Monday, August 24, 2026
Hakeem Jeffries Owes America an Explanation | Steve Schmidt
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent Launches Operation Economic Outcast
August 24, 2026 | Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a sweeping new US economic campaign against Iran and warned countries, banks, and companies around the world that helping the Iranian regime could cost them access to the US dollar system.
Bessent unveiled "Operation Economic Outcast," a campaign aimed at severing Iran's financial connections and revenue sources around the globe. Treasury announced new sectoral sanctions targeting digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping, while the Office of Foreign Assets Control is sanctioning more than 60 entities, individuals, and vessels linked to Iranian oil revenue, nuclear and missile procurement, and cyber operations.
Bessent said the US will pursue a "zero leakage" approach, warned that no country or entity is beyond the reach of US sanctions, and said nations enabling Iran are being given defined timelines to stop identified activities. He also said a major financial institution could face sanctions by the end of the week.
During questions, Bessent addressed potential sanctions against Chinese banks and shipping firms, pressure on countries doing business with Iran, Treasury bond yields and buybacks, the US-Canada relationship, and why the administration is giving Iran's economic partners an opportunity to change course before imposing additional secondary sanctions.
LESEN SIE AUCH:
USA wollen Iran wirtschaftlich „erdrosseln“: Bessent verkündet Start von Operation „Economic Outcast“: Die USA hatten einen „ökonomischen D-Day“ gegen den Iran angekündigt. US-Finanzminister Bessent droht nun Handelspartnern weltweit. Welche neuen Sanktionen kommen? »
À LIRE AUSSI :
Nouvelles sanctions, ultimatum aux pays partenaires, menace sur le système dollar... Washington lance son offensive économique contre l’Iran : Les États qui laisseraient des entités « faciliter le blanchiment d’argent au nom de l’Iran » se verront « expulsés du système dollar », a prévenu lundi lors d’une conférence de presse le secrétaire américain au Trésor, Scott Bessent, ajoutant que « le compte à rebours (avait) commencé ». »
Bessent unveiled "Operation Economic Outcast," a campaign aimed at severing Iran's financial connections and revenue sources around the globe. Treasury announced new sectoral sanctions targeting digital assets, technology, gold, aviation, and shipping, while the Office of Foreign Assets Control is sanctioning more than 60 entities, individuals, and vessels linked to Iranian oil revenue, nuclear and missile procurement, and cyber operations.
Bessent said the US will pursue a "zero leakage" approach, warned that no country or entity is beyond the reach of US sanctions, and said nations enabling Iran are being given defined timelines to stop identified activities. He also said a major financial institution could face sanctions by the end of the week.
During questions, Bessent addressed potential sanctions against Chinese banks and shipping firms, pressure on countries doing business with Iran, Treasury bond yields and buybacks, the US-Canada relationship, and why the administration is giving Iran's economic partners an opportunity to change course before imposing additional secondary sanctions.
LESEN SIE AUCH:
USA wollen Iran wirtschaftlich „erdrosseln“: Bessent verkündet Start von Operation „Economic Outcast“: Die USA hatten einen „ökonomischen D-Day“ gegen den Iran angekündigt. US-Finanzminister Bessent droht nun Handelspartnern weltweit. Welche neuen Sanktionen kommen? »
À LIRE AUSSI :
Nouvelles sanctions, ultimatum aux pays partenaires, menace sur le système dollar... Washington lance son offensive économique contre l’Iran : Les États qui laisseraient des entités « faciliter le blanchiment d’argent au nom de l’Iran » se verront « expulsés du système dollar », a prévenu lundi lors d’une conférence de presse le secrétaire américain au Trésor, Scott Bessent, ajoutant que « le compte à rebours (avait) commencé ». »
Democracy Now! “Most Stupid Trade Fight in History”: US & Canadian Workers Lose in Trump’s New Tariff War
August 24, 2026 | The US-Canada trade war is deepening after talks collapsed without a deal on Friday. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney accused the Trump administration of issuing demands that would compromise Canada’s sovereignty and undermine key industries.
On Saturday, the United States slapped 50% tariffs on around $20 billion worth of imports from Canada, and Carney announced retaliatory tariffs on $20 billion of US products set to go into effect on September 8.
Democracy Now! can be supported here »
On Saturday, the United States slapped 50% tariffs on around $20 billion worth of imports from Canada, and Carney announced retaliatory tariffs on $20 billion of US products set to go into effect on September 8.
Democracy Now! can be supported here »
Iran Targets Barron Trump? State Media Broadcasts Threat, Announces $10 Million Bounty
LESEN SIE AUCH:
„Wo und wie sollen wir Barron Trump töten?“ Staatsfernsehen des Iran verbreitet Morddrohung: Der Beitrag zeigt angebliche Wege zu einem Anschlag auf den Präsidentensohn. Wer die genannte Belohnung von zehn Millionen US-Dollar zahlen soll, bleibt offen »
« L’Iran s’effondre complètement », affirme Donald Trump avant l’annonce de sanctions économiques
LE FIGARO : Le secrétaire au Trésor américain, Scott Bessent, a annoncé dimanche un « D-Day économique » contre l’Iran pour lundi.
Donald Trump a affirmé lundi 24 août sur sa plateforme Truth Social que l’Iran « s’effondrait complètement », à quelques heures de l’annonce des détails de sanctions économiques américaines contre Téhéran.
« L’IRAN S’EFFONDRE COMPLÈTEMENT!!! », a estimé le président américain, alors que le secrétaire au Trésor américain, Scott Bessent, avait annoncé la veille un « D-Day économique » contre l’Iran pour lundi, en référence au Débarquement allié de 1944 en France. » | Par Le Figaro avec AFP | lundi 24 août 2026
Continuez à rêver, Monsieur le Président ! Continuez à rêver ! Vous êtes en guerre contre un adversaire redoutable. Les tenants du pouvoir sont tout aussi déterminés et impitoyables que vous ! Ils seront bien décidés à vous surpasser par la ruse et à vous humilier. — © Mark Alexander
EL PASTIFICIO DE NICOLA: Pastafrola de ricota al chocolate | Chocolate Ricotta Pastafrola | Doña Petrona's Recipe
Aug 24, 2026 | Today we're preparing a recipe from Doña Petrona C. de Gandulfo: her chocolate ricotta pastafrola, a recipe originally published in El Hogar magazine in 1937.
