Introduction In the mainstream view, al-Qaeda did not play a role in the Syria conflict until Islamic State of Iraq (ISI) leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi dispatched his deputy, Abu Muhammad al-Jolani, to Syria in August 2011 to establish a wing of the group there, called Jabhat al-Nusra, or the Nusra Front. Additionally, al-Qaeda allegedly did not carry out any military operations until December 2011 and did not announce its establishment until January 2012. However, there is evidence that al-Qaeda affiliated militants were involved in the Syrian conflict much earlier. Saudi intelligence...
Kim
Will Trump Meet with Kim Jong-un Again?
On FPF #515, I discuss the latest push by South Korean President Moon Jae-in to have another meeting between Trump and Kim Jong-un. The top US negotiator traveled to South Korea in an attempt to restart talks. Trump has now signaled he be open to talks. However, North Korea is taking a public stand against meeting with Trump before November's election. I explain why North Korea is refusing to meet with the US and the damage done by John Bolton. Links John Dangelo - EARN...
This is Your Security Force
#PoliceBrutalityPandemic https://twitter.com/Kim7KONIC/status/1268862457423986691 https://twitter.com/PoxOnBothHouses/status/1268787231713456129 https://twitter.com/Terminal_Redux/status/1268870944615026690
Is Kim Jong-un Alive? guest Will Porter
Will Porter returns to Foreign Policy Focus to discuss the seeming reappearance of Kim Jong-un. Will breaks down the evidence that shows Kim's recent public visit to a new factory, after being absent from public view for three weeks. During his absence, the world outside of North Korea speculated about the North Korean chain of succession if the Supreme Leader would die. However, it looks like Kim is alive and well.
Is Kim Jong-un Dead? guest Will Porter
Will Porter returns to the show to discuss the rumors of Kim Jong-un's death. Will explains the media reports suggesting Kim is dead, or will soon die, are based on flimsy sources. However, Kim has been absent from public life for a few weeks and missed a significant North Korean holiday. The rumors of Kim's death reveals the US needs to improve its relationship with the isolated country.
Kim Tests Some Missiles
On FPF #381, I discuss the status of talks between the US and North Korea. North Korea recently tested some missiles, and the never-Trumpers attempted to make a show of the tests. Trump downplayed the tests and said that he continues to hope for talks with North Korea. I explain how it was the US policy against North Korea that led Kim to test these missiles. I argue the US should engage in step-by-step diplomacy with North Korea to normalize the relationship. Links Top Gun Movie No tears for Dan Coats Scott Horton Show...
Did Israel Pull the US Out Compliance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty?
IRmep's Grant F. Smith takes on the Arms Control Association's Daryl Kimball over Israel nuclear smuggling and U.S. compliance with the NPT. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yex7ERzGOK0&feature=youtu.be
Warren, Harris, Sanders, Klobuchuar, Castro, O’Rourke, Biden Denounce Trump For Meeting Kim
"My God." -Richard Nixon Update: Gah! Gabbard too. Unbelievable.
China
On FPF #361, I discuss recent news about China. In Hong Kong mass protests have broken out to oppose a new law that allows extraditions to China. China appears to be seeking to oppose more control over Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the South China Sea. The US has grown its relationship with Taiwan and will sell the island $2 billion in weapons. I also update the 2020 NDAA, Turkey, and Kim Jong-un's half brother's connection with the CIA.
Punk-Ass New York Times Editorial Board Says Nothing About Assange Persecution
We will all suffer for their sin. But on the bright side, at least they will too. See Glenn Greenwald on why this represents an attack on all journalism here. I chimed on the Assange vigil thing today with Joe Lauria and Kim Dotcom and them. Cue to 1:50:45 for my part....
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