Posted on 01/01/2025 6:44:53 AM PST by Godzilla
HEADS UP - My posts for the next couple weeks will continue to have the potential to be a bit sporadic as August activities take over my time.
Globalism / Great Reset –
The Trump administration imposed additional sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) for attempting to prosecute American officials, as well as those of allied countries, especially Israel.
In a statement, the State Department said:
Today, the United States is sanctioning four individuals, currently serving on the International Criminal Court (ICC). The Department of State’s designations are made pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 14203, which authorizes sanctions on foreign persons engaged in certain malign efforts by the ICC and aims to impose tangible and significant consequences on those directly engaged in the ICC’s transgressions against the United States and Israel.
The Department is designating the following individuals pursuant to section 1(a)(ii)(A) of E.O. 14203, for having directly engaged in any effort by the ICC to investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute a protected person without consent of that person’s country of nationality:
- KIMBERLY PROST, Judge, Trial Division, International Criminal Court
- NICOLAS YANN GUILLOU, Judge, Trial Division, International Criminal Court
- NAZHAT SHAMEEM KHAN, Deputy Prosecutor, International Criminal Court
- MAME MANDIAYE NIANG, Deputy Prosecutor, International Criminal Court
https://harbingersdaily.com/israel-at-war-week-88/
OBSERVATION - The ICC has essentially morphed over years into a quasi-judicial enforcement arm of the globalists. One more tool in their tool bag to try to enforce their agenda on the world.
CW2 / Domestic violence - Threat Level - ADVISORY - up dated July 26, 2025
UPCOMING -
- “People vs. Billionaires Week of Action” , 21-27 August
- Labor day of action, Sept 1
- 5-day national economic and labor boycott for 16-20 September
***
The Department of Class Solidarity launched a project to “audit” and track over 1,000 billionaires and their political campaign contributions. They are also sponsoring a “People vs. Billionaires Week of Action” which runs from 21-27 August, just before the Labor Day National Day of Action on Monday, 01 September.
OBSERVATION - Very typical class warfare MO. Also moves into territory where the next phase will be seeking to assassinate these billionaires
POLITICAL FRONT –
For all practical purposes its over. Texas will have a new congressional map for the 2026 midterms, though it took over two weeks after state Democrats unnecessarily fled to prevent a quorum. The new map gives Republicans five winnable seats, all majority Hispanic districts.
OBSERVATION - Democrats have already begun the legal challenge to the redistricting, however, due to the influx into to Texas over the past couple years, a redistricting is throughly justified and Texas will likely win in the courts.
RELATES - Newscum and kalifornian democrats are attempting to initiate redistricting but hitting into a wall that the law, state constitution and public all say no too.
Illegal Immigration –
The Justice Deptt delivered demand letters to sanctuary cities, counties, and states.
“Any sanctuary jurisdiction that continues to put illegal aliens ahead of American citizens can either come to the table or see us in court.”
OBSERVATION - These are just opening salvos in the developing conflict to enforce national immigration policy on an equal basis across the nation
North/South Korea –
CSIS has revealed the Sinpung-dong Missile Operating Base, an undeclared North Korean facility about 25km from the Chinese border, likely housing nuclear-capable ICBMs able to reach the United States - Yonhap
Russia -
Threat Level WATCH, Ongoing - into the fourth year of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - Feb 24th, 2022
*****
Russia continues to try to position itself as the good guys in the saga with the Ukraine war.
Ukraine –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing Apr 24, 2025
WEATHER FORECAST – Mostly fair with temps the 50-80 range with a cooling trend towards there end of the period
24 HOUR ROUND UP –
On the night of August 2, Russia attacked with 614 air attack assets.
Shot down:
546/574 Shahed/various type drones
1/4 Kh-47M2 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles
0/2 Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles
18/19 Kh-101 cruise missiles
12/14 Kalibr cruise missiles
0/1 Unknown type missile
It is the biggest air attack since July.
Russian losses per 21/08/25 reported by the Ukrainian General Staff
+830 men
+1 tank
+5 AFVs
+41 artillery
+1 MLRS
+1 AD system
+315 UAVs
One person was killed in a drone and missile strike on the western city of Lviv, while 15 others were reported wounded in an attack on the south-western Transcarpathia region.
Several large fires can be seen burning tonight at the Novoshakhtinsk Oil Refinery in the Rostov Oblast of Southwestern Russia, following a Ukrainian drone attack earlier against a number of military and infrastructure targets near the Sea of Azov in Southern Russia.
The village of Tolstoy, Donetsk region, has been retaken and brought back under Ukrainian control.
Ukrainian Special Operations Forces confirmed they hit a Russian fuel train near Dzhankoi station in occupied Crimea during a night operation on August 21. The strike disrupted logistics for Russia’s southern military grouping.
