2025: The Times | IC | Open

by **Chewion** » Sat Dec 14, 2024 8:37 am

2025: The Times

OOC| Map | Discord

The year 2025 presents itself as a pivotal chapter in world history, offering a complex web of geopolitical challenges and opportunities for nations around the globe. As nations grapple with the ever-increasing global population, the imperative to navigate this growth with strategic finesse has never been more critical.

In Asia, China’s ascendancy as a dominant force is evident, casting a long shadow over regional dynamics. It compels nations to navigate the intricate dance of allegiance, balancing between the East and the West. Internationally, China faces condemnation for its treatment of the Uighur population, actions labeled by many as genocide, highlighting a grave human rights crisis within its borders. Moreover, China’s maneuvers in the South China Sea, marked by illegal territorial claims and provocative military posturing, exacerbate tensions and challenge the norms of international law and maritime sovereignty.

India, in the midst of an economic surge, contends with the complexities of religious discord and a longstanding territorial dispute with Pakistan over Kashmir, underscoring the region’s intricate geopolitical landscape.

Europe’s narrative is shaped by the echoes of the USSR’s dissolution, with Russia reasserting its global presence, challenging Western perspectives and stirring international debate over the future course of global affairs. The continent itself is a battleground of ideologies, with political factions vying for influence and shaping the discourse on Europe’s future direction.

The Middle East is marked by widespread instability, with Syria and Egypt both embroiled in civil wars, fracturing their societies and drawing regional and international actors into their conflicts. These wars, fueled by deep political, sectarian, and ideological divides, exacerbate the region’s instability. Meanwhile, the intensifying rivalry between Israel and Iran further complicates the Middle Eastern landscape. Iran’s contentious nuclear ambitions and support for proxy groups continue to strain its relations with neighboring countries and the international community, casting a long shadow over regional peace and stability.

Africa’s story is one of stark contrasts, where hope perseveres amidst the challenges of ethnic and religious strife. The Congo’s resource conflicts and the pervasive threat of extremism in the Sahara and Sahel highlight the continent’s enduring struggles and its quest for peace and stability.

North America is witnessing deepening political divides, with both Canada and the United States navigating through periods of significant internal discord. Mexico’s battle against cartel influence reflects the broader challenges of governance and law enforcement.

Latin America’s landscape is characterized by political turbulence, with Colombia embodying the fragile balance between peace and conflict, reflecting the continent’s wider quest for stability amidst adversity.

Against this global backdrop, participants in this role-playing journey are invited to lead their chosen nation onwards, navigating through a meticulously crafted scenario that demands realism and strategic acumen. The decisions made will not only shape the fate of nations but also define the legacy of leadership in an era of unprecedented challenges. How will you influence the course of history, and what mark will you leave on the world stage?

[b][size=150]Major Unchangeable Events:

Collapse of the USSR
9/11
08 Financial Crisis
South China Sea Disputes
COVID

Leadership:

OP: Chewion
Co-OPs:
NewLakotah

Rules:

IEC:

The IEC (International Entity Council) is comprised of the OP, Co-OPs, and anyone else accepted into it. The IEC is responsible for making the IEC post that includes multiple events and members can serve as an NPC nation in conferences so long as they do not have a direct interest in the negotiations.

by **Chewion** » Sat Dec 14, 2024 8:47 am

President Ryan Carter Takes the Oath of Office
Date: January 20, 2025
Location: U.S. Capitol

The crisp January air hung heavy with anticipation as Ryan Eugene Carter stepped forward onto the inaugural platform at the U.S. Capitol. The sea of faces stretched endlessly before him, their collective breath visible in the cold morning air. American flags rippled in the wind, and the murmurs of the crowd fell silent as Chief Justice William Harris raised a worn, leather-bound Bible.

Liz stood at Ryan’s side, her gloved hands clutching the Bible firmly. Her eyes met his for a fleeting moment, offering a silent prayer of strength. Behind them, Daniel, Grace, and little Lilly watched with awe, their father’s journey culminating in this sacred moment. The youngest tugged gently at her mother’s coat, her wide eyes fixed on her father.

Ryan extended his right hand, the resolve in his green eyes unshaken. His left hand rested on the Bible, its pages worn from years of Liz’s morning devotions and family prayers. The wind tugged at his coat as Chief Justice Harris began to speak.

“Repeat after me,” the Chief Justice intoned, his voice steady. “I, Ryan Eugene Carter…”

“I, Ryan Eugene Carter…”

“…do solemnly swear…”

“…do solemnly swear…”

“…that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States…”

“…that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States…”

“…and will, to the best of my ability…”

“…and will, to the best of my ability…”

“…preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.”

“…preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States.”

“So help me God.”

“So help me God.”

As Ryan lowered his hand, the crowd erupted into applause and cheers.

President Carter’s Inaugural Address

"My fellow Americans,

Today, I stand before you humbled by the responsibility you have entrusted to me, honored by the opportunity to serve this great nation, and deeply aware of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. This peaceful transfer of power is a testament to the enduring strength of our democracy and the resilience of the American spirit.

Before I continue, I want to give thanks to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who has guided me throughout my life and brought me to this moment. Without His grace, I would not be here today. It is by His strength that I stand ready to serve, and it is to Him that I dedicate my efforts as your President.

We gather today not as Republicans or Democrats but as Americans, united by a shared love for this country and a common hope for a brighter future. We may not always agree, but let us remember that our diversity is our strength, and our shared values—faith, family, and freedom—are what bind us together.

Division may have marked our recent past, but it does not have to define our future. Let this moment be the beginning of a new chapter, one written in the spirit of unity, understanding, and shared purpose.

As I begin this journey, I do so with a heart grounded in faith and a firm belief that leadership is not about power but about service. The Scriptures remind us in Isaiah, “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.” In times of uncertainty, let us find strength in faith, courage in conviction, and grace in our shared journey.

We stand at a crossroads. The challenges we face are great, but so too is our potential. Together, we can build an America where every worker’s effort is valued, and every family has the opportunity to thrive. We can secure our borders and ensure immigration is safe, legal, and fair. We can protect our streets and maintain a military that is strong and ready to defend. We can preserve our traditions while embracing innovation and progress.

To those around the world who would seek to harm this nation or oppress their own people, let me be clear: the United States will stand resolute in the face of evil. We will not shy away from defending our allies, protecting our citizens, and promoting freedom across the globe.

However, our strength is not just in our military might but in our willingness to extend a hand of diplomacy. We will always seek peace over conflict, dialogue over division, and cooperation over confrontation. But let there be no doubt—peace must be built on justice, and freedom must be defended.

The time for promises is over; the time for action begins now. In the days ahead, we will roll up our sleeves and get to work. Together, we will restore America’s promise, strengthen our communities, and renew our shared purpose.

This is a new chapter in the American story. It is a moment to rise above division, to build a stronger union, and to leave a legacy of hope and opportunity for generations to come. Let us believe, as our ancestors did, that America’s best days are not behind us—they are still to come.

Together, with God’s guidance and the strength of our people, we will meet this moment and shape a future worthy of this great nation.

May God bless you, may God bless our troops, and may God forever bless these United States of America."

News Report: Ryan Carter Sworn in as 47th President of the United States
Source: The Washington-Jefferson Times
Date: January 20, 2025

Washington, D.C. — On a crisp winter morning, Ryan Eugene Carter stood before the nation and took the oath of office, becoming the 47th President of the United States. The ceremony, held on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, was attended by a crowd of thousands and millions more watching from home.

President Carter, 42, a former Green Beret and Governor of Texas, began his presidency with a message of unity, faith, and resolve. With his hand resting on a weathered family Bible held by his wife, Liz Carter, he recited the oath of office administered by Chief Justice William Harris.

His inaugural address reflected themes of patriotism and service. “We gather today not as Republicans or Democrats, but as Americans,” Carter declared. “Let this moment be the beginning of a new chapter, one written in the spirit of unity, understanding, and shared purpose.”

The day concluded with a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue and the “Faith and Freedom Ball,” where Carter thanked supporters and promised bold action ahead.

President Carter’s First Security Briefing
Date: January 21, 2025
Location: The White House, Situation Room

The Situation Room carried a quiet intensity as President Ryan Carter entered, accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Jonathan Reed, and National Security Advisor, General David Reynolds (Ret.). The senior officials seated around the long table stood respectfully as he approached.

“Good morning, everyone,” Carter said, taking his seat at the head of the table. His green eyes scanned the room. “Let’s get started.”

General Reynolds leaned forward, offering a small smile. “Mr. President, before we begin, allow me to congratulate you on your inauguration yesterday. It’s an honor to serve under your leadership.”

A murmur of agreement swept through the room. CIA Director Melissa Kane added, “We’re all looking forward to working with you, sir. Congratulations.”

Carter nodded, acknowledging the sentiment. “Thank you, all of you. I’m honored to serve with such a capable team. Now, let’s get to work.”

Director Kane tapped a button on the table, bringing satellite images onto the screen. The first slide showed a sprawling compound nestled in the mountains.

“Mr. President, this morning’s focus is Afghanistan,” Kane began, her voice measured but firm. “Since the Taliban took full control in 2021, they’ve presented themselves as a legitimate government. However, our intelligence shows that they’re actively hosting and training extremist groups, including Al-Qaeda. This site in Kandahar Province is one of six confirmed training camps.”

The screen zoomed in, showing figures moving in formation and areas designated for tactical training. “These camps are fully operational, focusing on advanced explosives training, tactical coordination, and recruitment efforts targeting young men from across the region. Chatter indicates they may be planning attacks on U.S. embassies and allied facilities.”

General Reynolds spoke next. “Mr. President, this is a clear and immediate threat. The Taliban is violating every commitment they’ve made, and these camps are growing stronger by the day. If we don’t act, we risk another wave of coordinated terror attacks.”

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General James Monroe, cleared his throat. “Sir, we’ve prepared several options. First, targeted drone strikes to neutralize the camps within 72 hours. This delivers a swift blow but carries risks of collateral damage and Taliban escalation. Second, Special Operations missions to eliminate high-value targets and recover intelligence. Third, we focus on rebuilding our intelligence network in Afghanistan to sustain long-term operations. Additionally, we recommend immediate engagement with Pakistan—they’re critical to monitoring and disrupting these camps.”

“Can we get our drones over Afghanistan without issue?” Carter asked, his tone sharp.

General Monroe nodded. “Yes, Mr. President, we maintain a network of assets in the region, including bases in Qatar and the UAE. Coordination with Pakistani airspace is the only potential complication, but it’s manageable.”

CIA Director Kane added, “We’ve used covert routes to minimize detection. If we move quickly, they won’t see it coming.”

Carter considered this for a moment before asking, “Do we have actionable intelligence to send in SpecOps now, or would that follow more intelligence gathering?”

Kane was direct. “Mr. President, while we have strong intelligence on locations and activities, we lack specifics like leadership schedules and exact layouts. Sending in Special Operations now would be high-risk and might miss critical objectives. More intel is necessary to ensure success.”

General Reynolds interjected. “If we deploy SpecOps now, it would disrupt operations but wouldn’t decapitate leadership. Gathering more intelligence first is the safer option unless it’s a time-sensitive matter.”

Carter leaned back. “No, let’s not send our boys into an unknown like that unless we’re thinking it’s time-sensitive. Spare no expense on gathering intel. Also, make sure Pakistan is working with us on this.”

Director Kane replied, “Understood, Mr. President. We’ll engage Pakistani intelligence immediately. ISI has a history of mixed cooperation, but we’ll apply pressure through diplomatic and economic channels to ensure their alignment.”

General Reynolds added, “We’ll coordinate with the State Department to deliver a firm message to Islamabad. If they want continued U.S. support, they’ll need to play ball.”

“Go ahead. When will these strikes happen?” Carter asked.

General Monroe straightened in his seat. “Mr. President, with your approval, we can have the strike packages finalized within 24 hours. Operations could commence within 48 to 72 hours, depending on final intelligence updates and coordination with regional assets.”

“How many targets will be on this go-around?” Carter followed up.

Director Kane tapped a few keys on her tablet, bringing up new satellite images. “We’ve identified six primary camps that are fully operational, plus two secondary targets suspected of housing leadership or serving as safe houses. In total, this operation would target six to eight sites.”

Carter leaned forward, his voice firm. “You have the green light to proceed. When everything is set, represent this to me with any additional information, and I’ll give the go or no-go then.”

General Monroe nodded sharply. “Understood, Mr. President. You’ll have a full update within 48 hours.”

General Reynolds looked at Carter directly. “This operation will send a clear message to the Taliban and the world, sir.”

As the team began to file out, Reynolds lingered. “Strong call, Mr. President. They’ll know we mean business.”

Carter gave a faint nod, his mind already focused on the task ahead.

News Report: President Carter’s First Military Operation
Date: January 24, 2025
Source: World News HQ

Anchor David Whitman:
“Good evening. The United States has launched its first major military operation under President Ryan Carter, targeting terrorist training camps in Afghanistan. In a series of precision airstrikes carried out overnight, the U.S. military struck six confirmed sites operated by extremist groups, including Al-Qaeda. This operation marks a significant escalation in counterterrorism efforts since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in 2021.”

The screen shifted to grainy video footage of the strikes, showing plumes of smoke rising from mountainous compounds.

Whitman:
“According to the Pentagon, the strikes were carried out by unmanned drones operating from U.S. bases in the region. Officials report that the targets included training facilities, logistical hubs, and suspected safe houses for high-value individuals. Initial reports suggest the operation was a success, with no civilian casualties confirmed at this time.”

The camera transitioned to a clip of President Ryan Carter speaking from the White House briefing room earlier in the day.

President Carter:
“This operation was necessary to prevent Afghanistan from once again becoming a haven for terror. These training camps posed a direct threat to U.S. interests, our allies, and the safety of innocent civilians. We acted decisively to neutralize that threat, and we will continue to do so whenever the security of the American people is at risk. The United States will not sit idly by while those who seek to harm us plot in the shadows.”

The broadcast returned to Whitman in the studio.

Whitman:
“Reaction to the operation has been swift, with responses from both political leaders and international observers. Republican Senator Mark Daniels of Florida praised the President’s decisiveness, stating, ‘This is the kind of strong leadership we need to ensure that terror groups never gain the upper hand again.’ Meanwhile, Democratic Senator Karen Hollis of California voiced caution, saying, ‘While we all want to protect American lives, we must tread carefully to avoid entangling ourselves in prolonged conflicts that risk further destabilizing the region.’”

The screen split to a live discussion panel featuring three experts: retired General Michael Grant, counterterrorism analyst Dr. Aisha Malik, and journalist Tom Parker.

Whitman:
“General Grant, let’s start with you. From a military perspective, how significant was this operation?”

General Grant:
“David, this was a textbook operation. The U.S. used precision drone strikes to hit key targets without risking ground troops, minimizing both American and civilian casualties. Strategically, it sends a message not just to the Taliban but to terror groups around the world: the United States is watching, and we’re willing to act decisively.”

Whitman:
“Dr. Malik, from a counterterrorism standpoint, does this operation weaken these groups in any meaningful way?”

Dr. Malik:
“In the short term, absolutely. These camps were critical for training recruits and coordinating operations. Destroying them disrupts their activities and forces them into disarray. But long-term success depends on what comes next. Without sustained intelligence and follow-up operations, these groups could simply relocate and rebuild. This is a significant step, but it’s only part of a larger counterterrorism puzzle.”

Whitman:
“Tom Parker, what are you hearing from your contacts in Afghanistan and Pakistan about the regional reaction?”

Parker:
“David, the regional reaction is mixed. Pakistan has officially stated that it wasn’t involved but has likely privately cooperated with U.S. intelligence in identifying some of these targets. Meanwhile, the Taliban is furious. They’ve called this an act of aggression and are already accusing the U.S. of targeting civilians—claims that, so far, haven’t been substantiated. On the ground in Afghanistan, there are reports of relief from some local communities near these sites, seeing these camps as sources of instability in their regions. It’s a complicated situation, but the strike certainly disrupted their operations.”

Whitman:
“So, we’re looking at a tactical victory, but with potential for diplomatic fallout?”

Parker:
“Exactly. The Taliban’s response will be critical, as will Pakistan’s continued cooperation. How the Carter administration handles the fallout and prepares for follow-up actions will determine the long-term success of this operation.”

The broadcast returned to Whitman in the studio.

Whitman:
“A decisive beginning for President Carter, but as always, the road ahead remains uncertain. We’ll continue to follow this story closely. Stay with us for updates.”

by **Malorossi** » Sat Dec 14, 2024 3:41 pm

HaakonChristian

I was very pleased to learn about the inauguration of Ryan Carter, I would like to congratulate him. I believe that during his reign the United States of America will be able to make up for the missed opportunities in the fight against global terrorism, building a security system in Europe, ensuring environmental security in the Arctic. I will certainly be very pleased to meet with him, I think that through joint efforts we will be able to bring our countries even closer together.

#USElections #geopolitics

04:12 pm - 21/01/25

NORDWEST NEWS
ANDERSON - OUT

Today, the Moderate Party held its election congress, announced at a press conference. Many expected a new re-election of Leo Anders, who was losing popularity, although a number of analysts pointed out that Anders could expect the fate of Josef Henson at the conference. And today, Leo Anders officially resigned from his post as "party leader", moving to the department for "relations with commercial organizations". There were two candidates for his place, an open gay and an ardent supporter of the feminist agenda, Jargus Heighe, who is very popular among the capital's student youth. However, his vision of privatization with "the introduction of quotas for sexual minorities and tightening of quotas for women" strongly contradicted the "economic restructuring plan" adopted at the 2016 meeting of the Moderate Party. Therefore, despite Heighe's local popularity, the chairman was the old professor of economics, Olaf Kronberg, who proposed amendments to the original "economic restructuring" plan, making the economy more profitable. One of the theses of this program is "replacing the environmental tax with measures of economic stimulation of the environmental policy of enterprises." If the Moderate Party accepts these amendments, then most likely the Green Party will not go to these elections as part of the "large centrist bloc."

Such an unexpected decision was caused by the fall in Leo Anders' rating as a result of his ineffective domestic economic policy of recent years, which could not finally stop the stagnation of the economy, but also could not complete the privatization reforms started by Henson. The fall in ratings also dragged the entire Big Center Bloc, which according to the latest polls began to lag far behind the "Opposition Platform" led by the Labor Party. Many old members of the bloc, fearing that the fall in ratings would spread to them, have repeatedly declared their readiness to "create their own election bloc". In order to stabilize the situation within the Big Center Bloc, the Moderate Party went for the re-election of high-ranking members of the political council, including the chairman.

Olaf Kronberg, professor of economics at Stockholm University and author of the "privatization plan" of Josef Henson, has largely become the ideologist of the new economic policy of the Moderate Party in recent years. Therefore, many analysts agree that Kronberg will liberalize at a faster pace than Leo Anders did. On February 1, Olaf Kronberg announced that he would hold an urgent conference of the "large centrist bloc" to adjust the pre-election policy in connection with the change of the chairman of the Moderate Party.

Analysts also believe that Olaf Kronberg is unlikely to become chancellor, since everyone within the bloc will be against it, and besides, he has traditionally been only an "ideologist" rather than a practitioner, and has not sought political power. Most likely, his figure became a compromise in negotiations with the Greater Center Bloc, as a result of which the vanguard role in the Greater Center Bloc will go to the Christian Party of Eni Roizman.

#policy #elections

07:00 pm - 25/01/25

by **Orostan** » Sat Dec 14, 2024 6:15 pm

BAGHDAD
January 20st, 2025

Liberation square was no uncommon place for protestors to gather. Over the course of the last month more and more had crowded into it over the issue of land reform for weekly demonstrations. Many of the regular attendees were the unemployed or underemployed and supported the Sunni dominated National Reform Party or the left wing Iraqi Communist Party and formerly ruling Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party. Each time however their protests and banners demanding an end to the agrarian policies that had typified the nonsectarian Progress and Unity Party government had gone unanswered.

This time there would be an answer - but not the type the protesters wanted. Greeting them in the morning were groups of policemen keeping them from blocking some of the roads. They wore body armor and helmets (but not full riot gear) and were armed, as typical of policeman in a country like Iraq. The protestors shouted and clustered in the spaces they could while a drone buzzed overhead - probably from a news station. A few of the police equipped with jamming guns eyed it. The protestors continued to yell and shout more forcefully than they had in the previous demonstrations until a group of them decided to try their luck and push past the police. The police pushed back and one of the police pushed too hard, sending a man stumbling over a curb and onto his back. The crowd seeing this erupted into anger and soon was rhythmically pushing against the wall of police officers who were quickly calling for reinforcements as the protest began to spiral out of control. Soon the first object was thrown - a glass bottle that narrowly missed an office and shattered against the hood of a car. The police responded with their clubs and began to try to make the first arrests as their comrades who were better equipped to handle the chaos marched into the square from the roads that surrounded it.

Babel
January 21st, 2025 - Baghdad

Violence at Land Bill Protest

A demonstration against the Progress and Unity Party's (PUP) land and agriculture policy escalated into a minor riot yesterday that left 24 demonstrators injured and 3 police officers. Fortunately, nobody was killed. This is the second time in the demonstrations this month that there have been injuries and rioting. Prime Minister Al-Halbousi has condemned the riot and the National Reform Party (NRF) for leading it as well as the Ba'ath Party and the Communists for enthusiastically supporting the continued "disruptions to normal life". He has made no indication that he or the PUP and its National Alliance Party partners on this issue plan to reconsider their plans for further privatization of state land that has been widely criticized by labor and populist organizations. PM Al-Halbousi has tried to calm the situation by directing state television to air segments supporting studies, mostly organized by American trained economists, on the benefits of a free market land policy. The use of the state television station as a ruling party propaganda outlet was criticized by National Alliance leaders but they have not broken from their support of the Prime Minister on this issue. Polling indicates that land privatization remains unpopular in the affected regions of the country and among the general populace and as a result the PM's approval ratings have begun to decline amongst Sunnis which have typically supported him while his support among Shias which have typically opposed him has risen due to his cooperation with the National Alliance on public funding for the protection of Shia shrines in exchange for their backing on the agrarian issue.

The NRF, ICP, and Ba'ath have pledged to intensify their demonstrations and force the Prime Minister to reverse course or resign. The Ba'ath and ICP have publicly made clear their desire to see the PM resign while the NRF has focused on trying to make a deal with the PUP in the State Council.

Missile Attack Launched on Syrian Rebel Held Idlib

As part of Iraq's support of the legitimate government of Syria against terrorist rebels the Iraqi Strategic Missile Force on the night of the 20th launched an Al-Husayn 2 missile at a rebel base in the city of Idlib in northern Syria. The office of the Minister of Defense claims that the precisely targeted attack was a success and resulted in the destruction of a rebel garrison and damage to the terrorist's combat capability. Videos on social media posted by Syrians show a large cloud of smoke over the buildings near the center of Idlib that were targeted and the government of the city claims that there were significant civilian casualties. The Al-Husayn 2 missile which is derived from the Russian Scud type ballistic missiles has been a favorite tool of the Iraqi Armed Forces for the last several years. During the war against ISIS the missiles were used to great effect although in the past few years their use has been less frequent due to a lack of suitable targets. The Iraq Center for Human Rights which has condemned similar missile attacks against the city of Erbil during the war against the Kurdish insurgency immediately published a statement criticizing the Iraqi Armed Forces for its use of the heavy weapon against an urban area.

by **Tracian Empire** » Sun Dec 15, 2024 1:01 am

Union of Yugoslav Republics
Савез југословенских република
Savez jugoslavenskih republika
Сојуз на Југословенски републики
Zveza jugoslovanskih republik

Brotherhood and Unity
Братство и јединство
Bratstvo i jedinstvo
Братство и единство
Bratstvo in enotnos

Terrorist attack in Kosovo
On the 1st of January, explosions rocked the city of Pristina, the capital of the Autonomous Republic of Kosovo, as a series of bombs exploded and severely damaged several apartment blocs in the city's outskirts. Twenty people have died, and at least 50 have been severely wounded, but the quick intervention of firefighters limited the damage brought on by the subsequent fire, with most victims having been made during the initial blast. The attack has been openly claimed by the UÇK, the Kosovo Liberation Army, an Albanian irredentist and ultranationalist group which has been waging a low intensity campaign of terrorist attacks against Yugoslav state institutions and in Kosovo, militating for the union of Kosovo with Albania. It is widely believed by the Yugoslav government that the UÇK is directly supported and financed by the Albanian government, an accusation so far denied by Tirana, and recent accusations have also surfaced that the UÇK might be receiving money from militant Islamist groups and Islamist governments such as those of Iran and Pakistan.
The Confederal Executive Council has reacted promptly to this attack, announcing early in the morning that more units of the Militia of the Union of Yugoslav Republics, the confederal police force, will be moved to Pristina, and that all efforts will be taken to catch and prosecute those responsible for the attack. At the same time, the Confederal Secretariat of Defense has announced that multiple units of the Yugoslav National Army will be moved to Kosovo and to Montenegro, at the border with Albania, in order to help the border guards in their attempts to further secure the border and to serve as a sign for any perceived Albanian support.
His Exellency, the President of the Confederal Executive Council, Andrej Plenković, has also stated that he believes that the situation in Kosovo is not and should not be a reason against the beginning of negotiations with Yugoslavia for its EU Accession, giving the situation of the Basque Country and of Corsica as territories where nationalist sentiments were dealt with within a democratic framework, but where violence would sometimes continue to appear. Plenković has also once again warned Albania not to provide support to the UÇK and has announced that Yugoslavia is prepared to take whatever mentions would be necessary to contain and capture these terrorists.

Confederal Executive Council to begin "final push" for Accession Treaty negotiations
His Exellency, the President of the Confederal Executive Council, Andrej Plenković, has announced today that the Union of Yugoslav Republics will begin its final, diplomatic attempt to obtain full agreements from the European Union and its member states to begin the negotiations for a Yugoslav Treaty of Accession. Yugoslavia submitted its application to join the European Union in June 2018, and became an official candidate state in December of that year. While Yugoslavia meets the Copenhagen criteria, and has in principle agreed to all the obligations of membership, including the adopting of the acquis communautaire and of the Euro, issues continue to plague the process. The Council of the European Union has so far not agreed to beginning accession negotiations with the Yugoslav government, due to various objections which the Yugoslav government has described as politically motivated.
His Excellency, the the President of the Confederal Executive Council, Andrej Plenković, has stated that the Yugoslav state is prepared to continue diplomatic discussions with all EU members which might oppose Yugoslavia's entry into the Union, and that Yugoslavia is fully prepared to begin the negotiations whenever the European Union will decide to start such talks. Plenković has however warned his European discussion partners that the current ruling coalition in Yugoslavia is bound to the wishes of the Yugoslav people, and that unfair and unjust delays and exclusions to Yugoslavia's path towards the EU will continue to erode the Yugoslav peoples' desire to join the Union, and that if no progress is to be done until the end of 2025, the Yugoslav government will have to resign before the Yugoslav elections of 2026, which might lead to a withdrawal of Yugoslavia's application. As such, the President of the Confederal Executive Council has strongly urged both the European Union and the governments of its member states to be open to diplomatic discussions in order to accelerate this process and to begin the accession treaty negotiations as soon as possible.

by **NewLakotah** » Sun Dec 15, 2024 3:32 pm

Things in Moscow had never been busier. There was a bustle in the air that hadn’t been felt in over twenty years and much of it was fixated on the Americans. It was always the Americans, they were always up to something. It was interesting to President Kuznetsov that instead of the Bear staring down the Eagle across the great Atlantic, it was their rears that butted against each other across the Pacific Ocean, where two relative backwaters of development were separated by only a few miles of the roughest seas in the world. Yet that relative backwater remained a quiet place where only the occasional buzz of fighter jets and spycraft rocked the two nations. Instead, the issues were quite different.

First, the Americans were now well on their way to returning to the moon. Officially, it seemed, they were all set for a launch just a few months away. The Eurasian Union was still at least five years from saying the same; and that was being optimistic. Not to say that they weren’t equally as ambitious, but ambition can only get you so far. The sheer wealth of the United States meant that the few spare dollars American politicians pulled out of their back pockets to begrudgingly pay for their national program was far beyond the means of all of Eurasia pooling their resources.

Still, even that was almost old news compared to the newest news. Attention has been on the United States thanks to the inauguration of a new president—a young, energetic politician from the state of Texas—who wasted no time in declaring to the world, and to President Kuznetsov himself, that he was not to be taken lightly. His vision would see America reasserting itself against its recent competitors on the global stage and returning American to its traditional values. Within days, President Ryan Carter of the United States proved his jingoism by launching strikes in Afghanistan, hinting at a return to a US presence in Central Asia.

