Remembering Stonewall: On 50th Anniversary, Leaders of Uprising Look Back on Sparking LGBTQ Movement

Fifty years ago today, just after midnight, at 1:30 in the morning on June 28, 1969, New York City police officers raided a gay- and trans-friendly bar called the Stonewall Inn on Christopher Street in Greenwich Village. As the police began dragging some of the patrons out, the community fought back, sparking three days of rioting. Their historic resistance launched the modern-day LGBTQ movement and became known as the Stonewall uprising. We hear the leaders of the Stonewall uprising in their own words, in a radio documentary produced by Dave Isay in 1989 called “Remembering Stonewall.”

Wildfire in Spain as Europe Roasts

Several countries have broken their June temperature records after a huge reservoir of hot air from the Sahara engulfed Europe.

Hundreds of firefighters have struggled to contain a major wildfire in northeastern Spain. The Spanish military has sent a unit of 120 specialists to help local firefighters battle the flames, which have sent thick plumes of smoke high into the air above the Catalonia region.

Boris Johnson’s Talk of ‘Global Britain’ Is about to Look Even More Ridiculous

THE GUARDIAN: While the favourite to be Britain’s next prime minister feeds his public disinformation, the EU is homing in on a huge trade deal

Three years after the United Kingdom’s Brexit referendum, the UK is no closer to figuring out how to leave the European Union – and what comes next – than it was when the result was announced. And now a Conservative party leadership election to replace the outgoing prime minister, Theresa May, is in full swing. To those of us watching from the outside, the debate between the candidates confirms that they have learned nothing whatsoever from the past two years of negotiations with the EU.

Sadly, this comes as no surprise, given that the lead candidate is Boris Johnson, the leave campaign’s most prominent architect and a man who continues to dissemble, exaggerate and disinform the public about Brexit. In 2016, Johnson and his fellow Brexiteers duped a narrow majority of UK voters into thinking that leaving the EU would somehow furnish the NHS with an additional £350m per week. He also drummed up fears that Britain’s EU membership would somehow lead to mass immigration from Turkey(which happens to be the homeland of his paternal great-grandfather, Ali Kemal).

Though Johnson will most likely soon find himself in a position where he must make good on his promises, he continues to spread untruths. Chief among them is the myth that Britain can tear up the withdrawal agreement that May negotiated with the EU, withhold its financial commitments to the bloc, and simultaneously start negotiating free-trade deals. To Johnson’s followers, however, he is more prophet than politician: only he can deliver a mythical “true Brexit” that will bring the prosperity promised during the referendum campaign. » | Guy Verhofstadt | Thursday, June 27, 2019

Boris Johnson's Brexit Deal Claims Rubbished by Guy Verhofstadt

THE GUARDIAN: EU Brexit coordinator likens Tory frontrunner’s claims to ‘false promises’ of referendum

Boris Johnson’s claims about the prospects of rewriting the Brexit deal have been compared by the European parliament’s Brexit coordinator to the “false promises, pseudo-patriotism and foreigner-bashing” he is said to have used to win the EU referendum.

The suggestion from the Conservative leadership frontrunner that he will be able to dump Theresa May’s withdrawal agreement, withhold the UK’s £39bn divorce bill and still negotiate a free-trade deal in Brussels was savaged by Guy Verhofstadt.

The former prime minister of Belgium said Johnson’s assertion during the current leadership campaign was a myth. In a withering assessment of the race between Johnson and Jeremy Hunt, who also claims he will be able to renegotiate the deal, Verhofstadt said it appeared they had “learned nothing whatsoever”.

The EU has repeatedly said it will not renegotiate the agreement and that the UK will crash out unless the House of Commons ratifies the full package, including the protocol containing the Irish backstop for avoiding a hard border on the island of Ireland. » | Daniel Boffey in Helsinki | Thursday, June 27, 2019

Trump's "Deal of the Century" Just Means More Israeli Occupation of Palestinian Land

Ali Abunimah discusses Jared Kushner's presentation of his peace plan's economic portion in Bahrain this week. He dangled fifty billion dollars for the Palestinian economy, but no freedom, political rightsm, nor an end of the Israeli occupation.

Democracy Now! Top US News & World Headlines — June 27, 2019

Tunisia: Twin Suicide Attacks Target Police

Two suicide blasts rocked the Tunisian capital on Thursday, according to the country's interior ministry, killing at least one police officer with several people wounded.

The first blast was caused by a suicide bomber targeting a police patrol on Tunis' central Charles de Gaulle street, not far from the French embassy. Two police officers and three civilians were injured, according to the interior ministry. Body parts were strewn in the road around the police car, an AFP news agency correspondent said. The loud explosion was heard throughout the surrounding neighbourhood.

A second attacker blew himself up shortly afterwards near a police station elsewhere in the capital, the interior ministry said. Four people were injured in the attack. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the incidents.

Analysis: UN Rapporteur Criticises Saudi’s Khashoggi Murder Probe

Agnes Callamard, the United Nations special rapporteur on extrajudicial executions, has criticised the Saudi Arabian investigation into the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents. Callamard, who presented her report into the killing on Wednesday, said the investigation failed to examine who may have ordered the killing, adding that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MBS, and other senior officials should be investigated over the murder. "The investigation carried out by the Saudi authorities has failed to address the chain of command," she told the UN Human Rights Council.

Exclusive: 'The Middle East Does Not Need Another War' Says Iraqi President

The president of Iraq, Barham Salih, tells Sky News about his fears over heightening tensions between America and Iran.

Prince William Says It's Fine If His Children Come Out as LGBT | 5 News

Prince William has said it would be 'absolutely fine' by him if any of his children come out as LGBT in the future. The Duke of Cambridge was visiting an LGBT charity which helps young people who have been made homeless because of their sexuality.

Boris Johnson May Be the Next Prime Minister of Britain. Who Is He?

THE NEW YORK TIMES: Boris Johnson, Political Escape Artist, Lands in Hot Water. Again »

Islam and Democracy: What's the Problem? | UpFront

In a special edition of UpFront, recorded before Ennahda's announcement, Mehdi Hasan speaks to a panel of experts, analysts and activists about whether there can be a balance between Islamic and democratic values.

Iranian President Calls White House 'Mentally Retarded'

Jeremy Hunt is not just a Tory leadership hopeful, he is, in fact, also the Foreign Secretary, and today he told parliament he could not envisage any situation in which the UK joins the US in a war with Iran.

Donald Trump announced new sanctions yesterday, but Iran's President has responded by calling them "useless, outrageous and idiotic," adding that the White House appears to be "afflicted by mental retardation".

Seriously? Pompeo Seeks Saudi Advice on ‘Bad Behavior’

Author and professor of international human rights Dan Kovalik joins Rick Sanchez to unpack western canards about Iran and double-standards in discussions of “terrorism.”

President Trump's Full, Unedited Interview with Meet The Press | NBC News

President Donald Trump sat down for an exclusive interview with Meet the Press moderator Chuck Todd on Friday, June 21st, 2019.

