World News

Hamas attack challenges Biden’s goals in Middle East on October 10, 2023 at 9:00 am

Published

3 years ago

October 10, 2023

The unprecedented attack by Hamas against Israel has upended the Biden administration’s goals for peace in the region.

President Biden, who has affirmed rock-solid support for Israel, will be challenged to hold the line in giving Jerusalem the space it requests to retaliate against Hamas in the besieged Gaza Strip, pushing back against expected calls for Israel to exercise restraint or enter into a cease-fire with the Iranian-backed terror group.

A tweet from Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday night calling for a “ceasefire” was deleted.

“Nobody wants to see anybody, an innocent civilian or family wrecked by violence, of course not,” White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said on a call with reporters Monday night.

“We share values with Israel when it comes to law of war and, and respect for life. And … I won’t speak to whatever the Israeli Defense Forces are planning to do in their operations, I think I’ll just leave it there.”

The president is also faced with securing the release of any American hostages who may have been taken by Hamas from communities in Israel, and exacting justice for U.S. citizens killed in the assault, with people gunned down in their homes and on the street or killed by rocket fire on population centers.

“To get rid of this regime [Hamas], we need the backup of the Americans because it’s not going to be one day, it will be a very bloody conflict,” said Neomi Neumann, who served as head of research at Israel’s domestic security agency, the Shin Bet, until 2021 and is now a visiting fellow with the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

“A lot of people will die, but we cannot let ourselves leave this regime that are radical fanatics.”

The scale of the devastation has been staggering over three days since Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist organization, launched a highly sophisticated and coordinated attack from its Gaza Strip base over the border into Israel, with an estimated 900 people killed — including civilians, soldiers and police — more than 2,000 injured and more than 100 believed to have been kidnapped and taken hostage.

At least 11 Americans are known killed, Biden said in a statement Monday, and that Americans are likely among those taken hostage by Hamas.

Israeli officials and their advocates are warning the world that they will be carrying out military operations with the goal of exacting a heavy price from Hamas.

Neumann added that Israel’s military operations are likely to be carried out over a period of months and will be challenged by what is likely to be a high Palestinian death toll that will increase pressure from the international community on Israel to relent.

“The U.S. and moderate Arab countries will have to think about the solution for the Gaza Strip the day after the war and how we manage to make this area stable with good life for its people,” she said.

The Gaza Ministry of Health on Monday said the Palestinian death toll stands at 560 people and 2,900 people injured, but did not release figures on civilians versus Hamas fighters.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that Israeli forces are working to expel Hamas fighters who infiltrated communities in the south, even as the Israel Defense Forces are undertaking “a massive attack against Hamas with an unprecedented intensity.”

Netanyahu thanked Biden for his support and the dispatch of a U.S. carrier strike group to the Mediterranean Sea, which has been interpreted as a major show of force to deter Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon, a Tehran-backed military proxy, from opening a separate military front.

“An American aircraft carrier, one of the largest in the world, is on its way to our region. Our common enemies understand very well the significance of this step,” Netanyahu said.

Neumann said U.S. support to deter Iran and Hezbollah is meaningful.

“We need to avoid the infiltration of other players to this campaign; we need to focus on the Gaza Strip right now,” she said.

And while Israel’s military operations are zeroing in on the Gaza Strip, the diplomatic battle for influence is global.

The U.S. on Monday issued a joint statement with the leaders of France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom backing Israel’s right to defend itself and making a distinction between the depravity of Hamas and support for the aspirations of the Palestinian people.

“Hamas does not represent those aspirations, and it offers nothing for the Palestinian people other than more terror and bloodshed,” the statement read.

A key priority for the Biden administration is countering Russian and Chinese efforts to exploit the situation, either to assert their own influence or weaken the position of the U.S.

“We’re in a pitched fight for great power influence in the Middle East. It’s the U.S. versus China, and Russia as well,” said Laura Blumenfeld, a senior fellow at the Johns Hopkins School for Advanced International Studies and who served as a senior policy adviser on Israeli-Palestinian negotiations during the Obama administration.

“From an interest point of view, the U.S. needs to shove out Russia and China — and Iran is certainly part of that Russia-China axis.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is battling Russian forces that are supplied militarily by Iran and shielded diplomatically by China, warned that Moscow is interested in inciting war in the Middle East to “erode global unity and exacerbate cleavages and controversies, helping Russia in destroying freedom in Europe.”

And Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), who was in Beijing on Monday, pushed Chinese President Xi Jinping to issue a stronger statement on the attacks against Israel that condemned violence against civilians, going beyond the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s initial remarks that called for calm, exercise of restraint and a cessation of hostilities.

The scale of brutality of Hamas’s assault is drawing comparisons to the worst atrocities of the Islamic State (ISIS) and allegations of war crimes for the targeted killing of civilians; the kidnapping of women, children, the elderly and infirm; and unconfirmed reports of sexual assault.