Two powerful explosions rocked occupied Sevastopol around 03:35 near the “Pivdennyi” airfield on Cape Khersones, likely hitting a Russian Black Sea Fleet military site. Fires broke out at the scene, confirmed by NASA FIRMS data
Summary —
Like I warned, Russian unleashed a large drone and missile attack before the end of the week. A number of targets in Western Ukraine were affected. However, Ukrainian air defenses appear to have done a pretty good job this round. I don’t think Russia is thru in the cycle, so I expect more large attacks the next couple of days - following their pattern
Action on the ground is interesting. One of the lowest days of casualties in a while, while there appears to be a lot of activity on the ground. Again, I see the uptick by both sides being efforts to gain tactical ground as the mud season is coming in the next couple months.
Soap opera on talks with Russia seemingly have returned back to status quo after the Trump intervention.
Europe / NATO General –
NATO deployed fighter jets overnight following Russian strikes on the central Ukrainian city of Kremenchuk, reports Fox News.
Romania’s Ministry of National Defense said two “Typhoon aircraft belonging to the German Air Force ... were scrambled to monitor the air situation in the border area with Ukraine, in the north of Tulcea County.
“The [Romanian] Ministry of National Defense’s air surveillance system identified groups of drones launched by the Russian Federation, which attacked Ukrainian ports on the Danube. During the mission, no airborne vehicles were recorded entering national airspace,” it added.
It’s the second time in three days that allied planes have been scrambled in precautionary moves.
https://www.newsmax.com/world/globaltalk/nato-russia-ukraine-romania/2025/08/20/id/1223263/
OBSERVATION - This comes after a Russian Shahed drone impacted and exploded in a Polish field. Some see this as Russia jerking NATO’s chain
Pakistan / India –
India successfully tested its nuclear-capable Agni-5 IRBM from Chandipur.
The missile reaches Mach 24, with a 5,000 km range, and an upgraded 7,500 km variant in development.
It can carry three nuclear warheads for simultaneous launch.
OBSERVATION - Definitely increases India’s regional threat range and capabilities. More a warning to China than Pakistan.
ISRAEL –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing - Apr 24, 2025
Key overnight developments -
- Israel pushes into Gaza City
——— GENERAL ——————————-
Israel’s Ministry of Defense will acquire two more Boeing-manufactured refueling aircraft from the United States for about $500 million.
These aircraft will be fitted with Israeli systems and integrated into the Air Force, bringing the total fleet to six.
——— GAZA FRONT / HAMAS ———————————
IDF spokesperson in a statement: We have reached operational control of about 75% of the Gaza Strip and have moved to the second phase of ‘Gideon’s Chariots,’ in which we have begun the operation to take control of the city of Gaza. Our forces are already operating on the outskirts of the city The IDF destroyed approximately 30 kilometers of terror tunnels and 2,000 terrorists since March
——— ASSESSMENT AND FUTURE OPERATIONS ————————-
It appears that Hamas wasn’t expecting Israel to so aggressively and so easily begin the push into Gaza City. They saw it coming - hence all the last minute ‘hostage’ negotiations but probably thought they had more time.
Israel for its part needs to fight an accelerated battle. The longer this drags out at this stage, the more support for Hamas in the international community can develop (mostly in the discredited bleats on starvation, etc).
Lebanon -
Israel struck Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon near the city of Tyre. Secondary explosions testify of weapon cache that was hit.
Egypt –
Egypt reportedly has mobilized armored forces into the Sinai in response to Israeli action in Gaza.
HEADS UP - My posts for the next couple weeks will continue to have the potential to be a bit sporadic as August activities take over my time.
CW2 / Domestic violence - Threat Level - ADVISORY - up dated July 26, 2025
UPCOMING -
- “People vs. Billionaires Week of Action” , 21-27 August
- Labor day of action, Sept 1
- 5-day national economic and labor boycott for 16-20 September
***
Weekend outlook. A lot of generic protests covering a wide range of issues, but none appear to be developing into any large scale violence. However, be aware, especially in Antifa strongholds, that post protest violence may occur. Be alert to your specific city.
***
(FO) As of this morning, the Labor Day “national day of action” has surpassed 600 individual protests scheduled for Monday, 01 September. Roughly 10 days out, that’s about half the size of the “No Kings” national day of action.
OBSERVATION - Energy for these protests appear to be waining. Recent protests in DC regarding the Federal take over of policing could only turn out old white people - likely living in gated communities out side of the DC metroplex.
Terrorism - Threat Level - WATCH as of Jun 14, 2025
- Iran could activate cells in the US.
Economy- Threat Level - WATCH - as of April 4, 2025
The Federal Reserve is gathering at Jackson Hole. Jerome Powell is expected to give a speech which economic leaders are looking at closely - especially in regards to lowering currently sky high rates. The markets have been fluctuating based on who is reading what tea leaves on Powell’s talk.