Is the US an Honest Broker between the Israelis-Palestinians?

Iran Says 'Idiotic' New US Sanctions Have Closed Path to Diplomacy

THE GUARDIAN: Foreign ministry spokesman accuses Trump administration of destroying peace and security

Iran says the US decision to impose sanctions on its supreme leader and other top officials is “idiotic” and has permanently closed the path to diplomacy between Tehran and Washington.

Donald Trump imposed new sanctions on Monday against the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and top military chiefs, in an unprecedented step designed to increase pressure on Iran after Tehran’s downing of an unmanned American drone. Khamenei is Iran’s utmost authority who has the last say on all state matters.

Washington said it would also impose sanctions this week on Iran’s foreign minister, Javad Zarif, who negotiated the 2015 nuclear deal with the US and other major powers and has spearheaded Iranian diplomacy since.

Iran’s president, Hassan Rouhani, described the White House as “afflicted by mental retardation” and said the sanctions against Khamenei were “outrageous and idiotic”, especially as the 80-year-old cleric has no overseas assets and no plans to ever travel to the US. » | Patrick Wintour, Diplomatic editor | Tuesday, June 25, 2019

Iran vs. America: What's Next?

Jamal Abdi updated us on the new sanctions on Iran. Trump’s Iranian sanctions are designed to force Iran into accepting what the US wants. The Iranian sanctions are Trump and Pompeo wanting the Iranian administration to change. The US sanctions on Iran are making it harder for moderate Iranians to protest their government rather than easier. The military strikes against Iran which were stopped ten minutes before launch and has confused both Iran and the US. Are economic sanctions ever successful? John Bolton and Mike Pompeo are running the world and running Trump. They want military action, not economic ones. Will there be a regime change in Iran as a result of the new economic sanctions?

Why Finland Has the Best Education System in the World

A segment on the approach to education in Finland taken from "Where To Invade Next" by Michael Moore.

I Was Boris Johnson’s Boss: He Is Utterly Unfit to Be Prime Minister

THE GUARDIAN: The Tory party is about to foist a tasteless joke upon the British people. He cares for nothing but his own fame and gratification

Six years ago, the Cambridge historian Christopher Clark published a study of the outbreak of the first world war, titled The Sleepwalkers. Though Clark is a fine scholar, I was unconvinced by his title, which suggested that the great powers stumbled mindlessly to disaster. On the contrary, the maddest aspect of 1914 was that each belligerent government convinced itself that it was acting rationally.

It would be fanciful to liken the ascent of Boris Johnson to the outbreak of global war, but similar forces are in play. There is room for debate about whether he is a scoundrel or mere rogue, but not much about his moral bankruptcy, rooted in a contempt for truth. Nonetheless, even before the Conservative national membership cheers him in as our prime minister – denied the option of Nigel Farage, whom some polls suggest they would prefer – Tory MPs have thronged to do just that.

I have known Johnson since the 1980s, when I edited the Daily Telegraph and he was our flamboyant Brussels correspondent. I have argued for a decade that, while he is a brilliant entertainer who made a popular maître d’ for London as its mayor, he is unfit for national office, because it seems he cares for no interest save his own fame and gratification. » | Max Hastings | Monday, June 24, 2019

Jared Kushner Now a Target in DOJ Money Laundering Investigation

Jared Kushner, the husband of Ivanka Trump and son-in-law of the President, is now the target of a DOJ investigation looking into potential money laundering that occurred at Deutsche Bank. There are many transactions in and out of his account that had been flagged as suspicious, and the DOJ can no longer ignore the evidence that is right in front of their faces. Ring of Fire’s Farron Cousins explains what’s happening.

Trump Shrugs Off Khashoggi Killing by Ally Saudi Arabia

THE NEW YORK TIMES: WASHINGTON — President Trump on Sunday shrugged off the brutal dismembering of Jamal Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist, just days after a United Nations report described how a team of Saudi assassins called Mr. Khashoggi a “sacrificial animal” before his murder.

The U.N. report urged an F.B.I. investigation into the slaying. But in an interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Mr. Trump said the episode had already been thoroughly investigated. He said the Middle East is “a vicious, hostile place” and noted that Saudi Arabia is an important trading partner with the United States.

“I only say they spend $400 to $450 billion over a period of time, all money, all jobs, buying equipment,” the president told Chuck Todd, the show’s moderator. “I’m not like a fool that says, ‘We don’t want to do business with them.’ And by the way, if they don’t do business with us, you know what they do? They’ll do business with the Russians or with the Chinese.” » | Michael D. Shear | Sunday, June 23, 2019

Boris Johnson as PM Would Be 'Catastrophe' for UK, Say Scottish Tories

THE GUARDIAN: Fears that Tory frontrunner’s zeal for Brexit would boost support for independence

Senior Scottish Conservatives fear Boris Johnson’s election as Tory leader could be a “catastrophe” for the UK, because it is likely to turbo-charge the campaign for Scottish independence.

Senior Tories believe Johnson’s zeal for Brexit will immediately boost support for a fresh referendum – a view echoed by Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s first minister, on Sunday. Johnson as prime minister would be “devastating, disastrous” for the party and make the case for independence stronger than ever, she said.

Scottish Tories fear Johnson’s election is a foregone conclusion given his sizeable lead among English Tory activists and members, a lead that could withstand the revelations about his late-night row with this girlfriend Carrie Symonds.

“He would have to be guilty of criminality on a huge scale to be stopped,” said one senior Conservative colleague and critic. “Our job is to move this from being a catastrophe to a challenge.” » | Severin Carrell | Sunday, June 23, 2019

Urges to Launch an Attack, Trump Listened to the Skeptics Who Said It Would Be a Costly Mistake

THE NEW YORK TIMES: WASHINGTON — He heard from his generals and his diplomats. Lawmakers weighed in and so did his advisers. But among the voices that rang powerfully for President Trump was that of one of his favorite Fox News hosts: Tucker Carlson.

While national security advisers were urging a military strike against Iran, Mr. Carlson in recent days had told Mr. Trump that responding to Tehran’s provocations with force was crazy. The hawks did not have the president’s best interests at heart, he said. And if Mr. Trump got into a war with Iran, he could kiss his chances of re-election goodbye.

However much weight that advice may or may not have had, the sentiments certainly reinforced the doubts that Mr. Trump himself harbored as he navigated his way through one of the most consequential foreign policy decisions of his presidency. By his own account, the president called off the “cocked & loaded” strike on Thursday night with only 10 minutes to spare to avoid the estimated deaths of as many as 150 people.

