World News

US walks tightrope as hostage deal nears, Israel eyes southern Gaza on November 19, 2023 at 9:00 pm

Published

3 years ago

November 19, 2023

U.S. officials are walking a delicate yet contorted tightrope when it comes to addressing Israel’s offensive in Gaza as it stares down a potential deal to release dozens of hostages from Hamas’s grip, while emphasizing “real concern” for an Israeli operation eyed in the coastal enclave’s southern tip.

Deputy national security adviser Jonathan Finer was tasked Sunday with tackling the aftermath of a report that broke late Saturday indicating that a deal was close to being reached for a five-day pause in fighting in exchange for the release of some of the 239 hostages in Gaza who were captured on Oct. 7.

Reporting by The Washington Post indicated that a U.S.-brokered deal as a result of talks in Doha that involved Israel and Hamas via Qatari mediators would free dozens of women and children as well as allow an increase in much-needed humanitarian assistance for civilians, including fuel.

Finer, as well as U.S. Ambassador to Israel Michael Herzog, expressed hope a hostage agreement could be reached in the coming days, but they were careful to remain cautious that the deal is not yet done.

“[W]e are closer than we have been to reaching a final agreement, but that on an issue as sensitive as this and as challenging is this, the mantra that nothing is agreed until everything is agreed really does apply. And we do not yet have an agreement in place,” Finer told CBS’s Margaret Brennan on “Face the Nation.”

On ABC’s “This Week” with Martha Raddatz, Finer responded to a notion expressed by Qatar’s prime minister that mostly “very minor” logistical and practical issues remain before the hostages could be released.

“[S]ome of the gaps have now narrowed. Some of the issues that were at odds have now been closed out. But we are not finished — there is not yet a deal in place. And I think it would be premature to conclude that this is inevitable given how close we have come in the past,” Finer said, adding that he would not detail negotiations in public.

“They’re making some progress, and we hope that that will be concluded soon so that these people can finally come home,” he added.

Herzog also on ABC’s “This Week” described the status of the negotiations as “hopeful,” and he said he hoped that they could soon come to fruition.

“We are hopeful that we can get a significant number of hostages freed in the coming days. I don’t want to go into the details of these talks. They are obviously very sensitive. The less we’re going to the details, the better the chances of such a deal. But they are very serious efforts, and I’m hopeful that we can have the deal in the coming days,” he said.

Herzog was also cautious, however, to emphasize that a brief pause did not indicate support for a cease-fire, which U.S. and Israeli officials firmly maintain would only help Hamas regroup.

“We’re talking about a pause in the fighting for a few days, so we can get the hostages out,” Herzog said. “It’s not — it’s not a cease-fire because we will continue to push against Hamas to dismantle their military infrastructure and their terror infrastructure. We are not going to stop that, but we are willing to go for a pause, for a significant number of hostages, if we have [a] deal.”

Simultaneously, Israel has been eyeing an offensive in Gaza’s south, where thousands of civilians have fled in recent weeks after heeding evacuation orders by Israel to do so.

Finer on CBS was asked how much the U.S. would apply any legal restrictions to military equipment it sends Israel on a “human rights basis” after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the network last week that Israel was “not successful” in minimizing civilian casualties.

The national security adviser responded with a sustained notion by the Biden administration that Israel had the right to defend itself, but he added there were concerns about where they would target next.

“In the event that we believe that Israel is likely to to embark on combat operations, including in the south, we believe both that they have the right to do that, but that there is a real concern, because hundreds of thousands of residents of Gaza have fled now from the north to the south at Israel’s request,” Finer said. “And we think that their operations should not go forward until those people — those additional civilians have been accounted for in their military planning.

Thomas White, the director of the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees, told ABC that the situation in Gaza remained “very desperate,” describing a recent report that one of its schools were hit as “horrific.”

“This is the reality of this conflict, is that people in Gaza have got nowhere to go. It’s unlike other conflicts where, you know, there’s fighting in one city and you move to another city,” White said. “You know, the reality is, the Gazans have got nowhere to go for safety. And they are all exposed to the threat of fighting, and particularly airstrikes.”

The Biden administration has come under increased pressure over the last month as the Palestinian death toll climbs to the tens of thousands, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

It has shifted its tone on the war since its start, at first offering unequivocal support to Israel before it began lacing its messaging with warnings to its strongest Middle East ally that it must abide by international law and do what it can to limit civilian casualties while allowing for humanitarian aid to enter.

But that shift hasn’t resonated with Democrats, whose support of Biden on the matter of foreign policy continues to erode, as evidenced by an NBC poll released Sunday.

That survey found just 34 percent of voters approve of how Biden is handling the Israel-Hamas war, with 51 percent of Democrats approving of Biden’s handling of the conflict.

A growing contingent of Democratic lawmakers are also increasing calls for a cease-fire, a move that neither the administration nor Israel support. Meanwhile, demonstrations by protestors who support a cease-fire have turned violent at the doorstep of Democratic Party headquarters both in Washington and California in recent days.

For his part, Biden made his most recent case on the matter in an op-ed published by The Washington Post in which he acknowledged brutal attacks by Hamas on Israelis and the deaths of thousands of civilians in Gaza while offering again the only foreign policy solution he sees fit in the region.

“A two-state solution — two peoples living side by side with equal measures of freedom, opportunity and dignity — is where the road to peace must lead. Reaching it will take commitments from Israelis and Palestinians, as well as from the United States and our allies and partners. That work must start now,” Biden wrote.

When asked about House and Senate Democrats who are increasingly pushing for conditions on aid in relation to what some call indiscriminate bombing, Finer said no U.S. assistance to another country was unconditional but that the situation at hand came with its own set of unique complications.

“All of the requirements associated with international humanitarian law are applicable here. The last thing I will say on this, though, and it’s important to bear in mind, is that Israel is fighting an adversary that not only does not hold itself to these same standards, it openly boasts about flouting them and about its violations, flagrant violations of international law,” Finer told CNN’s Jake Tapper on “State of the Union.”

“That does not diminish Israel’s obligations, but it is a facet of this conflict that makes the challenge extremely daunting.”

Business

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

Published

3 weeks 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

6 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

6 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.