A different take on the classic quince pastafrola, with a tender, slightly crumbly pastry crust and a smooth, creamy filling of ricotta, semi-sweet chocolate, and vanilla.
For the full recipe, please click here. Then click on ‘more’.
NB: “Pastafrola (also spelled pasta frola or pasta flora) is a traditional sweet shortcrust tart popular in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Greece. It features a buttery, crumbly crust filled with a thick fruit paste or jam and topped with a distinctive crisscross lattice pattern.” [Source: Google AI]
A different take on the classic quince pastafrola, with a tender, slightly crumbly pastry crust and a smooth, creamy filling of ricotta, semi-sweet chocolate, and vanilla.
For the full recipe, please click here. Then click on ‘more’.
NB: “Pastafrola (also spelled pasta frola or pasta flora) is a traditional sweet shortcrust tart popular in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Greece. It features a buttery, crumbly crust filled with a thick fruit paste or jam and topped with a distinctive crisscross lattice pattern.” [Source: Google AI]
Here’s Why the US Sees Québec’s French-language Laws as a Trade Barrier
Aug 23, 2026 | The fallout from the collapse of Canada-U.S. trade talks goes beyond tariffs. One of the issues that derailed negotiations is a familiar point of tension – Québec’s French language laws.
The U.S. says the rules create barriers for American businesses seeking access to the Québec market. But as Felicia Parillo explains, Québec says protecting the language is non-negotiable.
Trump is such a philistine! — G Mark Alexander
The U.S. says the rules create barriers for American businesses seeking access to the Québec market. But as Felicia Parillo explains, Québec says protecting the language is non-negotiable.
Trump is such a philistine! — G Mark Alexander
Harry & Meghan’s Return Poses ‘Huge Potential Risk’ for Monarchy | Tom Bower
Aug 24, 2026 | “The problem is, they’re so desperate they’re going to try and get their way back in.”
Harry and Meghan pose a “huge potential crisis” to not only the royal family, but the whole of Britain, says royal biographer Tom Bower.
Tom Bower is rather venomous, isn't he? Let Harry and Meghan live, for God's sake! — © Mark Alexander
Harry and Meghan pose a “huge potential crisis” to not only the royal family, but the whole of Britain, says royal biographer Tom Bower.
Tom Bower is rather venomous, isn't he? Let Harry and Meghan live, for God's sake! — © Mark Alexander
Steve Rosenberg: Russian Paper: Fuel Crisis Won't End If Russia Can't Protect Its Refineries from Drone Attacks
Where Iran’s Young People Gather, the Government Sees Threats to Its Authority
THE NEW YORK TIMES: In recent weeks, the police have closed dozens of cafes, often citing laws that stipulate women must veil in public. Experts say the closures are part of an effort to control public space.
Screenshot taken from this NYT article. | Iranians at a cafe in Tehran in April. Credit: Arash Khamooshi/Polaris for The New York Times
Through war, political unrest and rampant inflation that has put the dreams of many beyond reach, Iran’s youth have held on to one luxury that helps them feel normal in abnormal times: frequenting coffee shops with friends.
Across the country, they pack into cafes and spill out onto the sidewalk — chatting, smoking cigarettes, flirting and enjoying one of the few affordable diversions still available to them. These mixed-gender gatherings, where women go unveiled and some customers even discreetly drink alcohol, both illegal acts in Iran, have become a conspicuous counterculture, visible to any passerby.
It has not escaped the attention of the authorities, either. In recent weeks, the police have been shutting down dozens of cafes, usually citing a failure to abide by Iran’s mandatory hijab law.
The crackdown has stretched to cities across the country, taking in restaurants and boutiques as well, according to statements from officials, though some businesses have since reopened. » | Leily Nikounazar and Yeganeh Torbati | Monday, August 24, 2026
Through war, political unrest and rampant inflation that has put the dreams of many beyond reach, Iran’s youth have held on to one luxury that helps them feel normal in abnormal times: frequenting coffee shops with friends.
Across the country, they pack into cafes and spill out onto the sidewalk — chatting, smoking cigarettes, flirting and enjoying one of the few affordable diversions still available to them. These mixed-gender gatherings, where women go unveiled and some customers even discreetly drink alcohol, both illegal acts in Iran, have become a conspicuous counterculture, visible to any passerby.
It has not escaped the attention of the authorities, either. In recent weeks, the police have been shutting down dozens of cafes, usually citing a failure to abide by Iran’s mandatory hijab law.
The crackdown has stretched to cities across the country, taking in restaurants and boutiques as well, according to statements from officials, though some businesses have since reopened. » | Leily Nikounazar and Yeganeh Torbati | Monday, August 24, 2026
German Politician Wants to Hold Swingers’ Party in City Hall
THE TELEGRAPH: Country’s ‘craziest councillor’ seeks permit to host sex event at his local seat of government in Mannheim
Screenshot taken from this Telegraph article. | Julien Ferrat, the Mannheim city councillor and naturism fan, wants to throw a sex party at city hall Credit: Uwe Anspach/dpa/Alamy
There is a curious paradox inherent in Germany’s psyche.
It is a country renowned for its rules, order and bureaucracy – and also for its nudism and bacchanalian sex parties.
One politician in Mannheim has decided to fuse the id and the ego of the nation’s consciousness into one bizarre spectacle.
Julien Ferrat, the leader of the liberal Die Mannheimer (Citizens of Mannheim) party, has announced plans to throw a sex party at his local seat of government.
Mr Ferrat said he hoped the party would help turn the southwestern city into a “swingers’ paradise”. » | James Rothwell in Berlin | Sunday, August 23, 2026
😊
There is a curious paradox inherent in Germany’s psyche.