The concerns that Mr. Trump heard from Mr. Carlson reflected that part of the presidential ID that has always hesitated at pulling the trigger. Belligerent and confrontational as he is in his public persona, Mr. Trump has at times pulled back from the use of force, convinced that America has wasted too many lives and too much money in pointless Middle East wars and wary of repeating what he considers the mistakes of his predecessors. » | Peter Baker, Maggie Haberman and Thomas Gibbons-Neff | Friday, June 21, 2019

Will the US Attack Iran? | Inside Story

There's an intense debate in Washington about how to deal with Tehran following the downing of a U.S. drone. A tense standoff between the U.S. and Iran, following the downing of an American surveillance drone in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian state television has been showing what it says is drone wreckage retrieved at sea. American media say President Donald Trump ordered air strikes against military targets in Iran - but then later changed his mind.

Congressional leaders were briefed on the incident and called for a robust response, but they also told the president to act with caution. So what does this mean for an already tense region?

Presenter: Peter Dobbie | Guests: Mohammad Marandi, Head of American Studies at the University of Tehran; Hillary Mann Leverett, CEO of the political risk consultancy Stratega and a former U.S. State Department official; Sahil Shah, Policy Fellow at the European Leadership Network

Attacking Iran, US Will Open the Gates of Hell – George Galloway

Film-maker, writer and a renowned orator #GeorgeGalloway shares his point of view on dangerous US-Iran tensions.

Donald Tusk: Johnson May Make Brexit More Exciting, But We Won't Budge

THE GUARDIAN: EU chief says member states are united in rejecting further talks on the withdrawal deal

Brexit may become “even more exciting” when Boris Johnson is in Downing Street but the deal will not change, Donald Tusk has said, as the EU readied itself for a new British prime minister.

An offer to listen to the ideas of whoever replaces Theresa May came with a warning from the European council president and fellow leaders that the withdrawal agreement was final.

“Maybe the process of Brexit will be even more exciting than before because of some personnel decisions in London, but nothing has changed when it comes to our position,” he said. » | Daniel Boffey and Jennifer Rankin in Brussels | Friday, June 21, 2019

The Guardian View on the Tory Leadership Election: Things Fall Apart

THE GUARDIAN: Britain’s next premier is likely to be a committed Brexiter. This would mean the leavers having to own the mess they created

On Thursday evening, after five ballots in eight days among Conservative MPs, the 10 original would-be successors to Theresa May were finally reduced to two: Boris Johnson and, trailing a distant second, the foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt. The two will now face the Tory membership before one of them emerges next month in a postal ballot as the new party leader. For the first time, a prime minister of the UK will be chosen by party grassroots activists. This means the new leader will largely be the choice of middle-class white men over 55 in the south of England who support the death penalty, oppose income redistribution and back a no-deal Brexit. » | Editorial | Thursday, June 20, 2019

Democracy Now! Top US News & World Headlines — June 21, 2019

How Boris Johnson's Record Fits with the Values of the British Army – James O'Brien – LBC

Continental Europe Braced for 'Potentially Dangerous' Heatwave

THE GUARDIAN: High pressure pulling hot air northward from Africa will send temperatures soaring

A potentially record-breaking heatwave is forecast to grip much of continental Europe next week, with temperatures in cities from Spain to Germany set to exceed 32C and climb to more than 38C or even 40C in the hottest areas.

The combination of a storm stalled over the Atlantic and high pressure over central Europe would pull very hot air from Africa northward, leading to a “potentially dangerous heatwave over a large portion of western and central Europe”, forecaster AccuWeather said.

In France, temperatures of between 35C and 40C are expected across most of the country except Brittany from Monday, Météo-France said, and are unlikely to fall below 20C overnight.

“Even though it will be shortlived, this heatwave could be remarkable for its momentum and intensity,” the forecaster said in a bulletin. » | Jon Henley, Europe correspondent | Friday, June 21, 2019

Democracy Now! Top US News & World Headlines — June 20, 2019

'Joints Will Be Separated': Grim New Details of Khashoggi Murder

Last week the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman ordered the case on the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi closed. But a new UN report has unearthed gruesome details based on an audio recording. Al Jazeera's Jamal ElShayyal looks at the sequence of events leading up to his death.

UN Urges Investigation of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS)

A scathing report by the United Nations on the murder of columnist Jamal Khashoggi cites “credible evidence” as grounds for further investigation into the role that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman had in the murder. RT America’s Sayeh Tavangar has more on the report.

Complicit US Lets Saudi Government ‘Keep on Chopping’ – Galloway

An independent UN investigation has found what they call credible evidence suggesting that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman should be investigated for his role in the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Former UK MP George Galloway shares his insights.

Saudi Slams UN Report on Khashoggi Killing as 'Unfounded'

Saudi Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir says the UN report by Agnes Callamard "contains clear contradictions and unfounded allegations, casting doubt on its credibility”. Meanwhile, Turkey's foreign minister says Ankara strongly endorses UN report on the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Al Jazeera's correspondents Hashem Ahelbarra reports from Istanbul, James Bays from United Nations, and Mike Hanna from Washington, DC.

Will Donald Trump Win a Second Term? | Inside Story

The US President launches his bid for re-election in 2020. Few, including Donald Trump, expected him to win the US presidential election in 2016. Now he's well into his first term, and campaigning hard for a second in 2020.

He launched his re-election bid in Florida, a swing state that he must win. Trump didn't offer new policies during the rally, and again attacked what he called the 'fake news media' and the political establishment for undermining him and his supporters.

Opinion polls suggest Trump could lose to most of the possible Democratic challengers such as Joe Biden. So will he win a second term?

Presenter: Martine Dennis | Guests: Joel Rubin - Former U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State; Lauren Zelt - Founder & Chief Executive, Zelt Communications & conservative strategist; Rashawn Ray - Assistant Professor of Sociology, University of Maryland

Donald Trump’s Reckless Iran Policy Casts Doubt on the US as Global Leader

THE GUARDIAN: Washington’s European allies need to ask themselves whether the US government has become a dangerous liability

Irrespective of whether Iran is responsible for the recent attacks on Gulf shipping, the crisis now unfolding is fundamentally one manufactured out of thin air by the Trump administration. The implications go beyond the threat of a major war and consequent worldwide economic crash. Donald Trump’s reckless, incoherent Iran policy also throws into question the viability of the role of the United States as the global leader.

The US achieved its hegemonic status in the world system not simply through raw strength, but also by convincing the second-tier capitalist powers that it could manage that system in their interests as well as its own. Washington could be relied on to confront and put down challenges to the capitalist order, expand and deepen its reach, and handle crises as they arose. It was through responsible management of the system in the interests of western capital and state power more broadly (if not of humanity as a whole) that the US secured consent from its allies to lead this new form of empire. » | David Wearing | Wednesday, June 19, 2019

Iranian Ambassador – Tanker Attacks Are a Plan to Provoke US - Iran War!

On this episode of Going Underground, we speak to Iran’s Ambassador to the UK Hamid Baeidinejad on the recent escalation of tensions between the US and Iran, the Gulf of Oman tanker accident and Western accusations that Iran is to blame, how Iran can defend itself against the US and other Western powers, the status of the Iran Deal as Iran increases uranium enrichment after the US and other Western powers have violated the nuclear deal, tension with Saudi Arabia across the region, the ability for Iran to defend itself against Israel and if a US-Iran war is looming!

