘any and all goods sent to’ the US. 

“The levies on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland would be raised to 25% on June 1 if no agreement is in place.” 

The small contingent of troops sent by Europeans to Greenland had only a symbolic character to underscore Europe’s commitment to Greenland. In the meantime, waffling Germany withdrew its small contingent, saying that they had fulfilled their commission of observing the situation. However, it is clear that Trump is using tariffs as blackmail and coercion. Sadly, the US Supreme Court has still not issued a ruling on the legality of such tariffs. Trump speaks of purchasing Greenland but knows that Denmark and Greenland will not agree to a purchase; so he is really talking about military acquisition. Trump is making his European “allies” very angry. Has the time come for the prophesied lasting final separation? 

Trump’s Punitive Tariffs Are “Grotesque” 

Die Welt wrote on January 17: 

“The new punitive tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump are meeting with massive criticism in the German business community.  Associations are warning of an escalation of the trade dispute and calling for a united response from the EU… ‘The announcement of new US tariffs on certain European countries is grotesque,’ said the president of the German Foreign Trade Association (BGA), Dirk Jandura. 

‘The US is punishing participants in a NATO operation; that is simply inconceivable. This marks a new low point in American-European trade relations.’  He added that Germany continues to stand by Denmark, and that democracy and freedom cannot be wiped away with punitive tariffs.” 

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Trump’s threat to impose tariffs over Greenland is “completely wrong.” Reform leader Nigel Farage said: “We don’t always agree with the US government and in this case we certainly don’t.”  

Trump a Threat to NATO 

Deutsche Welle wrote on January 17:

“Most Germans believe US President Donald Trump’s policies are putting the NATO alliance at risk, according to a new poll. Some 78% of respondents to the ZDF Politbarometer survey said Trump’s approach endangers the alliance… The survey comes as Trump presses US claims over Greenland… 

“The poll also asked how the European Union should respond if the US were to intervene militarily… A clear majority of 69% said the EU should oppose such actions…” 

What needs to be realized is that Trump really wants to leave NATO. So the Greenland debacle might be a welcome excuse for him to do so—or forcing Europe to kick the USA out.

“IF US Goes Extreme, Europe Will Go Extreme”

Newsbreak wrote on January 4: 

“Harald Viereck Fehlinger, an Austrian political activist associated with an unofficial NATO enlargement advocacy group, issued a stark warning to the United States over its stated interest in acquiring Greenland, threatening the removal of American military forces and bases from Europe if such a move were to occur… 

“According to Fehlinger, the loss of these bases would dismantle the foundation of American power projection in Europe that has existed since World War II. He argued that Europe could defend itself without U.S. troops, without the American nuclear umbrella, and without U.S. military infrastructure on the continent. He further claimed that U.S. forces would be expelled and sent back to the United States, ending America’s military footprint in Europe… 

“Fehlinger’s statements do not reflect official European policy, they underscore the severity of the rhetoric emerging around Greenland and highlight how the dispute has escalated into open threats against long-standing U.S. military arrangements in Europe.” 

Those words would have never been spoken just a few months ago.

Macron Warns Trump 

Express wrote on January 15: 

“Emmanuel Macron has issued a stern warning to Donald Trump, cautioning that any breach of Greenland’s sovereignty would trigger ‘unprecedented cascading consequences’ for the transatlantic alliance. The statement represents the strongest European pushback yet to Mr Trump’s increasingly aggressive rhetoric, which has evolved from diplomatic interest to explicit threats of military action. 

“The US President has recently ramped up his language significantly, suggesting that the United States will acquire the island either ‘the easy way or the hard way,’ a characterization that has rattled European capitals… 

“French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot… emphasized: ‘Greenland does not want to be owned, governed… or integrated into the United States. Greenland has made the choice of Denmark, NATO, and the European Union.’” 

European countries are uniting in their opposition to Trump’s “autocratic” and “threatening” conduct. 

Stephen Miller’s Bizarre Thinking 

The Huffington Post wrote on January 17: 

“The White House deputy chief of staff [Stephen Miller] argued that America has a right to Greenland because ‘tiny’ Denmark can’t defend its territory against U.S. military force.” 

What kind of twisted and despicable Hitler-like “logic” is that?

Greenland Saga Far From Over 

Bild Online reported on January 17: 

“The Greens are demanding a unified response from the European Union to US President Donald Trump’s tariff threats against Germany and other European countries in the Greenland conflict. 

“‘The EU must not back down now in the face of Trump’s tariff threats,’ said parliamentary group leader Katharina Dröge in Berlin. ‘A clear message must be sent to Trump that the EU will respond to tariff threats with retaliatory tariffs.’… 

“The CDU foreign policy expert and the Union’s rapporteur for North America and the Arctic, Peter Beyer (55)… [said:] ‘This looks like a typical Trump maneuver: He’s applying maximum pressure, he wants a deal. But my transatlantic heart bleeds when I see that in these times we almost have to be glad when it’s only about punitive tariffs from Washington.’” 

But it won’t stay there. This is going to escalate. 

Trump Continues to Provoke and Attack 

Mediaite wrote on January 20: 

“The president [shared] an AI-produced image of him presenting a doctored map of the Western Hemisphere – showing Canada, Greenland, and Venezuela all under a U.S. flag — to European leaders gathered in the Oval Office… Another image showed him planting a U.S. flag on Greenland while flanked by Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, with a sign that read ‘Greenland — U.S. Territory Est. 2026.’… He closed the barrage by attacking Britain over the ‘GREAT STUPIDITY’ of its decision to cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, lashing out at plans to transfer Diego Garcia, home to a major US military base… 

“Trump went further, citing the move as ‘another in a very long line of National Security reasons why Greenland has to be acquired.’ … The intervention reportedly blindsided London, not least because Trump’s own secretary of state, Marco Rubio, previously welcomed the Chagos deal, calling it ‘a critical asset for regional and global security’ and praising its role in safeguarding the base for decades.” 

According to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump told him personally that he approved of the Chagos deal. 

Trump Won’t Use Force to Acquire Greenland? 

Newsmax wrote on January 21: 

“President Donald Trump said Wednesday he wants negotiations to acquire Greenland, portraying the effort as a strategic necessity while insisting he does not want to use military force. ‘People thought I would use force. I don’t want to use force. I won’t use force,’ Trump said in remarks to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. 

“Trump, however, also said on Wednesday that the United States will not forget the slight if a deal on Greenland is not reached. ‘So we want a piece of ice for world protection, and they won’t give it,’ he said. ‘We’ve never asked for anything else, and we could have kept that piece of land, and we didn’t. So [you] have a choice. You can say yes, and we will be very appreciative. Or you can say no, and we will remember.’ ‘All the United States is asking for is a place called Greenland, where we already had it as a [territory] but respectfully returned it back to Denmark not long ago, after we defeated the Germans, the Japanese, the Italians, and others in World War II,’ said Trump. ‘We gave it back to them.’… 

“He used World War II to support his claim that Denmark could not defend Greenland and said the U.S. built bases there at significant cost. ‘We saw this in World War II when Denmark fell to Germany after just six hours of fighting and was totally unable to defend either itself or Greenland,’ Trump said… He said the U.S. should not have returned Greenland after the war… ‘After the war, we gave Greenland back to Denmark. How stupid were we to do that, but we did it. But we gave it back. But how ungrateful are they now?’” 

Welt Online added on January 21: 

“He then reprimanded Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The US has always been very generous to Canada, he said. Despite this, Carney hadn’t shown much gratitude in his Davos speech. ‘Canada exists because of the United States, remember that, Mark, the next time you speak,’ Trump said. The US president has repeatedly expressed his desire to annex Canada as another federal state…” 

Trump’s Big Greenland Defeat?

USA Today wrote on January 21:

“Donald Trump said he’s holding off on imposing tariffs he threatened on eight European nations after securing the ‘framework of a future deal’ with NATO involving Greenland and ‘the entire Arctic region…’ ‘This solution, if consummated, will be a great one for the United States of America, and all NATO Nations,’ Trump said…

“Details of the potential deal were not immediately clear. In his post, Trump made no mention of the United States acquiring Greenland, a territory of Denmark that he’s repeatedly said the United States needs for security purposes. He instead referenced additional discussions over his planned $175 billion air defense system known as the ‘Golden Dome.’…

“He declined to lay out the full details but suggested Greenland would be part of the Golden Dome and that the U.S. would acquire mineral rights in Greenland… Trump said Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff will be involved in future negotiations over Greenland and the Golden Dome.’”

The Huffington Post wrote:

“After first threatening another trade war and then hinting at an actual one to wrest control of Greenland away from Denmark, President Donald Trump Wednesday backed down from all his threats and claimed victory… It is… unclear what a new agreement would offer the United States that it cannot already do under a 1951 treaty with Denmark about U.S. military installations there.”

The Sun added on January 21:

“DENMARK is reportedly set to keep control of Greenland under a Trump-backed framework as Europe takes a deep sigh of relief. But Nato chief Mark Rutte has warned negotiations remain ongoing with ‘more work to be done’ after the President publicly pushed to take control of the Arctic island…”

Der Stern wrote:

“When asked whether the deal was about acquiring Greenland, Trump simply told the US broadcaster CNBC that he didn’t want to comment on it at the moment and that it was ‘somewhat complex.’… According to a NATO spokeswoman, however, the actual discussions have yet to take place…”

Focus wrote:

“The Danish Foreign Minister did not comment on Trump’s statements about such an agreement… Lars Løkke Rasmussen declined to provide details. However, the minister made it clear: ‘The US will not acquire Greenland.’ He described Trump’s ambition in this regard as ‘wild fantasies.’”