It is a country renowned for its rules, order and bureaucracy – and also for its nudism and bacchanalian sex parties.
One politician in Mannheim has decided to fuse the id and the ego of the nation’s consciousness into one bizarre spectacle.
Julien Ferrat, the leader of the liberal Die Mannheimer (Citizens of Mannheim) party, has announced plans to throw a sex party at his local seat of government.
Mr Ferrat said he hoped the party would help turn the southwestern city into a “swingers’ paradise”. » | James Rothwell in Berlin | Sunday, August 23, 2026
😊
Sunday, August 23, 2026
Behind the Glamour of Golden Age Hollywood Was a Hidden Gay History
U.S. Treasury Secretary's Total Fail on Iran
Scott Bessent thinks that America can grow its way out of its $40 trillion national debt! Who the hell is he trying to kid? A country would need one hell of a lot of economic growth to be able to grow its way out of a debt as big as that! That man is living in Cloud-cuckoo-land! He is also talking tosh! — © Mark Alexander
Königin von Dänemark - Teil 2 | 50 Jahre zwischen Krone, Pflicht Und Wandel
Aug 23, 2026 | Königin von Dänemark - Teil 2 - In den letzten 50 Jahren hat S.M. Königin Margrethe II. von Dänemark zahlreiche ausländische Staatsoberhäupter getroffen. In dieser einzigartigen Dokumentarserie erzählen einige von ihnen von ihren Erinnerungen und Begegnungen mit der Königin in den letzten 50 Jahren.
Königin von Dänemark - Teil 2 (2022)
Regisseur: Ulrik Skotte
Genre: Dokumentarfilm Land: Dänemark
Sprache: Deutsch
Königin von Dänemark - Teil 2 (2022)
Regisseur: Ulrik Skotte
Genre: Dokumentarfilm Land: Dänemark
Sprache: Deutsch
US-Canada Trade War: The Cost of Fighting Back | DW News
Trump Clearly Thought BBC Case Would Be as Easy as ABC... He's Learning the Hard Way It Won’t Be
August 21, 2026 | Newly discovered photos show Donald Trump aide Natalie Harp sprinting after his cart at his Scottish golf course - after bizarre letters she sent him confessing her devotion to him were published.
Questions are swirling about the 35-year-old executive assistant unusually close relationship with the US President. Harp is nicknamed the "human printer" because she frequently prints out and hands the President printouts of flattering news stories and cherry-picked poll numbers - acting as a "filter" for information reaching him. She is reported to have frequently left "intimate" letters for him to find in his personal spaces, saying things like "You are all that matters to me," and "I don't ever want to let you down...I want to bring you joy."
And in a letter published last night by US website The Daily Beast, Harp apologised for a 2023 incident where she followed him around his golf course at Turnberry, Ayrshire on foot, instead of riding in a golf cart. She told Trump, who was running for re-election at the time, that she was sorry "if I was an embarrassment walking the course in Scotland." She added: "If there is anything else I have done to cause you trouble, please forgive me...I want things to always be right between us...you are all that matters to me. I don't want to ever let you down. Thank you for being my Guardian and Protector in this Life."
Questions are swirling about the 35-year-old executive assistant unusually close relationship with the US President. Harp is nicknamed the "human printer" because she frequently prints out and hands the President printouts of flattering news stories and cherry-picked poll numbers - acting as a "filter" for information reaching him. She is reported to have frequently left "intimate" letters for him to find in his personal spaces, saying things like "You are all that matters to me," and "I don't ever want to let you down...I want to bring you joy."
And in a letter published last night by US website The Daily Beast, Harp apologised for a 2023 incident where she followed him around his golf course at Turnberry, Ayrshire on foot, instead of riding in a golf cart. She told Trump, who was running for re-election at the time, that she was sorry "if I was an embarrassment walking the course in Scotland." She added: "If there is anything else I have done to cause you trouble, please forgive me...I want things to always be right between us...you are all that matters to me. I don't want to ever let you down. Thank you for being my Guardian and Protector in this Life."
'They Should Be Very Careful,' Marandi Warns Gulf States as Iran Prepares for Economic Warfare
Professor Mohammad Marandi said that Iran is preparing for "a very long war" by transitioning to a wartime economy "when the United States initiates this new phase of economic warfare."
He further warned that Gulf states including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait should "be very careful about their actions in the days and weeks ahead," arguing that if they assist US operations against Iranian civilians, "they will be severely punished, and their regimes will probably not survive."
Marandi asserted that Iran is preparing not only for prolonged war but for the economic and political challenges that come with it, with the Supreme National Security Council positioned to oversee "all aspects of life in Iran, not just war."
Professor Mohammad Marandi explains.
He further warned that Gulf states including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait should "be very careful about their actions in the days and weeks ahead," arguing that if they assist US operations against Iranian civilians, "they will be severely punished, and their regimes will probably not survive."
Marandi asserted that Iran is preparing not only for prolonged war but for the economic and political challenges that come with it, with the Supreme National Security Council positioned to oversee "all aspects of life in Iran, not just war."
Droits de douane : Donald Trump empêtré dans sa croisade tarifaire mondiale
LE FIGARO : DÉCRYPTAGE - Le locataire de la Maison-Blanche a réussi à tordre le bras à l’Europe et à d’autres pays pour obtenir des conditions avantageuses. Alors que le bras de fer avec le Canada est relancé, l’annulation, il y a six mois, d’une grosse partie des tarifs par la Cour suprême fragilise largement sa politique.
Œil pour œil, dent pour dent. Après l’échec des négociations commerciales avec Washington, le Canada a choisi la riposte. Dans la nuit de samedi à dimanche, Ottawa a annoncé à son tour des droits de douane d’un montant équivalent aux 20 milliards de dollars d’importations canadiennes ciblées par la Maison-Blanche. Un nouveau front de la guerre commerciale tous azimuts du président américain se rouvre.