Democracy Now! Top US News & World Headlines — June 19, 2019

SNP's Ian Blackford Calls Boris Johnson 'Racist'

Boris Johnson has been labelled 'racist' in the House of Commons by the Scottish National party's Westminster leader, who said the Conservative leadership frontrunner was 'unfit' to be prime minister. Ian Blackford asked Theresa May if she agreed with Johnson that the Scottish people were a verminous race who should be 'exterminated', referring to a poem published in the Spectator when Johnson was the magazine’s editor

UN: Saudi Arabia Must Accept Responsibility for Khashoggi Murder

UN extrajudicial executions investigator Agnes Callamard on Wednesday released her report into the killing of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, she said the dismemberment of Khashoggi was discussed before his killing on October 2, and added that it was important to insist the execution was a killing by the Saudi Arabian state. Callamard also said Riyadh should take steps to ensure such abuse of diplomatic privileges to commit an international crime was not repeated.

Khashoggi Killing: 'Credible Evidence' Linking MBS to Murder – UN

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman should be investigated over killing of journalist Khashoggi, UN expert concludes. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MBS, should be investigated over the killing of dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a United Nations rights expert has concluded, citing "credible evidence". UN extrajudicial executions investigator, Agnes Callamard, released her report on the killing of Khashoggi on Wednesday. Al Jazeera's James Bays reports live from the UN.


THE GUARDIAN: 'Credible evidence' Saudi crown prince liable for Khashoggi killing – UN report » | Nick Hopkins and Stephanie Kirchgaessner | Wednesday, June 19, 2019

It’s Time for Christians to Speak Out against Boris Johnson

THE GUARDIAN: The amoral man most likely to be Britain’s future prime minister has no sense of humility or public duty. Churches should say so

It’s a long time since vicars like me presided over a Church of England that could be described as the Conservative party at prayer. I don’t know if that’s such a bad thing for the church, which surely ought to be apolitical. But it might be deemed to have been a bad thing for Conservatives, who by most accounts appear to have idolatrously wandered so far from gospel truth that they’re about to elect a golden calf as their next leader and, by default, their prime minister.

The charge sheet against Boris Johnson is well rehearsed. He is a serial liar, philanderer and shirker. He was fired from the Times for making up quotes as a reporter, and as an opposition spokesman for lying to his leader about an affair; a spendthrift mayor of London, who relied on his deputies while he played to the gallery with vanity projects; incompetent beyond belief as foreign secretary; said to have deliberately misled the people on the post-Brexit economy; and a provocateur of racism and hate crime through his casual insults of our ethnic minorities. That’s before we get to the vacuous promises of what he’d do next with the British economy. » | George Pitcher* | Tuesday, June 18, 2019

* The Rev George Pitcher is a vicar in the Church of England and a visiting fellow at the LSE; he was secretary for public affairs to the archbishop of Canterbury, 2010-11

Pompeo Interferes in UK PM Election

US State Sec. Pompeo has pledged to “push back” against UK Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn in the event that he becomes the UK’s next Prime Minister. RT’s Charlotte Dubinsky reports. Then Daniel McAdams of the Ron Paul Institute joins Rick Sanchez to weigh in.

Saudi Crown Prince Tells Iran: 'We Won't Hesitate to Deal with Any Threat'

THE GUARDIAN: Mohammed bin Salman speaks publicly for first time about latest tanker attacks amid fears of regional conflict

Mohammed bin Salman has spoken publicly for the first time since a second attack on Saudi oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman, blaming arch-rival Iran and vowing that Saudi Arabia “won’t hesitate to deal with any threat” to the kingdom’s interests.

According to an interview for pan-Arab daily Asharq al-Awsat, published on Sunday, the crown prince said: “We do not want a war in the region ... But we won’t hesitate to deal with any threat to our people, our sovereignty, our territorial integrity and our vital interests.

“The Iranian regime did not respect the presence of the Japanese prime minister as a guest in Tehran and responded to his [diplomatic] efforts by attacking two tankers, one of which was Japanese.” » | Patrick Wintour and agencies | Sunday, June 16, 2019

Attaques de pétroliers en mer d’Oman : une dangereuse escalade

LE MONDE: Editorial. Le sabotage de tankers, jeudi 13 juin, accroît la tension autour du golfe Persique. La diplomatie doit continuer à œuvrer pour que les Etats-Unis et l’Iran évitent une rupture dramatique.

Editorial du « Monde ». L’attaque de deux pétroliers en mer d’Oman, jeudi 13 juin, un mois après le sabotage de quatre navires dans les mêmes eaux, représente une escalade dangereuse. Elle accroît la tension autour du golfe Persique, par où transite un cinquième de la production mondiale de pétrole. Elle annonce un déploiement militaire accru des Etats-Unis dans la région, sur fond de bras de fer entre l’Iran d’un côté et Washington et ses alliés régionaux, l’Arabie saoudite, les Emirats arabes unis et Israël, de l’autre. » | Éditorial | samedi 15 juin 2019

LE MONDE: « MBS » accuse l’Iran d’être responsable de l’attaque de pétroliers en mer d’Oman » |dimanche 16 juin 2019

Robert Reich: Who Will Be the Next President?

Robert Reich offers looks at the 2020 candidates for the Democratic nomination for president.

Boris Johnson à la tête du Royaume-Uni ? Non merci !

LE MONDE: Editorial. Pour l’Union européenne, l’accession de M. Johnson au poste de premier ministre équivaudrait à l’installation à Londres d’un Trump au petit pied se consacrant à la saboter.

Editorial du « Monde ». En juin 2016, au lendemain de la victoire de la campagne en faveur du Brexit qu’il avait conduite, Boris Johnson avait disparu, passant le week-end à jouer au cricket. Dépassé par un succès non anticipé, lâché par son compère Michael Gove, il avait renoncé à briguer Downing Street et à gérer la sortie de l’Union européenne (UE) pour laquelle il avait pourtant ardemment milité. Trois ans après, alors que le divorce avec l’UE tourne au cauchemar pour le Royaume-Uni, revoilà Boris Johnson en pole position pour succéder à Theresa May, dont il n’a cessé de savonner la planche.

Une partie de la biographie de Boris Johnson ressemble à celle d’un leader nationaliste ordinaire, comme l’Europe mais aussi les Etats-Unis en produisent désormais en quantité. Correspondant du Telegraph à Bruxelles dans les années 1990, souvent à coup de bobards sur de prétendues décisions de l’UE, il a largement contribué à la transformation de l’europhobie en cause populaire au Royaume-Uni et en arme redoutable pour le Parti conservateur, jusque-là proeuropéen. Qu’il prenne enfin aujourd’hui la responsabilité du Brexit pourrait découler d’une certaine logique. » | Éditorial | mercredi 12 juin 2019

The Guardian View on the Tories and No Deal: Choosing Rogue Government

THE GUARDIAN: With Boris Johnson as the frontrunner, Tory MPs are abandoning seriousness and responsibility as qualifications to be prime minister

All 10 candidates running in the race to be Conservative leader have sat around the cabinet table. Six are serving ministers. Naturally, none voted in parliament on Wednesday for an opposition motion designed to obstruct the path to a no-deal Brexit.