It was then that the Kremlin erupted. This had not been expected, not by any means. Russia has tried and failed in the same country and the US had tried and failed two decades later. Everyone in Moscow had thought the US had gotten their fill and wouldn’t be returning.

“Well, that idea seems completely wrong today,” President Kuznetsov was saying, his eyes glaring down at the men huddled around the long light brown conference table that was the Eurasian Security Council. There were eighteen men and women in all. The new ruling class, comprising three different nationalities and an even larger number of ethnicities. “I’m not sure how we missed the second invasion of Afghanistan in our intelligence, but we can’t miss anything like this again.” Intelligence Minister, Alexey Nechayev, squirmed uncomfortably in his chair. Kuznetsov ignored him and continued, “Regardless, what’s done is done. What do we know so far, Alexey?” Now, the dark brown eyes of Kuznetsov finally settled on the uncomfortable Nechayev.

“Well, Mr. President,” he said slowly, his eyes drifting downwards towards his notes on the table in front of him, “the information that we have currently indicates that this operation was not a signal for anything larger. At least at the moment. There has been no major transfer of units or equipment into the region, something that would definitely be necessary since the region’s terrain is quite unsuitable for a long term military deployment of US troops. I doubt even Pakistan would take kindly to a hundred thousand GIs walking all about downtown Islamabad—” there were a few chuckles from around the room, and even Kuznetsov smiled— “either way, such a deployment must be a long term thing for Mr. Carter. Something, perhaps, for next year or very late this year.”

“Last time he went with a large coalition of international nations. All of NATO and more than a few states from our part of the world. I can’t believe that he has such a thing these days. What do you think?”

“I doubt there is the same political will today as there was twenty-plus years ago. They seem to have more important internal problems to deal with.”

Kuznetsov chuckled. “Very true. Well, President Ryan Carter wanted to make his inauguration dramatic and he certainly achieved.” He sighed, leaning back in his chair. The MIddle East and Central Asia had been a hotspot for geopolitical games between the great powers of the world for centuries now. He wondered why. “Is this any indication of a redirection of American strategy in the region?” he asked, glancing back up at Nacheyev who shrugged.

“Hard to say. Afghan was a deep wound for the Americans. They were riding high on the moral wave and thought it would carry them to victory. Instead it saw a slugfest in mountains few Americans even know about today and eventually a scramble out of Kabul with their tails between their legs. It doesn’t surprise me that a young man like him, someone who fought there, would take this personally and want to leave a better mark in the history books.”

“Their military isn’t what it used to be,” chimed in General Mikhail Teplinsky, chief of the combined generals staffs, sliding his chair forward with a loud squeak. “They have years of decay and downsizing, and political malaise has made their reforms crack at the seams and their new technology breakdown even faster. Their people are war weary and turning against themselves more than foreign enemies. It would be a difficult sell to attract tens of thousands of volunteers, let alone convince the taxpayer to take on Afghanistan.”

Kuznetsov nodded approvingly and there were general murmurs of agreement from the rest of the council. All except for Azhar Giniyat, the Kazakh national and minister of cultural security and heritage. She had eyed the room with growing concern in her eyes as the conversation had dragged on. Finally, she felt she had to speak.

“Forgive me, Mr. President,” she began with a quick beaming smile at the president, “I know that this is not typically my area of expertise, but in this instance I think it is. You—” she pointed with her pen at General Teplinsky— “said that the American culture is war weary. That is true, no doubt. But they also voted in President Ryan with very little doubt in the outcome. I wouldn’t call it a landslide, but it was the next best thing. He is the anointed heir of Mr. Trump, a man who claimed he would return America to its position as economic leader of the world and unchallenged military superpower. He was looking mostly at China, but it’s hard not to be caught in frame. President Carter has followed a similar campaign strategy and it seems as though it was popular enough to get him elected. I say this to make sure that we are not underestimating the American people. They have very short memories. They are also a very proud people that has prided itself on its skill in combat. The idea of America falling behind in any sort of military arms race will rattle them into action faster than lightning.”

“That’s true,” said Kuznetsov. “I appreciate your insights. Perhaps you should chime in more during geopolitical debates and so-called geopolitical experts should less during cultural topics.” He grinned and Giniyat laughed softly. Turning back to the rest of the council, he sniffed sharply. “There’s nothing more to it. This operation may be a flash in the pan, it may be the beginning of something larger. Only time will tell and there isn’t a damn thing we can really do about it. So, let us move on. Their space program has made excellent stride and all practice runs have gone off without a hitch. For such a monumental moment in human history, I feel rather annoyed at their run of good luck. But, well, I can’t fault their success because of the lack of our own. It’s frustrating to feel as though there is little that we can do to catch up, however, I feel as though we finally have some progress to forward us.” He turned an expectant, and surprisingly cold, eye towards Alexey Ostrovsky, the Russian internal affairs minister, who seemed to quake under the eye. Quickly, however, he steeled himself and rose up in his seat, swiveling in the chair gently.

“Yes, Mr. President,” he said, meeting the cold eye of his president with a submissive, downcast expression, before turning a more assertive eye towards the rest of the congregated ministers and chief executives. “First, the mission progress on the current lunar objectives are proceeding on time, under budget, and meeting all expected standards. We expect no delays. The first lunar mission will be launched this summer and the first manned lunar mission—which will not be a lunar landing, mind you—will be launched sometime in 2027. At least, God willing.” He chuckled. “What that means is, that we by 2026 we should have a fully operation pre-habitat, as it were, staffed with a robotic team.” He grinned again.

The President didn’t return the grin and said, “Then how long, based on these estimates before the Eurasian Union has an established moonbase?”

“A proper one? Well, at least a few years after the first lunar landings. I’d say at least 2030…say 2032 or 3, sir.”

Kuznetsov grunted. That wasn’t quite the good news he expected. Ostrovsky deflated slightly at the reaction. He had expected better. Progress was better than expected. Not, apparently, as good as President Kuznetsov expected. No one spoke for a long moment until, finally, the Grand Duke himself spoke.

“Mr. President, as a patron of the space field through the imperial fund, I think it’s a good idea to point out just what strides we have made in space.” Grand Duke George Mikailovich spoke eloquently and professionally, but still there was the strong hint of the accent. The tell that Russian was not always his primary language. Yet, day by day, it was getting better and better, his Russian improving in quality and lexicon each time— even if the eloquent and aristocratic attitude only seemed to grow. “The Americans are well and far ahead of us. But our goals diverge dramatically from their. If we can focus our resources on a single objective, rather than spreading them across multiple, we can accomplish more than the Americans, with less. Our current goals will place us a few years behind the Americans in having a fulling functioning lunar habitat, however, our mission directives will place us in a far better position once we get there. The Americans are there to sightsee and to set themselves up to get to Mars. We are there to establish a place to further the discovery of the lunar surface itself. To provide a place for economic exploration, as well as scientific and to open to markets like space tourism. It is a long term goal, but it separates us and gives us an localized advantage.”

Looking relieved, Ostrovsky nodded enthusiastically. “Our current mission priorities will see us having a foothold on the moon and allow us to explore the surface, locate a suitable location, prepare the site for eventual habitation, and finally become the building blocks themselves.”

“From an investment standpoint our nation has seen significant boosts and even Astana has commercial space investment growing organically,” said President Tokayev of Kazakhstan, the leader of the Kazakh Assembly and deputy chair. “We have seen the same across Russia and even into Belarus. The investment is what will be the long term payoff for our Union.”

“I agree,” said Kuznetsov. “I am only disappointed in how far we seem to be trailing. At our current rate we may fall behind even the Chinese. That would be a sore blow for our national industry. From first in space to the last to the moon.” He gave a bitter laugh. “Still, as long as the Americans are not placing weapons in space as well as men, I think we can manage. What's next?”

The chief of staff, Alexander Stepanov, checked his agenda and said, “the new legislative session. Particular issues to come to vote: the union budget, legislation on interstate trade barriers, product labels and languages, and the upcoming special hearing on the Ukraine.”

Kuznetsov sighed and nodded. Soon, the economic ministers, national leaders, and governmental councilmembers were already in full discussion. He rubbed his temples and checked his watch. Not yet noon. Today would be a long day, it seemed.

Rossiyskaya Gazeta

US Military Launches Strikes in Afghanistan; Eurasian Security Council issues mixed statement

In the aftermath of the sudden and shocking return to Afghanistan for the United States military in the form of airstrikes that were immediately condemned by the Taliban as a breech of the signed agreement and a violation of their national sovereignty.

The move also seemed to have caught Eurasian intelligence agencies by surprise as well. The Eurasian Security Council did not immediately respond to the airstrikes, but after two days they finally released a statement stating,

“The attacks highlight the growing instability of the region and the continued attempts of the United States to quell the instability from the other side of the world. Their efforts are positive as they are aimed at the destruction of terrorist cells that are rebuilding in the country. However, they also pose a serious risk of further inflaming the tensions of the region and creating more instability. It is the neighboring nations that take on the risk and weight of dealing with such tasks, tasks that the United States being so far away does not have to concern itself with. Their actions in the middle east have already resulted in large scale migrations and locked civil wars. We do not want the same for Central Asia...”

Union Parliament begins legislative session, beginning with the council’s spending proposal

The Union Parliament opened session on monday, with a stated focus of beginning to tackle the large budget proposal handed to them from the ESC. The leader of the opposition coalition “For a Greater Eurasia”, Alexei Naryashin, immediately took to the stand to criticize what he called the “overinflated budget proposal.”

“This proposal will major increases to the totals required from national governments, with will lead to higher taxes and lower growth. All of this to pay for grand reforms to military, economic, and society. The interstate transfer funds are already stretched to the limits and we cannot risk further problems by rapid spending.”

This view, however, appeared to be the minority view. The budget proposal does see large increases in spending, primarily aimed at three sectors: improving infrastructure, continuing with the military reform process, and investing in educational institutions. These are divided into three pools, one for each nation, with the largest total going to Russia, but the largest per capita being Belarus. The budget also includes funding for the stated purpose of completing a “high speed rail line from Minsk to Astana, via Moscow.”

The military reforms continue the tradition of expanding the professional force of the Eurasian Union through the introduction of the first full combined arms and combined nations units and training centers, as well as investing in the military industries of Belarus and Kazakhstan. Also included in this is nearly 6 billion rubles towards the Eurasian Space Program, which currently aims at creating a lunar research station fully staffed with robots and drones.

The proposal is set to be voted on as early as next week. As the proposal would require increasing the total fund, it would require the signature of all three national heads of state and to be ratified by all three national assemblies...

Iraqi Armed Forces Launch Attack on Rebel-held Idlib, Upsetting UES-USA Treaty

The Iraqi Armed Forces launched a sudden and significant missile strike on positions held by the Syrian Opposition in what appears to be a coordinated attack with the Syrian government. The attack, however, was not carried out with the blessing of Russia, says Russian defense minister, Andrei Ravkov.

“No, these attacks were not carried out with Eurasian knowledge or consent. The attacks were levied at radical islamist sects, however, that is not sufficient for threatening the stability of the ongoing ceasefire. This will likely lead to a end of the ceasefire and a restoration of hostilities.” When asked if he thought if the war would require more Russian troops to ensure the stability of the Syrian government, Ravkov was noncommittal.

“At this time we are not prepared to send more soldiers into the fray. We are going to work with our regional partners to find a solution to the crisis, one that will benefit the Syrian people and provide them a long term future in their own country. If that requires more troops and more fighting, then so be it. However, we hope that it will be possible to find a more peaceful solution...”

by **Malorossi** » Mon Dec 16, 2024 5:30 am

NORDWEST NEWS
NORDLAN OIL UNDER RUSSIA'S NOSE

Joint Arctic geological exploration by Denmark (Greenland Expeditionary Corps) and Norway (Arctic Spitsbergen Brigade) commissioned by the Nordland State Oil Concern has resulted in the discovery of large oil reserves in the "Norwegian Arctic zone" near the "Russian Arctic zone". According to the statement of the director of the Nordland State Oil Concern, Bjorn Haltenberg: "These oil reserves will postpone the problems with the exhaustion of our own fields in Greenland and Sweden from 2030 to 2040 at least. Of course, we will not stop there, and will continue to search for new fields." After this statement, Greenpeace activists seized an oil tanker in the Baltic Sea, hanging a banner reading "They are ruining the Arctic." However, the Special Rapid Response Group for Combating Organized Maritime Crime was able to detain them an hour after the action and send them to "pre-trial detention centers," where the activists were to be tried for "illegal seizure of a commercial vessel" and "pirate actions in the Baltic Sea."

However, after a conversation between Mohammed Abu Hatab, the leader of the Green Party, and Hakkon Christian, the head of the coordination committee, the Greenpeace activists were released without trial. Hakkon himself made a statement that he would "urgently convene a coordination council" (p.s., a state council). Well-known analyst Jozans Gjarvund suggested that someone could be behind the Greenpeace movement, which worried Hakkon, and in order to avoid a diplomatic scandal, he decided to work out a diplomatic response behind closed doors. Jorge Flecher, the leader of the Labor Party, confirmed the information, stating: "Hakkon lacks the will to understand that there is no need for "softness" with the West, they only understand the toughest answers, with the most decisive actions, and no matter how many coordination councils he holds, the West will not stop this, he will still try to make Norland an obedient puppet." However, according to economic analyst Ryge Hanson: "The topic of the detention of Greenpeace activists is too small to convene a coordinating council. Most likely, it is somehow connected with the discovery of a deposit that Eurasia can lay claim to, although these lands are outside its official influence."

Hakkon himself responded to our editorial board: "Greenpeace activists are simply fighters for environmental rights, our valiant fighters against maritime crime simply misunderstood them, and the meeting of the coordinating council is in no way connected with their persons. We also have no information about the Eurasian aggression being prepared in the Arctic against Norland, most likely this is a fairy tale. We periodically gather the coordinating council after events of international scale, such as the escalation of the conflict in Syria, the destruction of Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan and the recent discovery of a new deposit. In addition, I want to discuss with my colleagues first of all the meeting of world leaders at the forum "clean Arctic", to jointly work out our diplomatic line at this forum."

Nevertheless, many analysts agree that for Hakkon, as an opponent of Norland's neutrality, the event with the discovery of an oil field near the borders with Russia could give another argument in favor of creating a unified army of Norland, especially after the widely discussed news about "plans to strengthen the army of Eurasia", which flashed in the official Russian press.

#NorwegianArctic #NordlandOilStateConcern #ArcticPolitics

07:00 pm - 27/01/25

HaakonChristian

We are concerned about the sudden escalation of violence in Syria and condemn the Iraqi government for violating international agreements. However, we are convinced that urgent measures must be taken to de-escadate. We also believe that the failure to finally reach a compromise on the creation of a coalition government in Syria, thereby ending the Cold Civil War, is to blame..
#CivilWarInSyria #Geopoliticia

08:08 pm - 27/01/25

by **Chewion** » Tue Dec 17, 2024 10:49 pm

Chapter 2: The Eagle Returns

January 27th, 2025
Oval Office
The White House
Washington D.C.

8:00 AM EST

President Carter leaned back in his chair, looking out the window as Secretary of State Harrington and NSA Reynolds entered into the Oval.

On his desk, the phone line turned green as Reynolds said, “Sir, the Situation Room has established a secure line to the Kremlin. President Kuznetsov is on the other end. We imagine he’s going to push you on our Afghanistan strikes.”

Turning around, Carter nodded and smiled before saying a quick prayer aloud, something he was known to do frequently.

Then, taking a breath, POTUS smiled before hitting a button on the phone and saying, “Как поживаете, сэр? Я рад, что наконец могу поговорить с вами как президент.” (*How are you, sir? I’m glad I can finally speak to you as President.*)

“хорошо, спасибо. Поздравляю с инаугурацией, господин президент." (*Good, thank you. Congratulations on your inauguration, Mr. President*), replied Kuznetsov, smiling as he heard the passable accent with just a hint of a Texan twang. “How has the first few days been? It sounds like from here as though it’s been quite busy.”

“Well, an old operator like me can’t sit still for too long. Get all antsy, ya know,” Carter replied with a chuckle.

“I see. Well, I wish you better luck in Afghanistan this time. I would also hope in the case of any major military operations in the region, that we would be informed first?”

“I have no desire to reopen Afghanistan at this time. What we did was remove a bunch of jihadis that the Taliban seemed unwilling or unable to do per our agreement with them. It’s my hope that they’ll start taking their commitments more seriously going forward. But, if we do decide on anything major, you’ll be on the top of my call list,” Carter replied.

“I’m very glad to hear it,” Kuznetsov said, leaning back, feeling more relaxed as the conversation flowed. “It is a very difficult region to understand. But enough of that. I am sure there are more important matters on your mind?”

“Indeed, comrade. Namely Syria and what the Iraqis are up to. Their actions are threatening to end our very, very delicate little ceasefire there. I assume they didn’t go to you first before their recent attack?” Carter asked.

“They certainly did not consult with us. We were as surprised by the decision from the Iraqi government as you were. I agree that the situation is currently untenable, and the situation in Syria has changed dramatically over the past months. A long-term plan for the people of Syria is necessary for the whole region.”

“I agree. However, I fear that the Iraqi actions might rekindle things faster than we can act. We hold little sway with Baghdad, but perhaps you could lean on them to refrain from future actions,” Carter replied.

"I believe it is more important that the two powers holding the fate of a nation in their hands should agree on the nation's future than squabbling over the intervention of a neighbor who has long suffered from the failures of Moscow and Washington to see eye to eye. The Turkish invasion of northern Syria did far more damage to the status quo than a few outdated missiles launched from Baghdad.”

“Yeah, I’m not exactly a proponent of the Turkish actions. Perhaps we can apply mutual pressure on Ankara? They have a history of playing us off of each other to get what they want, but if we both stand firm, then that severely limits their ability to do that,” Carter replied.

"I would welcome it," Kuznetsov said. "But I still believe that a stronger solution must be investigated internally for the people of Syria. We cannot simply let the winds of time affect their future, or they will end up a second Libya or Sudan."

“What did you have in mind?” Carter replied.

"I believe the current dysfunction within the Opposition is a serious issue towards unification. Even if the rebels win, there's no guarantee of peace. If anything, it is only a commitment towards more violence until the strongest faction wins. What I'm afraid of is that one of the radical sects would gain power. I believe that is an outcome we would both wish to avoid. If these factions could be neutralized and removed from the political process, I believe that talks towards a transitional unified government could proceed much smoother. What do you think?"

“So take out the jihadis and leave the true democrats?” Carter replied.

"Something like that," Kuznetsov chuckled. "At the very least, moderates."

“And what of Assad?” Carter replied.

"He would be involved in any future transitional government."

“In what capacity? We’re talking about a dictator that has murdered hundreds of thousands of his own people. The Syrian people are incredibly unlikely to ever unite under him,” Carter replied.

"They are equally unlikely to unite under rebels," Kuznetsov pointed out. "Even the rebels can't unite under rebels. And let's not forget about the issue with the minority people groups of the region. Whose side have they chosen? The Kurds, the Christians, the Shia? They have almost all joined arms to fight for the government and against the radical spread of fanaticism within the Syrian Opposition. I don't see their rule as any step in the right direction. Not when Orthodox brothers and sisters will be massacred by rebels once they seize power."

“I’m not saying we give the keys to the fanatical part of the rebels. What I’m saying is Assad is equally as much of a no-go. Let him retire to Sochi for all I care, but he cannot remain the leader of Syria. He’s not even a really effective pawn for y’all. Surely you’ve got someone more capable,” Carter replied.

"We are not so willing to abandon our partners and allies. Nor are we swayed by the liberal media that comes from the West. The internal affairs of state are not our concern. Only the security of Syria from foreign powers that seek to overthrow the regime and replace it will anarchy."

“Anatoly, this isn’t a news interview. Let’s start our relationship off right and be straight with each other. No talking points, please. We both have the same intelligence out of his prisons; you probably have even more than I do. You know the abject horrors going on. There is no way that we can agree to allow a unified government under his leadership nor would the Kurds or honest rebels agree to such a thing. I am offering to protect your interests in a future Syria, as long as the rights and freedoms of Syrians are respected and they don’t face mass murder. I am a Christian as well. The last thing I want is to see murderous crazies in power that will harm our fellow believers or any person, but you cannot stand here and tell me that Assad is an innocent person that does no harm,” Carter replied, slightly irate with a thicker Southeast Texas accent coming out.

"I would like to point out, Mr. Carter, that the Kurds have already aligned themselves with the government, and we have formed a simple yet effective treaty that ensures the Kurdish control over their own territory and the right to autonomous rule. Now take the Rebels, who have invaded their territory and killed thousands of Kurds in an ethnic cleansing campaign and relocated hundreds of thousands of ethnic Arabs to historically Kurdish territory."

He paused for a moment, feeling the heat rising in the room. He pulled his necktie out, feeling a burst of cool air down his neck.

"I am not going to say that Mr. Assad is a saint. But unless you find the Blessed Mother among the rebels, I don't think you will find any saints anywhere. I am not saying that Assad will rule forever. However, to believe that the ruling government will accept rebel rule when they can't even decide who their own ruler is, well, that will be a hard sell for me to make to Damascus. I am unwilling to betray an ally and leave them to die, and I am unwilling to backstab a friend. I am sure you understand. There must be a transitional government that can work towards a single, certified election process that will select their own rulers. If Assad is elected, I pray the US will stand down. If a rebel is elected, I promise we will stand down. However, I believe that the agreement with the Kurds must stand. They must remain an autonomous region and cannot fall to the rule of radicals."

“We exercise very little influence with the rebels, nor am I fond of most of them,” Carter replied, sitting back in his chair.

“A future election must be monitored equally by Eurasia, America, and a neutral power like the Swiss and certified by all three as free and fair. We also want to ensure that the IRGC and Hezbollah are not allowed to operate in Syria.”

“And Iraq needs to stop its provocative actions if we are to get the rebels to agree.”

"I can speak with the Iraqi government," said Kuznetsov. "Any future agreements about Hezbollah and IRGC would be made with the newly elected government. We would have no sway with them. The US is welcome to commit whatever resources they want to ensuring their own goals."

“If Assad wins, then you would,” Carter replied.

“Syria must not be used by Hezbollah, Iran, or other terror groups. Let it become a Switzerland of the region in that regard. If you agree to this, I will agree to support your continued base presence on the coast no matter the eventual government.”

Kuznetsov nodded from behind the phone. "I can see what we can do to ensure Hezbollah does not establish a presence in the country. Iran is our strategic partner in the region. We don't consider them terrorists. I can speak with them, but I can make no promises."

“A strategic partner that, at best, uses Syria as a highway to supply terror groups aimed at Israel and others. You have the leverage over them, my friend. If they resume a presence, then all of this will be for nothing,” Carter replied.

"As long as Israel exists under the protection of the United States and does not answer to its own crimes, I see no reason to hold Iran responsible for theirs. The recent actions from your government will make any efforts to force Iran to back down difficult."

“Well, sorry we couldn’t come to an agreement, Mr. President. At any rate, it was a pleasure speaking to you, and I look forward to our future communications. Perhaps in person before long,” Carter replied, writing a note and passing it to his staff.

Kuznetsov blinked, rather surprised at the hardball play from Carter. "Very well, Mr. President. I hope our future conversations are more positive. I wish you the best of luck in your first 100 days. I understand that is a vital period in the makings of a modern president."

“Thank you. That’s what they tell me,” Carter replied with a chuckle.

“Anyways, regardless of our lack of an overall deal, I do hope you can still talk to Baghdad. No reason our existing deal needs to be broken up.”

"Certainly. I hope that we can circle back to these discussions at a future date. In the end, it will come down to us setting the path for peace in Syria."

“Indeed. Well, before we conclude, allow me to formally invite you to meet with me at your earliest convenience. Perhaps I can host you for a more relaxed working visit in the next few weeks or months at my ranch back in Texas,” Carter replied.

Kuznetsov smiled. "That can be arranged. I look forward to visiting your country."

“Look forward to hosting you. You have a good rest of your day now,” Carter replied before hanging up.

The note sat across from him, having been read by his staff.

In black ink, seven words were written: DoD Plans For Syria/Iraq Military Action

Baghdad
January 27th, 2024

Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Halbousi was considered a moderate in Iraqi politics. While he was a Sunni, the Progress and Unity Party he led was vigorously non-sectarian. His diplomatic approach was considered similarly moderate although most of his political opponents criticized him as being too pro-Western. It was in the context of something that nearly all of Iraqi politics agreed on - the war in Syria - that the newly inaugurated American president, the leader of the western world, scheduled a call with Al-Halbousi. The call went through a range of security layers before the landline on Al-Halbousi’s desk rang at exactly the designated time. An interpreter would also be on the line who could translate between the leaders.

After only one ring the Prime Minister picked up the phone and put it to his ear. He began the conversation as diplomatically as he could.
“Greetings to you, President Carter, and congratulations on your new office.”

The interpreter repeated his words in English a moment later to the President.

Sitting almost a world away in the Oval Office, President Carter smiled and said a quick silent prayer before replying in Arabic,
“Mr. Prime Minister, it honors me to speak with you. Thank you for setting aside time on short notice. And thank you for your kind words. If you feel more comfortable, we can speak in your native language. One of the useful things I learned in the army is the Arabic language.”

Al-Halbousi was briefly taken aback by the American President’s Iraqi-accented Arabic. If he didn’t know Carter was an American, he might have missed the subtle non-native inflections to his speech.
“The gesture is appreciated, Mister President. You speak our language very well.”

“Thank you, Prime Minister. My first deployment before I joined the Green Berets was with the 101st Airborne Division in your country from 2005 to 2006, so my first real exposure to Arabic was the Iraqi dialect. Did you serve at all? And please, call me Ryan,” the American replied, taking a sip of water.

At the mention of the war, Al-Halbousi’s expression soured slightly, although Carter would not be able to tell through the phone and the Prime Minister’s measured tone.
“I wish that exposure had been under better circumstances. I do enjoy your frankness, Ryan. If you think it right, you can call me by my middle name, Rikan. My first name, Mohammed, is a good one but it is very common.”

He paused for a moment before continuing.
“I am not a military man, and my background is in business. My understanding of military matters is sufficient for my position, however.”

“Well, Rikan, your profession at least was one of building. I’m proud of my service, but I would be happy to never have to go through some of those things again. War is terrible. Sometimes necessary, but always terrible. Now, let me not keep you any longer with small talk. I wanted to call you primarily over Syria. Let me start by saying I understand why you ordered the strike, but I’m worried, and I believe others such as Moscow are worried, that we risk reigniting the war. What I’d prefer is to bring Iraq into the framework of our existing deal. Ensure that your security concerns are respected,” Carter replied, leaning back in his chair.

Al-Halbousi briefly wondered if the President meant that the second Gulf War was necessary or that war in general was sometimes necessary. He decided not to ask.
“The strike is part of our campaign against terrorism in the region—a common enemy to both of our peoples. My personal position is identical to the position that my government has had since the start of the civil war in Syria—we view the Al Qaeda offshoot-dominated rebels as a destabilizing and dangerous force. To us, there is no ceasefire or peace with these groups that is possible, especially as foreign weapons and aid from other states, including NATO members, flow to them. Iraq cannot sign an agreement that allows a bastion of terror to exist next to it.”

“We don’t actively support them. In fact, I share your concerns about factions within the rebels, but the fact remains that more people will die if this war reignites. I still believe a diplomatic solution can exist here, but it requires a gentler hand. We can work toward a united Syria that pushes out the, for lack of better words, crazies while still respecting the legitimate concerns that many Syrians have regarding the current regime in Damascus. That’s what I seek. Not some futile nation-building campaign directed from Washington, but working with the region to find a long-term solution that actually makes the lives of Syrians and citizens of the region better and more stable,” Carter replied.

The Prime Minister took a moment to compose his response.
“It is not… It is appreciated and well understood that your approach significantly differs from the typical American approach to Middle Eastern affairs, as your predecessor Mister Trump’s did. But it is not the case that this means Iraq can compromise on its core security interests. We have seen firsthand the ‘crazies’ work in our country, and in Syria, whatever legitimate movements the people may have had to form to oppose the government have been hijacked by groups both of our countries consider to be terrorist organizations. I am open to any agreement which respects the core interest that both of our countries share in fighting terrorism. I consider a starting point for any agreement to be an end to foreign support for terrorist organizations in Syria, including from NATO states and American allies such as Turkey. Only then can I consider an end to our campaign of air and missile strikes aimed at limiting the growth of the combat capabilities of terrorist organizations in Syria.”