Old Western Order Is History 

The Guardian wrote on January 15: 

“Donald Trump is threatening to take over Greenland, the territory of a Nato ally, possibly by military force, as Vladimir Putin is trying to take over Ukraine. Even if he doesn’t actually do it, this is a new era: a post-western world of illiberal international disorder… 

“All the signs are that Trump is going to get more extreme and unpredictable as time goes by and his domestic difficulties increase… 

“Europe – the US’s biggest single economic partner – should privately review the full range of economic responses (including, for example, selling off US Treasury bonds) it could make in the… event of Trump ordering a Putin-style military takeover of Greenland. The outline of these contingency plans could be discreetly conveyed to the White House via US Treasury secretary Scott Bessent or presidential son-in-law Jared Kushner. There are doubtless other possible moves, but the general thrust is clear: a Europe (and Canada, and other liberal democracies) projecting quiet strength, power and resolve.” 

Far Right European Parties Distance Themselves From Trump 

Politico wrote on January 16: 

“Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has long sought close ties to the Trump administration in its quest for powerful international allies and an end to its political isolation at home. But as public sentiment in Germany increasingly turns against U.S. President Donald Trump and his foreign interventionism…, AfD leaders are recalibrating, putting distance between their party and a U.S. president they previously embraced. 

“By distancing themselves from Trump, the AfD leaders are following the path of Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally in France, whose leaders, due to the American president’s deep unpopularity there, have been far more critical of Trump and view his administration’s overtures to European nationalists as a liability… 

“The AfD’s criticism this week, by contrast, was tepid… But the political risks inherent in the AfD’s efforts to ally with Trump are also becoming clearer. Surveys show the vast majority of Germans strongly oppose what Trump has said about Greenland and what he has done in Venezuela. Only 12 percent of Germans view his performance positively… while only 15 percent see the U.S. as a trustworthy partner, a new low.”

Trump Sees No Longer Obligation to Bring Peace 

The New York Post wrote on January 19: 

“President Trump has warned America’s European allies ‘I no longer feel an obligation to think purely of Peace’ after he missed out on last year’s Nobel Prize amid a new round of threats to annex Greenland… 

“‘Dear Jonas,’ reads the message…  ‘Considering your Country decided not to give me the Nobel Peace Prize for having stopped 8 Wars PLUS, I no longer feel an obligation to think purely of Peace, although it will always be predominant, but can now think about what is good and proper for the United States of America. Denmark cannot protect that land [Greenland] from Russia or China, and why do they have a “right of ownership” anyway? There are no written documents, it’s only that a boat landed there hundreds of years ago, but we had boats landing there, also,’ Trump goes on…

“Despite the president’s complaints…, the Norwegian government has no role in awarding the Nobel Peace Prize, which is done by an independent committee… Trump campaigned hard for the Peace Prize and received public nominations from several world leaders — though the annual nominating deadline of Jan. 31 precluded him from receiving the award for most actions during the first year of his second term in office.” 

Newsmax wrote on January 19, 2025 

“Danish sovereignty over the vast, mineral-rich island is documented in a series of binding legal instruments including a treaty ⁠agreed in 1814. ​

“The U.S. has repeatedly recognized that Greenland ‍is part of the Kingdom of Denmark.” 

When asked whether he would seize Greenland by force, Trump responded, “No comment.” 

His justification to acquire (conquer) Greenland as a reason for not getting the Peace Prize has  been roundly condemned on US Social Media. Trump’s letter has been described by commentators as “deranged,” “insane”, and “unhinged crazy talk.” The Daily Beast wrote on January 19: 

“Even by Trump’s standards, this letter is so dangerous and so delusional that there is no longer any question that the president is mentally ‘unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office,’ as laid out in the 25th Amendment to the Constitution. It is clearly not rational to start a war because your feelings got hurt by not winning a prize that you were not even eligible for.” 

At the same time, Russia is celebrating the “collapse of NATO.” 

Trump Managed to Combine His Three Least Popular Policies: Greenland, Canada and Tariffs 

The Independent wrote on January 19: 

“… his [tariff] threats [against European countries] come despite being one of his most unpopular policies with voters at home and abroad. Trump’s comments are just the latest sign that the United States can no longer be considered a reliable partner for its European partners… 

“While Trump continues to push his idea of the U.S. taking Greenland, voters remain opposed… Now, Trump is trying to couple Greenland with another one of his favorite terms – tariffs – despite poor polling… 

“In the same token, NBC News reported that Trump is now fretting about Canada and its supposed vulnerabilities to Russia and China. It comes after a reprieve from Trump’s threats last year about turning Canada into the ‘51st state.’ 

“But there is just one problem: all of these measures are incredibly unpopular. In fact, the president has figured out how to merge three of the least popular parts of his agenda to create a… policy that will alienate most of the American electorate eleven months before the 2026 midterm elections…

“The Wall Street Journal’s poll released this weekend found that his approval on both the economy and tariffs are at a negative ten percent. And this does not begin to talk about how unpopular taking Greenland is… There is also not much support for taking control of Canada. Only 22 percent of Americans support taking control of Canada and only 4 percent support using military force against Canada. 

“The CBS News/YouGov poll also found that 86 percent of Americans opposed using military force to take Greenland, with 70 percent of Republicans disapproving of the idea. In addition, 69 percent of Americans thought that taking Greenland by military force would cause the United States to leave NATO, even though 54 percent thought it would give the country access to needed resources…” 

Trump’s desire to annex Canada is not going away. And, this article does not even include Trump’s highly unpopular immigration policy. 

A Stretch Too Far?

MSN wrote on January 19: 

“President Trump may be overplaying his hand in negotiations for Greenland, economists are warning, after the Oval Office threatened new tariffs on E.U. countries if they did not support America’s demand to purchase the territory… 

“Deutsche Bank’s Jim Reid… wrote in a note to clients this morning. ‘The main Achilles Heel of the U.S. is the huge twin deficits. So while in many ways it feels like the U.S. holds the economic cards, it doesn’t hold all the funding cards in a world that will be very disturbed by the weekend’s events.’ 

“Investors, analysts, and world leaders have long wondered when—or if—a debt crisis would occur in one of the nations burdened by a massive deficit. While the likes of Japan, the U.K., and France are by no means balancing their books, America’s $38 trillion deficit dwarfs its counterparts. While a great deal of that debt is held by the public (including the Fed, where President Trump is also in hot water), vast sums are also owned by foreign governments and overseas investors… 

“Europe being America’s largest lender ‘illustrates the deep interdependence between the U.S. and Europe but also shows that, at least theoretically, Europe also has leverage on the U.S.,’ wrote Carsten Brzeski, global head of macro, and Bert Colijn, chief economist for the Netherlands.”

Sooner or later, Europe will use that leverage on the USA. 

“Germany-US Rift Is Looming After a Year of Trump” 

Deutsche Welle wrote on January 19: 

“The second term of US President Donald Trump has brought unprecedented strain on once-solid German-American relations. The issue of Greenland could be a tipping point… ‘This is a really dramatically tense time. Rachel Tausendfreund, an American researcher at the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP), told DW. ‘Germany is wondering right now if it has to be preparing for an attack by its most important NATO ally. In that sense, the relationship has never been worse…’ 

“Johannes Varwick, Professor of International Relations at the University of Halle, thinks that a takeover of Greenland ‘would indeed be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. I believe that the trust relationship with the US would probably be irrevocably broken…’ 

“Trump… has… disregarded almost all previously held beliefs regarding the close partnership… Varwick said: ‘The only thing that really, if ever, could make an impression [with Trump], is a truly united European position. Friedrich Merz is working on that, but the European countries have hugely differing interests.’.. 

“The German government seems clueless as to how it can, on one hand, keep Trump on board in the quest for peace in Ukraine and as a protector of Europe and, on the other, remain true to its self-proclaimed values: adherence to international law and a rules-based international order… 

“Varwick… sees turbulent times ahead for Germany because with Trump, imperialism and the ‘might makes right’ approach have returned. ‘That is, of course, very, very bad news for Germany…’ 

“Merz invited Trump to Germany when relations were already very tense, but long before the latest escalation over Greenland. Under current circumstances, it seems almost unthinkable that Donald Trump would visit soon.” 

The current German government, under Merz, is indeed clueless. But a new government, as prophesied in the Bible, will change this. 

Europe to Divorce America? 

Politico wrote on January 19: 

“… for many European governments, including America’s longest-standing and most loyal allies, Trump’s threat of punitive tariffs against anyone who tries to stop him taking Greenland was the final straw. Divorce, they believe, is now inevitable. In private, dismayed European officials describe Trump’s rush to annex the sovereign Danish territory as ‘crazy’ and ‘mad,’ asking if he is caught up in his ‘warrior mode’ after his Venezuela adventure — and saying he deserves Europe’s toughest retaliation… 

“… diplomats and government officials in national capitals are also considering what a long-term split from Washington might bring… 

“European states, including those not in the EU like Britain and Norway, have spent much of Trump’s second term working in an increasingly effective group that already operates without America… National security advisers from 35 governments are in regular contact, meeting frequently online and in person, as well as interacting via less formal text messaging… Levels of trust in these circles are generally high… Nor is it just at the level of officials: National leaders are themselves rolling up their sleeves and working in intimate new groupings.  

