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Man grabs Greta Thunberg’s microphone after pro-Palestinian chants at climate rally

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The disruption of Greta Thunberg’s speech at the climate protest in Amsterdam highlighted the intersection of climate activism and political tensions. The man’s attempt to wrestle the microphone away underscored the challenges of maintaining a focused message in the midst of broader geopolitical issues.

Chants advocating for Palestine were a backdrop to the incident, emphasizing the diverse perspectives within the protest crowd. Earlier, the curtailment of another activist’s speech demonstrated the sensitivity surrounding expressions related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The phrase “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” has been contentious, with varying interpretations. While some view it as a call for the end of Israel’s occupation, others see it as a threat to Israel’s existence.

In the aftermath of the interruption, Greta Thunberg and the assembled crowd united in chanting “no climate justice on occupied land,” blending environmental concerns with geopolitical awareness. The incident reflected the challenge of navigating a global movement, where diverse voices and perspectives converge.

Thunberg’s previous social media posts supporting Palestine had stirred controversy, illustrating the complexities of balancing different issues within the broader context of activism. Accusations of not adequately acknowledging the plight of Israeli victims of Hamas attacks added another layer to the ongoing debate over the role of prominent figures in addressing complex political conflicts.

Ultimately, the Amsterdam event highlighted the intricate dance between climate activism and political advocacy, emphasizing the need for thoughtful navigation of these intersections to maintain a cohesive and impactful movement.

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French march against antisemitism shakes up far right and far left

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In an unprecedented turn of events in Paris this weekend, a significant demonstration took place in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict, drawing representatives from major political parties. Notably, the far right, including Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella of the National Rally, participated, while the far left, led by Jean-Luc Mélenchon of France Unbowed, boycotted the event, citing it as a gathering for supporters of the Gaza massacre.

This shift is symbolic, considering historical political dynamics in France. Traditionally, the far right was ostracized due to its perceived anti-Republican views, especially on Jewish issues. The far left, on the other hand, despite criticism, remained part of the broader political spectrum. However, the current scenario reflects a shake-up in the political landscape.

The contemporary far right in France, now labeled as “hard right” or “national right,” has shifted focus from past anti-Semitic stances to prioritize issues such as immigration, insecurity, and Islamism, aligning with some Jewish perspectives. Meanwhile, the far left interprets the Gaza conflict through an anti-colonial lens, emphasizing solidarity with the oppressed against perceived superpower aggression.

This unusual alignment sees a party with a history of Holocaust denial, like the National Rally, supporting French Jews openly. Conversely, a party built on human rights and equality, like France Unbowed, faces accusations of antisemitism for not condemning Hamas as a terrorist organization.

While nuances exist, the overall trend shows the National Rally under Marine Le Pen successfully integrating into the mainstream, while France Unbowed under Jean-Luc Mélenchon appears to be distancing itself. Opinion polls reinforce this, with Marine Le Pen leading in presidential election polls, while Mélenchon’s support has declined.

Serge Klarsfeld, a prominent figure in the fight against antisemitism in France, acknowledges the irony. He appreciates the far right’s departure from antisemitism, seeing it align with Republican values, yet expresses sadness over the far left’s perceived abandonment of efforts to combat antisemitism.

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Iceland volcano: Emergency declared over volcano Fagradalsfjall eruption concerns

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Iceland has declared a state of emergency following a series of earthquakes that have raised concerns about a potential volcanic eruption. In response, authorities have ordered the evacuation of the southwestern town of Grindavík as a precautionary measure. The Icelandic Met Office expressed worries about the underground spread of a significant amount of magma, or molten rock, which could potentially surface in the area. The seismic activity has been centered around the Fagradalsfjall volcano on Iceland’s Reykjanes Peninsula, which had been dormant for 800 years before experiencing eruptions in 2021. The increased seismic activity prompted the closure of the nearby Blue Lagoon landmark, and over 20,000 tremors have been recorded in southwest Iceland since late October.