“I will speak to Ankara. But I need you to please at least put in place a pause. The Turks are not always very cooperative, if you couldn’t tell,” Carter laughed slightly before continuing.
“Give me some time to build a relationship and work on Ankara. In the meantime, I will personally promise that any entity inside Syria posing a direct threat to your nation will be dealt with by the United States.”

Carter’s counterpart responded quickly. He had made similar points to the President’s predecessor.
“It would be difficult for me to make such a pause without concrete promises from the United States that specific action will be taken. I cannot make it an indefinite pause either. What I can provide is a cessation of air and missile strikes for perhaps a month while an agreement is produced between the United States, Turkey, and other relevant states that would end support for the Syrian rebel movement. Furthermore, I must emphasize that Iraq considers any group professing Salafist ideology to be a core threat to its security interests in Syria—which is all of the powerful rebel groups in Syria as well as ISIL.”

“Two months, please. I need to build a personal relationship from scratch with Ankara. You have my word that we will take out any direct threat to Iraq in this time, and I will publicly announce this if needed,” Carter replied.

Al-Halbousi grimaced.
“The deal will have to be made public if it takes that long. If it fails and aid to the rebels does not end, I will be discredited, and my pro-Iranian or leftist opponents that would consider any future agreements like this a non-starter will gain significantly.”

“I will send out a public statement today about it. Again, as you, I have no desire to see Islamists in power,” Carter replied before saying,
“To that end, I would love the opportunity to visit you in person there in Baghdad. What more powerful of an image than the American President standing alongside the Iraqi Prime Minister in Baghdad as equals.”

There was another pause on Al-Halbousi’s side of the line.
“I can guarantee you a safe security environment in Iraq. I would alert you though that we will have to be very careful in the way this meeting is represented to the media in Iraq. I would also hope that during this meeting after the security concerns are out of the way we can bring up a number of trade policies my government would like to agree with your government on.”

“Oh, I imagine I have a few people not part of my fan club there. But let’s just hope there’s less bullets flying in my direction compared to my first time in Iraq,” Carter replied, giving a slight chuckle and trying to lighten the mood.
“I’d also like to invite you to visit me at my ranch in Texas, at your earliest convenience. Even if it’s before this Baghdad trip. Just let my office know your availability and we’ll get it set up. Now, was there anything else you wished to discuss?”

“Our offices will work out the details,” Al-Halbousi replied, ignoring the remark about the post-2003 American occupation.
“I have no urgent concerns to raise with you at this time. I would suggest that our governments release a joint statement on your visit to Baghdad when the details are arranged but keep the precise date secret until shortly before the meeting for security purposes. I would also be happy to accept your invitation to Texas, Ryan.”

“That sounds good. Speaking of a joint statement, what if we put out one on the ceasefire as well? That way it shows cooperation and collaboration and doesn’t come across as me dictating to you by a unilateral statement. I can have the State Department work with your Foreign Ministry to try and get something together in the next few hours?” Carter replied.

The Prime Minister nodded, another gesture the American could not see.
“We are in agreement. The statement regarding the visit and ceasefire will be produced soon and arrangements for the meetings can be made for mid-February. It was a pleasure to speak with you and I look forward to productive Iraqi relations with the United States.”

Joint Statement by the Republic of Iraq and the United States of America

Date: January 28th, 2024
Subject: Ceasefire in Syria and Path Toward Regional Stability

The Governments of the Republic of Iraq and the United States of America reaffirm their commitment to regional stability, the protection of civilian lives, and the pursuit of a lasting resolution to the ongoing conflict in Syria.

Following productive discussions between Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Halbousi and President Ryan Carter, both nations have agreed on the following measures:

1. Ceasefire Commitment:
The Republic of Iraq will enact an immediate two-month suspension of all military operations targeting Syrian rebel-held areas, effective January 30, 2024. This measure reflects Iraq’s commitment to protecting civilian lives while ensuring that its national security interests are preserved.

2. Security Guarantee:
The United States of America will enhance its diplomatic and military efforts to prevent any direct threats to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Iraq originating from Syrian territory. This includes strengthened intelligence sharing, monitoring of hostile actors, and active engagement with international partners to de-escalate tensions in the region.

3. Path Toward Regional Cooperation:
Both nations will work in close coordination with regional powers to facilitate a comprehensive and collaborative regional agreement on Syria. This effort will prioritize:

A political solution to the Syrian conflict.
The safe return of refugees.
Reconstruction efforts and humanitarian aid for affected areas.
Counterterrorism measures that respect sovereignty and international law.

Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Halbousi emphasized:
“Iraq is committed to continuing the fight against terrorism while ensuring the stability of the region and safety of civilians. We make this agreement in the interest of pursuing a long-term agreement for stability in Syria and establishing a new framework for Iraqi-American cooperation in counter-terrorism and security policy. I look forward to welcoming President Carter to Baghdad in the coming weeks to discuss security and other issues that concern the peoples of Iraq and the United States.”

President Ryan Carter stated:
“The United States welcomes Iraq’s willingness to pause military operations in Syria and will do its part to address the legitimate security concerns of our Iraqi allies. Together, we aim to create a framework that balances security with the urgent need for relief and peace in the region. I also look forward to visiting Baghdad soon as a guest of the Iraqi government to deepen our cooperation and discuss the next steps in our shared efforts.”

The Republic of Iraq and the United States call on all relevant actors, regional powers, and the international community to join in this effort to build lasting peace and stability in Syria.

Signed,
Mohammed Al-Halbousi
Prime Minister of the Republic of Iraq

Ryan Eugene Carter
President of the United States

The Patriot Ledger
Carter’s Ceasefire: A Strategic Bet for Middle East Stability
By William Tate

January 29, 2024

President Ryan Carter’s first major foreign policy decision has garnered attention across the political spectrum. Following negotiations with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Al-Halbousi, the President announced a two-month ceasefire agreement aimed at reducing violence in Syria and addressing Iraq’s security concerns.

The agreement suspends Iraqi air and missile strikes on Syrian rebel-held areas while committing the United States to take direct action against any threats to Iraq’s sovereignty emerging from Syria. Carter has also pledged to work with regional powers to address the root causes of the Syrian conflict, including the flow of foreign support to extremist factions.

A Calculated Move

While some may view the ceasefire as a risky concession, many conservatives are rallying behind Carter’s approach, highlighting its strategic merits. Representative James McAllister (R-GA), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, said, “This isn’t weakness—it’s leadership. President Carter is taking a pragmatic approach that protects Iraq while giving us an opportunity to pursue a broader, long-term solution in Syria.”

Carter’s emphasis on respecting Iraq’s sovereignty and addressing its security concerns has also earned praise. Senator William Clayton (R-TX) remarked, “This agreement reflects the kind of partnership that strengthens our alliances in the region. Iraq is a vital ally in the fight against terrorism, and we need to ensure they have the support they need to stay secure.”

Critics, however, have raised concerns about the risks associated with pausing military operations. Some worry that extremist factions within Syria’s fractured rebellion could use the ceasefire to regroup.

The Bigger Picture

President Carter’s decision also underscores his commitment to redefining U.S. engagement in the Middle East. Unlike previous administrations, Carter has emphasized a collaborative approach, avoiding unilateral military actions while working to build trust with regional partners.

The President has announced plans to visit Baghdad in February to further discuss security and economic cooperation with the Iraqi government. Conservative analysts see the visit as an opportunity to solidify U.S.-Iraqi relations and advance broader regional goals.

“This trip is about more than symbolism,” said Dr. Charles Monroe, a former advisor to the State Department. “It’s a chance for Carter to demonstrate that he’s serious about working with Iraq to stabilize the region while protecting American interests.”

A Unified Conservative Front

While some in the GOP remain cautious, the majority of conservative lawmakers appear to back the President. Representative Susan Drake (R-NE) summed up the sentiment well: “President Carter has earned the benefit of the doubt. He’s shown that he values American security and understands the importance of our partnerships in the Middle East. Let’s give this strategy a chance to succeed.”

As President Carter navigates the complexities of Middle Eastern diplomacy, his ability to balance assertiveness with collaboration will define his foreign policy legacy. For now, many conservatives are standing firmly behind his efforts, recognizing the potential for a more stable and secure region.

Headlines from Across the Nation

Neutral/Objective

“Ceasefire in Syria: President Carter and Iraq Announce Joint Plan for Stability”
By Martin Jennings, Washington Sentinel
President Carter’s first major foreign policy decision aims to de-escalate violence and create a framework for peace in the war-torn region.
“Baghdad and Washington Partner for Peace: Two-Month Ceasefire Announced”
By Samantha Keller, National Dispatch
A rare moment of agreement as Iraq and the United States commit to reducing violence in Syria and addressing regional security concerns.
“Carter to Visit Baghdad Amid Ceasefire Deal”
By Richard Logan, Capitol Gazette
The President’s planned trip marks a pivotal moment in U.S.-Iraqi relations as the two nations pursue a broader solution to the Syrian conflict.

Liberal-Leaning

“Diplomacy Over Division: Carter Brokers Ceasefire in Syrian Conflict”
By Laura Prescott, The Progressive Times
The youngest president in modern history takes a bold step toward peace in one of the world’s most volatile regions.
“Carter’s Middle East Reset: A New Vision for U.S. Leadership”
By Dr. Clara Martinez, The Liberty Voice
Moving away from interventionism, the President champions diplomacy and collaboration to end years of bloodshed.
“Hope for Syria? Carter’s Ceasefire Deal Offers Glimmer of Peace”
By Jonathan Silver, The New York Gazette
Human rights advocates cautiously optimistic as the U.S. and Iraq work together to reduce violence and protect civilian lives.

Conservative-Leaning

“Carter Secures Ceasefire with Iraq: Strengthening a Key Alliance”
By William Tate, The American Standard
The President’s focus on regional partnerships reaffirms America’s commitment to Iraq’s security and stability.
“A Pragmatic Path Forward: Carter’s Ceasefire Balances Diplomacy with Security”
By Evelyn Langston, Heartland Chronicle
Conservatives praise the President’s measured approach to de-escalating violence while protecting U.S. interests.
“Carter’s Bold Bet in the Middle East”
By Michael Parrish, The Jefferson Times
Two months to make progress in Syria: Can the ceasefire succeed where others have failed?

Sensational/Tabloid Style

“Two Months to Save Syria: Carter and Iraq’s Ceasefire Gamble”
By Jenna Harding, Global Watch Weekly
The clock is ticking as the world watches a fragile deal take shape in the Middle East.
“Baghdad Bound: President Carter to Meet Iraqi PM Amid Ceasefire Push”
By Adam Fowler, The Daily Globe
In a high-stakes move, the President sets his sights on rebuilding trust with a key ally.
“Peace or Peril? Carter’s First Foreign Policy Test”
By Emma Blake, The Nation Observer
The newly inaugurated President’s gamble on a ceasefire deal could make or break U.S. influence in the region.

White House Meeting: Debrief and Strategy After Ceasefire Announcement

Location: Roosevelt Room, White House
Date: January 28, 2024
Time: 4:15 PM EST

President Ryan Carter chaired a high-level meeting to assess the ceasefire agreement with Iraq and plan the administration’s next moves in Syria and the broader Middle East. Present were key members of the national security and foreign policy team.

Participants:

President Ryan Carter
Jonathan Reed, Chief of Staff
General David Reynolds, National Security Advisor
Ambassador William Harrington, Secretary of State
Michael Townsend, Secretary of the Treasury
Emma Price, Press Secretary
General Mark Whitfield, Secretary of Defense

The meeting began with Jonathan Reed setting the tone for the discussion.

Jonathan Reed (Chief of Staff):
"Alright, folks, the joint statement is out, and reactions are already coming in from both Baghdad and D.C. So far, the press is cautiously optimistic, but this is just the beginning. General Reynolds, let’s start with you. What’s the immediate security picture?"

General David Reynolds (National Security Advisor):
"Mr. President, Iraq has initiated internal orders to suspend air and missile operations in Syria starting tomorrow. However, we’ve picked up chatter from extremist groups in Syria claiming this as a ‘victory.’ It’s expected, but it could embolden them in the short term. CENTCOM is increasing surveillance in the region to monitor for any threats. If anything crosses the line, we’re ready to respond decisively."

Ambassador William Harrington (Secretary of State):
"Diplomatically, this agreement is a win in the short term. Baghdad sees it as a step toward deeper cooperation, and it gives us leverage with Ankara and Moscow. That said, Turkey is going to be the harder sell here. They’ve invested heavily in supporting rebel factions, and President Erdogan will not walk back that support without significant incentives. Two months is a tight window to work with."

Michael Townsend (Secretary of the Treasury):
"From an economic angle, Mr. President, Iraq is likely to press hard for trade concessions during your visit. Their infrastructure needs are massive, and Al-Halbousi’s government is looking for any economic wins to stabilize his domestic situation. We could consider targeted investments or development aid tied to specific outcomes."

Emma Price (Press Secretary):
"The media reaction here has been mixed. Progressive outlets are praising the ceasefire as a diplomatic success, while conservatives are cautiously supportive but skeptical about whether this will stick. In Iraq, Al-Halbousi’s opposition is framing this as a concession to Washington, so we’ll need to tread carefully to avoid weakening his position domestically. Your upcoming visit to Baghdad will be critical to shaping this narrative."

General Mark Whitfield (Secretary of Defense):
"From a military standpoint, sir, we’re in a strong position to enforce the security guarantees we’ve made to Iraq. The challenge will be maintaining readiness without escalating tensions, particularly with Turkey and the rebels. If any group tests the ceasefire, we’ll need to respond quickly and decisively."

President Carter leaned forward, resting his hands on the table, as he addressed the group.

President Carter:
"What leverage do we have over Turkey on this?"

Ambassador William Harrington:
"Mr. President, our leverage with Turkey is limited but not nonexistent. Their economy is reliant on Western trade, particularly with the European Union, and they value NATO’s defense cooperation. If we work through NATO allies, we might apply indirect pressure. On the other hand, Erdogan is fiercely protective of his domestic image and won’t respond well to overt demands. Offering incentives like security guarantees along the Syrian border or facilitating counterterrorism efforts could help."

General David Reynolds:
"To add to that, sir, Ankara knows how important their cooperation is to NATO and regional stability. They’ll likely want assurances regarding Kurdish forces in Syria, which they see as an existential threat. Balancing that with Iraq’s concerns will be the tricky part."

Michael Townsend:
"On the economic front, we could offer selective trade incentives or support for infrastructure projects Turkey needs. That said, Congress will want oversight if this involves significant concessions."

Emma Price:
"Mr. President, Erdogan will likely spin any deal as a win for his government. We’ll need to carefully frame this as a mutual effort for regional stability to avoid alienating Iraq or appearing like we’re favoring Turkey."

General Mark Whitfield:
"Sir, we’ll also need to tread carefully with any requests from Turkey for military aid or intelligence access in Kurdish areas. Those are nonstarters given our commitments to the SDF and broader counterterrorism goals."

Carter took a sip of water before responding, his tone thoughtful but resolute.

President Carter:
"Alrighty then, easy peasy, right y’all?"

The room chuckled lightly at the President’s humor, but the tension remained palpable as he continued.

President Carter:
"Let’s move on this. I want a letter drafted to Erdogan detailing our request and laying the groundwork for a teleconference between him and myself. Keep it firm but cooperative. Also, prep me for this Baghdad visit. I want a clear agenda that addresses their concerns while keeping our priorities front and center. Anything else we need to cover?"

Jonathan Reed:
"Nothing pressing for now, Mr. President. We’ll have the drafts ready for your review by tomorrow morning, and the teleconference request will go out by end of day."

The team nodded, each member making notes as they prepared to execute their tasks. The meeting concluded shortly after, leaving the administration focused on navigating the next critical steps in the Middle East.

Letter to President Erdogan
From: The White House, Washington, D.C.
To: The Presidential Complex, Ankara, Republic of Turkey
Date: January 28, 2024

Dear President Erdogan,

I extend my warm greetings to you and the people of Turkey. As newly inaugurated President of the United States, I look forward to fostering a constructive and cooperative relationship between our nations, rooted in our shared history as allies and partners in NATO.

As you are aware, the United States and the Republic of Iraq have recently agreed to a two-month ceasefire in Syria, effective January 30, 2024. This agreement is an opportunity to reduce violence, protect civilian lives, and create the space needed for meaningful diplomatic engagement in the region.

Turkey has been a key player in addressing the complexities of the Syrian conflict, and your nation’s role in ensuring regional stability is indispensable. To that end, I would like to request your government’s cooperation in pausing support for Syrian rebel factions during this two-month ceasefire period. Such a step would demonstrate Turkey’s leadership and commitment to advancing a sustainable resolution to the conflict while addressing legitimate security concerns.

I understand Turkey’s deep concerns regarding border security and the threats posed by extremist groups in northern Syria. I want to assure you that the United States is committed to working closely with Turkey to address these issues. Specifically, we are prepared to explore measures that strengthen security along Turkey’s southern border, including enhanced intelligence sharing and joint counterterrorism efforts.

To discuss these matters further, I would like to propose a teleconference between us at your earliest convenience. This will provide an opportunity to align our strategies and ensure that our efforts complement each other in achieving our shared goals of peace and stability in the region.

I deeply respect the important role Turkey plays in the Middle East and the broader international community. It is my hope that this ceasefire can serve as a stepping stone toward a more collaborative framework for addressing the challenges we face in Syria and beyond.

I look forward to hearing from you and to the possibility of working together on this critical matter.

Sincerely,
Ryan Eugene Carter
President of the United States of America

by **Orostan** » Wed Dec 18, 2024 8:49 pm

Babel
January 29th, 2025 - Baghdad

Protests in Baghdad after American Presidential Visit Announced

In a departure from the usual domestic political disputes over the agrarian issue, labor politics, or any of the other problems that accost Iraq today protests today in Baghdad accused Prime Minister Al-Halbousi of selling out the country to Americans and betraying the interests of Iraq by inviting American president Ryan Carter to Baghdad. Protestors supporting the National Reform Party and Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party were particularly active and organized. A large number of public intellectuals and civil organizations have criticized Al-Halbousi and demanded he not permit a man who participated in the American aggression against Iraq as a foot soldier to set foot in Iraq again. Members of the National Reform Party protesting in the city of Fallujah held up portraits of Iraqis who died fighting the American occupation forces during the First Battle of Fallujah including those who killed American soldiers belonging to the 101st Airborne division. Outrage is also common among National Alliance supporters and several National Alliance MPs in a public letter have criticized Al-Halbousi for the "badly thought out" move although none have called for his resignation or questioned the National Alliance coalition partnership with the PUP. Smaller demonstrations by the National Alliance have been organized by individual MPs or party branches against the American visit rather than against the Prime Minister in particular.

It is unlikely that the visit will help Al-Halbousi's political situation in the short term. Several members of his party defended his decision to allow the American president to visit Baghdad as a diplomatic necessity and representing a "reset" to American-Iraqi relations. The Progress and Unity Party's media arm has aggressively defended Carter's planned visit to Baghdad as a decisive step towards ending the enmity between Iraq and America and organized counter demonstrations for "peace". It is reported that small riots broke out in Ramadi, Basra, Fallujah, and other hotbeds of the resistance against the occupation that were handled by police. The National Reform Party, Ba'ath Party, Iraqi Communist Party, and a number of MPs belonging to the National Alliance have pledged to back protests on the date of the visit, which has yet to be made public for security reasons. Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr who is highly influential in the National Alliance and commands the loyalty of millions of Iraqi Shia Muslims has instructed his followers to "oppose with all their strength" Carter's visit and cast it as "inviting a devil into our house".

Security Incident in Erbil Kills Two

An attempt by gunmen to break into Erbil Oil Refinery in Kurdistan was foiled this morning at the cost of two critical injuries and one death in the Refinery's security team. Three gunmen were killed by the security team and another two were captured. The remaining two men of the seven man team escaped into the hills. The KDP has not published a statement on the attack even though Iraqi National Police and the Iraqi Military believe that the KDP was responsible for this attempted terrorist attack. It is theorized that the men were attempting to enter the refinery to set fire to it as an attack with a wire guided missile launcher last year did with more success. While KDP related security incidents in Kurdistan have been declining for several years due to military success against Kurdish rebels under the Al-Halbousi administration and the negotiated surrender of a number of Kurdish insurgent groups the KDP is still viewed as an active and dangerous force. The dangerous terrorist Masoud Barzani is at this time believed to be leading the insurgency from a hiding place in Syrian or Iraqi Kurdistan and has published three videos in the past year regarding Iraqi politics and Kurdish affairs. It is overwhelmingly likely that he participated in the organization and planning of this and other attacks in Kurdistan against the Iraqi government, with possible aid from the Syrian Kurdish movement which Prime Minister Al-Halbousi has criticized for its problems working with the legitimate Syrian government of President Assad.

CATIQ

A group of target drones flew low over the desert landscape in a formation resembling that of a typical flight of fighter aircraft, with perhaps a kilometer of distance between the drones. The sound of their jet engines was interrupted by the roar of rocket motors just before what would have been an earsplitting blast if anyone was around to hear it obliterated one of the drones. Two more followed as surface to air missiles exploded near the other drones and two more of the automatic craft fell from the air onto the desert.

The drones kept to their course and began to gain in altitude. If they were manned aircraft a pilot would be able to see the white streaks ascending into the sky from other missile launches. Some were directed at this team of drones and others were directed at another team that was simultaneously simulating an attack from high altitude. As the drones attained an altitude that would have been considered safe and effective for the firing of air to ground missiles another set of missiles destroyed all but two of the drones. Distant flashes in the sky indicated similar effects on the other group of drones. As the drones grew closer to their simulated target at the center of a cluster of missile systems one of the short range Pantsir systems began to open fire. One of them narrowly missed a drone and exploded in the air but two others found their targets and destroyed the remaining drones of the low altitude attack group. The high altitude group soon followed when a pair of S-400 missiles launched by the much larger and more complex systems struck the last drones.

In the control room for the exercise officers congratulated each other for defeating another simulated Israeli attack on an Iraqi nuclear reactor. The next time, they told each other, they'd make it harder with more electronic warfare and three attack groups.

Far away south of Baghdad the real Center for Atomic Technology of Iraq (CATIQ) compound prepared to enter the next stage of its work. The Iraqi government was notoriously secretive with its nuclear program and took great care to conceal the resources and progress of its program. The memory of Operation Opera, Israel's attack on an Iraqi nuclear reactor in 1981, was present in the minds of everyone who worked on it and protected it. Protected by reliable elite troops and a multi-layer air defense system the CATIQ compound was potentially one of the best defended buildings in the world, and a Swedish nuclear engineer Lukas Johnsson would be the newest man to enter it along with an observer named Eugen Bergström also from Nordland the Iraqi government had only reluctantly permitted to accompany him.

His nondescript car was driven up to the gates by an Iraqi driver in civilian clothes who showed his ID to guards with assault rifles and the triangular insignia of the Republican Guard on their helmets. Johnsson and the observer holding up their own cards to the window satisfied the guard, and the car passed through the razor wire lined fences and turned into an empty parking spot.

The driver stopped the car and turned around to his guests. "Welcome to CATIQ, Mister Johnsson and Mister Bergström."

Bergström remained silent. Johnsson however felt obligated to answer his host. "Thank you, Mister Arif."

"Call me Omar." he answered.

The three men exited the car and proceeded towards the building. Arif led the way to the glass double doors at the entrance.

"We at CATIQ look forward to working with you." He said, holding the door open. Johnsson and Bergström stepped through it.

by **Arvenia** » Thu Dec 19, 2024 4:52 pm

El Universal
January 2, 2025

Mexico's War On Drugs Nears Its End
MEXICO - Mexico's War on Drugs is drawing to an end soon as then-President Rodrigo Durtego led a successful crackdown on drugs and cartels throughout his administration. Several cartel leaders have been thrown into prisons and many illegal drugs have been seized by the authorities. Despite such success, which contributed to relative stability in the country, critics have accused Durtego of utilizing both mass surveillance and death squads. He brushed off those accusations as being "manufactured by propagandists at the White House".

Durtego's successor, current President Isabel Alomar, has sworn to finish what he started back in 2018.

Terrorist Attack In Kosovo Leaves Twenty People Dead
YUGOSLAVIA - Yesterday, a series of explosions rocked Pristina, the capital of the Autonomous Republic of Kosovo in Yugoslavia. Several apartment blocs were damaged and twenty people ended up dead, while fifty more were left severly injured. The attack is seen as the latest committed by the Kosovo Liberation Army (UÇK), a terrorist organization dedicated to the liberation of Kosovo from Yugoslav rule and subsequent reunification with Albania. It is widely believed that the UÇK has been funded by the Albanian government, which the latter vehemently denies.

President Isabel Alomar condemned the attack and sent her condolences to the victims and their families. She promised to support Yugoslavia against further terrorist attacks. Her administration has made plans to designate the UÇK as a terrorist organization, while she calls for better ways to deal with the situation in Kosovo.

El Universal
January 20, 2025

Ryan Carter Sworn In As President Of The United States
USA - Ryan Carter, the young Governor of Texas, will be sworn in as the 45th President of the United States today. He will be in charge of a nation long divided by conservatives and liberals. On behalf of the Republican Party (GOP), Carter will be focused on securing America's southern border against illegal immigration, cracking down on crime and drugs, stimulating growth in the private sector and ensuring America's security against rising powers such as China and Eurasia.

President Isabel Alomar has been cautious of sending her congratulations to President Carter, given the ongoing tensions between both countries throughout the rule of former President Rodrigo Durtego. However, Alomar has vowed to minimize tensions and speak to Carter at some point.

El Universal
January 28, 2025

Iraq And The United States Make Joint Statement On Syria
IRAQ/USA - Iraq and the United States of America (USA) have made a joint statement on maintaining regional stability and preventing further loss of civilian lives amidst the ongoing conflict in Syria. Following discussions between President Carter and President Al-Halbousi, a series of measures have been announced. Such measures include an immediate two-month suspension of Iraqi military operations in Syria, strengthened intelligence sharing, monitoring of hostile actors and active engagement with international partners to de-escalate tensions in Syria.

The Alomar administration has so far been both optimistic and cautious about the plan. President Alomar has stated that more would have been done to support regional stability and peace in the Middle East.

by **Shohun** » Thu Dec 19, 2024 7:56 pm

Daily Sabah

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Condemns Iraqi Aggression Again Syria's Idlib, Vows 'Measured Reaction':

Ankara, January 21st - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a blistering statement condemning the Iraqi ballistic missile attack against the Syrian city of Idlib, currently held by opposition forces under the Syrian Salvation Government. The attack, which is reported to have occurred late last night, is said to have caused dozens of civilian casualties after a single ballistic missile targeted central Idlib.

The attack comes after a period of calm following a UES-US brokered ceasefire agreement between opposition forces and the Assad regime, and now risks reigniting the conflict. According to local sources, the Syrian National Army has issued a call for mobilization, as it appears that the short-lived ceasefire will come to an end. A source close to the Unified Military Council, which includes Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, reports that opposition fighters are preparing for a resumption of hostilities, with one SNA commander reportedly telling forces under his command to "prepare to advance on Homs."

Confusion has swirled over the attribution of the strike, as it appears that the Iraqi strike may have been unilateral. Regardless, Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan slammed the Iraqi move as "reckless and dangerous," warning that Türkiye would respond with a "measured reaction."

The Minister told reporters this morning, "The reckless Iraqi attack on Idlib risks upsetting the fragile peace in the region. This attack comes out of Assad's standard playbook - terror bombing against innocent civilians. Türkiye has a responsibility and commitment to uphold the current ceasefire, and as a fellow Muslim country, a responsibility and commitment to the neighboring Syrian people. We do not take this escalation lightly. There are thousands of peacekeeping Turkish troops in the Idlib governorate, and the Turkish border is less than 25 kilometers away from the location of the attack. The Turkish government considers this attack to be a serious matter for our national security, and the Turkish government will respond appropriately."

The Minister went on to highlight the toll of the attack, noting, "I am not a soldier, but I know that a ballistic missile is an unsuitable weapon to attack a densely populated city. We are reviewing reports, but current estimates suggest that over a dozen are dead, dozens more are wounded, and dozens of homes have been destroyed. The West has stood by and turned a blind eye to Assad's brutal warcrimes. Chemical attacks, barrel bombs, and as we are seeing in recent news, horrible prison conditions tantamount to genocide. I do not expect that to change overnight, but this is the West's opportunity to turn a new leaf and stand with the oppressed people of Syria."

When asked about a military response, the Minister was vague, only warning that "multiple scenarios are on the table." According to sources close to the defense establishment, a direct response against Iraq is not off the table, but the National Security Council currently favors other options. "We will be in close cooperation with our partners in Syria and our allies," Fidan told reporters.