“Leaders including the U.K.’s Keir Starmer, France’s Emmanuel Macron and Germany’s Friedrich Merz, as well as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Alexander Stubb of Finland and Meloni of Italy regularly text with each other — often in the same group chat. Over the past year they have developed a well-drilled routine of exchanging messages whenever Trump does something wild and potentially damaging… 

“But Trump’s hell-raising over Greenland has now tipped the balance. Gone is the softly-softly approach to the American president’s threats… This format could potentially become the seedbed for a new security alliance in an era when the U.S. no longer supports NATO and European security.” 

Europe is secretly working on a new European alliance, without the USA. 

EU Army Without All 27 Member States 

Euractiv wrote on January 18: 

“Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has signalled he is ready to push ahead with a common European army and defence industry – even if not all EU members are on board. 

“‘Europe must move forward in its integration process and equip itself with a truly common defence. And for that we do not need the unanimous agreement of all 27 member states,’ he told Spanish daily La Vanguardia… 

“When asked whether EU leaders have discussed the idea of a smaller group of countries moving ahead independently on defence, Sánchez said they have – but only in an ‘abstract’ way.” 

The prophesied concept of a “core Europe” or a Europe with two speeds is again making a comeback.

Martin Schulz on Collision Course 

Bild Online wrote on January 19: 

“Former SPD leader Martin Schulz (70), once President of the European Parliament, has reacted to US President Donald Trump’s (79) plans for Greenland with a fierce attack… ‘He wants Europe to consist of vassal states that do what he says. If I can’t buy it, I’ll conquer it militarily. Today Venezuela belongs to us, tomorrow the whole world.’… 

“‘May the American voters prevent another one like Trump from coming along, this Vance or whatever his name is!… But I am allowed to say here that I consider him (Vance) a shady character.’”

Merz Sharply Criticizes Trump 

Die Welt reported on January 17: 

“At a CDU event in Baden-Württemberg, Chancellor Friedrich Merz spoke with unusual frankness: The US course is developing ‘towards a purely power- and interest-driven policy.’ Germany must not become a pawn of the great powers, Merz warned…

“Merz is becoming increasingly disillusioned with the policies of US President Donald Trump and is calling for a more self-confident stance from the Europeans… Merz also apparently no longer expects any changes from Trump… If Trump simply continues his policies, ‘we mustn’t bury our heads in the sand and say we’ll just accept it all.’” 

Now Germany’s chancellor openly opposes Trump as well. But with indecisive Merz, nobody knows for sure what his next step will be, if any. 

Europe Wants to Normalize Relations With Russia 

Boltwise wrote on January 16: 

“In a remarkable diplomatic move, European leaders are signaling their willingness to intensify dialogue with Russia in order to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and French President Emmanuel Macron have all spoken out in favor of direct talks with Moscow… 

“The Kremlin has reacted positively to the recent statements from Europe. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the proposals from Paris, Rome, and Berlin are consistent with Russian interests. 

Merz also said that it is essential to find a way to reach a compromise with Russia. This is interesting in light of the developing alienation between Europe and the USA. 

EU and South America Join in Effort to Oppose Trump 

The Associated Press wrote on January 17: 

“The European Union and the Mercosur bloc of South American countries formally signed a long-sought landmark free trade agreement on Saturday… to strengthen commercial ties in the face of rising protectionism and trade tensions around the world… 

“The signing ceremony in Paraguay’s capital, Asunción, marks a major geopolitical victory for the EU in an age of American tariffs and surging Chinese exports, expanding the bloc’s foothold in a resource-rich region… Mercosur consists of the region’s two biggest economies, Argentina and Brazil, as well as Paraguay and Uruguay. Bolivia, the bloc’s newest member, can join the trade deal in the coming years. Venezuela has been suspended from the bloc and isn’t included in the agreement. 

“Promoted by South America’s renowned grass-fed cattle-raising countries and Europe’s industrial interests, the accord’s gradual elimination of more than 90% of tariffs creates one of the world’s largest free trade zones and makes shopping cheaper for more than 700 million consumers. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who heads the EU’s executive branch, portrayed the deal as a bulwark against the disruptive policies of the Trump administration… 

“But even as the ink dried on Saturday, powerful protectionist lobbies in Europe were still hoping to prevent the agreement from clearing its one final hurdle: ratification by the European Parliament. France remains opposed to the accord, with President Emmanuel Macron worrying that farmers’ frustration with the EU could drive more voters to the country’s far right in the 2027 presidential election.” 

European members continue to be divided amongst themselves because of strictly national political ambitions (compare Daniel 2:42-44). 

Deutsche Welle wrote on January 21: 

“The European Parliament voted narrowly to challenge the EU trade deal with Latin America in the bloc’s top court, a move that could derail the deal. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz took to social media soon after news of the vote, calling the result ‘regrettable’ and saying it ‘misjudges the geopolitical situation… ‘We are convinced of the legality of the agreement. No more delays. The deal must now be implemented provisionally.’”  

Most Americans Oppose Trump 

ABC News reported on January 16: 

“A set of recently released polls found Americans largely at odds with the Trump administration and its defense of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent who fatally shot Minneapolis woman Renee Good…, 53% of registered voters saying the shooting of Good was not justified… 56% majority of Americans saying the shooting was an inappropriate use of force… About half (51%) said that the fatal shooting reflects bigger problems with the way ICE is operating… 51% of Americans saying ICE enforcement actions were making cities less safe… 

“Americans voiced little trust in the federal government to carry out a fair and thorough investigation of the shooting in Minneapolis, according to the CNN poll, with 62% saying they had just some or no trust at all… 

“57% of voters disapproving of how ICE is enforcing immigration laws… A 58% majority disapproves of how Trump is handling immigration… a slim 52% majority of Americans saying Trump’s efforts to deport immigrants living in the U.S. illegally have gone too far… 61% of Americans disapproving of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s handling of her job…” 

Trump will of course dismiss those numbers as being fake. However, they are not fake, but represent the reality that most Americans disapprove of Trump’s immigration policy. This is a bad sign for him when it comes to the midterm elections. Trump seems to recognize this himself, recently commenting that the pictures of the behavior of ICE agents on TV are bad. 

Trump’s Justice Department’s Investigation Against Minnesota Governor and Minneapolis Mayor 

npr wrote on January 16: 

“The Justice Department is investigating Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey… Frey said… on Friday: ‘This is an obvious attempt to intimidate me for standing up…’ 

“Walz… said: ‘Two days ago it was Elissa Slotkin. Last week it was Jerome Powell. Before that, Mark Kelly. Weaponizing the justice system against your opponents is an authoritarian tactic. The only person not being investigated for the shooting of Renee Good is the federal agent who shot her.’” 

It is suspected that the investigation is aiming at alleged interference of ICE actions by the governor and the mayor. That would be difficult to maintain, as both asked the demonstrators to act peacefully (as Trump had asked the demonstrators on January 6, 2021, to act peacefully). A detailed analysis of all the available videos has shown that Good was not attempting to hit the agent or to run him over. Subsequently, the Justice Department issued subpoenas on Walz and Frey, among others. 

Canada and China Adopt Trade Deal in Defiance of Trump 

BBC News reported on January 16: 

“Prime Minister Mark Carney’s new approach to Canada’s foreign policy can perhaps be distilled in one line: ‘We take the world as it is, not as we wish it to be.’ That was his response when asked about the deal struck with China on Friday, despite concerns over its human rights record and nearly a year after he called China ‘the biggest security threat’ facing Canada. 

“The deal will see Canada ease tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles that it imposed in tandem with the US in 2024. In exchange, China will lower retaliatory tariffs on key Canadian agricultural products. Experts told the BBC the move represents a significant shift in Canada’s policy on China, one that is shaped by ongoing uncertainty with the US, its largest trade partner… Canada’s relationship with China, [Carney] added, had become ‘more predictable’ than its relationship with the US under the Trump administration…. 

“Ontario Premier Doug Ford, whose province is home to Canada’s auto sector, was sharply critical of the deal. He said removing EV tariffs on China ‘would hurt our economy and lead to job losses’… 

“Since taking office for a second time last year, Trump has imposed tariffs on Canadian sectors like metals and automotives, which has led to swirling economic uncertainty. He has also threatened to rip up a longstanding North American free trade agreement between Canada, the US and Mexico, calling it ‘irrelevant’. That trade agreement, the USMCA, is now under a mandatory review. Canada and Mexico have both made clear they want it to remain in place. 

“But the decision to carve out a major new deal with China is a recognition by Carney that the future of North American free trade remains unclear…” 

How the world changed! A year ago, China was perceived as being the biggest security threat to Canada; now it seems to be the USA. This is also in light of the fact that Trump repeatedly demanded that Canada become the 51^st state of the USA—a demand which has been strongly rejected by the vast majority of Canadians. Similarities with the situation regarding Greenland are blatantly obvious. 

“Carney to Trump: Back Off on Greenland” 

Politico wrote on January 16: 

“Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney warned Friday that a decision on who owns Greenland doesn’t belong to U.S. President Donald Trump. ‘The future of Greenland is a decision for Greenland and for the Kingdom of Denmark,’ Carney told journalists at a press conference in Beijing following talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. 

“Carney urged NATO allies including the U.S. to ‘respect their commitments’ as he stressed Canada’s support for Danish sovereignty over the strategically vital Arctic island, which Trump has threatened to seize. ‘We are NATO partners with Denmark, and so our full partnership stands,’ Carney said… ‘Our obligations on Article 5, Article 2 of NATO stand, and we stand full-square behind those.’ 