Depuis son retour au pouvoir, Donald Trump a fait des droits de douane le principal instrument de sa politique étrangère, frappant tour à tour la quasi-totalité des partenaires économiques des États-Unis. Mais en l’espace de dix-huit mois maintenant, à force d’accords et de revirements, d’exemptions sectorielles, de pauses tarifaires, de petits arrangements ainsi que de dispositifs invalidés par la Cour suprême, la politique commerciale américaine est devenue un maquis insondable. » | Par Lucas Mediavilla | dimanche 23 août 2026
Réservé aux abonnés
Trump s'est mis dans un sacré pétrin ! Il a entraîné ses compatriotes et lui-même dans une guerre contre l'Iran qu'il ne peut tout simplement pas gagner. Il est également engagé dans une guerre commerciale avec le Canada — qu'il ne peut pas remporter non plus — qui coûte cher à de nombreux acteurs américains, notamment aux producteurs de spiritueux et autres boissons alcoolisées.
Qui plus est, l'économie sous l'ère Trump bat de l'aile et les prix s'envolent. Pourtant, Trump continue de s'enfoncer dans un trou toujours plus profond !
Pour couronner le tout, la dette nationale américaine a explosé, dépassant les quarante mille milliards de dollars. La seule guerre contre l'Iran coûte environ un milliard de dollars par jour !
Voilà bien toute la maîtrise dont fait preuve Trump en matière d'économie et de géopolitique ! — © Mark Alexander
Trump reagiert auf Kanadas Gegenzölle mit 51.-Staat-Parole
BERLINER ZEITUNG: Nach dem Scheitern der Handelsgespräche zwischen den USA und Kanada kündigt Ottawa Vergeltungszölle an. Die neuen Maßnahmen sollen Anfang September in Kraft treten.
Dieser Screenshot stammt aus diesem Artikel. | US-Präsident Donald Trump und Kanadas Premierminister Mark Carney bei einem Treffen im südkoreanischen Gyeongju im Oktober 2025 | © Adrian Wyld/imago
Im Handelsstreit zwischen den USA und Kanada hat US-Präsident Donald Trump am Sonntag öffentlich auf die angekündigten kanadischen Gegenzölle reagiert und dabei seine Rhetorik vom möglichen 51. US-Bundesstaat erneuert.
„Kanada will die Vorteile eines Staates haben, ohne einer zu sein“, schrieb Trump auf seiner Plattform Truth Social. Zudem warf er dem Nachbarland vor, US-Landwirten jahrelang hohe Zölle auferlegt zu haben. Damit sei nun Schluss.
Trumps Wortmeldung folgt auf das Scheitern tagelanger Verhandlungen und das Inkrafttreten neuer US-Zölle auf kanadische Waren am Samstag. Die Aufschläge in Höhe von 50 Prozent betreffen laut Bericht der Nachrichtenagentur The Canadian Press Ausfuhren im Wert von rund 28 Milliarden kanadischen Dollar, darunter erstmals auch Waren, die unter das nordamerikanische Freihandelsabkommen USMCA fallen – etwa Hockeyschläger, Honig, ätherische Öle und Milchprodukte. » | Peter Steiniger | Sonntag, 23. August 2026
Im Handelsstreit zwischen den USA und Kanada hat US-Präsident Donald Trump am Sonntag öffentlich auf die angekündigten kanadischen Gegenzölle reagiert und dabei seine Rhetorik vom möglichen 51. US-Bundesstaat erneuert.
„Kanada will die Vorteile eines Staates haben, ohne einer zu sein“, schrieb Trump auf seiner Plattform Truth Social. Zudem warf er dem Nachbarland vor, US-Landwirten jahrelang hohe Zölle auferlegt zu haben. Damit sei nun Schluss.
Trumps Wortmeldung folgt auf das Scheitern tagelanger Verhandlungen und das Inkrafttreten neuer US-Zölle auf kanadische Waren am Samstag. Die Aufschläge in Höhe von 50 Prozent betreffen laut Bericht der Nachrichtenagentur The Canadian Press Ausfuhren im Wert von rund 28 Milliarden kanadischen Dollar, darunter erstmals auch Waren, die unter das nordamerikanische Freihandelsabkommen USMCA fallen – etwa Hockeyschläger, Honig, ätherische Öle und Milchprodukte. » | Peter Steiniger | Sonntag, 23. August 2026
Waleed Asadi: Shami* Cannoli | كانولي شامي
August 17, 2026 | I have had this idea to create a Shami Cannoli for a while now. The contrasting textures of a cannoli are reminiscent to me of qatayef and knafeh. You have a crispy exterior and creamy filling that works so well together.
I thought what if we fill these cannolis with [and I came up with] a Shami-style filling, something really unique to our part of the world. So today, I finally decided to give it a try.
Click here for the written recipe.
Waleed’s very own selection of spices can be found here. Don’t forget to use the code ZAWI10 for 10% off your first order.
Waleed’s favourite Lebanese olive oil, Les Cousines, can be found here. Don’t forget to use Waleed’s very own special introductory code for 15% off your first order.
I thought what if we fill these cannolis with [and I came up with] a Shami-style filling, something really unique to our part of the world. So today, I finally decided to give it a try.
Click here for the written recipe.
Waleed’s very own selection of spices can be found here. Don’t forget to use the code ZAWI10 for 10% off your first order.
Waleed’s favourite Lebanese olive oil, Les Cousines, can be found here. Don’t forget to use Waleed’s very own special introductory code for 15% off your first order.
‘Trump Is Very Weak’: Canadian Premier Delivers Stunning Blow To Trump | World News | US | Canada
August 22, 2026 | A Canadian premier delivered a series of sharp attacks against President Donald Trump, calling his political position weak and issuing a stark warning about the upcoming U.S. midterm elections.
The remarks included the striking prediction that Trump and Republicans could be “slaughtered in the midterms,” adding another dramatic chapter to the political tensions surrounding Trump’s leadership and his relationship with Canada.
The comments come as the 2026 midterms approach and the battle for control of Congress begins to intensify. …
The remarks included the striking prediction that Trump and Republicans could be “slaughtered in the midterms,” adding another dramatic chapter to the political tensions surrounding Trump’s leadership and his relationship with Canada.