Even in the disturbed climate of British politics it would be bizarre if applicants to the job of party leader defied that party’s whip mid-contest. (Although Rory Stewart, the boldest and most pro-European of the contenders, briefly hinted that he might.) The motion was defeated by 11 votes, meaning that a chaotic Brexit remains the default setting on 31 October, if the next prime minister is unable to achieve what Theresa May failed to do – persuade a majority of MPs to endorse the negotiated EU withdrawal agreement. » | Editorial | Wednesday, June 12, 2019

Iran Calls Tanker Explosions 'Suspicious' as Global Concern Grows

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has described reported attacks on oil tankers near the Strait of Hormuz as "suspicious" as they coincided with a meeting between Japan's prime minister and Iran's supreme leader. The incidents on Thursday near the strategic sea lane - through which one-third of all oil traded by sea passes - left one vessel ablaze and the other adrift, forcing scores of the crew to abandon the ships. Al Jazeera's correspondents report from from the White House, Tehran, and the United Nations.

Brexit ‘Shambles’ Has Ruined UK Reputation, Says Senior Diplomat

THE GUARDIAN: Outgoing high commissioner in Singapore says Britain seen as divided and ‘careless of truth’

Scott Wightman, Britain’s outgoing senior diplomat in Singapore, has said Britain is now seen worldwide as a country beset by division, obsessed with ideology and careless of truth.

In a valedictory note, he compared Brexit to the fall of Singapore in 1942 and said major investors expect future investment in Europe to be directed more towards Germany and France.

The remarks, first reported by Politico, came as the high commissioner left his post to take up a job in his native Scotland.

Ironically, many Brexiter MPs have claimed the UK can become a free-market haven like Singapore once it is freed from the regulations associated with the European single market.

Wightman said that as a result of Brexit, the nation that Singaporeans “admired for stability, common sense, tolerance and realism grounded in fact, they see beset by division, obsessed with ideology, careless of the truth … I fear many around the world share their view.” » | Patrick Wintour, Diplomatic editor | Wednesday, June 12, 2019

'US Turns Blind Eye to Saudi Atrocities' as Teen Sentenced to Death for Joining Anti-Government Rally

Human rights organizations and the media are urging the Saudi government to not execute a teenage boy, for among other 'alleged crimes', 'taking part in anti-government rallies'.

With the activists now sounding the alarm, it's not the first time the Saudi authorities are being accused of violating human rights.

Democracy Now! Top US News & World Headlines — June 10, 2019

How Donald Trump and Boris Johnson Threaten Democracy

FT chief political commentator Philip Stephens says the US president and the Tory leadership favourite share a common politics that ignores truth

President Donald Trump Makes 'Totally Undignified' Move in France | Morning Joe | MSNBC

During an interview with Fox News, the president appeared with the graves of U.S. veterans behind him in Normandy, France and took shots at House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer and Robert Mueller. The Morning Joe panel discusses.

Democracy Now! Top US News & World Headlines — June 7, 2019

USA schränken Reisen nach Kuba ein

Die US-Regierung holt zum nächsten Schlag gegen Kuba aus - diesmal zielt sie auf die Tourismusbranche. Viele Reisewege nach Kuba wie Kreuzfahrten sind künftig für US-Bürger verboten. Kuba drohen nun weiter immense finanzielle Einbußen. US-Präsident Trump rechtfertigt die Sanktionen, dass das Land die ganze Region destabilisiere. Er prangerte die kubanische Unterstützung für die linksgerichteten Regierungen in Venezuela und Nicaragua an. Im Alltag treffen die Sanktionen vor allem die normalen Bürger: stundenlanges Anstehen, um etwas zu essen zu bekommen.

Secret Recording of Trump Official Goes Public

There has been another leak in the Trump Administration. Ana Kasparian, Maytha Alhassen, and Nando Vila, hosts of The Young Turks, break it down.

Lawrence's Last Word: Trump's Lies about Why He Didn't Serve in Vietnam | The Last Word | MSNBC

Trump says he didn't serve in Vietnam because he was "never a fan" of the war.

After Pelosi’s "Prison" Threat, Dems Clash over "Lock Him Up" | The Beat with Ari Melber | MSNBC

Speaker Pelosi saying behind closed doors she doesn’t want to impeach Trump, she wants to see him “in prison.” The Root’s Jason Johnson says it’s “just as silly” as Trump’s calls to “lock her up” and Pelosi is “speaking against her own base.” The Daily Beast's Margaret Carlson cautions impeaching Trump could embolden his 2020 base.

Life after Brexit: A Trump Trade Deal?

What did Gideon Rachman of the Financial Times and Professor John Bew, biographer of Attlee and author of Realpolitik, make of the week when President Trump came to town?

Report: Pelosi Told Democrats She Wants Trump in Prison

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told Democrats pushing for an impeachment effort that rather than

Trump Completely Embarrassed America During London Trip

Donald Trump put his stupidity on full display this past week during his trip to London where he was allowed to mingle with members of the British royal family. The President appeared almost cartoonish in his tuxedo, lied about protestors, and mocked the mayor of London with untrue statements. But it was his disagreement with Prince Charles on climate change that stands out as one of the most embarrassing moments of the trip, as Ring of Fire’s Farron Cousins explains.

Democracy Now! Top US News & World Headlines — June 6, 2019

Macron to Trump at D-day Ceremony: Fulfil the Promise of Normandy

THE GUARDIAN: French president praises multilateralism of Nato and EU while offering gratitude to US

France’s president, Emmanuel Macron, has appealed directly to Donald Trump to fulfil the “promise of Normandy” by embracing pillars of the postwar peace such as the European Union and Nato as the two leaders marked the D-day landings 75 years ago.

In a speech that trod a fine diplomatic line, Macron offered both sincere expressions of gratitude for the valour of US troops in the second world war and vehement calls for the White House to re-engage with the principles of multilateralism.

Speaking in front of 15,000 people gathered at the American cemetery and memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer, the resting place for 9,387 US troops killed in the Normandy campaign, Macron repeatedly name-checked Trump, even at times turning to face the US president who was sitting behind him. » | Daniel Boffey in Colleville-sur-Mer | Thursday, June 6, 2019

Trump Explaining How Stupid He Is

Trump is so easily manipulated by war hawks. Cenk Uygur and Ana Kasparian, hosts of The Young Turks, break it down.