“… Carney said Greenland and Arctic sovereignty also featured in his discussions with Xi, adding that he ‘found much alignment of views in that regard.’” 

Of course, China would agree with Europe against Trump. 

Trump’s Board of Peace for Gaza—Tony Blair Is On It 

Breitbart wrote on January 17: 

“US President Donald Trump on Friday gave a key role in post-war Gaza to former British Prime Minister Tony Blair… 

“Trump named [founding] members of a board to help supervise Gaza that was dominated by Americans, as he promotes a controversial vision of economic development in a territory that lies in rubble after two-plus years of relentless Israeli bombardment… 

“Trump has already declared himself the chair of a ‘Board of Peace’ and on Friday announced its full membership that will include Blair as well as senior Americans — Kushner, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Steve Witkoff… 

“Blair is a controversial figure in the Middle East because of his role in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. … Trump… has previously mused about turning devastated Gaza into a Riviera-style area of resorts, although he has backed away from calls to forcibly displace the population. 

“Israel’s military said Friday it had again hit the Gaza Strip in response to a ‘blatant violation’ of the ceasefire declared in October. The strikes come despite Washington announcing that the Gaza plan had gone on to a second phase — from implementing the ceasefire to disarming Hamas, whose October, 2023 attack on Israel prompted the massive Israeli offensive.” 

Depending on how influential Blair will be, this could only spell disaster. In the meantime, Israel objected to the appointments, stating that the Gaza executive committee “was not coordinated with Israel and is contrary to its policy.” 

According to the New York Post, dated January 17, “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the makeup of the body, which includes Turkey and Qatar, contradicts Israeli policy… National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, another key ally, rejected the entire framework, saying Gaza did not need an international body at all and called for a return to war.” 

Still, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday ‍accepted ‍President Donald ⁠Trump’s invitation to join the so-called “Board ​of Peace.” Germany, France, Norway and Sweden will not join. As a consequence, Trump threatened France with tariffs of about 200% for champagne. 

Also, incredibly, Trump demands one billion dollars to stay on his peace board.

Sanhedrin Calls For Building the Third Temple 

Israel 365 News reported on January 16: 

“The [Sanhedrin issued a declaration containing] a direct call to Iranian leadership: ‘We call upon the leaders of all the peoples in Iran to walk in the path of Cyrus, King of Persia, to support the building of the Temple on the Temple Mount, and even to ascend and pray there in the places designated for the descendants of Noah, ‘for My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples’ (Isaiah 56:7)… 

“The Sanhedrin was reconstituted in 2004 after nearly 1,600 years of absence. Its members believe the generation has arrived when prophecy will be fulfilled, and the Temple will be rebuilt. The declarations… are legal rulings with the force of biblical law, not suggestions. They represent the Sanhedrin’s assertion of its role as the supreme legal authority for the Jewish people…”  

And so, the Third Temple will be built soon. 

No Pressure on German Doctors Regarding Vaccinations? 

In our recent StandingWatch program, titled, “Germany’s Refusal to Accept Guilt for Authoritarian Corona Measures“, we quoted alarming statements of US Health Minister Robert F. Kennedy Jr in regard to Germany’s refusal to guarantee doctors’ freedom of treatment. The German government denied those statements. However, the following developments support Kennedy’s conclusion: 

“Starting in 2026, doctors will have to meet certain vaccination quotas to receive the full retainer fee, with a minimum of 10 vaccinations per quarter required.  Failure to meet this minimum will result in a 40% reduction in the fee, while higher quotas (7% in the first three quarters, 25% in the fourth) can lead to higher bonuses. However, meeting these higher quotas is not mandatory for receiving the basic retainer fee, but only for the additional bonuses” (taken from the Internet). 

This new regulation, which was already decided in 2025, is being criticized by some as an infringement on doctors’ freedom of treatment. This is seen as a continuation of the restrictions on doctors’ freedom of treatment that began during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Is God’s Heaven Real? 

Fox News wrote on January 18: 

“Where exactly is the heaven described in the Bible?… According to the Bible, the lowest level of heaven is Earth’s atmosphere. The mid-level heaven is outer space. The highest-level heaven is what we’re talking about: It’s where God dwells. As for heaven’s location, the Bible contains many verses that describe us as looking ‘up’ at God in heaven, and God as looking ‘down’ at us on Earth… 

“In 1929,… Edwin Hubble discovered that… there’s a definite pattern to how galaxies are rushing away from each other, namely: The farther ‘up’ in space a galaxy is located — the farther away it is from Earth — the faster it’s moving away from Earth and everything else… 

“Theoretically, a galaxy that’s 273 billion trillion… miles away from Earth would move at 186,000 miles per second, which is the speed of light. That distance, way ‘up’ there in space, is called the Cosmic Horizon. That means you and I can never reach the Cosmic Horizon… because… only light and certain other non-material phenomena can travel at the speed of light. 

“… It’s entirely possible heaven is located on the other side of the Cosmic Horizon… an entire universe exists beyond the Cosmic Horizon. But it’s permanently hidden from us because we can never reach, let alone cross over, the Cosmic Horizon… Our best astronomical observations… indicate that time stops at the Cosmic Horizon… Unlike time, however, space does exist at and beyond the Cosmic Horizon. Which means the hidden universe beyond the Cosmic Horizon is habitable, albeit only by light and light-like entities… whatever exists beyond the Cosmic Horizon predates these oldest objects… predates the so-called big bang… predates the beginning of the observable universe. 

“All these modern scientific realities, and others, are why it’s entirely reasonable to speculate that: 

“1. Heaven is, indeed, located ‘up’ there — way above our heads and way beyond the visible, starlit universe — just as the Bible indicates.

“2. Heaven is inaccessible to us mortals while we’re alive, just as the Bible indicates.

“3. Heaven is inhabited by nonmaterial… beings, just as the Bible indicates.

“4. Heaven is the dwelling place of the One who predates the universe — the One who created the universe — just as the Bible indicates.”

An interesting observation. The one mistake the author makes, however, is that where God dwells, there is no “space” either, as “space” is something “physical.” But there is a world composed of Spirit. The Bible indicates that God’s Heaven—the “Third Heaven”—is located in the North [Psalm 75:6; Isaiah 14:13-14—even in heathen literature, the abode of the gods was supposed to be in the North]. But God’s Third Heaven consists of Spirit and is therefore invisible to the human eye. For more information, please read our free booklet, “Angels, Demons and the Spirit World.” 

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer: 

These Current Events are compiled and commented on by Norbert Link. We gratefully acknowledge the many contributions of news articles from our readership. The publication of articles in this section is not to be viewed as an endorsement or approval as to contents or accuracy of the selected articles, but they are published for the purpose of pointing at worldwide developments in the light of biblical end-time prophecy and godly instruction. Our own comments are provided in italics.

Minnesota Killing… and Torrent of Untruths 

The Guardian wrote on January 9: 

“The killing of a US citizen by a federal immigration agent in Minneapolis was a five-alarm fire for the Trump administration. But a torrent of untruths, half-truths, smears and innuendo has been unleashed by the White House… 

“The victim-blaming began almost immediately after news broke of Good’s killing on Wednesday. Tricia McLaughlin, assistant secretary of the Department of Homeland Security and a regular spokesperson for ICE, declared in a post on X that ‘one of these violent rioters weaponized her vehicle, attempting to run over our law enforcement officers in an attempt to kill them – an act of domestic terrorism.’ Multiple ICE officers were hurt, she insisted, when videos of the shooting showed no such thing… 

“There is simply no evidence that Good was ‘a violent rioter’ or ‘domestic terrorist.’ No riot was taking place before her encounter with the ICE agents… A… video clearly shows that the officer who fired the fatal shots walked up to the front of Good’s car, which was turning away from him as it began to move forward, and he remained on his feet as the vehicle passed him…  The … video shows that the officer was so slightly brushed by the slowly moving car that he had no trouble retaining his balance and firing multiple shots at the driver. The same clip also appears to show that the vehicle only accelerated after the driver had been fatally shot…. 

“The officer who killed Good was not in the pathway of her car when he began firing, analysis of the video shows. Two other officers were beside the car, and no members of the public were seen to be in harm’s way. There is no evidence that any ICE officer was injured.” 

Unverified reports suggested that the agent suffered internal bleeding and was shortly treated in a hospital. Based on the available evidence, these reports appear to be highly dubious.

Trump’s America Is Torn Apart 

Daily Mail wrote on January 8: 

“A squad of ICE agents hunting down illegal migrants. A mother who went to protest against them after dropping her young son at school. A pop-pop-pop of bullets – then blood in the snow… the ELEVEN SECONDS tearing Trump’s America apart. 

“In this case, the ICE convoy – SUVs and pick-up trucks – decided to leave the vicinity, moving off with lights and sirens blaring. But they were blocked by a maroon SUV, a Honda Pilot, parked askew in the middle of the street… After about three minutes, an ICE agent walked around Ms Good’s vehicle… filming on his phone. 

“The Honda’s driver rolled the car forward slightly, turning left (towards the ICE convoy), but then stopped and waved for other cars to drive past. But the Honda was already reversing before its wheels turned to the right and it started to drive off – away from the agents. It was too late. At around 10.25am, three shots rang out in rapid succession, fired by the agent who’d originally circled the vehicle with his phone camera… 

“He’d then positioned himself just to the left of the front of the car and drawn his gun, reportedly shouting at the driver to ‘stop’ before opening fire. He fired into the windscreen – witnesses recalled hearing a sudden ‘putt, putt, putt’ sound – and continued shooting as the car swerved past him. It came to a halt a few seconds later, crashing into a parked vehicle… The agent holstered his gun and walked unhurriedly towards the Honda before turning back and telling his colleagues to summon an ambulance. 