RELATED - President Donald Trump called on Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook to resign yesterday, after Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte alleged Cook committed mortgage fraud. If Trump’s pressure campaign succeeds, Cook’s replacement would be the fourth out of seven Federal Reserve Governors who are Trump appointees.
OBSERVATION - Analysts leaning towards a rate cut in September, thought it will be a close run thing. Powell’s term is done next May and if Cook is forced to resign, due to mortgage fraud allegations, Trump could quickly switch the base of the Fed in his favor. Growing pressure not only from Trump, but internally from Fed Governors to lower rates sooner than later.
Military / Strategic Activity / Deployments –
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched Thursday night, carrying a classified US military spaceplane into orbit.
It was the eighth flight of an X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle. No one was on board the rocket, which launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
POLITICAL FRONT –
An Obama-appointed federal district judge ordered Alligator Alcatraz shut down in 60 days, says no more new detainees. Basis is supposed ‘environmental damage’. Under appeal.
***
FBI agents early Friday raided the home of former National Security Advisor John Bolton as part of an investigation into a national security matter, U.S. officials told Just the News.
Officials said the search of Bolton’s home involved a national security case that began under the Biden administration, but wasn’t aggressively pursued until Patel took over earlier this year. They declined to be more specific.
Bolton was one of several national security advisors for Trump, but was eventually fired and became a critic of the current president.
OBSERVATION - Bolton was one of many turncoats -potential plants into Trump 45 term.
***
The California Assembly on Thursday passed the first of three bills aimed at drawing new congressional maps, as Democrats try to counter a Republican-driven effort in Texas.
This after the new map passed out of Assembly and Senate committees yesterday. The State Assembly and Senate will also vote on a bill directing the California Secretary of State to call a special election on 4 November, and a state constitutional amendment to allow the new map.
OBSERVATION - Fully expect that the legislature and newscum will do all within their power to cram this redistricting down the throats of kalifornians. Word out is that they are doing the Orwellian word shifting on the special election title and contents - all to misdirect voters. No shock here.
INTERNATIONAL GENERAL –
The Indian economy is under strain following President Donald J. Trump’s decision to impose a 25 percent tariff on Indian goods, with plans to raise it to 50 percent. The move, tied to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, caught New Delhi off guard and sparked a rare public rift between the U.S. and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.In February, President Trump and Prime Minister Modi held a summit in Washington, D.C., announcing plans to grow bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030. Modi then described the U.S. as “India’s most trusted partner”—despite the South Asian country’s membership of the BRICS bloc alongside China, Russia, and other countries often at odds with U.S. foreign and trade policy.The tone has changed since February, as the Trump administration seeks to pressure Russia into making peace with Ukraine by imposing secondary sanctions on key trade partners. Chietigj Bajpaee, senior research fellow for South Asia in the Asia-Pacific Programme at Chatham House in England, commented, “With Trump, everything is leverage. What seemed like alignment in February turned out to be a setup for pressure in August.”The tariffs target key Indian export sectors like textiles and leather goods. White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller has noted that, beyond enriching Russia through energy purchases, India’s anti-American trade policies have played a role in the sanctions, explaining, “India portrays itself as being one of our closest friends in the world, but they don’t accept our products. They impose massive tariffs on us.”
https://thenationalpulse.com/2025/08/20/india-is-reeling-under-trump-tariffs/
OBSERVATION - The key is Indian imports of cheap Russian oil, which they refine and sell on the market at a high profit. India has a long relationship in buying military hardware from Russia as well, however since the start of the Ukraine war, those exports - once a cash cow for Russia as well - have dried up.
TRUMP Watch –
The New York Court of Appeals has overturned the heavy penalty of more than $515 million imposed on President Trump in the civil fraud case in which he was accused of falsifying financial statements.
OBSERVATION - Just the first step in the eventual over turning of the whole conviction.
***
President Trump to reportedly patrol the streets of Washington, D.C., tonight with law enforcement and the military to get a firsthand look at the city’s new law and order.
Illegal Immigration –
The Trump administration will begin reviewing all 55 million US visa holders to see if any have committed deportable offenses.
Any immigrants holding US visas found with “indicators of overstays, criminal activity, threats to public safety, engaging in any form of terrorist activity, or providing support to a terrorist organization” will have their permits to live in the US revoked and be deported, the State Department announced Thursday.
State Department representatives told the Associated Press all US visa holders are subject to “continuous vetting” intended to identify deportable offenses.
OBSERVATION - Visa overstays and criminal activity have been a bane to the program, and biden allowed this to go unchecked.
China -
Armed China Coast Guard small boats have deployed to Second Thomas Shoal, reinforcing Beijing’s presence in the area following recent tensions around the disputed areas of the South China Sea, according to the Philippine military.
An Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) maritime domain awareness (MDA) patrol on Wednesday observed 11 China Coast Guard watercraft forces exercising at Second Thomas Shoal with several armed fast boats and rigid-hulled inflatable boats. Compared to previous instances of China Coast Guard small boats, the Philippine military noted that these vessels “have been upgraded with mounted weapons.”
A video released by Manila shows a Chinese small boat equipped with a heavy machine gun and crewed by personnel wearing camouflaged fatigues approaching the Philippine patrol.
https://news.usni.org/2025/08/21/china-deploys-armed-small-boats-to-secondthomas-shoal
OBSERVATION - More evidence of Chinese increasing aggressive tactics and posture. I expect that an actual shooting incident may well happen in the coming months, and could trigger a stronger US presence in the region.
North/South Korea –
Kim Jong Un awarded North Korean troops who fought against Ukraine in the Kursk region, praising their “great feats” as historic for the DPRK. Portraits of killed North Korean soldiers were displayed during the ceremony.
OBSERVATION - NK forces had high losses in their initial deployment. Ceremony designed to prepare the population for more casualties and NK increases number of troops to the Ukraine theater.
Russia -
Threat Level WATCH, Ongoing - into the fourth year of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - Feb 24th, 2022
*****
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that Russian President Putin is prepared to meet Zelensky for peace but “with the understanding that all issues that require consideration at the highest level will be well worked out.” One of those stipulations is clarifying the legitimacy of Ukrainian President Zelensky due to the lack of elections in 2024 and Russian concerns that a follow-on presidency would use this to delegitimize the peace deal.
(ISW) The Kremlin continues to insist that the 2022 Istanbul negotiations are the only acceptable departure point for potential future negotiations on the war in Ukraine, thereby demanding that Russia and its allies reserve the right to veto any Western military assistance to Ukraine and that Ukraine be left neutered and defenseless against future Russian aggression.
U.S. talks with Russia have “fractured” after Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov’s pushback on security guarantees for Ukraine yesterday -Bloomberg.
Other Key Takeaways:
The Kremlin continues to categorically reject US-backed security guarantees for Ukraine and reveal its continued objectives of seizing control of all of Ukraine.
OBSERVATION - Putin plays Lucie to Trump’s Charlie Brown.
Ukraine –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing Apr 24, 2025
WEATHER FORECAST – Mostly fair with temps the 50-80 range with a cooling trend towards there end of the period
24 HOUR ROUND UP –
Zelensky has reiterated a hard no on ceding land to Russia as part of any peace deal.
Overnight into August 22, Russia launched 55 Shahed drones and decoys from Kursk, Millerovo, Primorsko-Akhtarsk and occupied Crimea. Ukraine’s air defenses shot down or suppressed 46 of them over the north and east. Nine drones hit four locations.
Russian losses per 22/08/25 reported by the Ukrainian General Staff
+790 men
+4 tanks
+3 AFVs
+46 artillery
+1 MLRS
+1 AD system
The Unecha oil pumping station in Russia’s Bryansk region, a key hub of the Druzhba oil pipeline, was targeted again by the 14th Regiment of Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces this evening
Pokrovsk axis (Formerly Ocheretyne) -
Several Ukrainian sources report that counteroffensive operations are underway in the Pokrovsk sector, most likely on the southern and southeastern outskirts of the city, with advances pushing further south.
Summary —
Hmmmm, after launching the third largest drone/missile attack of the war, Russia drops back to a very low number of drones. In the recent past, Russia has had several days of high numbers before backing off again. No associated OSINT analysis on this decline as of yet.
Also noting that the reported casualties of Russian forces have dropped 50% from the highs earlier this spring. Could be a function of changes in Ukrainian accounting or less activity. I suspect the former, given that action on the ground for both sides have picked up lately.
More and more reports of localized Ukrainian counter attacks / offensives. Latest being around the critical city of Pokrovsk. Important to note it seems these battles are set to secure tactical advantages before the mud season hits and ground operations come to a slog.
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov basically torpedoed any understandings that came out of the Alaska meetings. This has placed matters back to square one. Trump has given a two week window to evaluate Russian honesty and willingness to go forward. Well he got his answer early. Remains to see how willing Trump is to take the more serious sanctions and tariff actions.
Europe / NATO General –
U.S. and European military leaders today briefed their respective national security advisers on Ukraine security options, including European troop deployment under U.S. command or U.S. air support via additional air defense systems and a no-fly zone enforced by U.S. jets.
OBSERVATION - Not sure just how this will go forward. Especially in the light of Russia’s stated demand that they maintain a veto over any security action they don’t like.
ISRAEL –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing - Apr 24, 2025
Key overnight developments -
- Ground action in and around Gaza City developing.