National Security Council Expresses Concern Over US Strikes on Afghanistan:

Ankara, January 27th - Just days into his new administration, American President Ryan Carter sent shockwaves through the region with unilateral strikes against Afghanistan, targeting terrorist camps across the Taliban-controlled country. The strikes mark the first significant airstrikes since 2021, after the US withdrew from the region in a dramatic retreat out of Kabul, which soon fell.

The Turkish National Security Council released a statement expressing "deep concern" over the recent strikes, which were carried out without prior notification of NATO allies which had formed the coalition which had first invaded in 2001. While some in the Turkish government have applauded the strikes against terrorist forces in the region, the National Security Council was more wary, expressing hopes that the strikes would not reignite fighting in the region.

President Erdoğan Announces Syria Agreement, Vows to Continue Strikes Against Terror:

Ankara, January 31th - Early this morning President Erdoğan addressed the nation announcing an agreement with the United States to support ceasefire efforts in Syria, following discussions late yesterday with the American President. Hailing the agreement, which "demonstrates the important role Türkiye plays in the region," the president labeled the progress as a "big victory" for Türkiye and the people of Syria. In a press conference, President Erdoğan told reporters that he stood up for the rights of Turkish and Syria citizens, and urged the American President to support the Syrian Opposition.

President Erdoğan warned however that the conflict was not over yet, noting that "difficult days are still ahead," regarding the issue of American-backed PKK and YPG terror groups operating in northern Syria. Despite the ceasefire, President Erdoğan vowed to defend Turkish borders against terrorism, stating that the Turkish Armed Forces would continue to strike PKK, YPG, and ISIL targets throughout the ceasefire.

During his speech, President Erdoğan announced that the Turkish Armed Forces would be deploying one of its SAMP/T air defense batteries into Hatay Province to provide ballistic missile air defense coverage for Idlib, Aleppo, and Turkish border cities. According the the Ministry of National Defense, "numerous batteries" of Hisar O+ and Hisar A+ air defenses will be deployed to protect Turkish troops in Syria. This is widely believed to represent the Turkish vowed response to the Iraqi ballistic missile attack, although sources within the Ministry of National Defense have stated that Türkiye would respond more strongly if threatened again.

President Erdoğan warned Iraq and the Assad regime against further attacks on the Turkish-Syria border, noting, "The Turkish Armed Forces will protect and defend Türkiye and its troops in Syria. If Iraq fires ballistic missiles so close to Türkiye's borders again, we will shoot them down."

The announcement comes just hours after local reports emerged that two "projectiles" were launched from north western Syria into neighboring Iraq, in apparent retaliation for the horrific ballistic missile attack on Idlib, which killed dozens of civilians and wounded many more. While no group has appeared to claim credit, the Turkish Foreign Ministry was quick to distance Türkiye and its Syrian allies from the attack. "The Turkish Government is unaware of any Turkish or allied involvement in the alleged response against Iraqi territory. That being said, we are aware of disinformation efforts currently underway to blame Türkiye and its allies. Should Iraq try to frame Türkiye for this event and attempt to harm Turkish forces or citizens, Türkiye will respond with overwhelming force and invoke Article 5 of NATO."

Presidential Complex
Ankara, Türkiye
January 30, 2025

Co-write with Chewion

President Erdoğan nodded to his aides as he picked up the phone to call the American President. Over the past few days, anger in Syria the Iraqi attack had begun to subside, as it had become clear that an SAA offensive was not imminent - rather the attack had been unilateral. But for Türkiye, it only meant that an opportunity was beginning to slip away, all the while another one was nearly ready.

As an aide gave President Erdoğan the signal, he leaned back into his chair and spoke into the phone, "Hello, Mr. President?"

“Hello, President Erdoğan! It is a pleasure to finally be able to speak with you. How is Ankara today?” Carter asked, leaning back in his chair saying a prayer as the conversation started.

This was going to be a tricky one, he had to figure out how to build a relationship in little time and also make a big ask of his Turkish counterpart.

"Of course," replied President Erdoğan. "I send my best wishes and congratulations to your new administration." He paused turning serious. "But I suppose not all is well in Ankara. We are very concerned by recent developments in Syria, especially in terms of preserving the democratic will of the free Syrian people, and the recent Iraqi escalation."

“Well, I guess great minds think alike because that’s just why I’m calling you. I assume that you received my letter and have seen the announcements with Baghdad?“ Carter replied.

"Ah yes, of course. I was a growing concerned that Türkiye, and more importantly the Syrian people, are being left out of the conversation. My advisors told me that it appeared your administration is making a hard turn towards Iran and Iraq. But they have been wrong before, and I hope this call will clear things up." replied Erdoğan.

“Well, unfortunately I’m only one person and the immediate concern to me seemed to be getting Iraq to stop their inflammatory actions. That was my main goal and, thank the Lord, they were willing to play ball.” Carter replied before adding “Now that the seemingly immediate crisis is settled, I wanted to connect with you to get your thoughts and to see how we could progress towards a peaceful solution in Syria to benefit the whole region. And, might I add, another goal of mine in this is to pull Iraq and Syria out of the clutches of Tehran and its goblin henchmen like Hezbollah.”

"Peace in Syria is a complicated process, but the first step is the complete removal of the tyrant Assad regime. That in itself has been made difficult by the Eurasian Union's support for the regime, but I believe we are on the verge of a breakthrough. If the Assad regime forces are to so completely collapse, and the international community exert enough pressure, I believe the Eurasians will have no choice but to give up on the Assads and pursue dialogue with the rightful opposition." said Erdoğan.

“And the Eurasians and Iraqis would say that notable numbers of the rebels are hard set Islamists that wouldn’t bring peace, but even more persecution and instability. I’d greatly value your perspective on this.” Carter replied.

Erdoğan chuckled. "What the Eurasians, the Iraqis, and I think you too fear is change. That is conservative politics! But let me ask you this, what if in 1776 the French said the same thing? 'The British are bad, but these Americans, they have these radical ideas, they want dramatic change!' Of course, as history will tell you, perhaps King Louis XVI later regretted his decision, but I say, why not give the opposition a chance?"

"I do not know American politics, but there are hardliners in the Republican or Democratic parties too. There are neo-Nazis in the Republican party, and there are communists in the Democrat. They are the ones that talk the loudest, but the majority are all good people. Syria is the same way. There are hardliners, but most of the very hardline Islamists are the ones in ISIL. The opposition, they are regular people who want to be free, to have democracy. Will America be the one to deny them that opportunity?"

“Well, you likely know them better than I do. Are you sure that these rebels are led by people that truly want a peaceful, stable, secular, and democratic Syria that respects off of her people? Because my biggest concern isn’t the average person supporting the rebels, it’s many of the leaders and fighters that come from former or current terror groups.” Carter replied.

"Would the United States recognize a government that didn't support a peaceful, stable, secular, and democratic Syria? Does the United States not recognize the National Coalition of Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces as the sole legitimate representative of Syria? I would say go down to the Syrian Embassy in Washington and ask them yourselves what they want." replied Erdoğan. "Respectfully, I would say that the United States supports the terrorist PKK and YPG in Syria already, so the term 'terrorist' is only a matter of interpretation."

“We’ve designated the PKK a terrorist organization, who we do support are the Kurdish people. Unless your position is that you think every Kurd is a terrorist?” Carter replied, his tone becoming more tense before taking a breath and saying “Mr. President, I respect your nation’s legitimate security concerns and your more direct concern with what happens in Syria. But is continuing this bloody and costly war really the only option you see? Can we not find a diplomatic solution here? A way to ensure free and fair elections decide who is in power and not bullets? A way to safely return the 3.5 million Syrian refugees inside your borders?”

"Mr. President you have the great opportunity to become the Roosevelt of our time. Clearly, you have no apprehension to violence, with your strikes against Afghanistan." Erdoğan paused. "Let me ask you, this matter aside, did you support the pullout? The US is in no position to reinvade. I would say it would have been better for the US to keep a small force in the country, preventing the Taliban and terrorists from regaining power."

"You are telling yourself, 'how does this relate?' Well I ask you, what happened to the America that fought the good fight for democracy, that freed Europe twice from tyranny and prevented the Soviets from dominating the world. I would advise you to not fall into appeasement of Eurasia, Iraq, and Iran. The opposition is winning, and now is not the time to pull the floor on them."

“I don’t agree with many of the decisions our past leaders made. I lost many friends, brothers, in Afghanistan and in Iraq. I bled in both places. I’ve had to kill in both places.” Carter replied, letting the words hang in the air for a moment.

“What I’m proposing is giving the opposition a win while saving more lives. I don’t doubt that they’d win in a free election. And I firmly believe that Eurasia and Iraq can be convinced to allow one. Moscow mainly cares about their coastal bases, if those were protected, I don’t think they truly care who occupies Damascus. For Iraq, they just want a stable neighbor that doesn’t pose a security risk. You, Recep, you could be the Woodrow Wilson of the region. You could be the Atatürk of your generation. A man, I believe, that had a saying of Peace at home, peace in the world.”

Erdoğan frowned at the mention of Wilson, but ignored it as American ignorance. "I am not an unreasonable man. So despite my misgivings with your proposal, I am willing to go along with it. But not for free."

"The security of Türkiye, which I may remind you is a member of NATO, unlike Iraq, Iran, or Eurasia, must not be compromised. Recall, an attack against Türkiye is an attack against all of NATO. Thus it is necessary that Turkish security at the border is guaranteed. My condition for going forward with your proposal is for the pushback of the PKK and YPG, which you call the Syrian Defense Forces, 50 kilometers from the border with Türkiye, and complete freedom of action for the Turkish Armed Forces to act against any targets in PKK controlled territory. Following the implementation of your proposal, I would then like the complete disarmament of the SDF, and for the terrorist leaders to be brought to justice."

“Do you consider all leaders of the SDF to be terrorists or just the PKK leadership?” Carter replied.

"It is well known that the main component of the so-called SDF is primarily made up of YPG units or is affiliated with the PKK. As I have discussed with your predecessor, Abdi, the commander of the 'SDF' is known to be a high-ranking member of the PKK and committed terrorist acts in Şemdinli in the 1990s. It is Türkiye's stance that he and other leaders must be arrested and extradited to Türkiye." said Erdoğan.

“I can agree to your other terms, but the arrest and extradition of Kurdish leadership is a much harder bill for me to sell, and frankly one that’s not fully up to me. What if Turkey agreed to abide by the same two month ceasefire that Iraq has joined in on? That way we can avoid bloodshed but allow us appropriate time for diplomacy to be tried. In the meantime, you’d have my word that any direct threat to Turkey originating from Syria would be met by a response from the United States. The same deal I offered to Baghdad.” Carter replied.

Erdoğan leaned back into his chair. "Ah yes, I did want to talk about the Iraq matter. Mr. President, respectfully, you cannot entice me with something that I already have. Türkiye is a member of NATO. If Türkiye was to be attacked by Syria, Iraq, Eurasia, or any country or non-state actor, the United States and the rest of NATO is obligated to respond according to Article 5. Unless you are threatening me, Mr. President?"

He paused. "I am a man of peace. So keeping that peace is of the utmost importance to me. Sure, I am willing to abide by parts of Iraq's ceasefire, we will not bomb the legitimate Syrian opposition and we will not bomb Assad. But to the extent that you ask us to cease our support for the legitimate Syrian opposition? No. To the extent that we will cease to act against ISIL and other terrorists? No."

"Make me a legitimate offer, Mr. President. If the US was willing to completely cease all support for the 'SDF,' then maybe I would be willing to limit our military support for the Syrian opposition, to a reasonable extent."

He continued, "Of course, we still seek to respond to Iraq's terror bombing. If the US supported us in that effort, that would certainly help us come to an agreement."

“Firstly, Mr. President, I don’t make threats. Threats tend to often be empty.” Carter replied, flatly.

“And, I’d never make an empty threat to an ally for the sake of pushing you to my opinion. What I can offer you is to ensure that the Kurdish region of Syria is not a source of concern to your nation.” Carter replied, in a calmer voice.

“This is not the end all be all deal here, Mr. President. This is just for a temporary ceasefire to work on that larger deal. At that time, we can discuss these larger asks. What do you have to lose from helping to halt the killing for a few months?”

"What does the United States have to lose?" asked Erdoğan. "You do not border Syria. You are not remotely close! You have nothing to worry about. For us to halt our support for the Syrian National Army, or other legitimate groups would mean chaos on the other side of the border. It is an open secret, Mr. President - the Syrian National Army is nearly entirely propped up by Türkiye. What you are asking for is for us to dismantle the entire opposition administration in northern Syria, for there to be no police in northern Syria, for our borders to be unsafe in northern Syria."

"And you offer us nothing in return."

“Mr. President, I believe we’ve had a misunderstanding so I apologize for that. I never said halt support. I said agree to a ceasefire that all sides would be in on while negotiations took place. There’s a difference between holding things where they stand compared to leaving and abandoning everything. The last thing I want is for there to be a power vacuum in Syria.” Carter replied.

“Likewise, during this time, we’d prevent the SDF from making any advances or engaging in any offensive fights.” Carter added

Erdoğan paused, thinking carefully. "It seems I misunderstood. I am willing to extend our influence on our regional allies to standby a ceasefire in Syria. Of course, I am not willing to cease counterterrorist strikes by the Turkish military and Syrian National Army against ISIL, the YPG, and PKK."

“Of course, just as we will continue direct strikes on legitimate terrorist targets. You have to do what’s best for Turkish security.” Carter replied.

“Thank you for giving peace and diplomacy a chance, my friend. Now, was there anything else that you wished to discuss?”

"Actually, yes. While we are willing to guarantee a ceasefire in Syria, I cannot say the same about Iraq. We take their attack very seriously, and I am surprised the US does not feel the same way. I am a man of justice Mr. President. While the West has stood by and even perhaps supported the atrocities of Assad, Türkiye has always stood by the people of Syria." said Erdoğan. "I will not allow the Iraqis to indiscriminately and intentionally bomb innocent civilians, say 'time out!' and forget their crimes. Not to mention, my intelligence suggests that Iraq is conducting potentially dangerous nuclear research. What the Iraqis have done is not only commit a heinous warcrime, but they have also reminded my people that the Iraqi regime is a dangerous one - one which is very capable of attacking Turkish soil with their long ballistic missile reach. My military has prepared direct and non-direct response options, but I would like to offer this instead; if the United States places strict and comphrensive sanctions against the Iraqi missile and nuclear programs, as well as their military, we would be willing tame our response."

“Let me assure you I join in your fears about Iraq. But, let me please ask this of you, hold off on an attack for just a few weeks. Let me do this trip to Baghdad and meet the Iraqi government in person. Let me talk with them directly about this.” Carter replied, thinking of his next words carefully “And if that fails to produce results, the United States will levy sanctions and join in on direct action against them. Our intelligence suggests that Iraq is further behind than Iran so a few weeks pause shouldn’t be a game changer and, importantly, we can use this time to build a firmer case against them if they desire to go the path of Iran and ignore diplomatic means.”

"If they were American citizens, you would bomb first, conduct diplomacy later." retorted Erdoğan. "I am not planning on going after the Iraqi nuclear program today. That is for you and the Israelis. But I would like to send a strong message to the Iraqi regime that Türkiye will not tolerate indiscriminate attacks just miles away from its border, not will it stand for the brutal murder of civilians, in a city far away from the frontline with little military value. There is a new reality in Syria. Assad is weak. The rightful opposition is strong. There will be no more warcrimes in Syria under my watch, and I hope the West can join Türkiye in that goal."

"Your predecessor, President Trump, was a good and strong leader. When Assad deployed chemical weapons against his own people, he reacted quickly and forcefully. He did not say, 'let's talk this out and if Assad promises to not do it again, then we will forget his crimes!' I hope you will consult with him. Our allies in Syria are ready to go. If I give the signal, local forces can respond right now as we are talking. I am asking you, please, assert yourself as the leader of the free world. Do not let this injustice go unpunished. Join us in our response, or if you wish force peace, work with us to push a sanctions regime that will cripple their missile and nuclear capabilities."

“Mr. President, I want to see Assad gone. I want to see Iraq nuclear free. I am willing to use force if necessary, but once I have at least attempted peace. I understand that you need to respond, but at least let it be after my trip. Please. If this doesn’t work, then you have my word, we will show them a forceful action that they’ve not seen before.” Carter replied

"I must insist Mr. President. I know. These days people in the West wait and wait and wait before you respond. But these days, people forget very easily. The meaning is lost if I wait a month, two months before we do anything. 10 days is already a stretch. When Assad bombed my men four or five years ago, I responded in hours! This is Syria of course, but they have a right to defend themselves, and a right to justice."

Erdoğan looked at his aides. He wasn't going to be able to convince the American. He paused. "If you insist, I am willing to wait on Türkiye's response to the Iraqi aggression. Instead, I will be directing the Turkish Armed Forces to provide air defense coverage over north western Syria, and with permission of the legitimate opposition, will direct the Turkish Air Force to deny any Iraqi aggression over opposition territory. Of course, I am not in control of the legitimate opposition, but I will try to pass along the message as well. Hopefully they do not act to rashly, otherwise that would be most regrettable."

He paused again. "But if they were to act, I believe their right to self-defense is inherent and legitimate."

“Please, do what you can. Thank you for this, Recep. I won’t forget it. And please, feel free to call me Ryan.” Carter replied, tension releasing from him slightly and saying a silent prayer of thanks.

“I’d love your thoughts on me visiting you in Ankara either before or after I go to Baghdad, whatever you think more proper. A way to signal to the world that we are still tight allies.”

"I would be pleased to host you in Ankara following your summit in Baghdad, so that you may be able to update me on the status of the talks." said Erdoğan. "That would be an excellent opportunity to show our unity. After all, actions speak louder than words."

“Indeed, but words are still important. To that end, shall we do a joint statement announcing your joining in on the ceasefire?” Carter replied.

"Yes... if the wording is right." said Erdoğan.

“I will direct my staff to work with yours on something appropriate. Now, was there anything else you wished to discuss?” Carter replied

"At the moment, I don't believe so. Thank you for taking my call." said Erdoğan cooly.

“Thank you for making it. You have a good day now.” Carter replied before ending the call.

___

President Erdoğan rubbed his eyes as he got off the phone. It was already getting dark outside the Presidential Complex given the 8 hour time difference between Ankara and Washington DC. He looked up at his Defense Minister, General Yaşar Güler. "The American could not be convinced, but that does not mean we should do nothing." He stood as he began to walk out of his office, Güler and several aides following. "If anything, it means we should do something. Iraq is becoming an emerging threat. Their actions last week made that clear. The US will come on board, we just need to make the Iraqis do something stupid."

He continued walking as General Güler waved for an aide to come forward. "Which attack plan are you suggesting, sir? SNA?"

"Yes, of course. Are they ready to go?" asked Erdoğan.

"Yes sir. All ten launchers are primed and ready." replied Güler. "The Syrians have only received a week-long course on them, but we have made it easy. Drive across the border and push a few buttons while some advisors watch. We will target an Iraqi ballistic missile base near Ar-Rutbah that we believe was the origin of the attack on Idlib. The strike itself is mostly symbolic. The main base is located underground. We are just targeting two warehouses on the surface."

"No, no. Tone it down a notch for the Americans. Just two will suffice, it is for the message anyways." said Erdoğan.

"Yes sir." General Güler waved for an aide to come forward. "Get me on the line with General Hamada."

Empty field
East of Sarıbük, Türkiye
January 30, 2025
11 PM

"Only two!" A man in a plain green uniform shouted in Turkish, as the Syrian National Army soldiers ran to their Tayfun SRBM launchers. Climbing into a Turkish Army Nurol Ejder, the small convoy soon raced across the border, with two Turkish Army armored vehicles leading the column and two taking up the rear. Consisting of numerous pick-up truck technicals and two Otokar Cobras, the SNA convoy escorted the SRBM TELs across the border quickly making their way toward Darkush.

"Move, move!" the Turkish man shouted as the convoy reached its designated launch point, with the two TELs positioning themselves in an empty field. After a short bit of preparation, the Turk waved his hand.

At first nothing happened. It appeared the Syrian crews weren't as familiar with the missile systems as they should have been. Then moments later, a burst of light, and the first ballistic missile began racing into the air, joined moments later by the second.

As quickly as they had arrived, the convoy began to depart, racing back towards Türkiye. All the while, the missiles arced high overhead. They were fast. Within 7 minutes, they would be able to reach their targets. The only question was what would happen in the aftermath.

Joint Statement by the Republic of Turkey and the United States on the Ceasefire in Syria

The United States and the Republic of Turkey reaffirm their shared commitment to advancing stability and security in Syria and the broader region. Following extensive discussions, Turkey has committed to joining the ongoing ceasefire agreement in Syria for the next two months, effective immediately.

This agreement reflects the shared vision of both nations to de-escalate violence, protect civilian lives, and create space for diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive political solution to the Syrian conflict.

Turkey and the United States recognize the importance of coordinated efforts to ensure the success of the ceasefire. Both nations are committed to working closely with international partners and stakeholders to uphold the agreement and address any violations swiftly.

The United States commends Turkey for its leadership in advancing peace and stability in the region. Both nations reaffirm their commitment to the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Syria and call on all parties to respect these principles while seizing this opportunity to advance toward a durable peace.

Signed on this day, January 30th, by:

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
President of the Republic of Turkey

Ryan Eugene Carter
President of the United States

by **NewLakotah** » Fri Dec 20, 2024 8:02 pm

Tarsus, Syria

It was a nice, cool day. Light rains had blessed the rocky ground over the past few weeks and already plants had welcomed it with a rush of green leaves and colorful flowers. There was nothing quite like this in Russia. Perhaps, General Andrei Solovetsky thought, one could find something in the south by the border with Georgia. Perhaps in Abkhazia itself. He’d never been there. His tour of service had kept him a long ways from Georgia and he’d played no role in the short war. His first taste of real combat outside of Chechnya had come in Syria in 2015.

From there he’d been on a world tour. A year in Syria, six months in Mali, another nine in the Central African Republic. Then it was back to cold, dreary Moscow being cooped up in stuffy offices and working powerpoint. It was a prestigious position, adjunct to the Chief of the Russian Generals Staff. It was there he was able to brush shoulders with the key strategic thinkers of the new Russian geopolitical strategy. He himself had played a minor role in writing out the reforms, utilizing his experience to advocate the creation of a larger and more decentralized Africa Corps.

That was back in 2019. He couldn’t help but smile at the thought. 2019 was six years ago, but it felt like a lifetime. The Pandemic had been like a black hole. Still, those six years hadn’t been entirely uneventful. He’d gotten his wish and even given command for creating the new Africa Corps in 2021, utilizing a mix of special operations forces, paramilitary forces, and the new regular army to build up Eurasian forces and its allies.

Still, it was Syria that was the sore on everyone’s back. The sudden collapse of the Syrian government lines, held up only by concerted efforts by the Eurasian military, had not been taken well in Moscow. Solovetsky had been ordered back to Syria, back to figure out what exactly had gone wrong and what exactly could be done to fix it.

Unfortunately, things had only grown more complicated since his arrival. The last few days had been utter anarchy. First, the Iraqi military launched a missile strike, only for Syrian rebels to respond with a strike of their own, aimed at Iraq. Now tensions were flaring up across the region and all sides were preparing for war. Moscow had requested a direct link from the Kremlin to talk with the commanders on the ground.

“The current situation along the conflict zone remains relatively calm, but only for now. Skirmishes and artillery strikes have increased along the entire front, it may not be long before Russian forces are forced to respond in kind. Currently, there has been no direct response from the Iraqi military to the Syrian strikes. It seems as though that may have been a flash in the pan.” Even through the pixelated screen, he could see how tense they were. The whole Security Council was gathered around a conference table, starting up at the screen or down at notes. Their staff were fluttering about behind, handing notes or whispering into someone’s ear. Solovetsky felt naked staring at the picture of himself on the screen, all by himself.

“The Turks?”

“They are mobilizing and rearming their proxies. Even the other groups are gearing themselves up. I would expect them to continue to escalate hostilities. They know the longer they wait, the more time we have to prepare the Syrian defenses.”

“Hmm…”

“How do our fine comrades in arms fare?” A new voice entered the conversation. This one belonging to Oljas Bektenov, the foreign minister.

Solovetsky grinned at the unhidden note of sarcasm in the question. “They’re reforming. We’re relying more heavily on local militias and ethnic or religious groups to fill the ranks for now. We’ve gotten thirteen brigades refitted so far but we’re struggling to find the manpower willing to commit. Desertion remains a serious problem among the regulars. We have enough to hold the line, but not engage in any major offensive. Not for some months—unless we got more involved. If the ceasefire breaks we will need to hit the rebels with a decisive strike, starting from the air.”

“That may not be politically possible,” said Kuznetsov. “The Americans have a sharp eye for the region under Carter. He’s split his own blood fighting here. I think he considers it almost a personal insult that Russians and Iranians are cavorting around the region.”

“What could the Americans do? Launch airstrikes on Eurasian soldiers?” asked Bektenov.

“Who knows? Maybe invade Iraq.” Kuznetsov gave an audible grin at his own joke, before turning back to Solovetsky. “If the rebels attack, the Syrians will need all the help they can get, so you do have authorization to proceed. If the Turks do mobilize into the region, it’s more likely they’d go into Kurdistan than Damascus, so I shouldn’t think the Turks will do anything major on this border. They may find they have more pressing issues soon enough.”

Solovetsky nodded. “For now the situation is stable here, sir. Damascus isn’t falling.”

“I hope you can keep it that way.”

Solovetsky nodded and the screen went black. Call over. He slumped in his chair and gulped, eyeing desperately the bottle of vodka that sat on a shelf opposite his desk. The last words of Kuznetsov played in his head as he rose, picked up a glass and then the bottle.

He certainly hoped he could keep it that way. A lot was riding on the Syrian soldiers and the Assad government and he wasn’t sure they were up to the fight. Thirteen years was a long time for anyone. Still, they had to or be overrun by either Islamist fundamentalists or Turkish proxies. The choice was simple and Solovetsky wasn’t going anywhere.

Rossiyskaya Gazeta

President Kuznetsov says talks with President Carter “productive”

A recent call between the heads of state of two of the most powerful nations of the world was concluded late last week, only about a week after the inauguration of President Carter and a few days following the US airstrikes in Afghanistan. The early presidential call highlights the importance of the relationship between Moscow and Washington, even if the two sides rarely see eye to eye.

However, despite official reports from the conversation reporting that no progress was made regarding Syria or the region in general, President Kuznetsov presented a different view.
“No, nothing was agreed too, but the talks are still early. We made significant progress on a number of issues, we only have a few more details to work out. We both want what we believe is best for regional security, but disagree on how to achieve it. Time is not on our side, but I have hope in a long term solution yet. Neither we, Russians, nor the Americans want to keep thousands of soldiers deployed to the region to hold a false peace...”

However, Kuznetsov gave no details on when such a deal would be made, but did hint at a future visit to the United States, particularly to Texas, saying, “In the near future, it may be possible to take some time to visit the United States and learn for myself the truth of the tale that ‘everything is bigger in Texas’…”

Russian Government Condemns Continued Political Violence in Georgia

Prime Minister Alexey Ostrovsky signed an official declaration from the Union Parliament in conjunction with Valeri Bganba, governor of Abkhazia, that condemned the ongoing political violence in Georgia, which including a section blaming ‘foreign actors’ for inciting the violence. These foreign actors were largely considered as European, mainly the European Union and NATO who have long had their eye on Georgian ascension to both alliances.

The current protests have seen large scale riots taking place across the country, but largely centered in Tbilisi and has seen hundreds of arrests. The declaration condemned the protests as “dangerous radicals” threatening to undermine the democratic process in Georgia in order to promote a “European, Western agenda of radicalization”.

The Grand Duke and current co-chair of the Eurasian Security Council also issued a statement, stating that the current government in Georgia has been under assault and stated that unless the situation got under control a full scale ‘revolution’ could occur in the country. He warned of Turkish involvement specifically, but also of NATO involvement given their recent interests in the region.