“Video footage taken from a distance in front of the car suggests the vehicle clipped the agent, but other footage makes clear the driver didn’t run him over… 

“Trump’s opponents counter that Ms Good was not remotely a ‘terrorist’ and that none of the agents were in danger. Some believe she may have panicked when faced by the armed men. Trump’s critics have produced video evidence that certainly contradicts the official government narrative: careful analysis from several angles shows the car did drive towards the agent as he stood in front of it, but he was able to step out of the way and let off at least two shots at the side of the vehicle as it passed… 

“Her defenders insist she was murdered by a trigger-happy federal agent. Reports Jonathan Ross was dragged 50ft by a car last June may encourage his accusers in their case that he wildly over-reacted… 

“Ordinary people can watch the videos – frame by frame if necessary – and make up their own mind who is responsible. However, it’s unlikely many Americans will approach the controversy with an entirely open mind. 

“Trump’s migrant deportation drive – and particularly the heavy use of ICE agents to round up people who’ve often been living in the US for decades – has proved to be one of the most controversial policies of the President’s second term so far. Last month, it was revealed that the number of people in ICE detention had reached a record high of more than 68,400… Opponents counter that quite aside from questions of fairness, it is economic madness to deport so many long-standing, working migrants when Trump had appeared to have only dangerous criminals in his sights. 

“More troubling still, they believe the President has created in ICE a ‘personal army’ which seems alarmingly unaccountable and is, according to its critics, unconstitutional, not to say ‘un-American’. ICE agents, who often hide their faces and wear no identifiable insignia or identification, can detain people without charges or a hearing before flying them abroad… 

“With protesters angrily confronting heavily armed agents at every opportunity, some will say that a death like Wednesday’s tragedy in Minneapolis was inevitable. And with Minneapolis’s Left-wing mayor Jacob Frey saying that ICE needs to ‘get… out of his city’, and the Trump administration making it equally clear that it won’t be pushed around, the terrible events of this week might have been just the opening shots….” 

Demonstrations against ICE are ongoing. And so, civil war is more likely than not. 

New Video Proves Nothing 

The Huffington Post wrote on January 10: 

“An alleged cell phone video showing an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer shooting Renee Good, filmed from the shooter’s angle, was given to right-wing website Alpha News on Friday… which was also shared by Fox News, CBS News and other outlets… 

“The camera pans up to the sky as Good drives away and Ross fatally shoots the 37-year-old mother. It remains unclear from the footage whether Good’s car made contact with Ross, but previously released footage showed her angling her car away from him when she began driving. It also showed Ross walking away from the scene after he shot her… 

“Vice President JD Vance shared the video on social media, claiming it backed up the Trump administration’s claims that Good was threatening Ross’s life… He also slammed coverage of the shooting, suggesting the video was proof that outlets were ‘lying about this innocent law enforcement officer… You should all be ashamed of yourselves,’ Vance wrote.”

Maybe it’s Vance who should be ashamed of himself? Note the next article.

JD Vance No True Catholic? 

The National Catholic Reporter (NCR) wrote on January 8: 

“JD Vance has taken to social media to justify the shooting and blame Good for her own death… The Trump administration was quick to demonize Good. Within hours of the event and before a formal investigation could even be launched, Homeland Security Director Kristi Noem labeled Good’s actions as an ‘act of ‘domestic terrorism.’ President Donald Trump on Jan. 7 labeled her as ‘disorderly, obstructing and resisting, who then violently, willfully, and viciously ran over the ICE Officer.’ Trump went on to say that the ICE officer was lucky to be alive and ‘is now recovering in the hospital.’… 

“The investigation is ongoing, but the entire situation is a powder keg: Social media is on fire as users viciously debate the justification of the killing and it seems protests are beginning in Minneapolis and beyond. 

“But in spite of the increasing uproar, Vice President JD Vance said… ‘You can accept that this woman’s death is a tragedy while acknowledging it’s a tragedy of her own making. Don’t illegally interfere in federal law enforcement operations and try to run over our officers with your car. It’s really that simple’… 

“At the time of publication of this piece, at no point has Vance tweeted any remorse, prayers or condolences regarding Good and her loved ones. Instead, Vance continued his storm of social media posts the morning after the shooting — this time leaning into divisive, tribalistic language to demonize Democrats. 

“In times past, a politician might offer thoughts and prayers, encourage those reacting to wait for the full results of the investigation and generally try to lower the temperature… JD Vance went in a different direction… 

“As a Catholic, Vance knows better than to peddle this brand of gaslighting and agitation. Vance knows that, by virtue of her humanity, Good was endowed with inherent dignity, made in the image and likeness of God. Vance knows that only God can take life. Vance knows that protesting, fleeing or even interfering in an ICE investigation (which there is no evidence that Good did) does not carry a death sentence. Vance knows that lying and killing are sins. 

“Vance knows. He doesn’t care. Vance’s twisted and wrongheaded view of Christianity has been repudiated by two popes. His Catholicism seems to be little more than a political prop, a tool only for his career ambitions and desire for power. The vice president’s comments justifying the death of Renee Good are a moral stain on the collective witness of our Catholic faith. His repeated attempts to blame Good for her own death are fundamentally incompatible with the Gospel. Our only recourse is to pray for his conversion of heart.” 

While we are at it, many members of the Trump Administration need a conversion of heart as well. But this is also true for all the other right- and left-wing politicians who seem to have only their political agenda in mind.

Can ICE Agents Be Prosecuted? 

Reuters wrote on January 8: 

“The officer fired ‘defensive shots’ after a ‘violent rioter’ attempted to run over officers, a spokeswoman of the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement, adding that the officer had feared for his life. Online videos of the shooting verified by Reuters cast doubt on the government’s narrative, however. 

“One video showed an officer approach an SUV and order the driver out and grab at the door handle while another officer appeared in front of the car. The driver moves forward while turning away from the officers, and the one in front pulls his weapon, steps back and fires three shots. It was not clear if the car made contact with the officer, and he fired at least one shot after it had already passed him… 

“Minnesota’s use-of-force law permits state police to use deadly force only if reasonable officers would believe doing so was necessary to protect themselves, or others, from death or serious harm. Federal law has a similar standard, permitting use of deadly force when a reasonable officer would have probable cause to believe a person posed an immediate threat of death or serious injury. 

“Federal agents are generally immune from state prosecution for actions taken as part of their official duties. Immunity only applies when an officer’s actions were authorized under federal law and were necessary and proper. 

“If Minnesota charged the agent, he could seek to move the case to federal court and argue he is immune from prosecution. To prevail, the state would have to show the actions were outside his official duties or were objectively unreasonable or clearly unlawful. If a judge ruled the officer was immune, the case would be dismissed and the state would not be able to charge him again. 

“Federal prosecutors can charge law enforcement officers for fatal shootings, but the bar is very high and charges are rare. Prosecutors would need to show the officer knew his conduct was unlawful or acted with reckless disregard for the constitutional limits of his authority, which is difficult to prove in court.” 

These human-made laws are totally contrary to God’s commandments. If the ICE agent is guilty, he needs to be dealt with. 

Tucker Carlson Rips MAGA Reactions 

The Huffington Post wrote on January 9: 

“Tucker Carlson has joined the multitude of conservatives with commentary on the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good… However, the former Fox News host had a starkly different reaction than many of his peers. Carlson slammed his fellow conservatives for using the tragedy ‘to score political points,’ while also decrying liberal leaders like Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey for ‘behaving like children’… 

“‘The 37-year-old was an American citizen and reportedly the mother of a kindergarten-aged child. Did we disagree with her views on immigration? Probably,’ he continued. ‘But that shouldn’t matter. Her death is a tragedy, regardless of her partisan affiliations, ideological beliefs, or who pulled the trigger. A woman got shot in the face. How come so few conservatives are viewing this story through a human lens?’…

“Carlson argued Thursday that violence around the world is ‘desensitizing Americans to violence at home,’ adding that as Trump supporters and critics debate the recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela, few have focused on the death toll of at least 75 people… 

“‘If the United States were in a better place, everyone, regardless of their politics, would pause when something like the Minneapolis shooting happens and at least recognize the human tragedy,’ wrote Carlson. ‘But that doesn’t happen because, compared to the countless overseas killings our government routinely brings about, Good’s death doesn’t seem like such a big deal. She’s just another headline.’” 

Sadly, Carlson is SO RIGHT with his assessment. 

German Reaction to Minneapolis Shooting 

The Süddeutsche Zeitung wrote on January 10:

“‘In Minneapolis, an ICE immigration officer kills a woman who posed no threat to him whatsoever – and is even praised by the government for it. People without decency or empathy are running the country,’ comments SZ author Peter Burghardt:

“‘The US doesn’t need masked militias. The agents of Border Patrol and ICE are under pressure because ideologues like Trump’s hardliner Stephen Miller demand that at least 3,000 foreigners without immigration papers be arrested or forced out of the country every day. And this practice is just gaining momentum; Trump’s budget includes billions of dollars for ICE. 