The comments come as the 2026 midterms approach and the battle for control of Congress begins to intensify. …
Iran Warns Gulf States Against Joining Trump’s Economic War, or Else
THE NEW YORK TIMES: Iran’s new hard-line national security adviser, Mohsen Rezaei, vowed to prevent “a single drop of oil” from leaving the region.
Screenshot taken from this NYT article. | Mohsen Rezaei, Iran’s new security chief, last month in Tehran. Though hostilities have largely ceased, the United States and Iran are locked in an economic standoff. Credit: Mohammed Salem/Reuters
President Trump has warned that “Economic D-Day” is coming for Iran. This weekend, Tehran promised to fight back, threatening any nation that helps the United States.
Iran’s new security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, on Saturday vowed to strike the interests of oil-rich neighbors if they joined U.S. efforts to further isolate Iran, whose economy is already in free fall. He warned that Tehran would seek to prevent “even a single drop of oil” from leaving the region.
“Any country that becomes a partner in creating economic restrictions against us will be regarded by us as an enemy,” he said in an interview with Iran’s state broadcaster.
Mr. Razaei is a political hard-liner and former head of the Revolutionary Guards. The interview offered his first extensive comments since taking up his new post two weeks ago — and struck an aggressive tone in line with Iran’s increasingly uncompromising regional strategy. At one point, he asked whether Iran should pursue building a nuclear bomb, which Tehran has previously insisted it has no intention of doing. » | Erika Solomon | Sunday, August 23, 2026
President Trump has warned that “Economic D-Day” is coming for Iran. This weekend, Tehran promised to fight back, threatening any nation that helps the United States.
Iran’s new security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, on Saturday vowed to strike the interests of oil-rich neighbors if they joined U.S. efforts to further isolate Iran, whose economy is already in free fall. He warned that Tehran would seek to prevent “even a single drop of oil” from leaving the region.
“Any country that becomes a partner in creating economic restrictions against us will be regarded by us as an enemy,” he said in an interview with Iran’s state broadcaster.
Mr. Razaei is a political hard-liner and former head of the Revolutionary Guards. The interview offered his first extensive comments since taking up his new post two weeks ago — and struck an aggressive tone in line with Iran’s increasingly uncompromising regional strategy. At one point, he asked whether Iran should pursue building a nuclear bomb, which Tehran has previously insisted it has no intention of doing. » | Erika Solomon | Sunday, August 23, 2026
Johannes Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 2 in B-Flat Major, Op. 83: I. Allegro non troppo · Krystian Zimerman · Wiener Philharmoniker · Leonard Bernstein
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‘The Country of My Birth Has Lost Its Heart’: Miriam Margolyes on How to Fix Broken Britain
THE GUARDIAN: At 85, the actor has lived through much political upheaval. But, she writes, today’s hostile times feel like ‘the worst yet’. She reflects on her journey from teenage Tory to full-throated leftist – and says there’s still time to save the nation from the bad guys
Afunny thing happened on the way to 2026: I got old and the world turned nasty. It happened very quickly and it’s to do with politics (the world) and pelvic floor weakness (mine). It’s strange being this old. Sometimes when I look in the mirror, it’s a shock to see wrinkles and grey hair, because inside I am still that naughty Oxford High School girl, risking detention just for the joy of entertaining her friends. People assume that with great age comes great wisdom, but actually we remain who we have always been, only more so, and we need to make our peace with that and with each other.
The Britain I grew up in, though – that feels almost unrecognisable, and everyone I speak to says the same thing. The historian Eric Hobsbawm, whom I knew and loved, argued that people invent the past they want for their own purposes – that the real past was quite different: “Today is the great age of historical mythology.” He’s right, but that past is still the safe haven I’d like to return to. People feel adrift, they don’t understand or feel a connection to the place they thought they knew.
Now at 85, I look around at my remaining friends and at my unique relationship with a woman of different qualities but luckily the same politics. In many ways I’m having the time of my life: I’ve never been richer or more in demand. And yet my heart is heavy with foreboding …
My postwar generation lived through the rise and fall of many things: the Berlin Wall, Winston Churchill, the European Union, the NHS, the Beatles, Profumo, Elizabeth II, the Great Train Robbery, the pill, the IRA, Margaret Thatcher, the Falklands war, Black Monday and Grenfell, heart transplants, driverless cars, Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic. But this feels the worst time yet.
The things we took for granted – free speech, the Post Office, our local bank, even the home telephone – are disappearing. The US is an enemy. Evil oligarchs and their influence stalk the world, my world, your world. In recent times, the archbishop of Canterbury resigned and north London Jews are afraid to wear a Magen David (Shield or Star of David) necklace outside their homes for fear of being attacked. You’re brave to open your mouth these days. Indeed, many have demanded I keep mine shut. But I can’t. The present has become threatening, hostile and unwelcoming to us – much as our shores must feel to asylum seekers, as they scramble for a foothold in our United Kingdom. It also feels as though the country of my birth has lost its heart. How did we get here? » | Miriam Margolyes | Sunday, August 23, 2026
Jeffrey Sachs: America’s Economic Crisis - U.S. Debt & Rising Rates Signal Trouble
Aug 22, 2026 | Professor Jeffrey Sachs joins Judge Andrew Napolitano to discuss the growing challenges facing the U.S. economy, including rising interest rates, falling bond prices, massive federal deficits, and America’s $40 trillion national debt. Sachs argues that declining demand for U.S. Treasury securities reflects growing concerns about American economic policy and credibility.
The conversation also examines the unpredictability of U.S. foreign policy, changing relationships with countries such as South Korea and Iran, and the broader reassessment of America’s global role. Sachs also discusses AIPAC, U.S. political races, and changing American attitudes toward Israel.
The conversation also examines the unpredictability of U.S. foreign policy, changing relationships with countries such as South Korea and Iran, and the broader reassessment of America’s global role. Sachs also discusses AIPAC, U.S. political races, and changing American attitudes toward Israel.