Neither of the official summaries referenced the 2008 Georgian War, however, leader of Eurasia’s leftist coalition ‘Socialists of Eurasia’, Vasily Slutsky, objected to declaration as ‘unnecessary interfering in the political affairs of Georgia’. His sentiment was challenged directly by Ostrovsky, who rose to reply that Georgia’s internal affairs had drawn Russia into a war once before and that “their current crisis could lead to another intervention”...

by **Orostan** » Sat Dec 21, 2024 5:36 pm

The Baghdad Summit - February 8th
A co-write by Chewion and Orostan

The American President’s visit to Baghdad was considered the most important single diplomatic event for Iraq since 2003 and the preparations for it were made days in advance. Security drills were practiced, emergency procedures were tested, and by the time President Carter took off from Washington DC units of the Republican Guard would be entering Baghdad in groups to prepare for the meeting. When Air Force One passed into Iraqi airspace from the direction of Jordan it and its American escorts were met by Iraqi Air Force Su-30s which would accompany them to Baghdad.

At Baghdad international airport when President Carter’s airplane was scheduled to land security was tight. The entire airport had its operations suspended for the day and its workers replaced with Iraqi Air Force personnel. When the American President finally landed he was greeted with a military band playing the Star-Spangled Banner, an honor guard, and the Iraqi Prime Minister Al-Halbousi waiting on the tarmac to welcome him. They let the media have their show and made sure to shake hands in front of the cameras before Carter proceeded to a hotel in central Baghdad which had been entirely bought out for the meeting at the expense of the Iraqi government for security reasons.

If one was unfamiliar with recent diplomatic events they may have believed that Baghdad was under military occupation on the day of the meeting. Soldiers were on practically every street corner and military trucks and light vehicles were distributed with them. The entire city had been put under the tightest security and all non-essential business had been cancelled for the day. If someone looked long enough they might also see a number of surveillance drones circling overhead.

Despite all the security planned demonstrations took place in Baghdad just the same as every other city in Iraq - if anything they were larger. More than ten thousand people took to the streets in Baghdad alone. Contained by the system of cordons and barriers erected by the police and armed forces they were kept away from the areas of the city the American President would be. The presence of armored vehicles also had a chilling effect on violence although the image of Republican Guard tanks looming over protestors would probably not help Al-Halbousi’s democratic credentials or domestic image.

Rather than take the risk of the American President’s motorcade traveling through Baghdad, Prime Minister Al-Halbousi would travel to the hotel that Carter spent the last night at and the meeting would take place in a conference room there. After a few more photo opportunities for the media and some brief remarks, the two men would proceed into the room and the doors would be closed.

Al-Halbousi sat across from Carter. Both men had been provided a glass of water. “I hope you have found Baghdad hospitable, Ryan.” he said to the American.

Carter smiled before taking a sip of water and replying in Arabic “Of course, my friend. Thank you for showing me such honor. I apologize for the ruckus this is causing, if it would help smooth things over for your government, I am more than willing to meet with some opposition leaders and, perhaps, even some of the protest leaders. To show them that I am just a man, as they are. But, I will of course defer to you on that matter.”

The PM nodded. “That would be beneficial, if it can be done. I also believe that a brief speech at Baghdad University has been included in your agenda. I and the significant members of the State Council will be there. Much of the National Alliance leadership have chosen to boycott everything related to this however. Although I’m sure some will talk if there aren’t cameras.”

Nodding, Carter smiled and replied “I understand. If time allows, we can do a closed door meeting after our meeting here and before the speech. You can tell the opposition and protest leaders that it will be an open and honest conversation, I’m not afraid of tough questions or comments from them.”

Pausing for a moment, Carter continued by saying “For now, shall we get down to business? As the host, I believe it’s only proper to allow you to bring up the first topic”

“Yes. Business.” Al-Halbousi began. He withdrew a stapled together set of Iraqi Strategic Missile Force documents on the table from a folder an aide passed him. Certain parts of the report had been redacted with black bars. “This is documentation concerning a ballistic missile strike that was certainly launched by Turkey or done with Turkish oversight on one of our missile bases. One of the missiles was intercepted, but the other one struck a warehouse and killed two of our men and injured another. Needless to say there was property damage as well. This occurred just before the Turkish foreign ministry published their statement on their agreement with the cease fire proposal.”

He let the American examine the documents for a moment. An English translation if he needed it was attached behind the Arabic version. Then he continued. “For the time being our public line has been to claim there was just an ‘incident’. You see how escalatory this is, yes? The act alone is significant, but what is worrying to us is the potential that Turkey may intend to provide more advanced and direct support to terrorist organizations. This is the opposite of what we want to happen.”

“I understand the anger but, being truthful here, it’s a simple” pausing for a second, not knowing an appropriate Arabic word and thus temporarily reverting to English “tit-for-tat.” Carter said before taking a sip of water and then continuing in Arabic “We can cover the costs of the physical damage and the costs of the funerals for the two dead. Now that Turkey has, after much work, agreed to join the ceasefire, I don’t anticipate them to launch anything further if nobody else does. As far as your other concerns, we’re watching closely and likewise don’t want the bad guys to get advanced military capabilities.”

Al-Halbousi frowned. To speak of solving all your problems with money was so typically American. “It’s not about the money or compensation. The fact of the matter is that they tried to sabotage the ceasefire before it began and did so with a wildly escalatory move. A missile strike on a US military base by another state would be considered an act of war. I want the Turks to cut their support to Al-Qaeda and ISIS offshoots in Syria - what they call the Syrian opposition. They’re trying to make it impossible for me not to respond. I’m sure you understand the political difficulty of this situation - especially considering that if knowledge of the Turkish strike were to be released my partners in government, the Iran backed National Alliance, would demand a response and likely get one.”

“Mr. Prime Minister, I will be direct with you. I used nearly all of my political capital with Ankara to get them to join. They wanted me to give them a go ahead to end the Syrian conflict on their terms. I held them back from that. I held them back from that because, truthfully, I think you’re a man that can be worked with. I am very sorry that this strike happened, but compared to what could’ve occurred, I think that it was very mild. I can not and will not dictate to you, as a sovereign leader, what you can or can’t do. But I would be doing you a disservice if I did not give you the blunt facts of this matter and give you my honest insight which is, even though it’s painful to do so, let the matter alone and move forward with the two-month ceasefire. I am sorry to be so direct, but I believe it would be dishonorable for me to do otherwise.” Carter replied, before taking a sip of water and adding “but you have my word, I will do everything I can to ensure that dangerous elements don’t benefit from this period.”

“I can respect your word.” The Iraqi began. “But what I need is concrete agreements. Regardless of if the Turks view this as a response to what we did or not it represents a lack of respect for the intent of the cease fire. I have also burned political capital on this investment and at this point I am in too deep to pull out and take a loss that my political career cannot recover from. As I said in my call, it is essential to Iraqi security interests that foreign aid to the Syrian opposition end. If this cease fire ends without such an agreement I will have to resume strikes to prevent the strengthening of terror organizations. I want to stress that Iraq will abide by the ceasefire until it expires unless the Turks choose to do something much more radical than fire a few missiles at us. What can we expect in terms of real Turkish commitments to deescalate the war?” He finished.

“That’s something I hope to address during this two month ceasefire. My ultimate hope is to gather everyone in one meeting during this time to start the process of hashing out grievances and ideas. I’d rather do it in a meeting room than on the battlefield.” Carter replied.

Al-Halbousi nodded. “Yes, of course. You are visiting Ankara after this - you plan to get a Turkish commitment there?”

“I plan to discuss this meeting, yes. A commitment might take more time and, perhaps, a meeting consisting of all interested parties. My hope is to have that within this ceasefire.” Carter replied.

“I have given you twice the amount of time I wanted to. If two months cannot convince the Turks I doubt two years can. Either this cease-fire will end with a lasting agreement or it will end and the usual situation in Syria will resume. Either way I have no choice but to uphold the core interests of my country as you must uphold the interests of yours. All I can do right now is hold to the cease fire and wish you success in Ankara, Ryan.”

“That’s all I ask, Rikan.” Carter replied before adding “Well, until I have spoken with Ankara, do you have anything else on this matter or shall we move forward?”

“I believe we don’t. In the meantime between now and Ankara, I think what we can do is produce some trade agreement between our two states. As you know one of my priorities, and one of the priorities of my party, has been to pursue productive and mutually beneficial economic relations. In particular with reference to industrial and agricultural exports from Iraq to the United States.” Al-Halbousi said, somewhat relieved to be moving on from the Syrian issue.

“I am definitely open to this idea. Did you have any particular details in mind, or would you prefer our relevant government staff work on something to present to us?” Carter replied.

The Prime Minister withdrew a few documents from a folder on the table. They were labeled as having been produced by the Iraqi Ministry of Trade. He handed Carter one of them which was written in English and listed Iraq’s various exports as well as their target markets which included the USA, China, and Eurasia. “As you can see we want to have as many partners in trade as possible. While we have defense cooperation with many powers, including the US on many issues, we want to have balanced economic relations with as many partners as possible. To do that my advisors tell me it is necessary to secure some preferential treatment on trade from the US. Iraq is a country greatly in need of development for its continued stability and growth, and this development and growth also benefits the United States, we believe.”

“Very well. I’m agreeable to the idea. Our relevant teams can work out the details but so far, it has my consent.” Carter replied.

Al-Halbousi was taken slightly aback that Carter agreed so easily to the idea. Maybe his time in Iraq had convinced him the country really needed that development. He smiled. “That’s very good to hear. I’m sure that millions of Iraqis and millions of Americans will be happy that we will be trading with each other instead of fighting.”

“I do have one major issue, one that I believe would prevent the Senate from consenting to such a trade deal.” Carter replied, shifting in his chair before saying “We know about the pathway to nukes, Rikan. For the sake of our relationship, please don’t try and dodge that or lie to me. We don’t know everything, but we know your nuclear program is not just about cheap electricity. I understand why Iraq would seek such weapons, but I need to insist that another way for your long term defense is found.”

The expression of Al-Halbousi changed again. He leaned forward slightly in his chair. “For the time being our nuclear program has civilian applications. While it’s true uranium enrichment and nuclear technology can be used for weapons at a sufficient level of development, I have no intention to use that technology for anything except the development of my country. But I will not tell you that there has not been discussion about the security element of nuclear technology. Iraq has been bombed by Israel and invaded by the United States in 2003 over the issue of potential nuclear technology. In 1981 when Israel struck us the government at the time had no intention of developing nuclear weapons, and the type of reactor it had invested in was not suitable for the development of nuclear weapons in the first place. In 2003 Iraq had no weapons of mass destruction at all.”

He paused for a moment before continuing.

“I am the most pro-peace - my opponents call me pro-American - Iraqi leader since the war. But I cannot tell those who disagree with me in my own party, in other parties, or in the military that their security concerns are unfounded. What am I supposed to tell them, that our country will remain without weapons forever that could prevent another George Bush from doing whatever he wants to us? Am I supposed to let the future of Iraq rest on the word of - however diplomatic and wise - a foreigner who may not be in power in four or eight years time? It is my responsibility to ensure lasting security for my people. I am against the development of nuclear weapons, but merely possessing the technology to even theoretically construct such a weapon provided a measure of security that nothing else can even if we never build a nuclear weapon. God willing, the nuclear bomb will be consigned to the history books in our lifetime. But I cannot rely solely on God. I can only rely on the means I have at my disposal, and past American… behavior towards Iraq.” He looked at Carter.

“I do not blame you for pursuing it. I understand. But have you ever considered that the act of pursuing it for the long term security you seek, could be what threatens that security? You’ve seen how the world has reacted to Iran seeking the bomb. How North Korea is treated. The pursuit of a nuclear weapon tends to turn a nation into a pariah. Even if we’re not the ones to act, if I know about this, you can be sure others do as well. I urge you to consider this. To consider if maybe, just maybe, there’s another path forward for long term security. Perhaps a regional alliance or security agreement with neighboring nations in the gulf?” Carter replied.

“An alliance is just a piece of paper, ultimately.” Al-Halbousi shook his head. “While we certainly have our own problems with Iran they don’t even have a bomb yet - to my knowledge at least - and they have sovereignty because of their program. North Korea, who as you know Iraq has productive defense relations with, has sovereignty. Their South Korean brothers live better, but nobody will ever invade North Korea like the US invaded Iraq twice because they have the ultimate weapon that exists - the final guarantee of sovereignty. I want to sign agreements with you and other leaders, but these agreements must be backed by something real. I can’t make an agreement to give up the only hard guarantee of sovereignty that exists for Iraq for just paper and words. Hussein and Gaddafi did the same thing and look what happened to their countries. I’m sure you understand my dilemma. You Americans would never give up a guarantee of your own national freedom like the nuclear bomb as long as others have it.”

“I want to be rid of the bomb.” Carter replied, leaning forward before saying “I plan to bring this up with our Russian counterpart when, Lord willing, I host him at my ranch back in Texas.” Pausing for a moment, Carter added "Would Iraq be willing to slow walk development of weapons grade uranium or at least be fully transparent on its development. The ultimate hope being you can abandon such a program because the other nuclear powers move towards the same end.”

Al-Halbousi looked at Carter in near disbelief. “You mean to talk about world denuclearization?”

“Yes.” Carter replied. “Nuclear war has no winners.”

He exhaled. “Your optimism is inspiring. But I can’t share the thought that the Eurasians or Chinese can agree to it. What I can share is my thoughts on Iraqi nuclear power. I am willing to limit the speed of development and not approve the activation of new types of enrichment machine or other devices that will increase our grade of uranium as fast. I will also not during the period I have power secure intercontinental ballistic missile capability as some of my military advisors have been asking me to do. If you must show something in the senate to prove my peaceful intentions, show them an Iraqi statement that my office will release regarding the slowing of uranium enrichment at your request. Do you think that will be enough?”

“Thank you, Rikan. I believe that should work for now.” Carter replied with a smile. “Now, anything else you wished to discuss?”

“There is, yes. Israel’s actions in the Sinai and over Syria have been particularly concerning to us in Iraq. I’m sure you’re familiar with the details of it.” The Prime Minister answered.

“Yes.” Carter replied, waiting for the likely request from the PM.

The words he said next were perhaps the least unexpected ones that existed coming from the head of a sovereign Arab state. “We want Israel to back off in Sinai. We don’t believe foreign troops should be there in the first place, but if they must we would ask that a coalition of Arab countries including Iraq be assigned peacekeeping duties by the UN there. Anyone but Israel. Furthermore, we object to Israel’s support of terrorism in Syria. They run air support and provide medical care and who knows what other aid to groups that are Al-Qaeda fronts. This must end for there to be stability in Syria, and I haven’t even mentioned their occupation of the Golan or Palestine. You know the standard Arab position on all of this.”

“I do and I’ll relay the concerns to our Israeli counterparts, but I don’t want to give false hope, it’s unlikely for anything to change on those fronts.” Carter replied bluntly.

“Ultimately Israel’s capabilities depend on American support. All I ask is that you leverage that support to keep Israel back and the region stable. I’m sure you don’t want them doing something radical. In 2021 when the Israelis shot down one of our aircraft over Syria we were in a very dangerous position. I am more pragmatic than some of my… political competitors. If any other party in our parliament were in charge they’d ask you to pressure Israel into nuclear disarmament. What I am asking is the very moderate position in Iraqi politics, and all I want from you is a commitment to stability in the region with regards to Israel whose actions since their 2020 invasion of Sinai we believe are highly escalatory. ” Al-Halbousi answered.

“I promise to pass on your concerns.” Carter reiterated before saying “Now, was there anything else you wish to discuss, or shall we go and meet the folks participating in their democratic rights?”

The Prime Minister checked his watch and took a sip from his cup of water which he had not touched for the entire conversation. “I suppose it is that time, so we shall.”

The two men stood up.

The next day...

"Tahir, what is that?"

The guard turned to his friend who was lying down on a roller trying to stick his head under the car that would carry the American President to Baghdad University for his speech. The car was still waiting in the driveway for its important passenger to finish his business in the hotel that hosted him, and as such had not yet passed into the control of the American Secret Service that preferred to focus on protecting places where their President actually was.

"What do you mean? I can't see what you're doing under there Ghazi." the other guard answered.

Tahir could tell Ghazi's hands were trying to grasp at something from the way his arms were moving. The roller his back rested on wiggled slightly as he worked.

"There's this box. I don't know what it is, it isn't connected to anything. I don't think it was here before. It's in a strange spot, I nearly missed it."

Ghazi walked over. He glanced over the black luxury car at the Americans guarding the doors to the hotel. They could not see what Tahir was doing under the vehicle from this angle and they were too far to hear the two men speak. "You're sure about that? It's not some electronic component on the car you missed on the first inspection?"

The reply was immediate. "I'm sure. It wasn't there in the garage. It could be a bomb."

Tahir could feel himself start to sweat. "Then don't fucking touch it. We need to call it in."

Ghazi pushed himself out from under the car and sat up. "Don't do that. Go tell the commander himself. Only the security team has been permitted access to the car since then, and if the Americans hear what we say over the radio they will think we are unreliable and the summit might be off. The commander will know what to do."

Tahir hesitantly nodded. "We will tell the Americans there was a leak or something and swap the car. Better they think we have bad cars than bad security." He then turned and walked briskly towards a building at the end of the hotel complex that hosted the Iraqi security command post.

History would record no assassination attempts on President Carter today, nor would it the anger of a few old Ba'athists when the President arrived very much alive at Baghdad University for his speech.

Babel
February 9th, 2025 - Baghdad

Mixed Reactions to Baghdad Summit

The unprecedented meeting between an Iraqi Prime Minister and the newly elected American president has produced unprecedented results. After a long and in-depth conversation on the 5th and a joint press conference the next day was occupied by meetings between groups of officials, and the results of the summit were made public only this morning. President Carter has pledged his support for a groundbreaking trade agreement that would lift tariffs and other taxes on Iraqi crops and goods destined for the American market while Prime Minister Al-Halbousi has published his own pledge to limit Iraqi uranium enrichment capability as a gesture of peace. No agreement to limit Israeli aggression or commitment from the American President with regards to Syria and Turkey was forthcoming. In a question posed by a popular American outlet, the Prime Minister has said that peace is "firmly in the court" of President Endrogan, and only he can make the right decision. Carter's visit to Ankara will attempt to produce that, according to both of the leaders. The right wing MPs of the Progress and Unity Party have acclaimed the summit as a success that satisfies the core interests of both sides, while the opposition and left wing MPs of the Progress and Unity Party have criticized the summit as only further entrenching the Prime Minister's neoliberalism and making Iraqi security interests an issue to be decided in Ankara instead of Baghdad. Speakers from the Ba'ath and Communist parties were especially loud in condemning the lack of any reference to American reparations or responsibility for the Gulf Wars. Prominent Ba'ath party member Humam Abd al-Khaliq Abd al-Ghafur, who was involved in the Iraqi nuclear program under Saddam Hussein and was disabled by mistreatment while in American captivity after the Second Gulf War, spoke in Baghdad in front of a crowd despite his advanced age to condemn Prime Minister Al-Halbousi for ignoring the crimes of the United States in Iraq and everywhere else in the world as well as betraying the Arab nation by "selling our sovereignty to the Americans". The Ba'ath Party was the only party in parliament which did not even have one representative at President Carter's speech at Baghdad University he gave on the 6th.

The National Reform Party issued a criticism of the meeting similar to that of the Ba'ath and Communist Party and left the decision to boycott the speech up to its MPs. Many did, but a number including veterans of the insurgency against the Americans did attend although they seem to as a group decided not to clap or openly react to Carter's words after he was finished. The National Alliance has remained quiet on the issue although according to leaks there is intense internal discord within the party. The wing more loyal to Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr has boycotted anything to do with the American President's visit but several MPs from all wings of the party did show up for Carter's speech. It is reported that Sadr insisted these MPs be expelled from the party and that the party break its coalition with the Progress and Unity Party of the Prime Minister but has faced significant opposition from the more centrist and right wing segments of the party.

The results of the summit are hugely controversial among the general Iraqi population and a poll by important outlet "Iraq News TV" revealed that more than 70% of Iraqis believe the summit did not do enough to solve diplomatic problems with the United States. The partisans in favor of the summit however have been equally as vocal and a number of NGOs aligned with the Progress and Unity Party that have accepted money from the American "National Endowment for Democracy" ran commercials arguing for the summit.

Iraqi Strategic Missile Force Reports Incident at Western Base

At an undisclosed base in western Iraq the Strategic Rocket Force has reported an incident that injured one man and killed two others. The details of the Rocket Force release were very sparse, but observers have speculated that the incident could correspond to reports of missiles or projectiles launched from northern Syria or Turkey shortly before the incident is said to have taken place. The Missile Force has refused to confirm or deny the reports and has told Babel that due to the 2010 military secrets act it is "unable to comment on most subjects related to operations at Iraqi Strategic Rocket Force operations". Politicians from the Iraqi Communist Party and Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party have been criticized for spreading conspiracy theories that the incident was the result of a Turkish missile strike directly against Iraq. Such an attack would of course constitute a direct act of war against Iraq by Turkey.

More information will likely become available if media pressure on the government to release the details of the incident continues to mount.

by **Malorossi** » Sun Dec 22, 2024 4:37 am

NORDWEST NEWS
ARCTIC SPECIAL FORCES - WAR MOVING TO THE ARCTIC?

The Coordination Council decided to create "Arctic peacekeeping units for special purposes". They will be made up of units of the Norwegian and Danish special forces of the far north. Their goal: to monitor law and order, to prevent attempts to cross the Nordland borders inside the Arctic. The preliminary
number is not known, but according to the Minister of Defense of Norway Eriksen Søreide Ine Marie said: "Arctic units are quite sufficient for local operations of minor offenses, both criminal and international. However, we do not believe that it is necessary to maintain large armed formations to protect the Arctic borders from "potential aggression from Eurasia". " These formations will be finally put into operation by mid-May 2025. On May 25 of this year, it was announced that "preparations for an exercise to coordinate all forces of peacekeeping groups in Spitsbirgen" were underway. According to our source in the Norwegian Army: "they have just started building a Nordland peacekeeping base and submarine bases on Spitsbergen." Christian Hakkon did not confirm this information, stating that "most likely you mean temporary structures being created in the wake of training exercises? So far, we have not discussed the issue of placing a permanent military base in the Arctic with the Coordination Council."

In any case, this is the first armed formation of military purpose directly subordinate to the Coordination Council. According to analyst Raige Hanson: "Hakkon has had two concepts since coming to power: "economic nationalism" and "armed neutrality." Apparently, he has been making progress in this direction in the last decade." In any case, this is one of the first steps towards creating a centralized Nordland army.

However, Hakkon Christian denies the involvement of the creation of Arctic units in the discovery of a new oil field near the border with Russia, stating that: "these two events are in no way connected with each other, we have already discussed this topic with Mr. Kuznetsov, who stated that he does not see any threat in the development of the new field by Norland." He also recalled that by decision of the "coordination committee" the country continues to remain faithful to the concept of its international neutrality.

#geopolicy #arcticpolicy

07:00 pm - 31/01/25

NORDWEST NEWS
KROYNBERG SHOWS TEETH TO THE COALITION

Olaf Kreunberg gathered members of the coalition today to discuss "new electoral tactics" for the May elections to the advisory council.The negotiations were held behind closed doors for a long time, none of the journalists were allowed in, ensuring that "the decision will be announced at a press conference." According to an anonymous source close to the entourage of the leader of the Christian party, Eni Roizman: "Everyone expected that Kreunberg would voluntarily hand over his leadership to the young ambitious Eni Roizman, allowing them to make significant amendments to the privatization company. To the surprise of everyone, he was able to impose the privatization program that he himself wrote without editing. The Green Party has stated that it will agree to it if Umar Muhammad abu Khattab is appointed to the position of adviser on the design of environmental policy."

Many analysts believe that for Kreunberg "this is a big breakthrough, the actual Moderate Party remains the leader of the coalition, and the Large Centrist Bloc remains in full force." However, apparently, Kroenberg himself, weak in political activity, was not able to develop an election campaign, which is why Elizabeth Floyer, a political strategist and former journalist of the Northern Lights television channel from the Christian Party, was appointed responsible for the election campaign.

In the evening, Elizabeth Floyer explained the coalition's electoral policy at a press conference:"We will build an election campaign based on the principle of openness and will rely on an election program that has been prepared by experts in certain industries. This program will attract investments to Nordland and improve the entire infrastructure, including social infrastructure, in the next 8 years.According to the plan, the average income of a resident of Norland will be increased by about 56%. By lowering taxes, we will be able to increase the "payability" of taxes and overcome gray tax avoidance schemes, thereby we will have additional funds for medicine and education.Religious studies lessons will allow Nordland to build a highly moral society based on traditional moral principles, and law lessons will be able to further raise the literacy of civil society."

The leader of the Labor Party, Yorgi Fleger, commented on the election program: "What we see from Kreunberg:This is a program of pure populism and a program of "putting a good face on a bad game." In fact, the idea of "privatization and liberalization" of property is not popular among the people of the countries of the Nordic Union," Others noted that "The Moderate Party is confidently taking revenge, and apparently, they have been quite successful within the framework of the coalition."

In fact, these elections may become one of the most tense in the history of Nordland, a confrontation between two ideologies and geopolitical courses, as the Opposition platform opposes "close integration into the West," believing that this threatens Norland to become another US puppet. The large Centrist bloc believes that "in order to potentially confront a growing aggressive neighbor in the form of Eurasia, closer relations with the countries of Western Europe and the United States of America are necessary."

#geopolicy #elections

07:00 pm - 01/02/25

HaraldSerensen

We are very grateful to the city of Gothenburg for their hospitality, we are waiting for the residents of Stockholm for a charity concert of our jazz ensemble "Copenhagen Sunset", whose collected funds will go to the Christian foundation "Hope for Life" of our good friend and philanthropist Eni Roizman, who traditionally helps orphans and victims of domestic violence. There we have specially prepared new compositions for you, which will allow you to relax your soul and think about many life issues. Including we will sing songs that we have not sung before, songs for the new album "Gnu Records".
#HopeisLife

05:38 pm - 02/02/25

by **The Manticoran Empire** » Sun Dec 22, 2024 5:17 pm

Rzeczpospolita

January 2025

News

US Inaugurates new administration with airstrikes in Afghanistan

24 January
Washington, D.C.--Just hours after being inaugurated as the 47th President, US President Ryan Carter set the tone for his administration by ordering a series of airstrikes in Afghanistan. The strikes, launched over the night of the 23rd, hit at least six different locations inside Afghanistan, with the US claiming those sites were connected to Islamist extremist groups.

Following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, the landlocked Central Asian nation was retaken by the Taliban in a matter of months. Since then, the US Department of Defense and Department of State have alleged that the Taliban continue to harbor Islamist terror groups. Human Rights organizations, like Amnesty International, further allege that the Taliban is engaged in reprisal killings of persons supportive of the American sponsored Republic of Afghanistan as well as genocidal massacres of Afghanistan's non-Pashtun ethnic groups.

In the wake of the strikes, Taliban leaders have made claims that the US strikes deliberately targeted civilians, not insurgent camps as the US has claimed. The United States, of course, maintains that civilian casualties were non-existent.

Iraqi missiles fall in Idlib as Syrian War continues

22 January
Baghdad--Iraqi forces launched a series of missile attacks against rebel positions in Syria’s Idlib Province yesterday, strikes which have so far been reported to have killed or wounded hundreds of civilians. The Iraqi military has been criticized in the past for its reckless employment of heavy weapons in urban areas. The Iraqi Army had previously fired similar missiles at Erbil, claiming to strike a Kurdish insurgent camp. Human Rights groups have condemned the Erbil strikes for indiscriminately targeting civilian areas, resulting in heavy civilian casualties, a pattern they say is being repeated now in Idlib.

Kremlin announces further expansion of Russian military forces

25 January
Moscow--The Kremlin announced today plans to further expand the Russian military by establishing new combined arms formations with troops drawn from all the Russian nation’s subordinate states. There are no details as to the extent of these new formations nor of their final compositions but the Ministry of Defense has said that they will likely be in the form of additional Battalion Tactical Groups, the preferred tactical formation of the Russian military.

The Kremlin has been expanding the Russian military for decades, seeking to once again impose its will on Eastern Europe. This latest expansion may indicate an interest in taking offensive action to further their territorial aims.

Nawrocki condemns Russian Imperialism, criticizes President Carter for phone call with Kuznetzov

29 January
Gdansk--Karol Nawrocki, the Law and Justice Presidential Candidate for the May 2025 election, has once again taken to the podium to rail against Russian imperialism during a campaign rally in his hometown of Gdansk. Nawrocki, an outspoken Polish patriot who has demanded war reparations from Germany for the Second World War and from both Germany and Ukraine over the massacres of Poles in Volhynia and East Galicia during the same war, has grown increasingly vitriolic in his condemnations of Russia.