“The gunman in Minneapolis was clearly unfit for his job; otherwise, he wouldn’t have opened fire immediately. The exact sequence of events still needs to be investigated, but Trump and his MAGA crowd are, as usual, immediately blaming the resistance to ICE. How will the FBI, which is under their control, conduct its investigation? If the Democrats want to be taken even remotely seriously, they must use every political means at their disposal to rein in Trump’s private army.”

ICE Arrests Tribal Citizens 

The Associated Press wrote on January 13: 

“The president of Oglala Sioux Tribe in South Dakota on Tuesday called for the immediate release of tribal members who were detained… by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Minnesota last week… ‘The Oglala Sioux Tribe’s memorandum makes clear that ‘tribal citizens are not aliens’ and are ‘categorically outside immigration jurisdiction,’ Star Comes Out said. ‘Enrolled tribal members are citizens of the United States by statute and citizens of the Oglala Sioux Nation by treaty.’… 

“Fort Snelling has a troubling history for Indigenous people. It was the first military outpost in the area, and Dakota people were held prisoner there during the Dakota War of 1862, an armed conflict between the U.S. and Native Americans… 

“Last year, elected leaders in the Navajo Nation said that tribal citizens in Arizona and New Mexico reported being stopped and detained by ICE officers… That same month [of November], Elaine Miles, a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation in Oregon and an actress known for her roles in ‘Northern Exposure’ and ‘The Last of Us,’ said she was stopped by ICE officers in Washington state who told her that her tribal ID looked fake.” 

Nobody is safe anymore. 

Joe Rogan Compares ICE With Gestapo

NBC News wrote on January 13:

“Joe Rogan, one of the biggest podcasters in the world, had endorsed Trump in the 2024 election… [His] show, which has consistently retained its No. 1 spot on the Spotify podcast charts, has more than 20.6 million subscribers on YouTube. But on Tuesday, Rogan, who has been increasingly critical of Trump’s mass deportation agenda in recent months, expressed concern over ICE’s activities in an episode featuring Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky.

“He said that ‘most people’ believe law enforcement should arrest criminals, but that many of the same people also believe ICE is ‘operating illegally.’ ‘I can also see the point of view of the people that say, ‘Yeah, but you don’t want militarized people in the streets just roaming around snatching people up, many of which turn out to actually be U.S. citizens that just don’t have their papers on them,’ Rogan said. ‘Are we really going to be the Gestapo? “Where’s your papers?” Is that what we’ve come to?’”

 Sadly, it appears to be that way.

Pope Leo Takes On Trump and Putin 

The Associated Press wrote on January 9: 

“In his most substantial critique of U.S., Russian, and other military incursions in sovereign countries, Pope Leo XIV on Friday denounced how nations were using force to assert their dominion worldwide, ‘completely undermining’ peace and the post-World War II international legal order. ‘War is back in vogue and a zeal for war is spreading,’ Leo told ambassadors from around the world who represent their countries’ interests at the Holy See. 

“Leo didn’t name individual countries that have resorted to force in his lengthy speech…  but his speech came amid the backdrop of the recent U.S. military operation in Venezuela to remove Nicolas Maduro from power, Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, and other conflicts….” 

James 4:1-3 states: 

“Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? You lust and do not have. You murder and covet and cannot obtain. You fight and war. Yet you do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures.” 

Trump Repeats His Military Threats 

The Sun wrote on January 9:

“Trump has said the US will begin land strikes on Mexico to target drug cartels… It comes after an astonishing week where the US captured Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and threatened Columbia with military action… The US President told Fox News: ‘We are gonna start now hitting land with regard to the cartels. The cartels are running Mexico, it’s very sad to watch what’s happened to the country.’… 

“Trump has marked up Greenland, Cuba and Columbia as his next potential targets in threats that have angered world leaders and NATO. The president has hinted at invading Mexico in a bid to attack its cartels since his election campaign. He warned its leaders to ‘get their act together’ in the immediate aftermath of his weekend strike on Venezuela.”

Greenland Invasion Plot 

The Daily Mail wrote on January 10: 

“Donald Trump has ordered his special forces commanders to draw up a plan for the invasion of Greenland… 

“Sources say that the policy ‘hawks’ around the US President, led by political adviser Stephen Miller, have been so emboldened by the success of the operation to capture Venezuela’s leader Nicolas Maduro that they want to move quickly to seize the island before Russia or China makes a move. 

“British diplomats believe that Trump is also motivated by a desire to distract American voters from the performance of the US economy before the mid-term elections later this year, after which he could lose control of Congress to the Democrats.  But such a dramatic move… would effectively lead to the collapse of Nato. 

“According to the sources, the President has asked the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) to prepare the invasion plan, but it is being resisted by the joint chiefs of staff on the grounds that it would be illegal – and would not be supported by Congress… One diplomatic cable describes the ‘worst-case’ scenario as leading to ‘the destruction of Nato from the inside’. 

“It adds: ‘Some European officials suspect this is the real aim of the hardline MAGA faction around Trump. Since Congress would not allow Trump to exit Nato, occupying Greenland could force the Europeans to abandon Nato. If Trump wants to end Nato, this might be the most convenient way to do it.’… It concludes: ‘The current concerns [about an invasion] are driven by the most extreme views coming from Stephen Miller. The UK’s positioning will be key – whether it sticks closely with European allies or breaks ranks [to sanction Trump’s approach].‘” 

Fire Stephen Miller! 

WRAL News wrote on January 8: 

“U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis, a North Carolina Republican, forcefully rebutted comments from one of the top officials in the Trump administration about a potential American takeover of Greenland… Tillis… called comments made by Deputy White House Chief of Staff Stephen Miller ‘insane’ and ‘amateur hour.’… Tillis also said Miller should inform himself or get out of the job.” 

ABC 11 added on January 8: 

“The comments from retiring North Carolina senator mark some of the strongest yet from a Republican lawmaker following the White House deputy chief of staff’s assertion that the US has the right to take Greenland… ‘And I know, whether they say it out loud or not, most of my colleagues agree with me.’”

The problem is, they don’t say it out loud. Miller should have been fired a long time ago. 

Miller—Cold-Eyed, Racist and Most Influential? 

The Daily Mail wrote on January 13, 2026:

“If there was one thing that terrified Donald Trump’s critics more than the sensational raid he launched to capture Venezuela’s dictator Nicolas Maduro, it was the cavalier way his overweening policy chief Stephen Miller then sought to justify it. ‘We live in a world in which you can talk all you want about international niceties and everything else… But we live in a world… that is governed by strength, that is governed by force, that is governed by power. These are the iron laws of the world that existed since the beginning of time.’

“Viewers had barely caught their breath at this outburst of cold-eyed belligerence when Miller, Trump’s deputy chief of staff for policy and his homeland security adviser, dropped another bombshell as the conversation moved to the sovereign Danish territory of Greenland [see article above]…

“Not for nothing is California-born Miller now regarded as the most influential official in the White House – and perhaps the most powerful unelected man in the US… Although Miller is of Ashkenazi Jewish extraction, Democrats like to portray him as a jackbooted fascist, Trump’s skinhead bovver boy…

“His own uncle, eminent psychologist David Glosser, has publicly condemned him, claiming that their family – who fled anti-Jewish pogroms in Europe – would have been ‘wiped out’ under his nephew’s immigration crackdown… He’s widely accused of being virulently xenophobic, if not outright racist… one ally described him as having ‘the bedside manner of [SS chief] Heinrich Himmler’. He is said to yell at everybody during his daily (even Saturdays) staff meetings – ‘nobody is spared from his wrath’.”

And this man is the most powerful unelected official? 

NATO on the Brink 

Aljazeera wrote on January 10: 

“The Trump administration has once again threatened to take control of Greenland either by acquiring it or through the use of military force to ‘deter our adversaries in the Arctic region.’… 

“European and Canadian leaders have jumped to support Denmark and Greenland, saying they are working on a plan in the event the United States follows through with its threats. Analysts have said that any attempt by the US to seize Greenland would be an unprecedented move in NATO’s history and raise serious questions about the survival of the alliance and the limits of Article 5, which was designed to defend against an external aggressor… 

“Collective defence is NATO’s governing principle, where Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty states that an armed attack against one NATO member is considered an attack against all… Because Article 5 requires unanimous agreement from all members to be invoked, a conflict between two members would lead to an impasse, as the alliance cannot vote to go to war against itself.” 

Europe Must Cut All Ties With the USA

The Guardian wrote on January 14:

“[Will] Europe finally choose between Europe and the US? Will its leaders have the courage to tell the full truth – that the US isn’t simply  abandoning its allies and destroying the international world order but is now in the position of active and hostile predation by force – and more importantly, to act on it?…

“If the US actually attacks Denmark by invading Greenland… [it] would demand the seizure of US military bases from Germany to Spain, individual sanctions on a wide range of US government officials, broad sanctions against the US economy… And if the US doesn’t attack Denmark, Europe’s best chance of surviving as a free and open continent in an imperial world is still to force the rupture with the US, force the consequences… anyway…  it is time for Europe to tell the US to leave its European military bases, throw off the yoke of US tech billionaires… Europe must cut the cord now, and not follow them into the storm.”

Strong words… unheard of just a few years ago. But in line with biblical prophecy.

Vance Hates Europe

Politico wrote on January 15:

“Among the 10 ministers and officials who spoke anonymously to POLITICO for this article, none regarded Vance as an ally — either in the Greenland talks or for the transatlantic relationship in general. 