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Broken DUBAI: 10 Areas Turning Into Ghost Zones as Tourism Collapses in 2026
July 25, 2026 | What is really happening across Dubai in 2026?
After years of record-breaking tourism, some of Dubai's most famous destinations began experiencing quieter streets, changing visitor patterns, and growing economic uncertainty. But is Dubai really in decline, or is the reality more complex?
In this documentary, we explore 10 areas across Dubai that have sparked discussion about the city's future, including Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), DIFC, Global Village, and The World Islands.
After years of record-breaking tourism, some of Dubai's most famous destinations began experiencing quieter streets, changing visitor patterns, and growing economic uncertainty. But is Dubai really in decline, or is the reality more complex?
In this documentary, we explore 10 areas across Dubai that have sparked discussion about the city's future, including Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Palm Jumeirah, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), DIFC, Global Village, and The World Islands.
Conflit au Moyen-Orient: Téhéran dit considérer comme un « ennemi » tout pays participant à la « guerre économique » de Washington
LE FIGARO : Le secrétaire du Conseil suprême de sécurité nationale iranien a appelé les pays du monde à ne pas se ranger derrière les États-Unis.
« Tout pays participant à la mise en place de restrictions économiques » à l’encontre de l’Iran est « considéré comme un ennemi », a déclaré samedi le secrétaire du Conseil suprême de sécurité nationale iranien, Mohsen Rezaï. « Nous déclarons à tous les pays autour de nous et tous les pays du monde: ne vous joignez pas à la guerre économique menée par les États-Unis », a déclaré Rezaï à la télévision d’État, après l’annonce par Washington d’un renforcement des sanctions économiques destinées à accentuer la pression sur Téhéran.
Si les pays concernés refusaient de « prendre leurs distances » avec les États-Unis, l’Iran porterait « atteinte à leurs intérêts », a-t-il ajouté. « Nous n’avons encore attaqué aucun intérêt économique américain » et « jusqu’à présent, nous n’avons ciblé que des bases militaires, mais s’ils veulent nous imposer des sanctions économiques, les États-Unis possèdent des entreprises pétrolières et économiques autour de l’Iran et ailleurs, et nous les frapperons », a poursuivi Mohsen Rezaei. Si Donald Trump « mène une action (contre nous), notre confrontation sera comme un séisme », a-t-il encore menacé. » | Par Le Figaro avec AFP | samedi 22 août 2026
« Tout pays participant à la mise en place de restrictions économiques » à l’encontre de l’Iran est « considéré comme un ennemi », a déclaré samedi le secrétaire du Conseil suprême de sécurité nationale iranien, Mohsen Rezaï. « Nous déclarons à tous les pays autour de nous et tous les pays du monde: ne vous joignez pas à la guerre économique menée par les États-Unis », a déclaré Rezaï à la télévision d’État, après l’annonce par Washington d’un renforcement des sanctions économiques destinées à accentuer la pression sur Téhéran.
Si les pays concernés refusaient de « prendre leurs distances » avec les États-Unis, l’Iran porterait « atteinte à leurs intérêts », a-t-il ajouté. « Nous n’avons encore attaqué aucun intérêt économique américain » et « jusqu’à présent, nous n’avons ciblé que des bases militaires, mais s’ils veulent nous imposer des sanctions économiques, les États-Unis possèdent des entreprises pétrolières et économiques autour de l’Iran et ailleurs, et nous les frapperons », a poursuivi Mohsen Rezaei. Si Donald Trump « mène une action (contre nous), notre confrontation sera comme un séisme », a-t-il encore menacé. » | Par Le Figaro avec AFP | samedi 22 août 2026
US-Schulden außer Kontrolle? Sandra Navidi: „Es wird langsam gefährlich“ | ntv
Harry and Meghan See Their California Dreams, and Riches, Fade Away
THE NEW YORK TIMES: Like so many others before them, Prince Harry and Meghan arrived in Hollywood with big plans. They are leaving with their star power fading.
This screenshot has been taken from this NYT article. | The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are returning to Britain after spending six years in California chasing their Hollywood dreams. Credit: Dylan Martinez/Reuters
It began with such high hopes.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex landed in Hollywood in 2020, flush with a multimillion-dollar Netflix deal and a promise that the duo, scorned by the royal family, would make a slew of inspirational programming.
Two years later, “Harry & Meghan” the Netflix six-part docuseries on the couple’s departure from Britain, generated 23.4 million views in its initial release, immediately topping the company’s charts as the most watched ever for the first four days of a documentary. In total, the program has garnered 70 million views since its debut.
Nothing else Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, ever made for the service — whether it was “Live to Lead,” a seven-episode interview show with world leaders, or “Polo,” a docuseries about the sport — reached such heights.
In 2025, the Netflix deal was not renewed. A similarly lofty agreement at Spotify also fell short of expectations. » | Nicole Sperling and Shawn Hubler | Reporting from Los Angeles | Saturday, August 22, 2026
It began with such high hopes.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex landed in Hollywood in 2020, flush with a multimillion-dollar Netflix deal and a promise that the duo, scorned by the royal family, would make a slew of inspirational programming.
Two years later, “Harry & Meghan” the Netflix six-part docuseries on the couple’s departure from Britain, generated 23.4 million views in its initial release, immediately topping the company’s charts as the most watched ever for the first four days of a documentary. In total, the program has garnered 70 million views since its debut.
Nothing else Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, ever made for the service — whether it was “Live to Lead,” a seven-episode interview show with world leaders, or “Polo,” a docuseries about the sport — reached such heights.
In 2025, the Netflix deal was not renewed. A similarly lofty agreement at Spotify also fell short of expectations. » | Nicole Sperling and Shawn Hubler | Reporting from Los Angeles | Saturday, August 22, 2026
Pakistan: Islam bestimmt den Alltag | Doku HD | ARTE | Reupload
Aug 9, 2025 | In Pakistans Gesellschaft brodelt es. Immer mehr Menschen fordern mehr Freiheit und Gleichheit. Der Rockmusiker Aaiz rebelliert mit provokanten Texten gegen das Patriarchat, die Anwältin Neha kämpft gegen die Zwangsheirat. Der Imam Abdul Jameel dagegen fordert die Einhaltung der religiösen Regeln.