At his most recent rally, Nawrocki condemned the recent announcement by the Russian government that it was establishing cross-Union military units as part of its modernization and expansion of its armed forces. “Russia has been, is, and shall remain the greatest threat to Poland’s sovereignty and the liberty and rights of its people. They are imperialist at their core, whether the White Terror of the Tsars, the Red Terror of the Communists, or the modern terror of the Kremlin. Under no circumstances can we allow them to continue their efforts to rebuild their empire.”

But this latest rally also saw him add a new target for his condemnations, the new American President, Ryan Carter. Carter, who had a lengthy and, by all accounts, productive phone call with Russian President Kuznetzov, has generally been viewed favorably by Polish political circles as the sort of firm ally Poland can count on. But Nawrocki has a different opinion. “To President Carter, I tell you that you are making a mistake, trying to make nice with Kuznetzov. He is a dog, a brutal beast that ought to be put down. Playing nice with that imperialist will only encourage him and create more dangers for Poland, for Europe, and for the United States. If Carter is smart, he will join with Poland and denounce the Russians for the imperialists they are.”

When asked to comment about his statements after the rally, Nawrocki said, “I spoke only the truth. It is the truth that the world has a right to know and that all free peoples everywhere should recognize if they would only open their eyes. Russia is a friend to no one. It cannot be trusted, cannot be reasoned or bargained with. It is like a feral, rabid dog. A threat to anyone and everyone around it. And I will tell you this much. Poland has been subjugated by Russians before. We will never allow it to happen again. No one will ever subjugate Poland again.”

Polling data continues to show Trzaskowski leading 2025 presidential race

29 January
Warsaw--The latest polling numbers are in now and they show what many have come to regard as the likely outcome of the election in May, with Trzaskowski leading at 42%. With Nawrocki holding steady at 22%, the Civic Platform shows a 20 point lead, one which they could maintain through to the election.

Trzaskowski has been a leading member of the Civic Platform for many years, following a successful bid for Mayor of Warsaw and a narrow second round electoral loss to Andrezj Duda in the 2020 election. Trzaskowski has been vocal in his support for gay marriage, European integration, and ecological transformation, as well as championing a greater role for local government in the voivodeships. The Civic Platform has also been heavily investing in the Polish military, though they have adopted a far more neutral tone towards Russia than Nawrocki. It is possible that this more conciliatory attitude could hurt Trzaskowski among older voters but the extent of that possibility is difficult to predict at this time.

by **Sao Nova Europa** » Mon Dec 23, 2024 11:48 am

President Xi Jinping attends Beijing Economic Forum

President Xi Jinping attended the annual Beijing Economic Forum, which international analysts dub the 'Chinese Davos'. In his speech, the President announced measures to support Chinese start-ups and to bolster declining birth rates in the country. "My vision of China," he stated, "is that of an open, forward-looking country that is at the forefront of innovation. We cannot allow our country to fall behind, to stagnate. We need instead to support and encourage innovation and progress."

"China is home to many young, bright entrepreneurs with groundbreaking ideas that could very well dominate the world market. We need to support those entrepreneurs and their innovative start-ups, so that one day some of them can become global financial leaders. My administration has developed a comprehensive 'Support Chinese Entrepreneurs' agenda, based on plans drafted by some of the best economists of China. At the top of this agenda is to provide new start-ups with direct grants of CN¥32,000 (US$5,000). This will be an one-off payment that deals with the major problem entrepreneurs have; the lack of cash to launch their start-up."

"Secondly, the China Development Bank shall provide over the next ten years over CN¥640bn (US$100bn) worth of loans to entrepreneurs with a low interest rate of 1%. This will allow entrepreneurs to have a steady flow of cash to develop their start-ups. Thirdly, we will be implementing tax reforms. Chinese start-ups will have to pay no tax for their first year of operation and only half the standard taxation in their second year. This reform aims to give start-ups the time to flourish before they can begin to contribute to the national budget."

"After discussions with the mayors of major cities, we've also come up with a plan to deal with the problem of space. While the rapid digitization of the economy means that physical space is no longer the concern it was in the past, it can still be a necessity - and a hurdle - for some start-ups. The 'Space Sharing Scheme' will be a platform for owners of revitalized industrial buildings and commercial buildings to contribute floor space for the operation of co-working spaces or studios. Under the scheme, the floor space will be either operated by the property owners themselves, or provided to a non-government organization at a rent of no more than one-third of the prevailing market rent. The operator will then offer co-working spaces or studios at a concessionary rent of no more than half of the comparable market rent."

"But supporting start-ups is not enough when our country faces a demographic challenge. Declining birth rates and the aging of the population is threatening the Chinese Dream. We need to reverse this worrying trend. We will establish a National Fertility Fund of CN¥2trillion (US$300bn) to provide financial incentives for childbearing. This will include direct cash-payments for every child: CN¥30,000 (US$4,500) for first child, CN¥50,000 (US$7,500) for second child, and CN¥80,000 (US$12,000) for third child and above. The annual cost for this program is estimated at CN¥945bn (US$142bn). This agenda showcases we are serious about supporting families and promoting birth-rates."

The financial press has praised the President for his speech and the Chinese public has also reacted enthusiastically. Many in China believe that this bold financial agenda will give Chinese entrepreneurs the edge over their Western competitors while the demographic proposals will solve China's demographic challenges.

by **NewLakotah** » Tue Dec 24, 2024 11:34 am

Moscow, Russia

With the situation in Syria being at a critical point, the Eurasian Military wasn’t going to let one setback prevent it from growing its presence overseas. As Solovetsky battled with what troops he had against the Syrian rebels and the Turks, Colonel Antonovsky was in Moscow, getting briefed for his new mission.

This was to be his first real combat command. Two battalion tactical groups from Russia, a battalion of Spetsnaz, and a tank company attached from the Kazakh military were assigned to him along with a battalion of engineers to form his own battle group.

“The situation in Syria is far too precarious for us to continue to rely on it so significantly,” his briefing officer read off a powerpoint with a number of graphics showing Russian military dispositions across the Sahel region. Antonovsky sat at a school desk, surrounded by about a dozen other colonels and brigadiers, all listening for the same briefing. “Our current disposition across the rest of the world is too scattered. Our Africa Corps has made a few outposts and engaged in extensive counterterrorism operations, but we still don’t have a key strategic position in the region. That’s where you will come in. We’re mobilized a new deployment of battalion tactical groups to form a new backbone for security in the region. That will start in the Sahel region where the situation remains at its most precarious. Others will go to the other side of the continent. Sudan.” He clicked the powerpoint to the next slide, showing the latest satellite images from the Sudan coast, showing where the Eurasian military base was under construction. “With the crisis ongoing in the country we still have a lot of work to do to get our military installations up and running. We have no plans to lose Tarsus. But there’s no harm in having backups. One regimental combat group—that’s you Colonel—” The officer pointed with his clicker at Antonovsky “—will be assigned to this base to provide security and continue with the construction of the base. We want to have it operational by summer. Your combat group will also continue to advise the Sudanese government and provide support. But we’re not there to engage in the war directly. At least, not yet, so keep that in mind.”

Antonovsky nodded. The briefing officer continued, “For the rest, most of you will end up in the Sahel. We will be coordinating with our allies on the group to deliver a real offensive that should bottle up the enemy in the northern deserts. Once we have a few established nooks across the desert, we can hop, skip, and jump across the continent from Sudan to Mali and down to Mozambique. Another three BTGs are being deployed to Tarsus to ensure the country doesn’t collapse to extend our military presence up into the Middle East. We need to ensure we have complete coverage of North Africa and the Middle East by the end of the year, so you’ll have your work cut out for you.”

(Cowrite with Chewion)

The kremlin has been a buzz since Russian intelligence had slowly begun to realize the strike had not been Syrian after all. Indeed, it seemed more and more of Turkish origin. Calls went out to Eurasian ambassadors across the world; in Europe, North America, and across the Middle East, trying to get a handle on who knew what and what they thought of it. It was a surprise when the ambassador to the US responded that President Carter was en route to Ankara from Baghdad. More than that, he wanted to talk.

Kuznetsov was hurried to a phone, told that President Carter was ready immediately to chat. Still sleepy, he picked up the reciever saying automatically, “Hello, Mr President. How are you?”

High above the Middle East, President Carter had his onboard office phone on speaker, with a few advisors huddled around as he said a quick prayer before replying to the Russian “I am doing well, Mr. President. Thankfully, there were a lot less bullets heading in my direction compared to my last time in Baghdad.” he joked.

“Anyways, I wanted to discuss with you some of my visit. In particular the fact that we need to do something about the Iraqi nuclear program. I’m sure we can both agree that the proliferation of nuclear weapons is a mutual threat.”

Kuznetsov frowned. This was not the question he’d expected. He began cautiously, “Nuclear proliferation can certainly be a dangerous game. Particularly in destabilized regions.”

“Exactly my fear. I’ve gotten a commitment from the Iraqi Prime Minister to slow roll development of weapons grade uranium, but that just buys us more time. What I think is the only peaceful solution to this is something else, global nuclear disarmament. Our nations have already taken steps towards this in the last decade, and I’m hopeful that you and I can make further steps.”

“Global disarmament is a wonderful goal, but very idealistic. What exactly are you proposing?”

“Yeah, to be frank, I agree it’s a heavy lift but I’m willing to try. I don’t have all of the details yet, but it would likely be a multi-year process, if not longer. But, I think it could start with us announcing a mutual desire to see it happen and perhaps another round of bilateral reductions.”

“I can agree with you on the need for discussion regarding nuclear proliferation. As well as other safeguards to ensure we don’t blow ourselves up. Still, I need to know what I would be agreeing to before committing. I believe these discussions should happen in person. Perhaps when I visit America we can have a clearer picture for this.”

“Indeed. All I’m saying we announce now is our intention to discuss the issue,” Carter replied.

“Very well, I can agree to that,” Kuznetsov said after a short pause. “Was that all on the issue?”

“That’s all I have for now. Do you have anything you’d like to discuss my friend?”

“Yes, as a matter of a fact,” Kuznetsov said bluntly, straightening in his chair. “First I have a few questions. Specifically what your plan is for Iraq given its program. And what have your intelligence people told you of the attack in Iraq. Our intelligence initially showed it was Syrian. However, that seems more and more unlikely. It seems as though it’s of Turkish origin. Likely fired by Turkish soldiers themselves.”

“My hope is to see the Iraq question solved peacefully. But the bottom line is that they cannot be allowed to develop a weapon. Perhaps an alternative solution to get them to abandon this course of action is for both of us to back the territorial integrity of Iraq?” Carter said, ignoring the second question.

Kuznetsov raised his eyebrows warily. “I understand. I can certainly agree to protect the territorial integrity of Iraq from any foreign invasion or act of aggression. If the US is willing to commit and keep to their word and not intervene in Iraq, I’m sure they would welcome it as well. It does, however, bring me back to my second question. The Turkish attack on Iraqi soil is a clear violation of Iraqi sovereignty and territorial integrity. What has American intelligence said about it?”

“We will agree to it if they abandon their nukes. Hopefully, you’d be willing to lay this offer out to them?”

Taking a deep breath, Carter added, “The launch was a retaliation for the Iraqi launch, in all likelihood. But that point is, thankfully, moot. Iraq is willing to move on without responding.”

Kuznetsov frowned again. “Yes, we can bring this directly to Baghdad. I’m not sure how they will respond. But we won’t get in your way regarding their nuclear program.” He paused for a moment, considering his next words carefully. “Still, I feel as though the Turkish strikes should not be swept so quickly under the rug. This was an aggressive, unilateral strike which they tried to hide and blame on Syrian rebels. And now they have you hiding the same truth? I should let you know that we will not stand idle. Their actions and rhetoric is increasingly hostile. We will be deploying additional assets to Tarsus to ensure the security of the government and the ceasefire. This attack severely undermines all the work we have done. I personally feel as we are close to formulating a deal. I don’t want Erdogan to upset that for personal gain.” Kuznetsov’s voice rose sharply, his own emotions rising as he spoke. “What is your take, Mr. President? How will the US respond?”

“We responded, Mr. President, by getting Iraq to not retaliate and I will tell Ankara that it ends there. Further action will destabilize the deal.”

Kuznetsov’s brow furrowed even deeper, but he didn’t press the issue further. “Very well. I’ll leave you to deal with Turkish interference. They are in your domain. And I will speak with Al-Halbousi and get their position figured out.”

“Thank you, now was there anything further you wished to discuss?” Carter asked.

“Not at this time. Thank you for taking the time to talk.”

Rossiyskaya Gazeta

Eurasian ministry of Defense announces new agreement with Iraq for Su-57s

The Eurasian MOD announced the conclusion of an agreement between Eurasia and Iraq that will see the middle eastern country acquiring three Su-57s for evaluation as part of a long term agreement that will see the eventual purchase of up to a full squadron of the modern stealth fighter. The move comes after tensions have escalated dramatically in the region, following iraqs surprise entry into the Syrian Civil War and the missile strike on Iraqi soil that Russian intelligence now considers an attack from Turkish sources.

Andrei Ravkov downplayed any talk of the move escalating the conflict in the region say, “this is a business deal between regional partners and nothing more. The proliferation of modern strike aircraft in the region has been underway for nearly a decade. It only makes sense for Iraq to seek their own premier fighter squadron to ensure their security.”

Others have said the deal is “mistimed”. That includes opposition leader, Alexei Navalny who stated the deal will, “likely draw the ire of the West at a time we need to be creating positive dialogues, not negative ones.” Nonetheless, the deal is expected to be approved by the ESC in the next day or two…

Prime Minister Alexey Ostrovsky criticizes Polish political leader Karol Nawrocki for ‘inflammatory rhetoric’

Karol Nawrocki made headlines for calling Eurasia “the greatest threat to Poland” and “imperialist to their core” at a recent political rally in the lead up to the Polish elections. The rally and Nawrocki’s comments have been met with strong criticism from Eurasia, particularly from Ostrovsky who called the Polish leader a “hypocrite”.

“The West continues to churn its propaganda and its anti-Russian narrative despite the fact that our union is by choice and held by common will. They condemn us for imperialism, yet invade the world to spread their ideologies of liberalism and to spread western culture at the expense of the native. This has been the case since the age of colonialism. Poland is not a nation under threat, but a nation who utilizes its military alliance to imperialise Eastern Europe and make bombastic, inflammatory claims. Poland shares a direct border with us with Belarus. Such comments are unlikely to pave the way towards any form of European unity…”

Eurasian MOD announces new deployments to the Middle East, North Africa in a grand campaign to boost combat strength and regional security

The MOD announced the deployment of thirteen newly formed Battalion Tactical Groups (BTGs) to the MENA region as part of a strategic shift towards the region and to bouy their allies. Three battalion tactical groups, forming a regimental battle group, are being deployed to Syria to directly boost the fighting capacity of the Syrian Front, with another battle group to Sudan to secure the Eurasian naval base still under construction along the southern coast. The remaining seven BTGs are being deployed to the Sahel region and to Central Africa to build up the Africa Corps in order to deliver a “decisive strike against terrorist forces in the Sahel”.

These deployments are mirrored by the Air Force, who is sending SU-57s to Syria and Su-35s to the Sahel region. In total two squadrons will be redeployed to the region on a permanent rotational basis with the goal of ensuring air superiority and coverage across North Africa, and to protect to vital joint operating base under construction in Sudan…

President Kuznetsov downplays ‘Strategic Conflict in the Arctic’

The Eurasian President has downplayed any talk about a new “Frozen War” as some media pundits have taken to calling it, between Norland and Eurasia over the recent announcement from the Norland government of deploying Arctic Special Forces to ensure security for their new oil fields along the agreed upon borders. Kuznetsov said that “Norland has the right to their own security. Deploying troops to the region is a dangerous precedent, but there is no Cold War or frozen war for the arctic. There will be enough room for everyone.” Still, that hasn’t stopped the Eurasian Air Force from buzzing the border region with intelligence aircraft and fighter patrols, some of which have dipped across the border.

“We are conducting standard drills in the region and conducting routine surveillance—mostly aimed at understanding the effects of climate change on northern security and how it will affect it. This is not targeted at Norland, and we remain firmly neutral in our reactions to their arctic exploration.” The president gave no further information regarding the nature of the intelligence missions…

by **Vaishnavaria** » Tue Dec 24, 2024 5:00 pm

Modi and Parliament Unveils groundbreaking plan to combat rising Economic Inequality and poverty

Parth Gahho/TNN/ Updated: Jan 25, 2025, 3:32 IST

NEW DEHLI: In a landmark move to address the nation’s economic inequality and poverty, the Indian government has unveiled the Samriddhi Bharat Mission (Prosperous India Mission), a comprehensive initiative aimed at providing immediate relief to the country’s poorest citizens while fostering long-term sustainable growth.

The initiative, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, combines short-term economic aid with significant structural reforms designed to create a more equitable society. With a clear vision for India's future, the mission aims to uplift millions of citizens and lay the foundation for a prosperous and inclusive nation.

The Samriddhi Bharat Mission is structured to bring immediate relief while laying the groundwork for long-term prosperity. In the short term, programs such as expanded direct cash transfers, enhanced food distribution systems, and rural employment guarantees will address urgent needs. Healthcare access under the Ayushman Bharat scheme will also be broadened to reduce financial burdens on low-income families, with tangible results expected within the first two years.

Over the medium term, the mission aims to transform India’s socio-economic landscape by focusing on education, skill development, and economic diversification. Investments in digital literacy, clean energy, technology, and manufacturing will create new job opportunities, while land reforms and rural infrastructure development will modernize agriculture and uplift millions of farmers. These efforts are expected to significantly reduce poverty and boost productivity over the next three to seven years.

In the long term, the mission seeks to create structural change through stronger social safety nets and progressive taxation, funding universal healthcare and housing initiatives. By fostering an inclusive economy and leveraging education-driven generational shifts, India will reduce dependence on agriculture and achieve widespread prosperity. The mission’s full impact is projected to materialize within 15 years, setting the stage for a more equitable and thriving nation.

Prime Minister Modi emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating: “The Samriddhi Bharat Mission represents our unwavering commitment to building an India where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. This is not just a policy; it is a promise to our people to uplift the underprivileged and lay the foundation for a truly inclusive and prosperous nation.” This is Modi's biggest economic initiative since the BJNYP act on credit cards

Modi addresses press about initiative

The government has also pledged to work closely with state administrations and local leaders to tailor the mission’s implementation to regional needs. Transparency and accountability mechanisms will be put in place to monitor progress and ensure timely delivery of outcomes.

The mission’s immediate measures are expected to show tangible results within 6-12 months, providing relief to millions. By the end of the next decade, India is projected to see significant reductions in poverty and inequality as the mission’s mid-term and long-term reforms take full effect. Experts predict that the mission will achieve its maximum impact within 15 years, transforming India into a nation defined by opportunity and equity.

The Samriddhi Bharat Mission reflects the government’s bold vision and dedication to fostering economic equality and sustainable growth. With its phased approach and ambitious goals, the mission is poised to become a cornerstone of India’s development strategy in the 21st century.

"We should be worried" Multiple analysts say that US partnership with ISI worrisome

Rishi Orjesh/TNN/ Updated: Jan 26th, 2025, IST: 5:09

Political and military Analysts say that the growing Pakistani-US cooperation is worrisome and should draw some eyes from the Indian Parliament and government officials as the threat of a stronger Pakistani-United States alliance grows stronger.

Recently on January 24th President Ryan Carter authorized his first military operation to open up his inauguration as United States president. On the dawn of the 24th US military assets encroached into Afghanistan under the guise of possible ISI and Pakistan cover infiltrated Afghanistani airspace and targeted many terrorist training outposts and cells. Fighter jets carried out relentless bombing and fire on the camps for hours till there was nothing left. No US pilot was lost and the casualties are still not verified but it could be up to 500 terrorists. The camps were training grounds for hostile terrorist groups like Al-Qaeda. Pakistan denied any knowledge about the vent but it is suspected that US Intelligence worked with ISI agents to identify the six sites.

Smoking ruins of hit Taliban training camp

Immediately after this attack many analysts,anchors and politicians jumped on the scene. Narendra Modi congratulated US efforts to squash global terrorism and praised the airstrikes, offering support as well. "The Democracy of India supports all efforts from the United States of America to stamp out terrorist cells. Bharat has been desecrated in the past by people like them and myself and the Indian Government offer any support and congratulations on President Carter's efforts." Was the official statement from the PMO's office.

Multiple renowned analysts and anchors are more skeptical of this development. Political analyst Jay Sigarath states that US support and cooperation with Pakistan is always something to be worried about. "Pakistan has always, always attempted to gun for our throats. They used US cooperation against us in the cold war using it to attack Kashmir with help and restrict our nuclear testing abilities for a while till Pokhran" Stated Sigarath to a Zee news crew. "Any US cooperation with Pakistan is worrisome especially with how dormant they have been since Balakot and support is bad especially in this day and age"

Military analyst Saurav Shah is also pessimistic about the situation but in a more drastic way. In a tweet on the day after the attack he stated that "Indians should be extremely worried and the armed forces should be gearing for war in less than a decade" When asked to comment about the controversial tweet on X he said that "The more support Pakistan gets the more likely they are emboldened to attack us. In the cold war they attacked Kashmir twice and funded terrorist activities to a high not to mention Kargil. Pakistan can also be prepared more for the inevitable World War III. Once Pakistani stability recovers they are gonna use their newfound support to attack us first"

The most troubling was retired General Kavir Singh's analysis. "When the Americans were hunting for Bin Laden they poured billions of dollars in the Pakistani's lap to find him and they didn't even bother to look under their own roof. They used the money to fund terrorist activity against us. And in recent memory I'm sure we can find some. Pulwama,Balakot, Militants in Kashmir and the violence after the repealment of Article 360 all Pakistan Pakistan Pakistan. Soon if support increases then the terrorist threat could hypothetically be active again in India"

An anonymous politician stated that Modi and the parliament had privately discussed increasing domestic protection awareness and RAW spies in Pakistan to be implemented. They also discussed a possible conference with Carter over his plan for the subcontinent and ties with India

by **Newne Carriebean7** » Tue Dec 24, 2024 9:23 pm

Islamic Republic of Iran
Tehran
Sa'dabad Complex
Majmuʻe-ye Saʻd-âbâd
January 20, 2025

The Sa’dabad Complex, a building breathing with history of the Iranian (and formerly Persian) country and her people. Built off the backs of hard working Iranians nearly three generations removed, the structure stood proud as a reminder of the rich infrastructure of the glorious country. The elaborate and delicately crafted hallways and corridors were known and praised by historians and artists for their beauty, each nook and cranny seemingly more detailed and more gorgeous than their predecessor within the building. Yes… it was a beauty that would make someone blind…

*whack*

“LANTI! (Fuck)”

And people who just so happened to be the incumbent supercentenarian heads of government lose feeling in their poor shins. Stumbling backwards while massaging his wound, he crept up his traditional persian clothing for a closer inspection. No Bleeding, so that was a surprise. Still, the old man would rather spend a day with a dozen close calls. His breath became staggered once more, the lights and sounds of the ceilings and dimly lit corridors fading momentarily before returning to him. He looked around and noticed that he had been ambushed by a cart left out by the slaves. Cursing angrily a couple more lanti’s under his breath, he regarded the mess with a curt grimace in the opposite direction before he came to a more suitable room for one of his stature.

Another far taller and skinner individual was waiting for him. This man’s fresh shaven face contrasted greatly with the aged incumbent’s flowing beard that had nearly gotten him tripped more often than not (and far more than the proud president would ever be willing to admit). Making a glance that confirmed eye-contact, the man saluted.

“Your Excellency.”

“Rafiq. What’s up?”

Secretary Sharam Hajar glanced down at the man’s freshly violet lower half with concern in his eyebrows. The President noticed and instinctively covered it up with one hand, waving it away.

“Oh. Damn obstacles. That’s all.”

“Your Excellency, what did I say about getting out of bed?”

“You said not to do it. How could you tempt me such? I blame you for this.”

Rafiq shook his head softly before turning his attention to other matters.

“Your Excellency, this arrived today.”

A small, yellow envelope plopped on the coffee table where Golpaygani had taken shelter near. He glanced down at it before nodding his head in the affirmative.

“Yes, yes. Good. I had been hoping that the Democrats would have garnered a majority again. I did enjoy Obama…”

“Was that during your term on the Guardian Council?” Rafiq asked, trying to prod the old man’s doddering, sputtering memory.

“That was during that, actor… Trump was it?”

“I think it was… Reagan.” laughed Rafiq, who was joined with a slight round of hiccups masquerading as accompanying chuckles by the president.

“I know you're old, but I didn’t think you were THAT old.. You make Khameni look like a spring chicken next to you.”

Golpaygani’s face contorted into a brief flash of anger at that word. “Yes… that… conniving bastard.” The old man quickly tried to change the subject as he fiddled with a butter knife, trying in vain to stab at the sealed envelope before Rafiq helped the president with his mail.

“So… President Carter is it?”

Golpaygani and Rafiq then spent the next several minutes studying the letter that had arrived. The contents inside were nothing remarkable, simply a copy of President Carter’s Inaugural Address, followed by a few lines involving recent American airstrikes against Afghanistan’s Taliban controlled government.

“Every once in a blue moon, the Americans get it correct. The American giant is a massive, lumbering Bear, an Ursus Minor ,if you will. They do not wish to get stung by a bunch of bees, and so their greatest plan is to lob a bunch of missiles from the comfort of their vessels and murder thousands of innocents? Disgraceful and Shameful. The Great Satan truly is pathetic!”

“Still, how do we respond to such an action? We can’t exactly be going around condoning terrorism.” Questioned the Secretary.

“Of course we can’t. That would be insane. We need action. How about we go after the Great Satan’s milk that she robs from Arabia? They need to be taught a lesson, and I think that this would be a fine opportunity to showcase the might and power of our Air Force!” Boomed the centenarian head of state, the table they were sitting at almost quivering at the sheer squeak of his voice.

“Sir, I belive that course of action would render undue attention on the Republic.” Protested the ailing and frail voice of Ayatollah Khameni, who had just walked into the room, startling both men with his entrance.

“S-Supreme Leader?!” Spat a flustered and agitated Golpaygani, who exchanged a cross expression with the man before calmly taking a seat opposite.

“Now then, I am of the mind that the Great Satan needs to be punished and punished severely for this transgression. However, I will remind you also that we are not about to make allies with those that have murdered our own citizens.”

“Was that not the Islamic State, not the Taliban?” Questioned Rafiq who had found a place to stand between the two most powerful figures in all of Iran.

“That being said, our nation needs protection from these religious extremists. How about we instruct the Foreign Minister to issue a warning against violating our national sovereignty with these strikes, and condemning the civilian casualties?”

Both men nodded and with a smile, the Supreme Leader calmly rose from his seat, leaving both Golpaygani and Rafiq alone, puzzling the situation that had just conspired before them.

New Year’s Address and Press Conference to the Iranian People and Media Personnel,
by President Lotfollah Safi Golpaygani
Translated to English from Farsi.
January 21, 2025

“Greetings, my fellow Iranians and countrymen. In the eight years you have entrusted me with this position, I have managed to carefully and slowly guide the country towards a path that is righteous. I know many of you disagree with my actions and my policies, that is why we are a democracy with Islamic traditions. Islam and democracy can work as well here as it can function properly in other, less developed nations, such as Iraq or Turkey. I earnestly wish you well for this new year. I hope that, in the limited time left as your leader, I can pursue a series of small, badly needed reforms to Iran’s economy and society.

The reason for this is because this country’s people will go to the polls twice this year to select their choice as to whomst’ve to lead this great Islamic Republic. We will have a choice not between what is right and what is wrong, but what truly makes this society great. We will have a chance to debate in our local shops and bazaars. Not only that, but there is an opportunity to hear from the men who make our decisions on behalf of the Iranians that they serve. Every one of our legislative seats will need to be filled, and they will be filled with men of character and of honor.

To our hated foes, we sincerely wish for you to be utterly and swiftly obliterated from this world. Maybe in the next one you can think of your sins and how you have ensnared the Islamic Republic in your conniving, sanctions laden booby-traps. We wish to rain Cruise Missiles down onto Ted Cruz’s home. We wish to lob rockets into the very heart of the beast known as Tel Aviv. We vow to march with a million men strong army, through Turkey, into Syria and crush every single Israeli that so much as breathes in the wrong direction of our brave Basij freedom fighters trying so desperately to wipe out your regime! The objective of Iran is plainly and succinctly: To garner a device so powerful that the jews and the Americans will leave us in peace. We truly wish for a peaceful Middle East, one where all cultures can thrive. Tehran is always happy for dialogue. All we ask for is for our ambitions in the reigon to be realized. For our country to be Respected, not Humiliated and humbled before the Great Satan and her co-conspirators.