The Icelandic Civil Protection Agency clarified that the evacuation is a preventive measure, not an immediate emergency, and urged residents to remain calm. The agency stated that there is no immediate imminent danger, emphasizing that the evacuation is primarily aimed at ensuring the safety of Grindavík residents. The decision to evacuate came after the Icelandic Met Office could not rule out the possibility of a magma tunnel forming and reaching Grindavík. All roads into the town, home to around 4,000 people, are closed except for emergencies.

The Icelandic Met Office highlighted significant changes in seismic activity, with tremors moving towards Grindavík over the course of the day. It noted that magma likely extends beneath the town, and the exact location and timing of its emergence are uncertain. Iceland is known for its high geological activity, boasting around 30 active volcanic sites. Recent eruptions in the Fagradalsfjall area drew tourists to witness the formation of the “world’s newest baby volcano,” which had been dormant for eight centuries until the eruptions in 2021, 2022, and now 2023.

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News Trending War

Macron calls on Israel to stop killing Gaza’s women and babies

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In this news article, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his stance on the conflict in Gaza. He condemned the bombing of civilians in Gaza, stating that there is “no justification” for it, and called for a ceasefire, emphasizing the need to protect civilians. Macron also condemned the actions of Hamas, recognizing it as a terrorist organization, while urging other leaders, including those in the US and the UK, to join his calls for a ceasefire.

On the topic of Ukraine, Macron characterized Russia’s invasion as imperialism and colonialism, emphasizing the duty of his country and others to support Ukraine in its defense. He warned of the potential threat posed by a victorious Russia to other former Soviet states and the entire continent.

Macron also discussed online extremism, singling out Facebook’s parent company Meta and Google for not fulfilling their promises to moderate hate speech on their platforms. He expressed concern about insufficient moderators for French language content on many online platforms.

Regarding climate change, Macron mentioned its role in contributing to terrorism, citing the example of Lake Chad in West Africa, where the effects of global warming led to political instability.

In summary, Macron called for a ceasefire in Gaza, condemned the actions of both Israel and Hamas, expressed support for Ukraine against Russia’s invasion, criticized online platforms for inadequate moderation, and highlighted the link between climate change and terrorism in certain regions.

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Apple should pay €13bn Irish tax, argues EU lawyer

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A legal adviser to the European Court of Justice has recommended a reassessment of the ruling that permitted Apple to evade €13 billion in back taxes. The original decision, overturned three years ago, alleged that the Irish government had provided Apple with illegal tax breaks. Advocate General Giovanni Pitruzzella contends that the previous ruling overlooked crucial legal errors and failed to adequately assess methodological mistakes that, according to the European Commission, tainted the tax rulings in Apple’s favor. Although this legal opinion is not binding, the court typically leans towards such recommendations in the majority of cases.

Apple responded to the recent development, with a spokesperson emphasizing that the initial ruling explicitly stated that the company received no selective advantage or state aid. The tech giant believes this position should be upheld. In 2016, the European Commission determined that Apple had received preferential treatment from the Irish government, resulting in a significantly lower tax rate compared to other companies. The Commission argued that this amounted to illegal aid granted to Apple by the Irish state and symbolized its efforts to combat what it perceived as significant tax avoidance by multinational corporations.

The Irish government has consistently argued against the repayment of back taxes by Apple, asserting that the country’s loss was justified in making itself an appealing destination for large companies. Ireland, with one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the EU, serves as Apple’s regional base for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. While corporate tax rates fall under national jurisdiction, the EU wields substantial power in regulating state aid. In this case, the EU contended that Ireland, by applying very low tax rates to Apple, was providing an unfair subsidy.

Two years ago, the General Court, responsible for the initial ruling’s overturning, deemed the European Commission’s decision legally flawed. However, the recent recommendation from the advocate general suggests that this ruling itself may now face reconsideration, potentially reviving the debate over Apple’s back taxes.