- Israel will only accept 100% of remaining hostages being returned at once.
——— GENERAL ——————————-
Trump administration has asked Israel to reduce “non-urgent” military action in Lebanon following decision to disarm Hezbollah — Axios
——— GAZA FRONT / HAMAS ———————————
Israeli Defense Minister Katz says Israel approved IDF’s plans to defeat Hamas in Gaza city. He warned that unless Hamas accepts Israel’s terms for ending the war, foremost among them release of hostages and disarmament, Gaza’s fate will be that of Rafah and Beit Hanoun.
***
Netanyahu says he has instructed to begin immediate negotiations for the release of all Israeli hostages and to end the war. Netanyahu also said the war will end only under conditions acceptable to Israel, adding that he approved IDF plans presented to him and the Defense Minister for taking control of Gaza City and defeating Hamas.
OBSERVATION - Netanyahu throwing the hostage/ceasefire negotiations back on Hamas. Release of ALL hostages and remains, no more piecemeal releases.
***
IDF: Hamas and other terrorist organizations continue to act to disrupt the distribution of humanitarian aid: a launch was identified toward the aid truck route in southern Gaza.
Earlier today (Thursday), the IDF detected a launch from the area near Al-Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis toward the main route used for aid trucks in southern Gaza.
The launch occurred while a convoy of trucks was passing through to collect humanitarian aid from the Kerem Shalom crossing and landed approximately 300 meters from the route.
———INTERNATIONAL ——————————-
Jordanian Foreign Ministry: We strongly condemn the statements of the Israeli Minister of Communications, in which he invoked extremist fantasies claiming that the banks of the Jordan River are part of the so-called “Land of Israel.”
***
The Saudi-owned newspaper Independent Arabia reported early Friday morning, citing “senior Syrian sources,” that Israel and Syria are expected to sign a security agreement on September 25 under American auspices. The agreement is slated to be signed a day after Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa delivers his first speech at the United Nations General Assembly.
According to the sources, the agreement will be a security arrangement aimed at reducing tensions between Jerusalem and Damascus. However, a comprehensive peace deal between the two countries is not expected “in the near future.”
Furthermore, Sky News Arabia reported, citing its sources, that the US is working to facilitate a meeting next month between President al-Sharaa and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with US President Donald Trump expected to participate. The report noted that the recent appointment of a new Syrian representative to the UN, with negotiation authority, was made “in this context.”
The reports have not yet been officially confirmed by either Israel or Syria.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/413674
***
On the eve of the next and potentially more brutal phase of the Gaza operation, UN and affiliated NGOs are screaming that there is a full blown famine in Gaza. They accomplished this by fudging downwards their standards and completely ignoring all the signs of plenty of food. They deliberately misrepresented / understated the numbers of trucks that have entered the strip and have turned a blind eye the vast amount of these trucks being hijacked by Hamas.
——— ASSESSMENT AND FUTURE OPERATIONS ————————-
Hamas’ reportedly agreed to hostage / ceasefire move is going down, as expected. It was a desperate move that could have succeeded months ago, but now they’ve wasted time.
The international world rallying to a fictitious famine declaration in Gaza. Israel has the receipts as well as Gazans continuing to post videos on social media of all the food availability. This is an effort to stop Israel from moving forward with its next phase of war against Hamas.
I expect the UN and related anti-Israeli elements to continue their pressure based on the fictitious famine narrative.
Slow diplomatic movement with Lebanon and Syria. But going in Israel’s favor.
Iran –
Threat Level - ADVISORY July 17, 2025
Iranians protest in Shiraz over ongoing power and water outages
They chant slogans like:
“Not Gaza, not Lebanon, my life for Iran”
“Leave Palestine, think of us.”
“The people in thirst & darkness – the officials in comfort & light”
https://x.com/osint613/status/1958785793918415122?s=46&t=nfRT-Yioj0xALNzJelzFcA
OBSERVATION - Natives are getting restless. A lot of talk from Iranian military leaders with propaganda targeting the masses and an effort to divert their attention on no water or power.
***
The United States and Britain imposed a new round of sanctions Thursday on Iranian oil networks, shipping companies and individuals accused of helping Tehran skirt restrictions and fund destabilizing activities abroad.
The U.S. Treasury Department said its measures targeted 13 entities based in Hong Kong, China, the United Arab Emirates and the Marshall Islands, as well as eight vessels. The designations focused on Greek national Antonios Margaritis and his network of companies and crude oil tankers accused of transporting Iranian petroleum exports in violation of U.S. sanctions.
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/h1gg2xhyxe
***
(ISW) Iran continues to block International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) access to its damaged nuclear facilities and highly enriched uranium (HEU) stockpile after the 12-day war. Iran’s 409 kg HEU stockpile remains in one or several unspecified locations, and Iran’s access to the stockpile is unclear.