But, how can we fully reach our potential, when our economic growth has not been growing, but shrinking? Less than a quarter of a million barrels of crude oil per day leave the great ports of Khorramshahr and Abadan. This means less money in government coffers, and in turn, less money flowing towards the Iranian people. The very sanctions the Great Satan says are targeted at the so-called ‘elites of Iran’ in fact harm the very people of Iran. They cannot buy enough food for their families. Prices are far too high. The west has embarked on their own jihad, against Tehran and our beloved people! It is, to put it succinctly, economic terrorism. They have a bunch of gung-ho economists and pencil necked bureaucrats, hidden among sheets and walls of documents, never able to look a starving Iranian in their eyes… It’s… It’s… horrible. The west has no moral compass. They wish to punish us for our so-called transgressions. They can all go to hell!

Furthermore, Iran will garner the materials required for a weapon so powerful, it will shake the boots of those in Washington. I’m afraid I cannot go into any more detail than that, but from what I have heard, Foreign Minister Packard will be holding a press conference in the neighboring room, so I would encourage you all to attend, I know I’ll be there. She’ll have much more information on it. Any questions?”

“What has the Supreme Leader thought about these developments?”

“I have not had the chance to personally call the Supreme Leader, but rest assured my team is always in contact with him and he’s kept up to date on what’s happening. I don’t know what he thinks of this yet, but I’ll let you know sooner rather than later. Any less stupid questions?”

“President Golpaygani, do you have anything to say to your possible successor in the office of president, and do you have any inclination as to when the Iranian elections will be held?”

“Why, I will state the following for my would-be-successors: Find a different line of work. The office of President is a monumental responsibility. This is the hope I have when our Guardian Council begins the process of vetting candidates for the Presidency. I feel shame in my soul for having jealously guarded this position. There were and still are candidates far more capable than myself. I only won because my competent rivals were incompetent at coming together as one, enabling me to consolidate the Reformist vote behind me. As for your second question, that is for the Guardian Council to decide with the Supreme Leader. I as your President hold no sway in the manner. Please, consult them if you are curious, I beg of you.”

STATEMENT FROM THE GUARDIAN COUNCIL:

AFFIRMED: The Islamic Republic of Iran, having held elections for the Office of PRESIDENT on both July 14 and August 9, of the year 2021, will now hold elections for the Office of President for another 4 year tenure of office.

AFFIRMED: President Lotfollah Safi Golpaygani, in accordance with the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, was elected with a majority of the vote for a first term following the ratification of the First round’s results on June 21, 2017. Let it also be AFFIRMED that President Golpaygani, as the incumbent, was elected for a second term with another majority of the vote following the ratification of the first round results on April 12, 2021.

AFFIRMED: That Golpaygani, having served two terms as President, is here-by declared term limited and thus ineligible to run for a third term. He will not be accepted as a candidate should the President put forth the paperwork to do so.

AFFIRMED: That the First round of the Presidential Election is to be held on MARCH 4, 2025, preceding the first round of the legislative election (mentioned below) but preceding the second round of the legislative house. Should no candidate garner a majority of the vote, then a Second Round is to be held one month later on.

AFFIRMED: Having held elections for the Offices of THE CONSULTATIVE ASSEMBLY previously in two rounds (held on June 21 and August 30 respectively) Three years prior in the Year 2022, declares that a legislative election for the Consultative Assembly will now occur in two rounds, declared now from FEBRUARY 14 and MARCH 28 respectively. A majority of the vote is required, should no candidate win a majority, a second round will be held in all of Iran’s 232 legislative seats and her districts.

AFFIRMED: Candidates will now have a deadline of January 27 to submit all official documentation to be able to run as candidates for members of the Consultative Assembly. Candidates will now have a deadline of February 1 to submit all relevant documents in order to run for the office of President of Iran. The Guardian Council will deliberate and debate the candidates individually in the meantime prior to releasing the official list of candidates 168 hours following this deadline, or on February 8.

Signed,
Ahmad Jannti,
Secretary of the Guardian Council
Alireza Arafi
Vice Secretary of the Guardian Council

IRANIAN PRESIDENT ANNOUNCES WITHDRAWAL FROM NON-PROLIFERATION TREATY
Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
January 25th, 2025

Sitting before members of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting, Foreign Minister Wilhelmina Packard alongside incumbent President Lotfollah Safi Golpaygani recently held a press conference in Tehran, where they announced that the country would withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. During the press conference, Packard stated the following:

“It is my understanding that our country has had fruitful conversations with the Non-Proliferation Treaty. It is the position of our government to acquire Nuclear Weapons with the strict purpose of defending ourselves from foreign aggressors. These include neighboring countries and outside foes, such as the United States. Unfortunately, the NPT complicates these goals by handicapping our Nuclear Program. Withdrawal from this treaty does not mean that we intend to construct a nuclear weapon, it simply means that we now have the opportunity to construct such a device in the future.”

“We would have liked to have negotiated with Washington and Brussels with respect to our program, however, we cannot do so at this time. Negotiations require time and energy, and I’m afraid Iran is all out of time as of this moment. We will have more flexibility after our fresh elections. Furthermore, I am announcing the construction of two additional Heavy Water Facilities in our country to expedite the path to a nuclear device, should we require one for national defense. If you wish for justification for such a path, look no further than the airstrikes inflicted upon the poor, defenseless terrorists in Afghanistan. This is not a defense of the regime in Kabul and the Taliban. We condemn such butchery and savagery inflicted by the terrorists, however, that assault is a clear message to Iran. This message is that the Great Satan can strike us anytime, anywhere, all they’d have to do is move to the left a bit in the Indian Ocean. That is a blatant threat to our sovereignty and we shall do everything in our power, including the acquisition of nuclear weapons for the defense of the Iranian people and the Islamic Revolution. We must be willing and able to defend ourselves. If there is to be a jihad, it will be a struggle for defense, not an offensive action. That is all.”

by **Mifan** » Tue Dec 24, 2024 10:02 pm

Dayrout El-Shareef, Egypt
Few Miles North of Dairut

Conflict compels people to cling to routine, even when chaos surrounds them. For those without the financial means to escape, the only way out was to pay hefty sums to smugglers who offered dangerous boat trips to Europe. For others unwilling to take such risks, survival meant adapting to the harsh conditions brought on by war. Nowhere was this more evident than in Dayrout El-Shareef, a town that refused to abandon its ground despite being on the frontlines of Egypt's civil war. Violence was everywhere, making the idea of safety in another location seem impossible. The town’s markets, though sparse, still operated under the watchful eyes of rebel forces, and families gathered around makeshift stoves, trying to replicate some semblance of normal life amid the echoing distant gunfire.

Anwar Nazari was one of the many who stayed behind. A husband and father of five, his focus was solely on protecting his family. The politics of the conflict meant little to him; all he wanted was an end to the fighting so his children could live without fear. Despite the shortages, Anwar held onto a stubborn hope that peace might return, even as each day tested that resolve. His eldest son, Ahmed, often asked if they would leave, but Anwar’s response was always the same—they had nowhere else to go.

That afternoon, Anwar walked quickly through the narrow streets, his arms full of bags containing food and other essentials gathered through the help of friends with connections to limited supplies. With strict rationing, obtaining enough to last the week was difficult and required patience and resilience. He kept his head down to avoid drawing attention from the rebels occupying the area. They lingered at corners, rifles slung across their backs, watching every passerby with suspicion. Anwar avoided their gaze, knowing that any sign of defiance could lead to trouble. As he neared his home, he could make out its familiar outline in the distance, the small garden out front overgrown but still intact.

Suddenly, Anwar was knocked to the ground by an explosion. His ears rang, and pain radiated through his head. Disoriented, he saw people running in panic. He tried to stand, but his body felt weak. Rolling onto his side, he struggled to make sense of the situation. The ringing in his ears gradually faded, replaced by the sounds of terrified screams filling the streets. Smoke plumed from a nearby building, and the cobblestone street was littered with debris.

More artillery shells detonated nearby, one after another. Anwar's stomach sank as he realized what was happening—the Egyptian Army had started shelling the town. The bombardment wasn’t sporadic like before. This was a sustained attack, the kind that signaled the start of a larger offensive. A shopkeeper Anwar knew lay motionless in the street, his fruit cart overturned, oranges spilling into the dirt.

Forcing himself to his feet, Anwar abandoned the bags and ran toward his home. Food and supplies no longer mattered. His family’s safety was his only concern. While the sound of artillery wasn’t unusual, the intensity of the barrage was unlike anything before. Each blast seemed closer than the last, threatening to destroy everything in its path. As he ran, Anwar whispered prayers under his breath, hoping the house would still be standing by the time he arrived.

Anwar never looked back. His only focus was reaching his loved ones.

The Octagon
New Administrative Capital, Egypt

Two hours after the initial shelling of Dayrout El-Shareef, the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces convened at the Octagon, Egypt’s massive military headquarters in the New Administrative Capital. The room was dimly lit, with monitors displaying live satellite feeds and operational data flickering across the walls. Defense Minister Abdel Saqr stood at the head of the table, his eyes fixed on the unfolding operation.

Lieutenant General Ahmed Khalifa, Chief of Operations, cleared his throat and addressed the room. “Minister Saqr, the bombardment of Dayrout El-Shareef began at 1400 hours as scheduled. Initial reports confirm that artillery units have engaged key rebel fortifications along the northern and western edges of the town. Surveillance drones indicate significant damage to enemy defensive positions. Rebel movements appear disorganized, but resistance pockets remain active within the residential districts.”

Khalifa gestured to the live feed on the central screen, highlighting areas where plumes of smoke rose steadily. “Civilians have begun evacuating toward the southern sector, though some remain sheltered in place. The bombardment is ongoing, and our forces continue to suppress hostile positions.”

Saqr leaned forward, his voice cutting through the room. “Are the 116th and 117th Mechanized Brigades ready to begin their attack?”

Khalifa shook his head slightly. “No, sir. Both brigades are operating at roughly half strength. To compensate, the 9th Armored Division will allocate additional forces to reinforce the 116th and 117th. Despite their limitations, the attack will proceed in a week’s time. The 9th will also position itself further north to provide ongoing support during the offensive.” Saqr just nodded his head.

“And the Air Force?”

Lieutenant General Mahmoud el-Gawad, Commander of the Air Force, rose with a quiet confidence. “Our planes are on standby and prepared to launch coordinated strikes the moment ground forces engage. We’ve already conducted several flyovers to assess enemy movement.”

Saqr’s gaze lingered on the screen for a moment before he gave a slow nod. “Good. Keep them ready. This offensive must proceed without delay.”

“Then I believe this meeting is adjourned. I'll go and pass this information to Sisi,” he said. “I look forward to hearing of our victory soon.”

Al-Ahram

GOVERNMENT FORCES STRIKE HARD AT REBEL STRONGHOLD IN DAYROUT EL-SHAREEF

In a decisive move to restore stability and eliminate entrenched rebel forces, the Egyptian Armed Forces launched a comprehensive military operation targeting Dayrout El-Shareef, a key town long held by rebel forces. The offensive, which began with a heavy artillery bombardment at 1400 hours yesterday, signals the government’s unwavering resolve to reclaim control over critical areas destabilized by rebel activity.

Sources from the Ministry of Defense confirm that initial artillery strikes successfully dismantled several fortified rebel positions along the northern and western sectors of the town. Surveillance drones have captured extensive damage to enemy infrastructure, with rebel command structures appearing fractured and disorganized in the wake of the sustained attack.

“This operation is critical to ensuring the safety of Egyptian citizens and restoring order in areas that have suffered under rebel occupation,” stated Defense Minister Abdel Saqr during a press briefing. “The bombardment has effectively weakened rebel defenses, paving the way for our ground forces to advance and secure Dayrout El-Shareef.”

According to Lieutenant General Ahmed Khalifa, Chief of Staff, civilians in the town have begun evacuating southward to avoid the conflict, with the military facilitating safe passage where possible. However, some families remain sheltered in place as the offensive continues.

The 116th and 117th Mechanized Brigades have been tasked with leading the ground assault, with the 9th Armored Division, being confirmed to also be supporting the offensive. Military officials confirm that the ground advance is scheduled to begin within a week, ensuring sufficient preparation and reinforcement.

“The Air Force stands ready to provide immediate support once the ground operation commences,” added Lieutenant General Mahmoud el-Gawad, Commander of the Air Force. “We have conducted surveillance flyovers and are fully prepared to launch coordinated strikes as soon as the order is given.”

The significance of Dayrout El-Shareef cannot be overstated. The town serves as a vital corridor connecting rebel-held territories, and its liberation will disrupt insurgent supply lines and communication networks. Government officials emphasize that this operation will mark a turning point in the ongoing conflict, weakening the rebels' grip on strategic areas.

President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, who has been briefed extensively on the operation, expressed confidence in the Armed Forces. “Victory in Dayrout El-Shareef will bring us one step closer to lasting peace and security for all Egyptians,” he remarked in a statement following the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces' meeting.

Al-Ahram will continue to provide updates as the situation unfolds. For now, the message from the Octagon is clear—Egypt’s military is prepared to see this mission through to its conclusion, no matter the cost.

by **Reverend Norv** » Wed Dec 25, 2024 6:46 pm

Modi'in
State of Israel
7 February 2024

Ari Bitton sat on a plastic chair, in a circle of other old men on other plastic chairs, and listened. He did a lot of that these days.

Right now, he was listening to Walid. Walid had fought for Hamas. He had stabbed an IDF soldier in '91, and spent twelve years in an Israeli jail; then he had been released in a prisoner swap after Millennium, and shot a Fatah soldier during the fighting between Hamas and Fatah that followed the Disengagement. Arrested again by Shabak on a warrant from the Palestinian Authority, he spent another four years in Israeli prison. And when he came out, in 2009, Walid Salama finally decided that violence could not be the answer.

Ari Bitton had come to that conclusion separately, and a few years before Walid - after half a lifetime in the IDF. So when Ari met Walid in 2010, the two old soldiers tried something new. They became two of the first members of Combatants for Peace: an organization that worked for reconciliation and friendship between Israel and Palestine. An organization whose members - these old men on their plastic chairs, gathered in a shabby community center in the Flowers neighborhood of Modi'in - all had spent years trying to kill each other. Now, instead, the old soldiers listened.

And they thought. Ari looked at Walid: the thick wire-rimmed glasses, the frizzy greying hair. Still animated, certainly. But getting to be an old man himself, now; fifty was well behind Walid. Ari was sixty-one. Somewhere inside him still lived the nineteen-year-old conscript, white-knuckling his Galil, standing on a street corner in Lebanon in '83. Waiting for someone to kill him; waiting to find out how he would die; dying already, inside, with dread and hatred and the burning frustration of being despised unto death by men whom he had never met. Men like Walid. Walid, whose left hand now shook with a tremor picked up in prison; who talked in accented Hebrew about how fear was poison, but couldn't get the swallowed "r" in "ra'al" quite right; Walid, who drowned good hummus in bad cheap olive oil, so that Ari groaned and punched him every time they got take-out.

My friend Walid, Ari thought. After all these years, it still seemed like a dream - a miracle. Ari took off his own glasses, and closed his eyes, and when he opened them again Walid was looking at him: knowing, understanding. "Well," Walid told the group. "I have talked enough for one meeting. Too much, no? But you must forgive me. We all must forgive." He met Ari's eye, and smiled. "We are old men, and our wars are over."

The explosion shattered the wall of the community center to Ari's left. Ari had just enough time to turn his head, and then he saw only the cloud of dust, driven through the room by the blast wave, carrying whole cinderblocks blasted free of the wall. He saw a block strike Walid; saw the flash of blood, dark and dirty amid the dust. He raised his right arm. He looked up. He saw the roof slide to the left, without a wall to support it; heard the groan of metal girders wrenching free. The world started to spin.

Ari stood, and turned to the right. There was a door there, in the right-hand wall. That wall was still standing. Ari had seen that sometimes, in the war: a whole building reduced to rubble, and a single wall still standing upright like a Roman ruin, like a soldier at attention. Maybe he could get under the doorframe. Maybe he could use the wall as shelter. The roof was still falling into the room. All of Ari's friends were screaming. He took a step.

A steel girder fell from above. Something unimaginably heavy struck Ari on the shoulder - knocked him to the floor - crouched on his back like a demon - ground the breath from his chest. He felt what was left of his lungs fill with blood. He tried to move his hand. He raised his head.

The last of the roof came down all together. Ari Bitton tried to listen. He tried to think. But now there was only silence, and he died in the dark.

✡︎ ✡︎ ✡︎

Three Arrested in Bombing of Peace Movement Meeting; Shabak Claims Kahanist Involvement
The three men are allegedly tied to Lehava, a Jewish supremacist organization. Twenty-three members of Combatants for Peace were killed in Friday's bombing of a community center in Modi'in.

Rivka Katz
9 February 2025
Modi'in

A statement by the Israel Security Agency today announced the arrest of three men suspected of carrying out the bombing of a Combatants for Peace meeting in Modi'in two days ago. Shabak stated that the men were known members of the extremist group Lehava, a Kahanist organization that advocates for the expulsion of all non-Jews from Israel and for the conquest and settlement of Palestine.

The men, whose names have not been released, were arrested by Yamam - the special missions unit of the Israel Border Police - in a raid on a "safe house associated with Lehava" in the city of Bnei Brak, Shabak sources say. There were no civilian casualties, and no Yamam operators were injured. Kahanist digital and print media were seized along with the suspects, as was equipment suitable for bomb-making.

The bombing on Friday of the Combatants for Peace meeting in Modi'in was the deadliest terror attack that Israel has experienced in more than two years. Twenty-three men and women - fourteen Israeli citizens and nine citizens of Palestine - were killed. An analysis by the Israel Police indicates that the attack involved a fertilizer-based car bomb (in the jargon of the security services, a VBIED - vehicle-borne improvised explosive device). The vehicle was parked against the north wall of the community center where the meeting was held, and then the bomb that it contained was remotely detonated.

Amichai Ayalon, a former director of Shabak, told Haaretz that "these arrests confirm what we already knew: Kahanist organizations like Lehava are the greatest domestic terror threat Israelis face. These groups are well-organized, determined, and supported by extremists outside our borders. Their ultimate goal is to drag the State into another unwinnable war of conquest. And they will not hesitate to murder anyone who stands in their way - even if 'standing in their way' means only working peacefully for reconciliation and coexistence."

Spokespersons for Likud and other right-wing parties immediately condemned the attacks. Since the arrest of the three suspects, right-wing organizations have also disclaimed any affiliation with, or support for, Lehava and other Kahanist groups.

Previous Kahanist attacks have been linked to foreign funds and equipment, especially from Revisionist Zionist and Christian Zionist organizations in the United States of America. Shabak has confirmed that two American rifles, AR-15s produced for the civilian market, were found at the alleged safe house where the suspects were arrested. But no further information has yet been released concerning potential foreign involvement in the attack.

A memorial service for all victims of the attack, Israeli and Palestinian, will be held in the "mixed city" of Lod on Wednesday, 19 February. Prime Minister Yair Golan and other senior government figures have confirmed that they will attend. In a prepared statement, the Prime Minister's office vowed "to pursue, with neither shame nor pity, those enemies of peace who would sacrifice innocent lives upon the altar of endless war."

For its part, the Combatants for Peace organization struck a slightly different note. In its statement on the arrests, the group reflected that "[a]ll our members once served on opposite sides of the conflict: divided by hate. On Friday, they were killed for trying to live as friends and neighbors. These terrorists believed they could divide us once again. But our members died as they lived: as brothers. Their last act was to prove their killers wrong."

Rivka Katz reported from Modi'in.

In the news:
Syria in Flames: Eurasian Troops Arrive as Turkish-backed Rebels Strike Iraq...
Iran Withdraws from Non-Proliferation Treaty
Erbil Refinery Attack Linked to KDP Freedom Fighters
U.S. President Carter Expected to Make First Official Visit to Israel

✡︎ ✡︎ ✡︎

Ben Gurion Airport
State of Israel
11 February 2024

The Israelis stood by the runway at the airport. It was chilly this time of year in Israel, but not truly cold. Still, a number of the men and women were swathed in overcoats. The remainder wore suits, cut in a way that rendered the men and women practically indistinguishable: no skirts here. Only a few of the Israeli men wore neckties: the open collar was a sartorial touch shared by Israel and Iran, a reminder of the distinct ways in which each nation refused to conform to the Western norm.

This was hardly the first visit by an American president to Israel, and the IDF - still a socialist institution, an army of citizens that disdained dress uniforms and sabers and brass bands - did not much go in for honor guards. So there was a red carpet, but no soldiers on parade, and the press was corralled at a respectful distance. Air Force One had been escorted over Israel by two F-35Is: American stealth jets rebuilt as twin-seat electronic warfare superweapons. That was symbolic welcome enough: a show of Israeli-American friendship, enhanced by purely Israeli skill.

Now, most of Israel's cabinet waited for Ryan Carter's jet to land. The Deputy Prime Minister, a tall and handsome woman in her fifties who stood bundled deep into an overcoat, turned to her companion. "What do you think of him?"

"Carter?" Yair Golan raised his eyebrows. He was an unprepossessing man: shorter than average, slim and wiry, with crew-cut grey hair. But he had an eagle's face: gaunt and intense, all jutting chin and nose and cheekbones - skin stretched tight over an unforgiving skull - and his deep-set dark eyes were vigilant. "Not Trump," he said. "An idealist, not a materialist. Wants to make a difference, though I'm not sure even he knows what difference; at least not yet." Golan smiled bleakly. "Long on energy, long on ambition. Short on forethought. An American, in other words."

Efrat Rayten - the tall woman in the overcoat - studied the Prime Minister carefully. "You make him sound like Clinton."

"Maybe he will be." Golan did not wear a coat, and the chilly winter wind ruffled his short hair. He stared thoughtfully into the grey sky. "Clinton did not care about any of us, you know. Not really. Not Israel, not Palestine. He cared about his legacy. But that was enough to give us Millennium. Isn't there something in the Bible about God using imperfect tools to achieve perfect ends?"

Neither Rayten nor Golan was religious. The Deputy Prime Minister allowed her boss a tolerant smile, but did not reply. After a moment, she said: "A different question, then. Why do you think he is here?"

Golan chuckled. "Do you think he is going to ask us to release the Modi'in bombers?"

"He does seem the type," Rayten shot back. "You heard his inaugural address. He dedicated all his efforts as president to Jesus Christ. Does that sound like a friend of our modern, secular Israel to you? Or does it sound like a man who sees us as a Biblical prophecy come true - whether we like it or not?"

"Maybe," Golan allowed. "But the Foreign Ministry and Mossad say he has gotten along with the Emiratis - the Turks - even the Iraqis." He shrugged. "I care that Carter behaves like a man of sense, Efrat. I don't much care why he behaves that way. Let him misunderstand us all day long, provided he helps us when that day is over."

"In Syria?" Rayten asked shrewdly.

"The Americans cannot help us in Syria," Golan replied. "They can only tie our hands. The Turks want us to stop supporting the Kurds; the Iraqis and Russians want us to stop striking the regime. The Iranians want to - what was the phrase? - 'crush every single Israeli that so much as breathes in the wrong direction of our brave Basij'? Something like that?" Golan smirked with contempt. "And the Americans seem to think that, except the ayatollahs, they can satisfy all of these - keep us all on the same side. Well, good luck to them."

Rayten frowned. "You are not willing to consider an American bargain in Syria?"

"I'm willing to consider anything, Efrat," Golan replied. He stamped his feet to keep warm. "But right now, that is all I am willing to do."

"Well." In the distance, the Israelis began to hear the throbbing of jet engines. They watched Air Force One lumbering down out of the winter clouds toward the airport; the saw the distant lights of its fighter escort peeling away and racing back up above the clouds. "I suppose," Efrat Rayten remarked, "that we will know what we have to consider, soon enough."

✡︎ ✡︎ ✡︎

Baghdad
Republic of Iraq
10 February 2024

"So," Samir Hesqel asked his team, "Where do we stand?"

The group was gathered in the back office of a small storefront: Hamid & Sons Excavation Services, in the Mansour district. Their business contracted with foreign archaeologists to excavate sites all over Mesopotamia. It provided laborers, excavation equipment, food, water, transportation, security - anything the client could need. And this gave the company's owners and employees an entirely legitimate reason to handle large quantities of foreign cash; to communicate constantly with foreign citizens; to travel regularly outside Iraq; and even to procure licensed firearms for private security purposes.

So naturally, Samir Hesqel - whose papers gave the name Samir Hamid, owner of Hamid & Sons - was in fact a katsa: a collections officer of the Institute for Intelligence and Special Operations. Samir, like most katsas in the Arab world, just called his real employer al-Maktab: "the Office." The rest of the world called it Mossad.

His team - the five permanent employees of Hamid & Sons - were, like Samir, all first- or second-generation Israelis of Iraqi origin. There were the two "sons," "Haidar" and "Abbas": the former was the team's SIGINT specialist, and the latter was its forger and financial expert. Hamid and his "sons" had arrived in Iraq six years before: appearing in Baghdad under flawless false papers, having "moved" from the small Shia town of Kumayt. Then there was "Marwa," the team's specialist in disguises and extractions, a crotchety old woman who kept the company's books. Out of all of them, only Marwa and Samir had actually been born in Iraq; the others had been born in Israel to Iraqi parents. There was "Shaimaa," too, who worked the front desk: young and beautiful, an expert in human intelligence and surveillance. And there was "Omar," the team's kidon: Samir's personal assassin. Omar was the company's security coordinator, and he was a known to be a former member of the Popular Mobilization Forces. That wasn't just a legend, either; Omar had actually fought with the Shia militias a decade before, on orders from the Office. He had been assigned to Iraq, building a life under a stranger's name, since 2012.

They were a good team. It had been almost four years since Shaimaa, the last to join, had arrived. Since then, the katsas had spoken only Arabic, and they attended the local mosque as a group, and they had built a successful business together; Samir sometimes reflected with bemusement that he felt as much professional pride when an archeological dig came off smoothly and safely as he did at the success of an intelligence operation. At times, he would even be overcome by a real paternal affection for Haidar and Abbas; for though Samir Hesqel had no sons, Samir Hamid did, and the latter often seemed more real than the former.

Now, Samir's question hung in the air: where did they stand? After a moment, Shaimaa cleared her throat. "The National Alliance," she said, "is on the verge of splitting. The leftists and the Sadrists can barely stand to be in the same room. I've heard as much from four different sources in the last week alone. With a variety of hooks." The team acquired some of its intelligence by paying men through intermediaries; it cultivated other sources through seduction or blackmail. More than a few sources simply believed that Samir and his people were themselves from the Iraqi mukhabarat, and that they were reporting on their fellow citizens to their own government. Shaimaa wove her fingers through the air. "One push, and the socialists and clerics will be screaming at each other on the floor of Parliament. And then?"

"Al-Halbousi's coalition loses a quarter of its seats in Parliament. And maybe its majority." Abbas shrugged. "The Sadrists lose any incentive to moderation, any reason to compromise. And al-Halbousi's remaining coalition is one-third PUP centrists, and two-thirds leftists: some from his own party, the others from what remains of the National Alliance. For a man like al-Halbousi, a neoliberal centrist?" Abbas shook his head. "A coalition dominated by socialists will be ungovernable."

Samir nodded slowly. That was, in a nutshell, the team's objective: do anything possible to make Iraq ungovernable, so distracted and divided that it could not seriously threaten Israel.

"All right," Samir agreed. "Let's give them a push." He raised a finger. "But it has to be go both ways. Make it look like tit-for-tat: the NAP leftists airing the Sadrists' dirty laundry, then the Sadrists retaliating in kind. That way, the escalation has already started. They'll do the rest on their own, once the fuse is lit."

Shaimaa nodded. "The Paris section has been kind enough to provide us with a hook on Taher el-Tamimi - the Basra governor. It appears he is fond of charcuterie and wine - the sort of thing that his left-wing colleagues might plausibly publicize, in order to tar the entire Sadrist wing of the NAP."

"And," added Haidar, "we have that wonderful bank statement from Farhan el-Fartousi: the director of the Iraq Ports Authority. Showing that after the deal with Daewoo, his domestic account received a line of credit on a Swiss bank; a line worth half a million dollars, paid by the Daewoo executives." He smiled at Shaimaa. "Just the sort of thing the Sadrists would publicize as retaliation - to show that the leftists are hardly as pure as the driven snow, either."

"And from there, the NAP will take care of the rest themselves." Samir sat back in his chair. "Once the Sadrists believe the leftists have made a play for control of the party, they'll spill all the left wing's secrets without any additional prodding from us. And once the Sadrists start that, the socialists will have no choice but to respond in kind."