“‘Vance hates us,’ said one European diplomat… While Trump can be distracted, some EU officials say, Vance appears to be more ideological in his hostility to Europe…”

Drums of War 

The Sun wrote on January 10: 

“DONALD Trump is ready to unleash the full force of US power as he eyes up a ‘hitlist’ of targets to create a new world order… Trump has marked up Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, Canada, Greenland and Iran as targets after the opening salvo on Venezuela – and is preparing for another hit soon, experts fear… 

“Trump’s threats have been described as an attempt to create an American ‘empire’… If Trump is to follow through with his threats, America could be fighting conflicts on multiple fronts across the globe, experts say.” 

The Hill wrote on January 14: 

“Denmark is boosting its military presence in and around Greenland… The Danish Defense Ministry noted Wednesday that it strengthened its presence in and around Greenland last summer as well with assistance from Germany, France, Sweden and Norway.” 

Fundamental Disagreements Remain 

Deutsche Welle wrote on January 14: 

“Danish and Greenlandic officials said they still have a ‘fundamental disagreement’ with President Donald Trump over Greenland after meeting in Washington with Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio… 

“Denmark has taken steps in recent days to increase military presence in Greenland, and has called for military exercises that will include aircraft, vessels and soldiers. Sweden said it would participate. On Wednesday, Germany and France both said they would send troops to Greenland for exercises.” 

German President: Trump Is Destroying World Order 

Reuters wrote on January 8: 

“German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has strongly criticised U.S. foreign policy under President Donald Trump and urged the world not to let the world order disintegrate into a ‘den of robbers’ where the unscrupulous take what they want (and where regions or entire countries are treated as the property of a few great powers). 

“In unusually strong remarks, which appeared to refer to actions such as the ousting of Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro at the weekend, the former foreign minister said global democracy was being attacked as never before. Although the German president’s role is largely ceremonial, his words carry some weight and he has more freedom to express views than politicians. 

“Describing Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the full-scale invasion of Ukraine as a watershed, Steinmeier said the U.S. behaviour represented a second historic rupture. ‘Then there is the breakdown of values by our most important partner, the USA, which helped build this world order,’ Steinmeier said… 

“On Thursday, a poll for public broadcaster ARD indicated 76% of Germans surveyed now felt the United States was not a partner that Germany could rely on… Only 15% felt Germany could now trust the United States…” 

Trump: “Only I Can Stop Me.” 

The New York Times wrote on January 8: 

“President Trump declared on Wednesday evening that his power as commander in chief is constrained only by his ‘own morality,’ brushing aside international law and other checks on his ability to use military might to strike, invade or coerce nations around the world. Asked in a wide-ranging interview with The New York Times if there were any limits on his global powers, Mr. Trump said: ‘Yeah, there is one thing. My own morality. My own mind. It’s the only thing that can stop me… I don’t need international law,’ he added… 

“When pressed further about whether his administration needed to abide by international law, Mr. Trump said, ‘I do.’ But he made clear he would be the arbiter when such constraints applied to the United States. ‘It depends what your definition of international law is,’ he said…. 

“He made clear that he uses his reputation for unpredictability and a willingness to resort quickly to military action, often in service of coercing other nations. In his conversation with The Times, Mr. Trump sounded more emboldened than ever. He cited the success of his strike on Iran’s nuclear program — he keeps a model of the B-2 bombers used in the mission on his desk; the speed with which he decapitated the Venezuelan government last weekend; and his designs on Greenland, which is controlled by Denmark, a NATO ally. 

“When asked what was his higher priority, obtaining Greenland or preserving NATO, Mr. Trump declined to answer directly, but acknowledged ‘it may be a choice.’ He made clear that the trans-Atlantic alliance was essentially useless without the United States at its core.” 

Trump should remind himself that GOD can stop him at any time 

Italy Criticizes Trump 

MSN reported on January 13: 

“Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has responded to renewed criticism of NATO from US President Donald Trump, arguing that simplistic proposals to sever key transatlantic ties are neither practical nor beneficial for Europe’s security. 

“Trump recently reiterated a familiar line – ‘NATO is zero without America’ – underscoring his view that the alliance’s strength depends on US leadership and capability. This rhetoric comes amid wider tensions over US strategic intentions, including controversial remarks about Greenland that alarm European NATO partners. In response, Meloni was quoted rhetorically asking whether Europe should then take radical steps like closing US military bases, cutting trade, or even ‘storming McDonald’s’ – not as a literal plan of action, but to highlight how unrealistic some proposals are that have circulated online. 

“Notably, US–NATO relations are under strain due to shifting US foreign policy priorities under Trump and broader disagreements over burden-sharing. European capitals are increasingly vocal about how the alliance should function, especially regarding collective defense, trade and geopolitical competition with powers like Russia and China. 

This is remarkable as Meloni is viewed as one of Trump’s strongest supporters. 

Trump’s Dream-World

AlterNet wrote on January 15:

“President Donald Trump, rejecting criticism from within his own party, the economic challenges facing the American people, and polling on Greenland, suggested that his second-term accomplishments were so extensive that they should render the 2026 midterm elections unnecessary.

“In an interview with Reuters, President Trump ‘expressed frustration’ that Republicans may lose control of the House of Representatives and possibly the Senate in the November midterm elections… Trump told Reuters that ‘when you win the presidency, you don’t win the midterms’…

“Trump, Reuters reported, ‘repeatedly dismissed concerns by the public, business leaders and even his fellow Republicans on issues ranging from the future of Greenland and the criminal investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, to the state of the economy.’ He deemed ‘fake’ a Reuters/Ipsos poll that found little support — just 17 percent — for him seizing control of Greenland.

“He repeatedly declared, ‘I don’t care’ when confronted with news that some Senate Republicans oppose the Department of Justice’s investigation into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell… Trump also dismissed the concerns of the American people over high prices they are facing, instead incorrectly declaring the economy the strongest ‘in history.’ …

“On actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Reuters reported that Trump ‘said he would continue sending armed agents into cities, claiming that his efforts had taken “thousands of murderers out of our country.” Reuters noted that there is ‘no evidence to support that assertion.’”

Trump is losing support nationally and internationally. The German AfD voiced criticism of his actions as well.

Trump—Emperor of America’s Police State 

The Ron Paul Institute wrote on January 14: 

“Trump speaks in a language of kings, strongmen, and would-be emperors advocating for personal rule over constitutional government… Trump and his army of enablers and enforcers may have co-opted the language of patriotism, but they are channeling the tactics of despots…

“All presidents in recent years have contributed to the rise of the American police state with executive overreach, standing armies, militarized policing, war without consent, mass surveillance, and concentrated power. But Trump 2.0 has done more to dismantle the nation’s constitutional guardrails than at any other time in history…

“With every passing day, the American police state with Trump at its helm gets more unhinged… This is not leadership. It is lawlessness carried out by mercenaries and thugs on the government payroll… This is the reality of Trump’s America: moral collapse, thuggery, violence, greed, and dehumanization…

“Nothing about Trump’s behavior is rational or sane, even by his own standards: he’s bulldozing the White House, blitz-bombing boats, threatening to seize foreign lands by force, and plastering his name and face on every available surface. Yet as diabolical as these distractions are, they are a sideshow to keep us from seeing the long-term plans to lock down the country being put in place by an unaccountable shadow apparatus operating behind the scenes for whom the Constitution means nothing…

“Americans are being trained to accept what would have once been unthinkable: law enforcement that kills without consequence, presidents who operate above the law, wars launched without consent…” 

Trump Deserves Eight Peace Prizes? 

Daily Mail wrote on January 10: 

“Donald Trump cannot officially be given Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado’s Nobel Peace Prize, according to the committee that gives out the award. Machado initially dedicated the award to Trump but has since expressed her desire to give him the trophy, which the president has said would be a ‘great honor’ to accept. However, the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced Friday that this would be impossible…  White House spokeswoman told The Daily Mail it’s clear that the president should get the prize regardless... 

“… reports have suggested Trump’s displeasure with her acceptance of the prize – which he has long coveted — has left her out in the cold following the capture of Maduro, with Trump saying Machado ‘doesn’t have the respect’ in Venezuela to be named president…. 

“The president suggested… that he ought to get as many as eight Nobel Prizes. Trump argued that the Nobel committee not giving him the prize this year has been ‘a major embarrassment to Norway,’ which is where they’re located. ‘When you put out eight wars, in theory, you should get one for each war,’ he said. 

“White House insiders revealed his displeasure stems from her acceptance of the Nobel Peace Prize – an honor Trump has long coveted for himself. ‘If she had turned it down and said, “I can’t accept it because it’s Donald Trump’s,” she’d be the president of Venezuela today,’ a person familiar with Trump’s thinking told the Washington Post. ‘Her acceptance of the prize was an “ultimate sin.”’ … Former US ambassador to Russia Michael McFaul suggested Trump threw Machado ‘under the bus,’ over the Nobel Peace Prize.” 

What pitiful and egoistic thinking… 

Clintons Defy Congressional Subpoenas 

The Daily Mail wrote on January 13:

“House Oversight’s Republican chairman James Comer promised to bring contempt proceedings next week [against the Clintons], setting off a potentially protracted and politically fraught legal battle that would be the first time in history a sitting or former president has been held in contempt by Congress…

“In an astonishing letter to Comer, the Clintons launched a broadside at Donald Trump and the Republican lawmakers carrying out his ‘cruel agenda.’ They claimed a legal analysis proved they were not required to testify [in the Epstein matter] and insisted the subpoenas were an extension of Trump’s ‘weaponization’ of the law…

“’Every person has to decide when they have seen or had enough and are ready to fight for this country, its principles and its people, no matter the consequences. For us, now is that time.’