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Jewish fears as German support for Israel is challenged on streets

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Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed deep concern and condemnation over recent antisemitic attacks in Germany during an event commemorating the anniversary of the November pogroms of 1938, also known as “Kristallnacht.” Despite Germany’s historic responsibility and diplomatic support for Israel, social discord has arisen, particularly amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

The rise in antisemitism in Germany, exacerbated by incidents like the throwing of petrol bombs at a Berlin synagogue, has heightened anxiety due to the nation’s Nazi past. Cases of antisemitism were already increasing before the Hamas attacks, with a significant number attributed to the far right.

Senior politicians have called for people, especially from the political left and Muslim backgrounds, to distance themselves from Hamas actions. Germany’s commitment to Israel’s security, a fundamental aspect of its foreign policy, is facing challenges on the streets, as evidenced by protests with placards expressing dissent.

Some individuals, like Nadim Jarrar, advocate for a more open discussion on Israel’s actions, while others, such as Sami, emphasize the need to express pain about the situation in Gaza. Germany’s vice-chancellor, Robert Habeck, acknowledges that criticism of Israel is allowed but emphasizes the non-negotiable nature of Israel’s right to exist.

However, there are concerns about the integration policy in Germany, with instances of antisemitic and anti-Israel sentiments surfacing during protests. Felix Klein, the government’s Commissioner for Jewish life in Germany, highlights the problem when criticism turns into hate denying Israel’s right to exist.

Despite the genuine anguish felt in Germany over the safety of Jewish people, there is also anger in some communities about the perceived reluctance of political classes to criticize Israel, contributing to a complex and evolving societal debate.

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Transgender people can be baptised and be godparents, Vatican says

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According to recent announcements from the Vatican’s doctrinal office, the Catholic Church is allowing transgender individuals to be baptized, serve as godparents at a baptism, and act as witnesses at weddings, as long as these actions do not cause scandal or confusion among the faithful. This updated stance reflects Pope Francis’s efforts to create a more inclusive environment for LGBT individuals within the Church. The decision was prompted by inquiries from Brazilian Bishop José Negri, with the response signed by the head of the dicastery, Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, and approved by Pope Francis.

Regarding baptism, the document emphasizes that transgender individuals, even those who have undergone hormone treatment and gender reassignment surgery, may be baptized under the same conditions as other believers, provided that their baptism does not result in public scandal or disorientation among the faithful.

The guidance also addresses other questions raised by Bishop Negri. It allows for transgender individuals who have undergone hormone treatment and gender reassignment surgery to serve as godparents, but acknowledges that priests may refuse this request if there is a risk of scandal or disorientation within the Church community.

Furthermore, the Vatican’s response suggests that the decision to baptize a child of same-sex parents or those who use a surrogate mother should be based on the expectation that the child would be raised within the Catholic faith. Similarly, it suggests that individuals in same-sex relationships can serve as godparents at a Church baptism if they lead a life that adheres to the teachings of the faith.

This announcement builds upon Pope Francis’s recent statements indicating a more compassionate approach towards LGBT individuals within the Church, including the possibility of priests blessing same-sex couples. However, the Church still maintains its position that same-sex relationships are considered “objectively sinful” and does not recognize same-sex marriage.

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Art Entertainment News Trending

Woman with a Watch: Picasso masterpiece of ‘golden muse’ sells for £113m

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A 1932 masterpiece by Pablo Picasso recently sold for $139 million, making it the second most expensive piece by the artist ever sold. Titled “Femme a la Montre” (Woman with a Watch), it portrays Marie-Therese Walter, Picasso’s French muse and lover, and was previously owned by the late art collector Emily Fisher Landau.

Picasso’s relationship with Walter, which began when she was 17 and he was 45, was clandestine as he was still married to Ukrainian ballerina Olga Khokhlova. The painting depicts Walter seated in a chair against a blue backdrop.