D-Day: How the US Supported Hitler's Rise to Power

Historian Peter Kuznick joins Paul Jay to discuss the role of Ford, GM, and other industrialists in rearming Germany and supporting Hitler’s rise to power

Trump Likens Irish Border to Wall between US and Mexico

THE GUARDIAN: Leo Varadkar tells US president Ireland wishes to avoid border or wall after Brexit

Donald Trump has started his visit to Ireland by comparing its post-Brexit border with Northern Ireland to the US border with Mexico, along which he wants to build a permanent wall.

Trump, sitting next to a visibly uncomfortable taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, waded into the Brexit debate minutes after Air Force One touched down at Shannon airport on Wednesday afternoon.

“I think it will all work out very well, and also for you with your wall, your border,” he said at a joint press conference. “I mean, we have a border situation in the United States, and you have one over here. But I hear it’s going to work out very well here.”

Varadkar interjected that Ireland wished to avoid a border or a wall, a keystone of Irish government policy. » | Rory Carroll in Shannon | Wednesday, June 5, 2019


King Klown’s understanding of geopolitics is remarkable – remarkably stupid! Each and every time he opens his mouth, his lack of understanding is a dead giveaway. – @Mark

Trump Protests Wrap

Trafalgar square became the focal point for hundreds of anti-Trump protesters on the second day of the US presidents state visit to the UK. Protesters voiced their concerns on a range of issues including climate change, the impact of a trade deal with the US. Speakers at the event included Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn. Trump visit brings full spectrum of protesters to Trafalgar Square

THE GUARDIAN: Trump is spreading hate and division, Corbyn tells protesters » | Ben Quinn, Damien Gayle and Poppy Noor | Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Trump Offers Trade Deal to the UK | DW News

US President Donald Trump has offered the UK what he calls "a very substantial" trade deal once Britain has left the EU. On the second day of his state visit, Trump met Prime Minister Theresa May. They held a discussion with business leaders from both sides of the Atlantic. Meanwhile parts of London are on security lock-down to seclude Donald Trump from protesters and anti-Trump rallies.

Video of Boris Johnson Criticising Trump Beamed onto Big Ben

A 2015 video in which Boris Johnson claims Donald Trump is "unfit to hold the office of president" was projected onto Big Ben on Sunday night. The campaign group behind the stunt, Led By Donkeys, said they intended to embarrass Johnson - who has reportedly courted Trump for support in recent weeks - on the eve of the president's state visit to the UK

Jared Kushner Speaks Out about President Donald Trump in Rare Interview | Velshi & Ruhle | MSNBC

The president’s senior advisor and son-in-law, Jared Kushner, spoke out in a rare interview with Axios. The publication’s Editor-in-Chief Nick Johnston joins Stephanie Ruhle to break down some of Kushner’s shocking responses.

Jared Kushner Punts On Jamal Khashoggi In Axios Interview | Morning Joe | MSNBC

Axios' Jonathan Swan continues discussing his recent interview with Jared Kushner, son-in-law and senior advisor to the president. Kushner is silent on talks with Saudi crown prince about the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

US Wants Access to NHS in Post-Brexit Deal, Says Trump Ally

THE GUARDIAN: Before president’s visit, Woody Johnson says every area of UK economy up for discussion

The US will want business access to the NHS in any post-Brexit trade deal, the US ambassador has said, prompting anger from politicians and campaigners before Donald Trump’s state visit to the UK this week.

Woody Johnson, who is a close friend of the US president, said every area of the UK economy would be up for discussion when the two sides brokered a trade deal.

Asked if the NHS was likely to form part of trade negotiations, Johnson told the BBC’s Andrew Marr Show: “I think the entire economy, in a trade deal, all things that are traded would be on the table.” Asked if that specifically meant healthcare, he said: “I would think so.” » | Jessica Elgot | Sunday, June 2, 2019

It’s Un-British to Roll Out the Red Carpet for Donald Trump

THE OBSERVER: The US president gives comfort to the far right. The prime minister should speak truth to power

Praising the “very fine people on both sides” when torch-wielding white supremacists and antisemites marched through the streets clashing with anti-racist campaigners. Threatening to veto a ban on the use of rape as a weapon of war. Setting an immigration policy that forcefully separates young children from their parents at the border. The deliberate use of xenophobia, racism and “otherness” as an electoral tactic. Introducing a travel ban to a number of predominately Muslim countries. Lying deliberately and repeatedly to the public.

No, these are not the actions of European dictators of the 1930s and 40s. Nor the military juntas of the 1970s and 80s. I’m not talking about Vladimir Putin or Kim Jong-un. These are the actions of the leader of our closest ally, the president of the United States of America. This is a man who tried to exploit Londoners’ fears following a horrific terrorist attack on our city, amplified the tweets of a British far-right racist group, denounced as fake news robust scientific evidence warning of the dangers of climate change, and is now trying to interfere shamelessly in the Conservative party leadership race by backing Boris Johnson because he believes it would enable him to gain an ally in Number 10 for his divisive agenda.

Donald Trump is just one of the most egregious examples of a growing global threat. The far right is on the rise around the world, threatening our hard-won rights and freedoms and the values that have defined our liberal, democratic societies for more than seventy years. Viktor Orbán in Hungary, Matteo Salvini in Italy, Marine Le Pen in France and Nigel Farage here in the UK are using the same divisive tropes of the fascists of the 20th century to garner support, but are using new sinister methods to deliver their message. And they are gaining ground and winning power and influence in places that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago. » | Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London | Saturday, June 1, 2019

Donald Trump Is Like a 20th-Century Fascist, Says Sadiq Khan

THE OBSERVER: London mayor hits out at US president before his state visit to Britain

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has compared the language used by Donald Trump to rally his supporters to that of “the fascists of the 20th century” in an explosive intervention before the US president’s state visit to London that begins on Monday.

Writing in the Observer, Khan condemned the red-carpet treatment being afforded to Trump who, with his wife Melania, will be a guest of the Queen during his three-day stay, which is expected to provoke massive protests in the capital on Tuesday.

Khan said: “President Donald Trump is just one of the most egregious examples of a growing global threat. The far right is on the rise around the world, threatening our hard-won rights and freedoms and the values that have defined our liberal, democratic societies for more than 70 years.

“Viktor Orbán in Hungary, Matteo Salvini in Italy, Marine Le Pen in France and Nigel Farage here in the UK are using the same divisive tropes of the fascists of the 20th century to garner support, but with new sinister methods to deliver their message. And they are gaining ground and winning power and influence in places that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago.” » | Toby Helm and Mark Townsend | Saturday, June 1, 2019

'Assange Case Is Unlike Anything I've Seen in 20yrs of Work with War Victims' – UN Rapporteur | Going Underground

On this episode of Going Underground, we speak to UN Rapporteur on Torture Nils Melzer about his assessment of Julian Assange’s condition. He says Assange has shown signs of psychological torture and that he has not seen anything as bad as the WikiLeaks founder’s case in his 20-year career. Next, we speak to former president of Ecuador, Rafael Correa, on the arrest and imprisonment of Julian Assange. He describes his successor Lenin Moreno as a traitor for allowing the UK to arrest Assange. Correa says Moreno has violated asylum law and talks about corruption allegations against the current president.