"Just a push. It will be enough," Shaimaa repeated. "Haidar, you can make these leaks untraceable?"

"Untraceable? No." Haidar smiled. "But I'll lay a trail of breadcrumbs pointing to the people we want to implicate. The video of el-Tamimi in Paris? That will trace back to a spoofed IP address linked to the NAP's left-wing leadership. El-Fartousi's bank statement will look like it comes from the personal email of Sadr's cousin Jaafar." The young man shrugged. "The New York Times and BBC won't discuss their sources, but al-Jazeera is not so disciplined. Soon enough, it will be common knowledge not only what these politicians have been up to - but also where the leaks to the press originated. And the National Alliance will be at each other's throats."

"All right." Samir rapped the table with his knuckles. "Do it. This week. No sense waiting until tempers have cooled. We strike while the iron is hot, while they are still ready to believe the worst of each other." He leaned back in his chair. "Anything else?"

"Two issues," Omar said quietly. He leaned forward. "First. You remember the rumors about a plot to kill the American president during the summit here?"

Samir raised an eyebrow. "Not just rumors?"

"Perhaps not." Omar paused. "My friends in the Army tell me that there have been mukhabarat people asking questions. About who inspected the president's car. About who swapped out that car, before he got in it."

Samir leaned forward. "Swapped it out?"

"The timeline's still a little fuzzy. But yes. From the shape of the questions, it sounds like the mukhabarat thinks the president didn't take his scheduled car from his hotel to Baghdad University. After the car left the garage, but before Carter got in it, it was swapped for a new one." Omar shrugged. "Could be the mukhabarat have their facts wrong, of course. But that is definitely the window of opportunity on which they seem to be focused."

"So someone swapped out the president's car - after it left the garage." Samir steepled his fingers. "Omar, have you and Haidar talked about this?"

Haidar nodded. "Funny thing," the young man remarked drily. "Five people worked in that garage. The last four days? One of them was shot in a botched carjacking, and another was smashed by a truck on Abu Nawas Road."

"But not the mechanic," Omar added quietly. "A guy named Qasim."

For a moment, there was silence. Samir glanced toward Marwa, silently seeking her advice. The old woman nodded, almost imperceptibly.

Samir turned back to Omar. "This Qasim? Lift him," he said briefly. "Take him to the dig site at Tell Dlehim. The American archeologists won't be back for another two months. Plenty of time for me to work." Samir was the team's leader; he was also its best interrogator.

"Once it is done, I'll send ransom messages from a spoofed address," Haidar suggested. "Make it look like an ordinary kidnapping."

"Good." Samir nodded. "What was your second issue, Omar?"

"Su-57s," the assassin replied flatly. "The press says three of them. If that's the public story, then there are already more on the way."

Samir held up his hands. "That is our colleagues' business," he replied. In the Office, "our colleagues" always meant either Aman or Shabak; here, because the agents were talking about foreign military materiel, it was obvious that Samir meant the former rather than the latter. "I am sure that they are already looking into it."

Shaimaa frowned. "But couldn't we - "

Samir stuck both index fingers in the air, adopted a comically deep voice - an imitation of Topol in Fiddler on the Roof - and intoned: "Tradition!" As the team collapsed into snickers, he smiled and waved a hand. "This is a job for our colleagues, because the answers to any questions about those planes are not going to be found here. They are going to be found in Begovoy. And I am sure our colleagues are already looking."

Shaimaa glanced at Omar, and shrugged slightly: I tried. Samir looked at the assassin too. Omar sat back in his chair and nodded once.

"All right," Samir said. He planted his hands on the table and stood. "We all have work to do, then. More than ever, with those Italian archeologists arriving at Lagash in three weeks." He smiled wryly. "So let's get back to it."

And with that, Samir's team resumed their duties: first leaking a video of a Sadrist cleric drinking and carousing to every major news outlet; then leaking a left-wing politician's bank statement in apparent retribution; and then driving to the home of a government vehicle mechanic, there to perform a silent and traceless kidnapping. In the Baghdad twilight, Israel's invisible war raged on.

by **Malorossi** » Thu Dec 26, 2024 3:46 pm

NORDWEST NEWS
THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS A UNITED ARMY

According to our regular source from the Norwegian Ministry of Defense, Hakkon is negotiating with the leaders of the General Staffs of Norway, Sweden and Denmark about the creation of a "Joint Exercise Headquarters". Unfortunately, whether this information is related to the planned exercises in Spitsbergen or this information relates to other events being prepared is unknown. However, it is known that the Norwegian Minister of Defense agreed with Hakkon's arguments and was ready to take this step.

This cannot be called a full-fledged army of Nordland. It is more like a coalition of independent army units. And while the coordination council and Hakkon have no power over the army, this is the first serious step towards creating a more organized army structure. Many associate the latest progress in this with the violation of Norway's Arctic air space by Russia. For example, analyst Yahis Fjaraasaam said: "A cold war has begun between Eurasia and Nordland. Therefore, this provocation in the form of a violation of territorial space had to be responded to with something, most likely a full-scale exercise."

The press secretary of the coordination council denied the information of our publication: "I am afraid that you are too carried away by this frivolous topic with the "imaginary conflict". We have no information about "Russia crossing the air borders of Norway", and the very concept of the all-fleet and all-army exercises on coordination has been a long-planned action, back in 2018 Hakkon actively proposed holding the exercise in the Baltic Gulf."

Hakkon's position is likely to be rapidly gaining popularity in the apparatuses of all national states. Apparently, we will soon see how "armed neutrality" is implemented in practice.

#geopolicy #arcticpolicy

07:00 pm - 05/02/25

by **Shohun** » Thu Dec 26, 2024 7:22 pm

Presidential Complex
Ankara, Türkiye
February 8, 2025

"The cease-fires in Syria, whether they are Russian, Iraqi, or American, only serve to benefit the Russians and Assad." declared General Metin Tokel, commander of the 2nd Army as he addressed the assembled National Security Council. "Assad's regime is crumbling. The Russians are the only thing propping him up. So it is natural that more time allows them to bring in more men, more weapons, and improve their defenses. We only have a limited ability to do the same without direct intervention. We need to act sooner rather than later."

"That is not necessarily true, General." replied İbrahim Kalın, Director of the National Intelligence Organization, known by many its Turkish initials as the MIT. "I have been working to bring more assets into the Syria theater - game changing assets - not just more men and more material. We are looking into deploying around 400 of our Libyan assets who specialize in air defense into Syria, along with the S-125s and MIM-23s that we provided them. Some SNA personnel and other contractors from Africa that we have trained will provide additional support, allowing us to potentially deploy two S-125 batteries and two MIM-23 batteries. Alternatively, if the damned Israelis would stop bombing the air defense the Opposition captured, we could potentially have some Buk and Pantsir systems to work with. Of course, it may require some retraining, but our brothers in Azerbaijan have experience with them and have expressed willingness to provide training."

"For use against the Russians?" asked Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. "That would be playing a dangerous game."

"We are considering two options. We could either place the air defense systems close enough to the border that they can protect Idlib and Aleppo while still being protected by our air defenses. There is risk that they might shoot down a Russian plane, but this way if the Iraqis or Assad attempt to strike them, we can protect the batteries and claim that the enemy violated our air space. Alternatively, we can emplace them on the border with the SDF. That guarantees they are only used against Iraq or Iran, they can target return flights, and it can be deniable as an SDF air defense battery." said Kalin. "Obviously, the first is more risky than the second, but we can also feed the SNA with targeting data to minimize the risk of engaging Russian jets."

Erdoğan nodded as he followed along. "It does not have a major effect if we emplace them around Idlib or Aleppo. They can launch long-range munitions like the Israelis like to do. I want to send a message, to advance our aims on the ground. General Tokei is right. The longer we wait on Assad, the harder it will get. Not to mention, there is already the Russian-American ceasefire agreement in effect. It is only the Iraqis and perhaps the Iranians we have to worry about." He paused, considering. "If the Iraqis violate the ceasefire once the two months is up, this is how we respond. Put the air defense into position along the Opposition's border with the SDF. When their jets are returning, we will have an ambush ready for them. That will force them to recalculate. They will pause air operations, hopefully long enough for a nice window to initiate the fall offensive."

"A wise plan, sir." said Kalin. "In related news, we are concerned that the Iraqis have reached a deal with the Russians for a Su-57 squadron."

"An export Su-57." replied General Yaşar Güler, Minister of National Defense as he chuckled lightly. "I believe I read they will be receiving three initially? Unless the Russians are so kind as to give them for free, they are just a fancy showpiece. Nothing we need to worry about for now, and nothing our SNA partners need to worry about either. The Iraqis can't really afford them in numbers, and they aren't getting the real deal. We considered the Su-57 too. By the time the Iraqis receive their squadron, we will have 100 F-35s and our own Kaan fighters on the way."

"Good." said Erdoğan as he nodded carefully. But he didn't care much about Iraq. If it was a big deal, the Israelis or the Americans would deal with it. He was focused on Syria. He lookedat Director Kalin. "Regarding plans for the offensive, what is the status?" he asked.

"The SNA and affiliated groups are making quiet preparations. If we do not see the results from President Carter come late March, they will be ready." replied Kalin. "Right now we must play our part and increase our shipments to the Opposition. Right now we are working with the Opposition to repair their heavy equipment, including some that they captured during the winter offensive. The Israelis have been a problem in that regard, but we have found that they largely ignored the tanks, BMPs, and some lighter artillery that the Opposition managed to capture. We have also sought to utilize the Opposition's recent gains to boost foreign recruitment. I estimate that we will soon have brought in 3,000 foreign fighters who will join the next offensive, with more on their way. The Russians are capitalizing on the ceasefire, why shouldn't we?"

"I heard that we are getting men from Afghanistan. That might be a bad look right now with the Americans hyper-focused on the region." said General Güler.

"The SNA and affiliated groups have seen a domestic recruiting bump from locals of the newly liberated territories joining. Not to mention, we are helping them with exercises and training ahead of the planned offensive. To train foreign recruits from scratch is a hassle and we don't have time for that. The Opposition needs experienced soldiers. 'Veterans' from Afghanistan and Pakistan have that experience. We are also bringing in a mix of mercenaries, including from Libya, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, and some of the Gulf States." said Kalin. "Do not worry too much. The Americans don't care about them anymore. They are focused on ISIS. It is not like HTS or a fair number of men in the SNA aren't former Al-Qaeda. They have moved past that. Or in the case of the mercenaries, they have grown bored."

Erdoğan nodded, not looking too concerned. "Many of the mercenaries are experienced fighting against a superior enemy, whether it is Russians or Americans. They may be able to offer valuable insight for the Opposition. Just make sure to not make it too obvious. Arrange their travel on regular civilian flights and not all together. No one will ever know."

"What of Operation Kurtlar?" asked Foreign Minister Fidan. "The conditions may become right if Eurasia continues on this path in Syria, their aggression in Georgia, and perhaps aggression in the West against Ukraine."

"In due time." replied Erdoğan. "We waited nearly three decades for when the time was right, and then three more years for the next opportunity. When we sense weakness, then we will act."

Daily Sabah

Foreign Minister Protests Russian Meddling in Georgia, Denies Turkish Involvement in Protests:

Ankara, February 6th - Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan rejected recent Russian allegations of NATO involvement in Georgian protests, labeling the claims "unequivocally false." The Foreign Minister stated that Russia should not meddle in Georgian internal affairs, citing the legitimate grievances of the protesters. "The Georgian people have a right to decide their government, and to decide their own fate. Eurasia must not interfere in this. NATO will not allow a repeat of 2008."

While careful to not overly criticize Eurasia, Foreign Minister Fidan instead urged the Georgian government to listen to the protesters and to resolve the crisis peacefully. Fidan further issued a vague warning against "appeasement," but declined to clarify if he was speaking about American President Carter's recent overtures to Eurasia or something else.

Foreign Minister Fidan was firm when he expressed the importance of Georgian independence, noting its highly critical strategic position. "Georgia is an important partner of Türkiye." Fidan stated. "Should its territorial integrity or independence be threatened, it will lead to a significant disruption in the region, which will force Türkiye to act appropriately."

Georgia holds an important strategic position for Türkiye, serving as an air and land route to reach Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan, regarded by Türkiye as a brotherly state, is otherwise bordered by Eurasia to the north, Armenia to the west, and Iran to south, complicating trade and military supply if the Georgia route was cut off.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Summons Iraqi, Russian Ambassadors Over Syria Matters:

Ankara, February 8th - Following Iraqi and Russian claims of a Turkish attack against a missile base in western Iraq, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that it had separately summoned the Iraqi and Russian ambassadors for clarification, and to dispel the myth that Türkiye played any role in the alleged attack.

In a statement, the Foreign Ministry said it informed the Iraqi and Russian ambassador that Türkiye had no knowledge about any attack against Iraq, and that the Turkish government strongly denounced the accusations. In the statement, the Foreign Ministry noted that the Ministry of National Defense had indeed detected "two projectile launches" from northwestern Syria on the described date, but that it had observed the projectiles landing within Syrian borders in ISIL-controlled territory. The ministry claimed that the launches were believed to have been carried out by local militia groups contributing in the fight against Daesh. The ministry further noted that many weapons had been captured during the Opposition's surprise offensive against Assad in late November, and that Türkiye did not provide the Opposition with long-ranged systems.

This comes as top government officials have ramped up rhetoric against Iraq, as concern grows that Iraqi politicians may falsely blame Türkiye for the supposed incident at the Iraqi missile base. In a recent press conference, Vice President Cevdet Yılmaz issued a stern warning, "If Iraq threatens Türkiye, we will respond strongly. We can enter Iraq just like we have entered Libya, like we entered the Nagorno-Karabakh, like we entered PKK-occupied Syria."

A spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense spelled out a hypothetical response to an attack against Türkiye, telling reporters; "Türkiye has clear red lines. Attacking Turkish troops or Turkish territory is one of those red lines. Should any entity or government foolishly attack Türkiye, we will respond very strongly, and depending on the severity of the attack, reserve the right to activate Article Five and bring in NATO."

MHP Chairman Devlet Bahçeli Claims Israeli Involvement in Iraq Tensions:

Ankara, February 10th - Amid tensions between Türkiye and Iraq, Nationalist Movement Party leader Devlet Bahçeli, a close ally of President Erdoğan in the Grand National Assembly, has leveled blame on the Israeli government for recent developments in Syria. Speaking to the Daily Sabah, Mr. Bahçeli accused "the Israeli entity" of sabotaging relations with Iraq, claiming that they were responsible for the Iraqi ballistic missile attack on Idlib and recent Iraqi rumors of a Turkish strike against Iraq.

"Prime Minister Al-Halbousi and the rest of their top leadership are Israeli puppets installed directly by the Israeli government. They are fed millions of dollars by the Israelis while the Iraqi people struggle to meet their basic needs." Mr. Bahçeli told our interviewer. "Iraq has no reason to disturb the peace in Syria. Why attack Idlib, so far from their borders? The rightful Syrian Opposition has never threatened Iraq. Why not attack the terrorist PKK or YPG? It is because the Israelis want to destabilize the region, continue the conflict. They are Assad's biggest backer after Eurasia. They want to see the genocide of the Syrian people, just as they commit genocide in Palestine. The Israeli entity thrives on chaos and they want to see Türkiye and Iraq in conflict. That is why the Israeli Prime Minister Golan ordered his spy in Baghdad, 'Prime Minister' Al-Halbousi to attack Idlib."

When asked if he had proof of his allegations, Mr. Bahçeli replied, "I cannot go into detail or I risk exposing sensitive sources. But look no further than American President Carter's visit to Baghdad. What reason does have to go there? He just stayed in his hotel the whole time. Why not go to the Republican Palace? Because he wanted a private meeting with just the traitor Al-Halbousi. What did they talk about? Nothing! President Carter was relaying the Israeli orders. The Israelis want to ramp up tensions to hide their crimes in Palestine, their crimes in Syria, their occupation in the Golan, and their crimes in the Sinai. Did you hear about the Zionist terror attack just yesterday against Palestine? They are trying to cover that up by creating regional conflict."

Mr. Bahçeli continued to vow, "Türkiye will not allow the Israeli aggression to continue. They try to use their puppet Al-Halbousi so they can distract us while they annex the Sinai and commit crimes against Syria. We will not let this happen."

A spokesperson for President Erdoğan was quick to clarify that Mr. Bahçeli's comments were not the official position of the Turkish government.

President Erdoğan Expresses Concern Over Russian Syria Deployment, Weapons Sales:

Ankara, February 9th - In a recent press conference, President Erdoğan expressed concern over the recent Russian deployment of thousands of more troops and advanced jets into Syria amid the tenuous ceasefire between the Assad regime and opposition groups. "We want to see a gradual de-escalation and resolution to the conflict, not an escalation in the fighting. The recent Russian deployment destabilizes the ceasefire and could even result in a resumption of hostilities. We do not want to see that." he told reporters.

The recent Russian deployment came as somewhat of a surprise to Turkish officials, who believed that Eurasia would be looking to cement the ceasefire and avoid bringing in more Russian troops to fight Assad's war. "These are not peacekeeping troops." a Turkish defense official noted, expressing concern that Assad may soon resume fighting by launching a new offensive against the opposition.

While more muted, President Erdoğan also expressed worries over Eurasia's announcement that it planned to sell advanced Su-57 stealth jets to Iraq, labeling the announcement as "poorly timed." President Erdoğan warned that Iraq should not be seen as being 'rewarded' for violating the ceasefire in Syria with its ballistic missile attack on Idlib, but stated that the Turkish government was not concerned about Iraq gaining Su-57 jets.

"We have experience with the Su-57, we know what it is capable of. In such a small quantity, we are not concerned about this development. They are buying planes for ceremonial purposes." stated Minister of National Defense General Güler.

Ufra Land Forces Base
Ufra, Türkiye
February 10, 2025

Brigadier General Hassan Hamada, SNA Chief of Staff and Minister of Defense of the Syrian Interim Government, walked alongside the Turkish MIT agent he only knew as Kamil as the two reviewed the equipment being loaded on IHH aid trucks to be delivered to the SNA and a range of other Syrian opposition groups. "I send my thanks to the director for approving my weapons requests." said Hamada as he walked down the line looking into the nondescript crates.

There was the basics of course, boxes full of small arms ammunition, AKMs, PKMs, RPG-7s, mortar rounds, and other field supplies. But what was more exciting was the arms he had requested.

General Hamada admired the Turkish-made HAR-66 rocket launcher as he pulled one out of a box, before looking over the modern OMTAS and older MILAN I ATGMs. He hefted a Sungur MANPADs on his shoulder and imagined shooting down one of Assad's fighter jets. But he really smiled as he walked towards a large warehouse which hid three T-122 Sakarya MRLSs, a few M113s, and parts of a S-125 SAM system. "When the offensive begins, these will change the reality on the ground. Combined with the armor we captured, we will crush Assad on each of the three axis."

The MIT agent nodded with a smile. "I am pleased that we were able to assist you. There will be more coming over the next few weeks."

"I shouldn't, but may I ask, where did you get the S-125 from?" asked Hamada chuckling, remembering his days in the SAAF. "Azerbaijan?"

"Our eastern brothers will be sending some captured equipment over soon, but no. We have found some Libyan volunteers to help in your struggle." said the MIT agent. "We will have to be careful with these, so that the Israelis, Russians, and Iraqis don't notice, but I believe we can manage. We have nearly two months to get them in position."

Walking out of the warehouse and continuing to the parade ground, the pair watched a group of foreign 'volunteers' training. Hamada smiled. "They are good. I'll send them over in the aid trucks tomorrow tonight."

"Good, good." said the agent as he shook hands with the Syrian general and turned to leave. "I will be in touch. Ankara may have orders regarding the Kurds sooner rather than later."

by **The Manticoran Empire** » Thu Dec 26, 2024 7:39 pm

Rzeczpospolita

February 2025

News

Nawrocki mocks Russian condemnation of recent comments

3 February
Warsaw--Presidential candidate Karol Nawrocki is once again taking aim at Russia in his latest series of remarks, given today in an interview with Jacek Kurski on TVP. Nawrocki, who had made highly inflammatory remarks about Russia at a campaign rally last week, was sharply criticized by the Russian Prime Minister, Alexy Ostrovsky. Specifically, Ostrovsky claimed that Nawrocki was a “hypocrite”, criticizing the West as imperialist while characterizing the Russian dominated Eurasian Union as a voluntary association of nations.

Nawrocki, who appeared on Kurski’s morning show program to discuss his campaign, was directly asked about his thoughts on the Russian Prime Minister’s statements. In response, Nawrocki laughed. “I find it hysterically funny,” he said, calling the Russian Prime Minister a “joke of a man.” He followed up his statement with an observation, saying, "It is very telling, don't you think, that in the same breath the Russian dogs claim they are pure as the driven snow and that I am a dangerous, inflammatory radical, they simultaneously send 13,000 more troops to the Middle East and North Africa, along with stealth fighters and expanded military installations. Russians speak well but that has always been true of The Devil."

Nawrocki has been highly critical of the Eurasian Union and Russia for many years, with his criticisms sharply increasing over the last year as part of his presidential campaign. One of Nawrocki’s campaign pledges is to remove the remaining Red Army memorials at two Soviet Army cemeteries as well as to erect new monuments celebrating the so-called “cursed soldiers”, anti-communist guerilla fighters who resisted Soviet occupation. He has also expressed his support for punitive measures against the Eurasian Union for its imperialist expansionism.

Nawrocki ended his interview with a familiar call to action for his supporters, saying, “Russia wants to rebuild its empire. We cannot allow them to do that. We must not allow them to do that.”

Egyptian Army launches new offensive against rebel forces

7 February
Cairo--The Egyptian Army initiated a new offensive yesterday against rebel held positions in Dayrut Al-Sharif, a town in the Asyut Governorate along the banks of the Nile. The offensive, spearheaded by elements of two mechanized brigades and an armored division, began with heavy artillery fire yesterday afternoon. According to Egyptian Army sources, the ground offensive will begin after a week of heavy artillery fire.

The offensive has been sharply criticized by humanitarian relief groups like the Red Cross, who argue that the extensive use of heavy artillery in such close proximity to civilians is reckless and will result in significant avoidable death and suffering to the civilian population. The Egyptian Government has, as yet, made no comment on the matter.

Bombing strikes CFP community center in Israel, Jewish supremacist group suspected

7 February
Modi’in--A shattering explosion ripped apart this peaceful neighborhood earlier today when a bomb was detonated at the Combatants For Peace Community Center during a CFP meeting. The bomb killed at least twenty people, both Israeli and Palestinian citizens.

The Combatants for Peace Movement is made up of men and women who share the unique experience of fighting each other during the decades long conflict between Israel and Palestine, soldiers who now gather to share stories of the suffering and coordinate efforts to facilitate reconciliation and reinforce the peace between Israel and Palestine. Despite their noble goals, the CFP Movement has its enemies, both in Israel and Palestine, among the groups who wish for the violence to return. The Israeli Security Services have not yet named a specific group as the suspect but, based on recent statements by Israeli officials, a likely suspect is the Kahanist Movement, a Jewish Supremacist movement that seeks to expel non-Jews from Israel and conquer Palestine for settlement.

The Millenium Agreement, which brought an end to the war between Israel and Palestine and led to Palestinian independence, has been deeply unpopular with Kahanist members and sympathizers, with some members of the group going so far as to suggest that the Agreement was an act of treason against the State of Israel.

Iran withdraws from NPT

31 January
Tehran--The Iranian government has made a startling announcement today, declaring that they will be withdrawing from the Nuclear Non Proliferation Treaty. The NPT, which was signed in 1968 and entered into force in 1970, has governed the protection and regulation of nuclear material and information to prevent the proliferation of atomic arms. Iran was among the first nations to ratify the Treaty, doing so prior to the Islamic Revolution of 1979. Only four nations, Sudan, India, Pakistan, and Israel, have failed to sign the Treaty and only one other nation, North Korea, has signed it and then withdrawn.

The Iranian announcement comes at a precarious time in the Middle East, as the anti-Assad rebel forces in Syria have begun making headway while Iraq, Israel, and Turkey have each launched air and missile strikes against targets inside Syria. Combined with the ongoing civil war in Egypt and recent US airstrikes in Afghanistan, the Iranian withdrawal can only be interpreted as a declaration of intention to complete their nuclear weapons program.

Polish Air Force to receive initial deliveries of F-15EX fighters in March

10 February
Warsaw--As part of the Armed Forces ongoing efforts to modernize their inventories and deter Russian imperialism, the Polish Air Force is expecting to take delivery of 12 F-15EX beginning in March. The F-15EX is the most advanced model of the American F-15 multirole combat aircraft yet, with a payload capacity of 13,400 kilograms of external stores, including air to air and air to surface ordnance, such as hypersonic missiles.

The Polish Air Force ordered 48 of the American fighters to provide line and training aircraft for the 21st, 22nd, and 23rd Tactical Air Bases. According to the Air Force, the aircraft will be used to perform air defense and air supremacy missions over the homeland, freeing up the F-35A squadrons to perform offensive air supremacy and close air support missions. The Air Force also plans to purchase American AIM-174B air to air missiles to take advantage of the greater sensor reach possible with drones and stealth F-35s to maximize the range at which Air Force fighters engage and destroy enemy aircraft.

by **Malorossi** » Fri Dec 27, 2024 1:43 pm

NORDWEST NEWS
BREAKING NEUTRALITY OR HAKKON'S PLAN?

Yesterday, Norland's official political representative in Georgia, who is called "Norland's Ambassador" - Yahis Soammi, was beaten during the protests in Georgia. This position is undergoing approval personally through Hakkon Kristin, so this action caused a diplomatic scandal with Eurasia. Popular candidate for the advisory council, Vilya Volov, condemned the "violence in Georgia" and demanded that the government and the opposition sit down at the negotiating table, calling the beating of Yahis "an act of declaring war."

However, the leader of the Labor Party asked the question, "What was a representative of a neutral country doing at a clearly politicized anti-Russian protest?" demanding an investigation into Yahis Soammi, considering that his very presence violated the "principle of neutrality," which is an inviolable part of the Commonwealth. The ambassador himself made a statement that "He was not a participant in the protest, he was part of a peacekeeping mission to organize negotiations between the government and the protest leaders." Hakkon refused to comment on the incident.

This situation has greatly affected the election campaign of the "big centrist bloc", which began to inflate this story in its program, showing Russia's aggressive intentions, adding to this situation the violation of Russian airspace in the Arctic. Sven Børgi organized a large rally in Oslo, where he declared: "The Russian bear is preparing an attack on Nordland, Finland, Estonia. It is time for us to take Finland and Estonia under our protection and prepare for a big war with Russia. It is time to remember that Russia will never be our friend, and we, the descendants of the Vikings, kill our enemies without mercy." The opposition platform, on the contrary, declares that the Big Centrist Bloc is preparing to sell Nordland's sovereignty to NATO and provoke a third world war, calling the Big Centrist Bloc a "war party".

Our regular analyst Jozans Gjarvund suggested that Christian needs to provoke a fictitious conflict with Russia in order to centralize the Scandinavian army around the coordination center. However, the danger is that this "controlled escalation" could get out of control and unleash a large-scale third world war. In addition, this topic has now been used in domestic politics, inciting obvious Russophobia to attract voters to their programs. Other analysts are inclined to believe that the ambassador's stunt had nothing to do with Hakkon's foreign policy, and that the ambassador himself was an ardent opponent of neutrality, who sympathized with the "Western geopolitical field."

The press service of the Coordination Council stated that "Yachis Soammi did not participate in the rally, but was a member of the peacekeeping mission," stating that "the inflated scandal surrounding his beating greatly harms the established concept of neutrality." Be that as it may, it has now become the topic of the day, according to the survey it is in 2nd place after the elections to the Advisory Council.

#geopolicy #electoral

07:00 pm - 09/02/25

HaakonChristian

The recent story of the beating of Yahis Soammi is getting out of control, so I am forced to give comments. First, there is no conflict with Russia, Kuznetsov is a prudent politician and will not endanger the international security system. Second, Yahis was an official delegate whose task was to organize de-escadation negotiations between the opposition and the government of Georgia in order to avoid creating a hotbed of instability on the border with our partner - Eurasia. Third, nothing can interfere with our course towards international neutrality, we will maintain it to the end, neutrality is foreign policy, but not moral, we must remember - the goal of our neutrality is first and foremost peacekeeping.

#Georgia #geopolitics

03:54 am - 11/02/25

2025: The Times | IC | Open

2025: The Times | IC | Open

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