Lebanon -
U.S. envoy Barrack proposed Israel’s step-by-step withdrawal from 5 outposts tied to Hezbollah’s disarmament. Plan includes a “Trump economic zone” in S. Lebanon near Israel’s border, with Saudi & Qatari investment to block Hezbollah’s return and ease Israeli security concerns.
OBSERVATION - Much will depend on Hezbollah’s disarmament - as Israel will not pull back until that is attained.
***
Meanwhile, Israeli drones took out more Hezbollah leaders in S Lebanon overnight.
Saudi Arabia –
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi at Neom Airport in southwestern Saudi Arabia. The two are expected to discuss regional developments, including the war in Gaza and Cairo’s efforts to mediate a ceasefire.
OBSERVATION - Saudi Arabia and Egypt have developed into key player in the Gaza conflict.
Thanks Godzilla.
I’m so sick of the left crashing every holiday to try to ruin ruin it with some *day of action* or *week of action*.
They’re overgrown toddlers having a temper tantrum trying to control everyone else and ruin everyone else’s good times.
HEADS UP - My posts for the next couple weeks will continue to have the potential to be a bit sporadic as August activities take over my time.
Economy- Threat Level - WATCH - as of April 4, 2025
Apparently, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell’s speech today in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, was widely interpreted as meaning interest rate cuts are coming as soon as next month.
The S&P 500 index also surged today but closed just below the record level it set just last week. Reuters adds,
Traders boosted bets on a September rate cut after Powell’s comments, now placing a nearly 90% chance of a reduction, versus about 75% before Powell’s remarks.
OBSERVATION - Considering a quarter point reduction exciting, I think part of the thought is that the Fed is changing its outlooks for even more loosing of the purse strings after September. A quarter point affects big industry, and most of us won’t see much change in the near term.
***
According to S&P Global data released yesterday, S&P’s purchasing manager index rose 3.5% to 53.3%, the largest increase since May 2022. S&P Global Market Intelligence said manufacturing employment growth is the strongest since 2022, due to stronger demand for U.S. manufacturing.
OBSERVATION - A component of the imposition of tariffs, making it cheaper to build at home. Good forecast for economic growth.
Military / Strategic Activity / Deployments –
According to Fox News, 1,700 National Guardsmen in 19 Republican-led states are set to be mobilized in the coming weeks at the request of the Trump Administration, to assist the Department of Homeland Security with its nationwide crackdown on illegal immigration and crime, beginning recently in Washington. Documents obtained by Fox show planning for activations in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Wyoming – with status effective from August through November. “Guardsmen being mobilized will effectively serve as a support pillar to a sweeping federal interagency effort, while also serving as a visible deterrent force,” said an official from the Defense Department.
https://x.com/sentdefender/status/1959099592265326951?s=46&t=nfRT-Yioj0xALNzJelzFcA
OBSERVATION - It will be interesting to see how this is structured. In LA the guard secured the ICE facilities and didn’t actually go out and arrest anyone. In DC it is reported that the NG can detain individuals until LEOs arrive to make the arrest. What will be mix be in dark blue cities like Chicago? Will blacks come out in support of illegals??
POLITICAL FRONT –
Rumint. It is being reported that John Bolton’s FBI raid today was NOT just about putting classified info in a book.
He was reportedly “making a lot of money from OVERSEAS and may have been TRAFFICKING in intelligence.”
https://x.com/ericldaugh/status/1959060125567893641?s=46&t=nfRT-Yioj0xALNzJelzFcA
OBSERVATION - Word is this investigation is in its initial phases. If Bolton has stepped over the line, arrests won’t be for a while yet as collected evidence has yet to be evaluated.
INTERNATIONAL GENERAL –
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announces that Canada will be DROPPING their retaliatory tariffs against the US and removing tariffs on US goods covered by existing trade deals.
Illegal Immigration –
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is reported on ignoring a court ruling to shutdown “Alligator Alcatraz.”
OBSERVATION - The ruling is based on ‘environmental concerns’, a sneaky way to bypass the real agenda that this is another activist judge is trying to thwart deportations of illegals. As already noted, appeals are in process, so continued operations pending appeal is not too surprising.
North/South Korea –
South Korea has confirmed it fired warning shots earlier in the week at North Korean soldiers who briefly crossed the heavily-fortified border between the two countries.
North Korean state media called the shots a “deliberate provocation” and Pyongyang has accused Seoul of risking “uncontrollable” tensions.
The incident was made public as new South Korean President Lee Jae Myung departed Seoul on Saturday for a visit to Tokyo and Washington.
Pyongyang has upped the ante in recent weeks, with leader Kim Jong Un’s sister rebuffing efforts towards reconciliation made by Lee’s government.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said in a statement that some North Korean troops working in the border region crossed the military demarcation line between the two countries at about 15:00 local time in Seoul on Tuesday (07:00 BST).