Trump Backs Boris Johnson; Calls Duchess of Sussex 'Nasty'

THE GUARDIAN: US president backs Tory in leadership run and reacts to criticism by duchess

Donald Trump has backed Boris Johnson to be the next prime minister, in an interview with the Sun in which he also called Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, “nasty”.

The president, speaking to the British newspaper before he visits the UK on Monday, expressed support for the former foreign secretary in his bid to replace Theresa May, saying: “I think Boris would do a very good job. I think he would be excellent.”

May is to step down on 7 June, just days after Trump’s official state visit, which will include attending commemorations of the 75th anniversary of D-day in Portsmouth.

Trump referred to the American-born Duchess of Sussex as “nasty” over comments she made in 2016 threatening to move to Canada if Trump won the presidency. » | Agencies | Saturday, June 1, 2019

Does Saudi Arabia Have Support to Face Iran? | Inside Story

Does Saudi Arabia have support to face Iran? Saudi Arabia hosts three summits, calling for action against Tehran as Riyadh accuses its rival of threatening regional order. An emergency requiring three consecutive summits in one location, it certainly sounds like something that needs to be addressed, and quickly. And according to Saudi Arabia, the emergency is Iran.

The Kingdom gathered Arab leaders for meetings of the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Arab League, and the Organisation of Islamic Countries. Riyadh said the international community must "use all means to stop Iran from interfering in other countries' affairs".

So, is there an emergency? Or is it another power-play in the Gulf with the addition of a US military presence?

Presenter: Kamahl Santamaria | Guests Majed Al-Ansari, professor of political science at Qatar University; Abdullah Al-Shayji, professor of political science at Kuwait University; Hassan Ahmadian, assistant professor of political science at the University of Tehran

UN Special Rapporteur Calls for Julian Assange to Be Freed, Citing “Psychological Torture”

The United Nations special rapporteur on torture is warning that WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is suffering from the effects of “psychological torture” due to his ongoing detention and threats of possible extradition to the United States. The UN expert, Nils Melzer, also warned that Assange would likely face a “politicized show trial” if he were to be extradited to the United States. Melzer writes, “In 20 years of work with victims of war, violence and political persecution, I have never seen a group of democratic states ganging up to deliberately isolate, demonize and abuse a single individual for such a long time.”

Julian Assange is currently serving a 50-week sentence for skipping bail in 2012 at London’s Belmarsh Prison, after he was forcibly removed from the Ecuadorean Embassy by British police last month. Last week, the US Justice Department announced it was charging Assange with 17 counts of violating the Espionage Act for his role in publishing US classified military and diplomatic documents exposing US war crimes in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Assange, who had already been charged on one count of hacking a government computer, now faces up to 170 additional years in prison under the new charges—10 years for each count of violating the Espionage Act. Assange was due to appear by video link before a magistrates’ court on Thursday but failed to appear, reportedly due to health problems. We speak with UN Special Rapporteur on Torture Nils Melzer.

Exclusive: John Bolton’s Plan to Run for President

In the past 48 hours, US establishment media outlets and sources from inside the government have apparently awakened to national security advisor John Bolton’s warmongering and undermining of the Trump presidency. Rick Sanchez breaks it down.

Then, political strategist John Jordan joins to discuss the sudden media scrutiny of John Bolton and his problematic career. He argues that Bolton “is a disaster” and glorified “talking head” who may very soon be out of a job.

Assange Hospitalized, ‘Dagger in Journalist Hearts’ Galloway

The attorney of WikiLeaks founder and journalist Julian Assange’s has revealed that he was too ill to appear in a video chat for his extradition hearing. Assange has spent the past seven weeks at Belmarsh prison, where his health has continued to deteriorate. The WikiLeaks founder faces extradition to the US over “espionage” charges dating back to 2010. Former UK MP George Galloway joins In Question to break this all down.

Julian Assange shows psychological torture symptoms, says UN expert »

Elton John: 'I Am a European – Not a Stupid, Imperialist English Idiot'

THE GUARDIAN: The singer says Brexit has made him ashamed to be British, while performing in Verona during his final world tour

Elton John has said he is ashamed of the UK over its voting for and handling of Brexit.

While performing on Wednesday in Verona on his last ever world tour, Farewell Yellow Brick Road, he said: “I’m ashamed of my country for what it has done. It’s torn people apart … I am sick to death of politicians, especially British politicians. I am sick to death of Brexit. I am a European. I am not a stupid, colonial, imperialist English idiot.” » | Ben Beaumont-Thomas | Friday, May 31, 2019

Hear! Hear! – Mark

Merkel spricht vor Harvard-Studierenden

Kanzlerin Merkel hat die Ehrendoktorwürde der US-Eliteuniversität Harvard erhalten. Harvard-Präsident Larry Bacow verlieh Merkel die Auszeichnung bei einer feierlichen Zeremonie in der Hochschule in Cambridge, einem Vorort von Boston. Die Universität würdigte unter anderem, Merkels bisherige Zeit im Amt sei geprägt gewesen von Pragmatismus und kluger Entschlossenheit.

Explizit lobte die Universität Merkels Slogan «Wir schaffen das» in der Flüchtlingskrise, der ihr in Deutschland viel Kritik eingebracht hatte. Merkels Entscheidung, in großer Zahl Migranten und Flüchtlinge ins Land zu lassen, habe ihren Willen gezeigt, für das einzustehen, was sie für richtig halte - auch wenn dies unpopulär sei. Das Gleiche gelte etwa auch für ihr Vorgehen in der europäischen Schuldenkrise.

Are US/UK Trying To Kill Assange?

Jailed Wikileaks publisher Julian Assange is reportedly "too ill" to even speak at a scheduled extradition hearing today. He is said to be "gravely ill" and even near death. If Assange is worth more dead than alive to the governments he has embarrassed by publishing the truth about their crimes, are they trying to make his death happen? Or will he be slowly killed by a 170 year prison sentence?

Palestinian Diplomat Hanan Ashrawi on the US “Peace Plan” & Israeli Political Crisis

Israel will hold new elections after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed to form a coalition government in six weeks of negotiations following the April 9 election. This marks the first time in Israeli history a prime minister-designate has failed to form a coalition government. The news comes as the United States is continuing to promote a controversial Middle East peace plan drawn up by President Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, who is in Israel today along with special envoy Jason Greenblatt. But the Israeli newspaper Haaretz reports that the political crisis in Israel could kill the U.S. plan, which will be partially unveiled at a conference in Bahrain next month. Palestinian officials have vowed to boycott the conference and dismissed any attempts to tackle peace talks in the region without addressing human rights and the Israeli occupation. We speak with longtime Palestinian diplomat Hanan Ashrawi, a member of the Palestine Liberation Organization’s executive committee. The United States recently denied Ashrawi a visa to enter the country.