Picasso’s artistic contributions, which spanned eight decades, were diverse, with his experimentation with various styles and themes making him one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. His notable contributions include inspiring the “Cubism” movement, known for depicting objects and people from multiple perspectives simultaneously.

Despite his artistic legacy, questions have arisen in recent years regarding his behavior, with allegations of cruelty, womanizing, and coercive conduct. Picasso, born in Malaga in 1881 and raised in Barcelona, relocated to Paris in 1904. He had four children and passed away in 1973 at the age of 92.

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Spanish fury at Pedro Sánchez’ controversial amnesty plan for power

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Protests led by right-wing groups against Spain’s acting Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez have escalated in violence, underscoring the tensions surrounding his push for a contentious amnesty law. Approximately 7,000 demonstrators converged outside the headquarters of Sánchez’s Socialist party in Madrid on Tuesday. The Prime Minister is striving to secure an investiture vote that would enable him to form a new government and avert a potential snap election.

To attain parliamentary support, Sánchez must enlist the backing of Catalan separatists. The demonstrations in Madrid, along with other cities, have grown increasingly aggressive, with 29 police officers and 10 protestors sustaining injuries during Tuesday night’s clashes. Sánchez took to social media to assert, “They will not break the Socialist Party.”

Following the failure of the conservative People’s Party (PP) leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo to establish a government in September, Sánchez, who came second in the July general election, is on the verge of securing adequate parliamentary support for a coalition government with the left-wing alliance Sumar.

To gain the support of Catalan parties, Sánchez has agreed to an amnesty for several hundred Catalan politicians and activists facing legal action related to the failed secession attempt in 2017. This move has faced intense criticism, with opponents accusing Sánchez of jeopardizing Spain’s unity and manipulating the amnesty for political survival.

The opposition, particularly the far-right Vox party, has vehemently opposed the amnesty, calling for continued protests and urging the police to defy ‘illegal’ orders. Despite internal support within the Socialist Party, several senior members, including former Prime Minister Felipe González, have spoken out against the initiative, emphasizing its potential to disrupt social harmony in Spain. A division has also emerged within the judiciary, reflecting the deep political polarization over the amnesty.

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Global Climate News Trending

‘Virtually certain’ that 2023 will be warmest year after October record

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New data strongly suggests that 2023 will undoubtedly be the warmest year on record, marked by deadly heatwaves, floods, and fires. The EU’s climate change service reports that global average air temperatures in October 2023 were 0.4C higher than the previous record set in 2019, making it the fifth consecutive month of record warmth. Researchers predict that extreme global temperatures will persist into 2024.

This year has already seen numerous records shattered, with July potentially being the hottest month in 120,000 years and September surpassing the previous record by an astonishing 0.5C. Although October wasn’t as scorching as September, it still set a new record for the month by a significant margin of 1.7C compared to the pre-industrial average.

Multiple scientific organizations, including Copernicus, NOAA, and Berkeley Earth, assert that there is a more than 99% probability that 2023 will go down as the warmest year on record. Climate scientist Zeke Hausfather from Berkeley Earth emphasizes the persistent trend of record-setting months, indicating no sign of reversal.

While the scientific implications of these unprecedented temperatures are alarming, the real-world consequences are even more concerning. Dr. Friederike Otto from Imperial College London highlights the human suffering, including thousands of deaths, displacement, and livelihood losses, caused by extreme heatwaves and droughts exacerbated by these extraordinary temperatures.

The primary driver of this heatwave is the continuous release of carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels. This year’s rise in temperatures is further compounded by the emergence of an intense El Niño event, causing warm waters to surface in the eastern Pacific Ocean and release additional heat into the atmosphere. Researchers are still uncertain about the nature of this particular El Niño event, as it appears to deviate from previous occurrences and may be contributing to greater ocean surface heating compared to past El Niño events.

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