“The Clintons cited the precedent set by Trump in October 2022, when he defied a congressional subpoena demanding his testimony over the Capitol riot… Two Trump allies, Steve Bannon and Peter Navarro, were both sentenced to four months in federal prison for defying subpoenas from the January 6 Committee…

“The dispute comes amid controversy over the Trump administration’s handling of Epstein-related records. Weeks after a legal deadline to release the Epstein files, the Justice Department has offered up only one percent of the total archive, angering Trump supporters who had expected sweeping disclosures…” 

“Bloody Uprising Against the Mullahs, and in Germany, There Is an Embarrassing Silence” 

Focus wrote on January 9: 

“In Iran, masses of people are risking their lives. Trump is siding with them, Musk is providing Starlink as an internet alternative. From Germany comes: Nothing. 

“In Iran, parts of the population are now rising up against the mullahs… They are calling for freedom in the streets of the major cities, many are also calling for Reza Pahlavi, the son of the Shah… 

“How is the West reacting? In Germany, in Berlin for example, there are currently no demonstrations for a free Iran. Not in the streets, not at the universities. When it came to Gaza, things were completely different – it was against Israel, it was against ‘the Americans.’ Why is there now this deafening silence, this ‘loud silence’? 

“Is it because US President Donald Trump, the bogeyman of the left in the West, is on the side of the Iranian protests? Is it because the left has always warned against alleged ‘Islamophobia’? Is it because, pardon the expression, this time it’s not against Jews?…” 

“Nothing has been heard from the Federal Chancellor regarding Iran… The highest-ranking German politician from the governing parties who has sided with the protesting Iranians is currently the parliamentary group leader of the CDU/CSU, Jens Spahn. He wrote on X: ‘The courageous Iranian men and women deserve freedom. I wish them all the strength to overthrow the Mullah regime and pray that the Islamists will not be able to murder any more people. Germany and Europe must stand by the brave women and men who are taking to the streets.’ 

“And then Spahn adds a concrete demand: ‘Classifying the Revolutionary Guard in the EU as a terrorist organization is long overdue!’ This demand from Spahn is highly explosive because the parliamentary group leader of the CDU/CSU is putting pressure on the government, especially the Foreign Minister from his own party. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard could and perhaps should have been classified as a terrorist organization years ago. Spahn is quite late with this demand, but he is so far the only high-ranking politician to raise this issue now. 

“Germany, like the Europeans and the CDU politician and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, could do considerably more. For example, they could freeze Iranian assets in accounts held in European countries. Or they could seek dialogue with the exiled opposition politician Reza Pahlavi. This hasn’t occurred to the Europeans so far, but it has to someone else: US President Trump.” 

Looking the Other Way For Too Long 

Bild Online wrote on January 12: 

“The longer the bloody protests in Iran continue, the more criticism there is of [German] public broadcasting coverage.  Politicians and media experts say the broadcasters were too slow to react, misjudged the protests for a long time, and invited biased interviewees. 

The ‘Jüdische Allgemeine’ criticizes both public broadcasters in a new article, titled: ‘The protests in Iran and the shameful reporting by ARD and ZDF.’  It offers this assessment: ‘The mullahs should go, the Shah should return: The left doesn’t have an explanation for this right now – and neither do the left-leaning editorial offices of public broadcasting.’… In Germany, ARD and ZDF in particular ‘didn’t really want to get involved in the reporting, while in Great Britain, the BBC is also hesitant.’” 

Attack on Iran Imminent? 

Reuters wrote on January 11: 

“Unrest in Iran has killed more than 500 people, a rights group said on Sunday, as Tehran threatened to target U.S. military bases if President Donald Trump carries out his renewed threats to intervene on behalf of protesters.” 

Trump has paused an attack on Iran, for now.

Iran Threatens Trump 

Newsmax wrote on January 14: 

“Iran issued a direct assassination threat against President Donald Trump on Wednesday, airing a chilling image on state television showing Trump during the 2024 rally shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania, with the warning: ‘This time, the bullet won’t miss.’ 

“The image, broadcast on Iran’s Islamic Republic state television, marks Tehran’s most explicit threat yet against Trump and comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and the Iranian regime.”

Merz Is Hedging Again 

ntv wrote on January 9: 

“France and Great Britain are preparing to send soldiers to Ukraine to secure a ceasefire. And Germany? It wants to be a leading power, but it dithers when things get dangerous. But German cowardice threatens to backfire on all of Europe… 

“Chancellor Friedrich Merz is distancing himself again. German troops could primarily be deployed in ‘neighboring NATO states’ such as Poland or Romania. Directly in Ukraine? On this, only an evasive ‘We are not ruling anything out.’ That’s not a strategy. That’s a maneuver. 

“Translated, it means: Germany wants to be part of the backdrop, but not part of the risk. Solidarity, yes – as long as it doesn’t hurt… 

“Half-hearted solidarity is not a compromise. It is betrayal. Germany must stop hiding behind history, structures, and excuses – and finally do what it expects of others: take responsibility.” 

This will happen soon… but probably not under Merz. 

Kennedy vs. Germany 

The Independent wrote on January 11: 

“Germany has vehemently dismissed accusations from US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who claimed the nation had undermined patient autonomy, particularly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. German Health Minister Nina Warken issued a statement late on Saturday, asserting: ‘The statements made by the US Secretary of Health are completely unfounded, factually incorrect, and must be rejected.’ 

“Earlier that day, Mr Kennedy had posted a video stating he had written to the German minister. His letter was reportedly based on information from Germany suggesting the government was ‘limiting people’s abilities to act on their own convictions when they face medical decisions.’ The American health secretary said that ‘I’ve learned that more than a thousand German physicians and thousands of their patients now face prosecution and punishment for issuing exemptions from wearing masks or getting COVID-19 vaccines during the pandemic.’” 

According to Deutsche Welle, dated January 11, “Warken said that ‘criminal prosecution took place only in cases of fraud and forgery of documents, such as the issuing of false vaccine certificates’ or exemption certificates for masks.” 

There can be no doubt that the government was pressuring people and at the same time violating their constitutional rights; thereby “limiting people’s abilities to act on their own convictions when they face medical decisions.” 

COVID-19 Hardliners Fume Over Kennedy’s Letter to Nina Warken 

Nius wrote on January 12: 

“After US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. demanded an end to the criminal prosecution of doctors in Germany for issuing exemptions from mask mandates or COVID-19 vaccinations, hardliners like Karl Lauterbach and Janosch Dahmen are up in arms. 

“In particular, [the Green Party member] Dahmen is outraged… who during the COVID-19 years never found any measure too harsh and who called for an expansion of mandatory vaccination… Former Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD), who for years fueled ‘pandemic’ panic by constantly warning of new variants of the virus and repeatedly making grim predictions about the deadly course of the infection, spoke out on the platform X. Kennedy should ‘take care of health problems in his own country.’… 

“There is concern because Kennedy is essentially right. Whether it’s actually a thousand doctors who have been prosecuted for not being ‘in line,’ or fewer (or possibly many more), cannot be determined because there is currently no comprehensive survey of ongoing or completed proceedings of this kind. 

“The fact is: … Known court cases involve dozens of instances, often resulting in convictions with fines or suspended sentences, as well as professional bans. These cases are often based on the accusation of issuing medical certificates without a physical examination, which was considered ‘incorrect’… 

“In addition, there were almost 270,000 violations of the mandatory vaccination requirement for healthcare facilities, such as hospitals and nursing homes… In this respect, Warkens’ claim that there were no professional bans is incorrect.  Healthcare workers did indeed face such bans if they could not provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination. And soldiers were subject to a ‘duty of compliance.’ Those who did not undergo the controversial COVID-19 vaccination were dismissed from service or prosecuted for insubordination. The majority of the population was pressured into complying with the measures and getting vaccinated through fear-mongering and the threat of penalties.” 

“Law professor Martin Schwab… also points out on X that during the coronavirus pandemic, neither the autonomy of patients nor the therapeutic freedom of doctors was respected: ‘The current regulation, according to which general practitioners covered by public health insurance lose 40 percent of their retainer fee if they do not vaccinate, represents a clear attack on doctors’ therapeutic freedom.’ 

“It is clear: doctors were systematically pressured during the coronavirus years, including by medical associations, regulatory authorities, professional societies, and colleagues. Those who did not comply were… defamed. The others made a lot of money from mass vaccinations. 

“Like Karl Lauterbach and Janosch Dahmen, the Christian Democrat Nina Warken also distinguished herself as a hardliner…” 

Homeschooling 

Die Welt wrote on January 9: 

“Abolish compulsory schooling? Yes, we should talk about it! 

“When the AfD politician Ulrich Siegmund recently questioned compulsory schooling, the knee-jerk outrage was considerable.  Yet there are good reasons to allow homeschooling – not least the shortcomings of the German school system.” 

Absolutely! German compulsory schooling is a relic from a bygone, authoritarian era. It should be abolished. But the AfD, in general, is opposed to homeschooling as well. 

Acknowledgement and Disclaimer: 

These Current Events are compiled and commented on by Norbert Link. We gratefully acknowledge the many contributions of news articles from our readership. The publication of articles in this section is not to be viewed as an endorsement or approval as to contents or accuracy of the selected articles, but they are published for the purpose of pointing at worldwide developments in the light of biblical end-time prophecy and godly instruction. Our own comments are provided in italics.