Merkel Speaks Out about Viral Trump Photo

German Chancellor Angela Merkel discusses the German political climate and her interactions with President Trump in a CNN exclusive interview with Christiane Amanpour.

Boris Johnson to Face Court over Brexit 'Lies'

The frontrunner in the race to become the UK's next prime minister has been ordered to court over allegations he lied to the public during the Brexit referendum campaign. Boris Johnson had famously claimed that the UK sent 440 million dollars a week to the EU - and that Brexit would allow that money to be spent on public health services. But opponents say that number was demonstrably false and deliberately misleading. Al Jazeera's Paul Brennan reports.

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz Ousted in Co-Confidence Vote | DW News

Just two weeks ago Austrian chancellor Sebastian Kurz looked invincible. But now he is the country's first leader since the war to be ousted in a no-confidence motion. Parliament voted to kick him out over a corruption scandal involving his far-right coalition partner, the Freedom party (FPÖ). Now the country will be run by technocrats until new elections in September. Kurz, for his part, has vowed to fight on.

The Village in Syria Where They Speak Jesus' Tongue

Aramaic (2008): In a village in the Syrian countryside, Muslims and Christians live side-by-side and keeping the language of Christ, Aramaic, alive.

How Will Nationalists Push Their Agenda in Europe? | Inside Story

The far-right makes gains after the European Parliament elections but not the clean sweep some feared.

A record-number of voters across Europe have dealt a blow to traditional centrist politics, with far-right and far-left parties making significant gains in the European Parliament elections.

A surge in support for liberal and green parties means pro-EU politicians will maintain their majority in the 751-seat parliament. But far-right and nationalist wins in Italy, France, Britain and Poland gives Eurosceptic parties control of a quarter of the seats for the first time.

Far-right gains were less than expected and won't dramatically change the balance of power. But the EU parliament now finds itself more fragmented than ever. As pro-EU parties retain their majority, what do the results mean for nationalists in the divided parliament?

Presenter: Barbara Serra | Guests: Nina Schick - Author & Political Commentator; Tony Travers - Professor, School of Public Policy, London School of Economics; Thorsten Benner - Co-founder & Director, Global Public Policy Institute

European Elections: What It Means for the Future of Europe

Mark Stone assesses the fallout from the European elections and its consequences for the main parties?

Mayor Pete Unafraid To 'Go There,' Calls Out President Donald Trump On Vietnam | Morning Joe | MSNBC

During an interview with the Washington Post's Robert Costa, Mayor Pete Buttigieg, who served in Afghanistan, accused the president of draft dodging the Vietnam War, claiming the president faked a disability.

Could Iraq Be Pulled into a Conflict between the United States and Iran? | Inside Story

The United States is raising the stakes against what it calls threats from Iran. President Donald Trump is sending an extra 1,500 troops to the Middle East. He's also bypassing Congress to sell billions of dollars' of weapons to Iran's rivals, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Iran's neighbour, Iraq, is vowing support and offering to mediate. At the same time, Iraq is wary of straining relations with the Americans.

How should leaders in Baghdad handle this balancing act?

Presenter: Hashem Ahelbarra | Guests: Andreas Kreig - Assistant Professor, Defence Studies Department, King's College London; Sami Nader - Director, The Levant Institute for Strategic Affairs; Robert Gutsche - Associate Professor, Lancaster University

Who Will Succeed Juncker as European Commission President? | DW News

The European Parliament that emerges from the 2019 EU election will go on to elect the next president of the European Commission. That person will succeed Jean Claude-Juncker whose five year term is coming to an end. It's Europe's top job so the stakes are high. Among the candidates are Margarete Vestager for the Liberals, Ska Keller for the Greens, Manfred Weber for the Conservatives, Frans Timmermans for the Social Democrats, Jan Zharadil for the Conservative and Reformists and Nico Cue for the Left Party.

Trump Brushes Off North Korea's Launch of 'Some Small Weapons'

THE GUARDIAN: President says recent missile tests bother some people, but not him, and praises regime for calling Joe Biden ‘a fool of low IQ’

Donald Trump has dismissed concerns about North Korea’s recent missile tests, calling them “small weapons”, a day after his national security adviser said there was no doubt the launches violated UN security council resolutions.

The US president tweeted on Sunday: “North Korea fired off some small weapons, which disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me. I have confidence that Chairman Kim will keep his promise to me”.

His adviser John Bolton said on Saturday UN resolutions prohibited the launch of any ballistic missiles and urged Kim Jong-un to return to denuclearisation talks.

Despite scant progress from two summits with the North Korean leader, Trump has made much of his personal relationship with Kim, saying last year that he “fell in love” with the dictator after receiving “beautiful letters” from him. » | Guardian staff | Sunday, May 26, 2019

Jews in Germany Warned of Risks of Wearing Kippah Cap in Public

THE GUARDIAN: Government commissioner says lifting of inhibitions and rise of uncouthness are factors behind rising incidence of antisemitism

Germany’s government commissioner on antisemitism has warned Jews about the potential dangers of wearing the traditional kippah cap in the face of rising anti-Jewish attacks.

“I cannot advise Jews to wear the kippah everywhere all the time in Germany,” Felix Klein said in an interview published Saturday by the Funke regional press group.

In issuing the warning, he said he had “alas, changed my mind (on the subject) compared to previously”.

Klein, whose post was created last year, cited “the lifting of inhibitions and the uncouthness which is on the rise in society” as factors behind a rising incidence of antisemitism. » | Agence France-Presse | Sunday, May 26, 2019

Stop Boris Campaign Launched by Tory Moderates Opposed to No-Deal Brexit

THE OBSERVER: Former foreign secretary attacked as dishonest by leadership candidate Rory Stewart

A campaign to stop Boris Johnson becoming prime minister and taking the country into a no-deal Brexit was launched by moderate cabinet ministers on Saturday as the first shots were fired in the Tory contest to succeed Theresa May in Downing Street.

After May bowed to pressure on Friday and announced she would resign as Tory leader within two weeks, justice secretary David Gauke and international development secretary Rory Stewart condemned Johnson’s readiness to embrace a no-deal, saying it would be hugely damaging to the national interest.

The move, part of a concerted “anti-Johnson” push by opponents of a hard Brexit, followed comments by the former foreign secretary on Friday, soon after May’s resignation speech in Downing Street, that the UK would definitely leave the EU “deal or no deal” on 31 October if he became leader in July.

The remark infuriated the soft-Brexit wing of the party, with some MPs and ministers even warning that there would be “serious numbers” of moderate Conservatives who would be ready to vote down a Johnson government if he set the country on a path to no deal. » | Michael Savage, Jamie Doward and Toby Helm | Saturday, May 25, 2019

A Short History of Donald Trump’s Clashes with CNN’s Jim Acosta

THE GUARDIAN: ‘The president's insane’: book by CNN's Jim Acosta charts Trump war on press » | Martin Pengelly in New York | Saturday, May 25, 2019

President Trump is really quite objectionable. – Mark