.
The soldiers later moved back to the north of the line, the JCS added.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn85pvv13e8o
OBSERVATION - A dangerous situation, but one that came under control quickly and will not trigger a new war.
Russia -
Threat Level WATCH, Ongoing - into the fourth year of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - Feb 24th, 2022
*****
(ISW) FoxNews: [Lavrov’s] comments escalated concern that Putin’s ultimate war aim is the control of Kyiv, rather than physical occupation of all of Ukraine, which Russian forces have been unable to achieve.
Lavrov said the Kremlin’s goal is to “protect” Ukrainians from their own government and argued “there can be no talk of any long-term agreements” with Kyiv “without respect” for Russia’s security and the rights of Russian speakers in Ukraine, the Institute for the Study of War reported this week
OBSERVATION - Russia’s Lucy - oh please trust me Charlie Brown.
Ukraine –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing Apr 24, 2025
WEATHER FORECAST – Mostly fair with temps the 50-80 range with a cooling trend towards there end of the period
24 HOUR ROUND UP –
Russia launched 49 Shahed drones and imitators from multiple directions, of which 36 were shot down or suppressed across the north, east and center of the country. 13 drones managed to hit sites in Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk and Sumy regions.
Russian losses per 23/08/25 reported by the Ukrainian General Staff
+840 men
+5 tanks
+4 AFVs
+23 artillery
Ukrainian drones targeted Russian railway infrastructure overnight, with strikes reported near Petrov Val in Volgograd region. A fire broke out in the area of the railway station.
Russian Ministry of Defense claims full occupation of Serednie and Kleban-Byk villages in Donetsk region of Ukraine
In the Lyman direction, Ukrainian forces have recaptured Novomykhailivka and are continuing to press southward.
Summary —
Another very low number of Shahed’s overnight - unusually low based on what they been throwing in the past months between their BIG combined attacks. Makes me wonder if Ukraine’s deep game is having success in this arena. Russia’s internal production alone should allow a lot more in these in-between times. Another thought is Iran’s capability to produce Shaheds for Russia has been substantially impacted from the 12 day war.
More evidence of a growing localized counter attack move by Ukraine. Ukraine success may also be a result of Russian overextension and lack of reserves to exploit the recent gains - leaving the forces depleted and open to being cut off. Will have to continue to monitor these developments.
ISRAEL –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing - Apr 24, 2025
Key overnight developments -
- Continued pressure on Gaza City as IDF ramps up attacks.
——— GAZA FRONT / HAMAS ———————————
IDF continues to press into Gaza City, orders civilians to flee to ‘safe’ areas to the west.
———“ISLAMIC RESISTANCE” ———————————
The IAF intercepted an UAV and a ballistic missile launched from Yemen
———INTERNATIONAL ——————————-
The Dutch House of Representatives has just adopted Geert Wilders’ resolution declaring that Hamas must be completely destroyed.
OBSERVATION - Wilders understands the threat from Hamas and that they are the bad guys in the area. Too bad the rest of European leaderships fails to see that as well.
***
UN continues to shout famine, while actual evidence proves contrary.
——— ASSESSMENT AND FUTURE OPERATIONS ————————-
Hostage talks are at an essentially a standstill. I expect no breakthrough there. Witkoff has moved on and now the water is being carried by Egypt and Qatar - both friendly to Hamas. Trump appears to no longer support anything except the complete release of all hostages - living and dead and the disarmament of Hamas. Much of Hamas’ efforts now are to try to survive this next phase of the war. The key to winning will be Israel’s resolve to ignore the UN et al and continue its drive to the heart of Hamas controlled Gaza City.
Iran –
Threat Level - ADVISORY July 17, 2025
Iranian FM Araghchi says Iran’s stockpile of Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) is buried “without a real way to get it out at the moment”
https://x.com/faytuksnetwork/status/1958931674256810402?s=46&t=nfRT-Yioj0xALNzJelzFcA
OBSERVATION - Analysts have generally concluded that the stockpile of enriched uranium was buried by US bombing and the tunnels damaged to such an extent that considerable engineering to get to it.
Lebanon -
Lebanon’s Army has launched its first-ever disarmament of Palestinian factions in Beirut’s Burj al-Barajneh camp.
Fatah handed over a cache of weapons, including machine guns, rockets, and ammo, though Hamas and Islamic Jihad refuse to disarm, calling their arms essential to the Palestinian cause.
OBSERVATION - Its a step in the right direction.
Syria -
Threat Level - ADVISORY July 25, 2025
Syrian Foreign Ministry: There is no truth to talk of a security agreement with Israel. The Syrian Foreign Ministry confirmed that what is being circulated in some media outlets about an upcoming security agreement between Syria and Israel on September 25 is absolutely untrue, stressing that this news is merely baseless allegations.