“We’ve been in contact with our contacts across the [Middle East] region to urge them to acknowledge the horrific terrorism that took place,” said Ted Deutch, a former Democratic congressman from Florida who serves as the CEO of the American Jewish Community, an organization that is focused on deepening relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors as part of its global advocacy for the Jewish people.

“The conversations about integrating Israel fully into not just the Middle East but the world stand in stark contrast to everything Hamas is and wants. Hamas’s goal is to draw Hezbollah and other terror groups into war with Israel because their goal is to destroy Israel,” he added.

The Biden administration had been cultivating for months, if not years, negotiations to open ties between Israel and Saudi Arabia that supporters hoped would deliver a new era of stability in the region and present opportunities to advance rights for Palestinians.

Those talks are likely on ice, said Michael Koplow, chief policy adviser at Israel Policy Forum, a nonprofit education and analysis group based in Washington.

“The statement that the Saudis issued in the aftermath of this was, to my mind, extremely disappointing … I think that’s a sign of how difficult it’s going to be for the Saudis to keep on moving forward with this, with what we all expect to be coming, which is an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza, which is going to result in many, many Palestinian casualties,” he said in a briefing with reporters.

While Israel is shoring up its defense, the country is also grappling with the fallout of how the security establishment was blindsided by such an attack.

“The U.S. is doing what I think we expect the U.S. to do, which is really give Israel all the backing it needs and particularly at a time when there’s this outside perception that Israel is in chaos,” said Koplow.

“It’s good to see the United States stepping up and doing what it can to try and back down this notion that Israel is easily overrun or that Israel stands alone, in terms of what it means for a wider regional war.”

The unprecedented attack by Hamas against Israel has upended the Biden administration’s goals for peace in the region. President Biden, who has affirmed rock-solid support for Israel, will be challenged to hold the line in giving Jerusalem the space it requests to retaliate against Hamas in the besieged Gaza Strip, pushing back against expected calls for Israel…

Business

GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT RETURNS FOR ITS 5TH EDITION AT THE BRITISH PARLIAMENT – HOUSE OF LORDS, PALACE OF WESTMINSTER

Published

1 month ago

May 16, 2026

Bolanle Media Staff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Theme: “People, Planet, and Profit in the Age of AI and Innovation”

London, United Kingdom — The Global Sustainability Summit (GSS) is officially back for its landmark 5th Edition, continuing its legacy as one of the leading international platforms driving sustainable development, climate action, ethical investment, innovation, and global collaboration.

Convened annually at the prestigious British Parliament, House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, by Ambassador Canon Chinenem Otto, the Summit has, over the last four years, successfully fostered international dialogue and partnerships that have contributed to the advancement of global sustainability goals, the establishment of sustainability-focused ministries, departments and policy structures across national and subnational governments, and the attraction of major investors into sustainable development projects, corporations and emerging economies.

This year’s summit, themed “People, Planet, and Profit in the Age of AI and Innovation,” will explore how emerging technologies, responsible leadership, sustainable finance, innovation, and global partnerships can shape a more inclusive, resilient and environmentally conscious future.

The 5th Edition promises to be the most impactful yet, bringing together world leaders, policymakers, diplomats, investors, academics, innovators, climate experts and youth leaders from across the globe to discuss actionable solutions toward achieving a sustainable and equitable future.

Among the distinguished speakers, delegates and honorees already lined up for the Summit are:

• His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq — Executive Governor of Kwara State, Nigeria and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum

• His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu — Executive Governor of Cross River State, Nigeria

• Ambassador Patricia Espinosa Cantellano — Former Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Former Foreign Minister of Mexico

• Lord Marvin Rees, Baron Rees of Easton OBE — Member of the House of Lords, United Kingdom

• Hon. Neema K. Lugangira — Secretary-General of Women Political Leaders (WPL), Brussels and Former Member of Parliament

• Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah — President of the Republic of Namibia

• His Excellency Nangolo Mbumba — Former President of Namibia

• Former President of Tanzania

• Her Excellency Ambassador Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq — First Lady of Kwara State, Nigeria and Chairperson of Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum

• Your Excellency Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, PhD, CON — Executive Governor of Katsina State and Chairman of the Northwest Governors Forum, Nigeria

• Hon. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma — Governor of Khomas Region, Namibia

• H.E. Mr. Veiccoh Nghiwete — High Commissioner of the Republic of Namibia to the United Kingdom

• Her Excellency Ms. Macenje “Che Che” Mazoka — High Commissioner of Zambia to the United Kingdom