Pakistan ist ein Land, in dem Männer meistens das Sagen haben. Patriarchale Strukturen und religiöse Normen prägen Gesellschaft und Familie. Männliche Gewalt ist allgegenwärtig. Zwar gibt es zahlreiche Gesetze, die Frauen schützen sollen – doch in der Realität stehen Frauen einem System gegenüber, das sie oft unterdrückt. Aber nicht nur Frauen sind betroffen: Jeder, der in dieser konservativ-muslimischen Gesellschaft von der Tradition abweicht, hat es schwer. Besonders junge Menschen in den Städten spüren den Konflikt zwischen modernen Einflüssen und den Regeln, die Familien und Moscheen vorgeben. Doch es regt sich Widerstand – nicht nur unter Frauen, sondern auch unter Männern.
Der Imam Abdul Jameel versteht den Islam als Maßstab für sein Leben und als Grundlage für eine geordnete Gesellschaft. Er fordert strenge islamische Regeln – für seine Gemeinde, seine Frau und seine Söhne. Der Rockmusiker Aaiz setzt mit provokanten Texten und seinem Lebensstil ein Zeichen gegen die engen gesellschaftlichen Zwänge. Mit seiner Band rebelliert er gegen den Konservatismus und die Macht der Religion. Die Anwältin Neha kämpft für Mädchen und Frauen, die schutzlos sind oder Opfer männlicher Gewalt wurden. Sie weiß aus eigener Erfahrung, wie es ist, Missbrauch zu erleiden – und keine Möglichkeit zu haben, ihn anzuzeigen.Drei Menschen, die unterschiedliche Haltungen und Perspektiven vertreten im „Land der Männer“.
Video verfügbar bis zum 14/12/2036
Pakistan ist ein Land, in dem Männer meistens das Sagen haben. Patriarchale Strukturen und religiöse Normen prägen Gesellschaft und Familie. Männliche Gewalt ist allgegenwärtig. Zwar gibt es zahlreiche Gesetze, die Frauen schützen sollen – doch in der Realität stehen Frauen einem System gegenüber, das sie oft unterdrückt. Aber nicht nur Frauen sind betroffen: Jeder, der in dieser konservativ-muslimischen Gesellschaft von der Tradition abweicht, hat es schwer. Besonders junge Menschen in den Städten spüren den Konflikt zwischen modernen Einflüssen und den Regeln, die Familien und Moscheen vorgeben. Doch es regt sich Widerstand – nicht nur unter Frauen, sondern auch unter Männern.
Der Imam Abdul Jameel versteht den Islam als Maßstab für sein Leben und als Grundlage für eine geordnete Gesellschaft. Er fordert strenge islamische Regeln – für seine Gemeinde, seine Frau und seine Söhne. Der Rockmusiker Aaiz setzt mit provokanten Texten und seinem Lebensstil ein Zeichen gegen die engen gesellschaftlichen Zwänge. Mit seiner Band rebelliert er gegen den Konservatismus und die Macht der Religion. Die Anwältin Neha kämpft für Mädchen und Frauen, die schutzlos sind oder Opfer männlicher Gewalt wurden. Sie weiß aus eigener Erfahrung, wie es ist, Missbrauch zu erleiden – und keine Möglichkeit zu haben, ihn anzuzeigen.Drei Menschen, die unterschiedliche Haltungen und Perspektiven vertreten im „Land der Männer“.
Video verfügbar bis zum 14/12/2036
Addicted: Why Teens Can't Stop Vaping
Western politicians have got a hell of a lot to answer for promoting this garbage! Smoking conventional cigarettes among the young was going down and down in recent years anyway. Smoking was losing its appeal. So, politicians should have left things alone. They should have just kept on informing people through infomercials of the dangers attached to smoking. But instead of that, they promoted these dangerous alternatives to cigarette smoking: all forms of e-cigarettes and vapes.
I have never tried vaping, and nor do I have any intention of ever doing so. But I have heard it said, and I have read, that vaping is more addictive than smoking conventional cigarettes.
In my opinion, for what it is worth, because vapers usually keep their e-cigarettes constantly in their hands and keep on puffing on them incessantly—something one never does with conventional cigarettes—they are bound to be far more addictive and injurious to health in the long-run that real cigarettes could ever be. A person who smokes real cigarettes, unless he/she is a chain-smoker, will take a break from smoking after stubbing out the cigarette he/she has just smoked. Not so, it seems, with e-cigarettes.
In years to come, doctors will be discovering all manner of illnesses caused by these devices. I feel sure of that. Possibly discovering diseases and illnesses which until now have not even been thought of.
It’s such a shame that politicians cannot stop themselves from meddling in people’s lives. It is such a pity that they feel compelled to try and improve the situation. Why? Because they usually end up making things worse. In German, there is a perfect word to describe this phenomenon. It is this: verschlimmbessern. There is no English equivalent; one can only describe its meaning. And it is this: doing something in the hope of improving things but you end up making things worse. This German word perfectly describes the actions of our stupid, ill-informed politicians. My message to them is this: Keep your noses out of people’s private lives and just leave things alone, leave people sort out their own problems. Good parents know how to deal with these things. They don’t need politicians to keep on passing new, ineffective laws to try and help them. — © Mark Alexander
For Churchill’s Sake, Don’t Let the Flame Go Out on the Last Cigar
THE TELEGRAPH: We can’t allow those running the nanny state to have their way
Screenshot taken from this Telegraph article. | The former prime minister is perhaps the most famous cigar smoker in our nation’s history Credit: Bettmann
In the decade or so since it was mandated that cigarettes be sold in plain packaging, that awful grey that serves as backdrop to any newsagent or duty-free shop, I have often found myself marvelling at my own good fortune. For I smoke cigars, or cigarillos, not cigarettes – which means that, when I buy my smokes, they come in their proper colourful containers rather than the bland boxes that would not be out of place in a dystopian film.
