Goli Kouhkan, a 25-year-old child bride sentenced to death in Iran for her husband’s murder, has had her execution halted after his parents accepted approximately £70,000 in blood money. Kouhkan was arrested at 18 and spent seven years on death row, facing qisas (retribution-in-kind) for allegedly participating in her abusive husband’s death. Her case highlights systemic gender bias in Iran’s justice system, where child brides and victims of domestic violence often face severe penalties. While the payment saved her life, concerns remain about the qisas law, which violates international standards.
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Jesse Butler, an Oklahoma high school student, was convicted of sexual assault but received no prison sentence. The parents of one of Butler’s alleged victims expressed their outrage to ABC News, claiming the justice system failed their daughter. The parents described feeling unheard and frustrated by the lack of consequences for Butler’s actions. They are now speaking out to raise awareness and advocate for changes in how such cases are handled.
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Trump plans envision major U.S. investment in Russia and restoring Russian oil flows to Europe. It’s almost unbelievable, isn’t it? The core idea seems to be this: a massive influx of American money into Russia, coupled with the renewed flow of Russian oil back into European markets. The implications of this are staggering, and the narrative, frankly, is alarming.
This sudden shift feels like a betrayal, doesn’t it? One moment, the rhetoric condemns Russian aggression, especially in light of the war in Ukraine, and the next, there’s a proposed alliance that financially benefits Russia. This raises the question of motives. Is it simply a calculated business deal, as some might argue?… Continue reading
Leaked details from a classified US national security strategy reveal the Trump administration’s plans to encourage four additional countries to leave the European Union, echoing the “Make Europe Great Again” slogan. The strategy reportedly identifies Austria, Hungary, Italy, and Poland as targets, expressing concerns about “civilisational erasure” due to immigration and multiculturalism. Furthermore, the document suggests forming a new “Core Five” forum (C5) comprised of the US, China, India, Japan, and Russia, potentially overshadowing the G7. This strategy aims to support entities that promote national sovereignty and traditional European values while remaining aligned with US interests.
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A federal judge in Maryland has ordered Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s immediate release from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody while his legal challenge against deportation proceeds. The order stems from Abrego Garcia’s wrongful deportation to El Salvador and subsequent re-detainment by ICE, despite a previous ruling preventing his deportation there. The Department of Homeland Security has strongly criticized the decision. Abrego Garcia is also seeking asylum and facing criminal charges, with a judge expressing concerns about potential vindictive prosecution.
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Senator Jeff Merkley expressed disappointment after Senate Republicans blocked his bill, the Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025. This bill aimed to prevent the use of federal funds for military action in Venezuela without explicit Congressional approval. Merkley argued that Congress holds the constitutional power to declare war, criticizing the potential for unilateral action by former President Trump. The bill, co-sponsored by several other senators, also included exceptions for self-defense, counternarcotics operations, and humanitarian aid.
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Recent reports scrutinizing Donald Trump’s health have prompted a lengthy response on Truth Social where he accused publications like The New York Times of “seditious” behavior for reporting on his alleged deteriorating health. The former president claimed he has repeatedly “aced” cognitive exams and that the scrutiny of his health is fueled by fabricated reports. These remarks followed increased media attention on his physical and cognitive abilities, including instances of dozing off, bruising, and swollen ankles. Trump’s post reflects a growing concern over the former president’s fitness, mirroring the same criticisms he once leveled against his political rivals.
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The article expresses concern about the potential erosion of women’s suffrage, drawing parallels to the rise of Christian nationalism in the United States and its potential influence in the UK. It highlights the increasing visibility of those questioning the 19th Amendment, including figures within the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC) who advocate for a “household vote.” This shift is seen as part of a larger movement, supported by powerful individuals and organizations, to subtly alter the cultural landscape and make previously unthinkable ideas, like limiting women’s voting rights, seem more acceptable. The author warns that these tactics are already present in the UK, exemplified by connections between conservative groups and political figures, and urges vigilance in defending democratic principles.
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Due to widespread and historic-level flooding, Governor Bob Ferguson declared a statewide emergency, allowing the state to seek federal funds. The Washington National Guard has been mobilized to assist local communities, with over 300 members ready to respond. Emergency crews are prepared to evacuate up to 100,000 residents, particularly in low-lying areas along the Skagit River, which is predicted to exceed previous record flood levels. The situation is considered life-threatening, and residents are urged to follow evacuation orders and monitor alerts from local emergency management departments.
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The Defense Department recently launched GenAi.mil, a new generative AI tool aimed at integrating artificial intelligence into the Armed Forces. Despite the potential for such technology to be used in modern warfare, the platform successfully analyzed a hypothetical Caribbean boat strike scenario, determining it to be “unambiguously illegal.” The AI’s ability to navigate the Geneva Conventions seemingly surpassed the capabilities of human officers. While the implications of this technological advancement are significant, it also highlights potential issues within the chain of command.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood
Judge Orders Immediate Release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia from ICE Custody Amidst Ongoing Detention Battles
A federal judge in Maryland has ordered Kilmar Abrego Garcia’s immediate release from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody while his legal challenge against deportation proceeds. The order stems from Abrego Garcia’s wrongful deportation to El Salvador and subsequent re-detainment by ICE, despite a previous ruling preventing his deportation there. The Department of Homeland Security has strongly criticized the decision. Abrego Garcia is also seeking asylum and facing criminal charges, with a judge expressing concerns about potential vindictive prosecution.
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