• Ms. Danielle Newman — Partner Lead, ICT, World Economic Forum

• Leanne Elliott Young — Co-founder, Institute of Digital Fashion & CommuneEast

• Ms. Chloe Russell — Producer & Presenter, Art, Science and Nature

• Professor Marie-Claire Cordonier Segger — University of Cambridge & University of Waterloo

• Dr. Alexandra R. Harrington — IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law (WCEL)

• Professor Payam Akhavan — Massey College, University of Toronto

• Mr. Mallai C. E. Sathya — President, Dravida Vetri Kazhagam and International Movement for Tamil Culture Asia

The Summit will feature high-level panel discussions, strategic investment conversations, sustainability awards, policy dialogues, innovation showcases, youth engagement sessions and international networking opportunities focused on climate resilience, ethical financing, food-water-energy sustainability, circular economy, artificial intelligence, diplomacy and sustainable development.

Speaking ahead of the Summit, Convener Ambassador Canon Chinenem Otto noted:

“As the world rapidly evolves through artificial intelligence and technological innovation, we must ensure that sustainability remains people-centered, environmentally responsible and economically inclusive. The Global Sustainability Summit continues to serve as a bridge connecting governments, institutions, innovators and investors to accelerate practical sustainability solutions globally. Our fifth edition is not only a celebration of progress made over the years, but also a renewed call for global collaboration and actionable impact toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and Net Zero ambitions.”

The Global Sustainability Summit continues to position itself as a catalyst for transformative partnerships and sustainable global progress, reinforcing the urgent need for collective action toward a more resilient and sustainable future.

More announcements regarding additional speakers, partners and summit activities will be unveiled in the coming weeks.

News

US May Completely Cut Income Tax Due to Tariff Revenue

Published

7 months ago

November 30, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

President Donald Trump says the United States might one day get rid of federal income tax because of money the government collects from tariffs on imported goods. Tariffs are extra taxes the U.S. puts on products that come from other countries.

What Trump Is Saying

Trump has said that tariff money could become so large that it might allow the government to cut income taxes “almost completely.” He has also talked about possibly phasing out income tax over the next few years if tariff money keeps going up.

How Taxes Work Now

Right now, the federal government gets much more money from income taxes than from tariffs. Income taxes bring in trillions of dollars each year, while tariffs bring in only a small part of that total. Because of this gap, experts say tariffs would need to grow by many times to replace income tax money.

Questions From Experts

Many economists and tax experts doubt that tariffs alone could pay for the whole federal budget. They warn that very high tariffs could make many imported goods more expensive for shoppers in the United States. This could hit lower- and middle‑income families hardest, because they spend a big share of their money on everyday items.

What Congress Must Do

The president can change some tariffs, but only Congress can change or end the federal income tax. That means any real plan to remove income tax would need new laws passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. So far, there is no detailed law or full budget plan on this idea.

What It Means Right Now

For now, Trump’s comments are a proposal, not a change in the law. People and businesses still have to pay federal income tax under the current rules. The debate over using tariffs instead of income taxes is likely to continue among lawmakers, experts, and voters.

News

Epstein Files to Be Declassified After Trump Order

Published

7 months ago

November 20, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

Former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing federal agencies to declassify all government files related to Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier whose death in 2019 continues to fuel controversy and speculation.

The order, signed Wednesday at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, instructs the FBI, Department of Justice, and intelligence agencies to release documents detailing Epstein’s network, finances, and alleged connections to high-profile figures. Trump described the move as “a step toward transparency and public trust,” promising that no names would be shielded from scrutiny.

“This information belongs to the American people,” Trump said in a televised statement. “For too long, powerful interests have tried to bury the truth. That ends now.”

U.S. intelligence officials confirmed that preparations for the release are already underway. According to sources familiar with the process, the first batch of documents is expected to be made public within the next 30 days, with additional releases scheduled over several months.

Reactions poured in across the political spectrum. Supporters praised the decision as a bold act of accountability, while critics alleged it was politically motivated, timed to draw attention during a volatile election season. Civil rights advocates, meanwhile, emphasized caution, warning that some records could expose private victims or ongoing legal matters.

The Epstein case, which implicated figures in politics, business, and entertainment, remains one of the most talked-about scandals of the past decade. Epstein’s connections to influential individuals—including politicians, royals, and executives—have long sparked speculation about the extent of his operations and who may have been involved.

Former federal prosecutor Lauren Fields said the release could mark a turning point in public discourse surrounding government transparency. “Regardless of political stance, this declassification has the potential to reshape how Americans view power and accountability,” Fields noted.

Officials say redactions may still occur to protect sensitive intelligence or personal information, but the intent is a near-complete disclosure. For years, critics of the government’s handling of Epstein’s case have accused agencies of concealing evidence or shielding elites from exposure. Trump’s order promises to change that narrative.

As anticipation builds, journalists, legal analysts, and online commentators are preparing for what could be one of the most consequential information releases in recent history.