My regular smoke of choice is Signature (the rebranded Café Crème) with the light-blue tin, complete with an illustration of the cigarillo, which has always stood out against the boring uniformity of my cigarette-smoking friends’ packets. Even though they have long been defaced by large, ugly health warnings, the packaging has always been unique. A reminder that we are not all the same.
Those times may be over. Ministers’ plans to insist on plain packaging for cigars have sparked fears from tobacconists that it will destroy the market and put storied retailers out of business, while limiting choice for those who wish to light up as imports dry up. » | Liam Kelly | Friday, August 21, 2026
Aren't you just sick to death of all the killjoys? I am. I despise the lot of them. — © Mark Alexander
Related article here »
In the decade or so since it was mandated that cigarettes be sold in plain packaging, that awful grey that serves as backdrop to any newsagent or duty-free shop, I have often found myself marvelling at my own good fortune. For I smoke cigars, or cigarillos, not cigarettes – which means that, when I buy my smokes, they come in their proper colourful containers rather than the bland boxes that would not be out of place in a dystopian film.
My regular smoke of choice is Signature (the rebranded Café Crème) with the light-blue tin, complete with an illustration of the cigarillo, which has always stood out against the boring uniformity of my cigarette-smoking friends’ packets. Even though they have long been defaced by large, ugly health warnings, the packaging has always been unique. A reminder that we are not all the same.
Those times may be over. Ministers’ plans to insist on plain packaging for cigars have sparked fears from tobacconists that it will destroy the market and put storied retailers out of business, while limiting choice for those who wish to light up as imports dry up. » | Liam Kelly | Friday, August 21, 2026
Aren't you just sick to death of all the killjoys? I am. I despise the lot of them. — © Mark Alexander
Related article here »
Trump's Put a 'Bandaid on a Bullet Hole' | Bond Expert Explains US Debt
Aug 22, 2026 | “We need higher growth and some kind of fiscal reform.”
The US “is in the midst of an innovation revolution” while also carrying a very large debt burden, but it is the “average household” that gets hurt, says Mohamed El-Erian, one of the world’s most respected bond-market experts and chief economic adviser at Allianz.
The US “is in the midst of an innovation revolution” while also carrying a very large debt burden, but it is the “average household” that gets hurt, says Mohamed El-Erian, one of the world’s most respected bond-market experts and chief economic adviser at Allianz.
Prince Harry’s Daily Mail Case Could Leave Claimants with £18.3m Bill | Colin Campbell
Aug 22, 2026 | "I think this is absolutely the end of the road for privacy claims like this.”
Prince Harry and his fellow claimants could be left with a multimillion-pound legal bill following the Daily Mail privacy case, says media lawyer Colin Campbell.
Prince Harry and his fellow claimants could be left with a multimillion-pound legal bill following the Daily Mail privacy case, says media lawyer Colin Campbell.
Prince Harry and William Must Resolve Feud or Monarchy Is ‘In Trouble’ | AN Wilson
Aug 22, 2026 | “We should never forget that the British monarchy exists because the British public wants them to exist”
Prince Harry and Prince William must resolve their public feud to protect the future of the monarchy, says historian, writer and columnist A. N. Wilson.
Prince Harry and Prince William must resolve their public feud to protect the future of the monarchy, says historian, writer and columnist A. N. Wilson.
Canada-U.S. Trade War Escalates as Talks Collapse
THE NEW YORK TIMES: Intense negotiations to stave off new levies by the Trump administration ended in an impasse as Mark Carney suspended talks. U.S. tariffs on Canada, and retaliatory tariffs on the U.S., will come into effect.
Screenshot taken from this NYT article. | Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada said he suspended the trade talks because the American side introduced last-minute terms that ”called into question the reliability of any deal.” Credit: Greg Locke/Reuters
Crucial trade talks between the United States and Canada to stave off punishing new tariffs by the Trump administration on Canadian goods collapsed late Friday, with Canada saying it would retaliate “dollar for dollar.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada said he had decided to suspend the talks because the American side had introduced last-minute terms that were “unfair, uneconomic, and called into question the reliability of any deal.”
He added that the talks, which had been going on for weeks and had intensified in the past few days, had marked important progress but had ultimately “not been enough to meet our objectives for Canadians.”
United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told reporters that Canada had walked away from the negotiating table, minutes before a deadline ushering in new 50 percent tariffs by the Trump administration on a broad range of Canadian goods. » | Matina Stevis-Gridneff, Ian Austen and Ana Swanson | Matina Stevis-Gridneff reported from Toronto and Ian Austen from Ottawa. Ana Swanson reported from Washington | Published: Friday, August 21, 2016. Updated: Saturday, August 22, 2026
ALSO READ:
Carney Stands Up to Trump in Trade War Despite the Risks: Canada’s prime minister walked away from what he thought was a bad trade deal with the United States. Many Canadians are behind him, but it will be costly. »
Crucial trade talks between the United States and Canada to stave off punishing new tariffs by the Trump administration on Canadian goods collapsed late Friday, with Canada saying it would retaliate “dollar for dollar.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada said he had decided to suspend the talks because the American side had introduced last-minute terms that were “unfair, uneconomic, and called into question the reliability of any deal.”
He added that the talks, which had been going on for weeks and had intensified in the past few days, had marked important progress but had ultimately “not been enough to meet our objectives for Canadians.”
United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer told reporters that Canada had walked away from the negotiating table, minutes before a deadline ushering in new 50 percent tariffs by the Trump administration on a broad range of Canadian goods. » | Matina Stevis-Gridneff, Ian Austen and Ana Swanson | Matina Stevis-Gridneff reported from Toronto and Ian Austen from Ottawa. Ana Swanson reported from Washington | Published: Friday, August 21, 2016. Updated: Saturday, August 22, 2026
ALSO READ:
Carney Stands Up to Trump in Trade War Despite the Risks: Canada’s prime minister walked away from what he thought was a bad trade deal with the United States. Many Canadians are behind him, but it will be costly. »
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