Misc of Note –
Fire season across the western half of the US is growing, so all you Freepers living in urban/woodland interface area or even at your bug out site in the woods need to get your evacuation plans nailed down now. Test your escape routes, have your bags and important documents ready to grab and go and enhance your monitoring of any fires in your region.
Thanks Godzilla.
GOOD FOR HIM!!! God bless him.
Pretty dry here now in the NE as well. It s been anther VERY dry summer but hotter than last summer.
Democrats want to 'fight crime' the way they 'fight' their stupid forever wars - enough to look like they care but not enough to win.
When this is over and Trump's has turned the tide against criminals and illegals, people will wonder why it wasn't done decades ago...
HEADS UP - My posts for the next couple weeks will continue to have the potential to be a bit sporadic as August activities take over my time.
CW2 / Domestic violence - Threat Level - ADVISORY - up dated July 26, 2025
UPCOMING -
- “People vs. Billionaires Week of Action” , 21-27 August
- Labor day of action, Sept 1
- 5-day national economic and labor boycott for 16-20 September
***
So far it seems to have been another relatively quiet weekend. But don’t let your guard down.
Military / Strategic Activity / Deployments –
It was reported last week that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth fired the head of the Defense Intelligence Agency, Lt. General Jeffrey Kruse.
Sources told the Washington Post that the official reason for Kruse’s sacking was Hegseth’s “loss of confidence” in the general, a justification the Defense secretary has previously used to justify the removal of other senior military officers at the Pentagon.
OBSERVATION - Reports that this in in response to the leaking of a controversial Intel Report on Iran Strikes - contrary to the WH statements
Illegal Immigration –
Tom Homan announced that 1,700 National Guard troops will be deployed across 19 states to support ICE as a “force multiplier.” They will primarily handle logistical tasks, enabling ICE agents to focus on arrests - NewsNation
OBSERVATION - Kinda what I expected. Logistical plus point defense of ICE and associated federal facilities.
Russia -
Threat Level WATCH, Ongoing - into the fourth year of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - Feb 24th, 2022
*****
While the Pentagon has reportedly blocked Ukraine from using U.S.-made long-range missiles to strike targets inside Russia, part of a policy aimed at nudging Moscow toward peace talks, according U.S. officials, President Donald Trump signaled a new approach this week.
“I’m not happy about it, and I’m not happy about anything having to do with that war,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office when asked about a Russian strike on an American company’s factory in Western Ukraine.
Earlier this week, Trump wrote on Truth Social it is “very hard, if not impossible, to win a war without attacking an invader’s country,” urging that Ukraine be allowed to “play offense” and “fight back,” denouncing former President Joe Biden’s administration for stifling Ukraine’s ability to strike targets in Russia.
https://www.newsmax.com/us/atacms-donald-trump-ukraine/2025/08/23/id/1223689/
OBSERVATION - Indicators that Trump is going to significantly loosen the use of US weapons to target deep into Russia. Russia has continually threatened counter measures should that happen. Now with Russia / putin double talking Trump, it looks like the gates are being opened.
Ukraine –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing Apr 24, 2025
WEATHER FORECAST – Mostly fair with temps the 50-80 range with a cooling trend towards there end of the period
24 HOUR ROUND UP –
Russia launched 72 Shahed drones, imitators, and one Iskander-M ballistic missile overnight on August 24. Ukrainian air defenses shot down or suppressed 48 drones across the north, east and south. A missile and 24 drones struck 10 locations.
Russian losses per 24/08/25 reported by the Ukrainian general staff.
+910 men
+3 AFVs
+40 artillery
+1 AD system
Ukrainian defense forces have fully controlled Mykhailivka, Zelenyi Hai and Volodymyrivka villages in Donetsk region, - Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Syrskyi
Overnight, several drones launched by Ukraine struck the gas and oil export terminal at the Port of Ust-Luga in the Leningrad Oblast of Northwestern Russia, near the border with Estonia and on the Gulf of Finland. Several fires can be seen burning at the port, with the smoke reportedly being seen as far as the outskirts of Saint Petersburg.
The Novoshakhtinsky oil refinery in Rostov Oblast has been burning for the third day after Ukrainian forces targeted it with a drone strike
Ukrainian strike drone hit the Syzran Oil Refinery. In total, about 20 explosions were heard overnight and early morning.
Summary —
Moderate action as reported. More Ukraine gains on the ground as well as more hits on Russian oil processing and distribution. Last analysis I saw indicated that Ukraine has taken 18 - 20% of Russian oil refining and distribution off line. That’s a huge hit to an economy as dependent on oil revenues as Russia. Reports that shortages are beginning to impact the harvest in addition to the military.
It appears that Ukraine is receiving clearance for deeper strikes with US munitions like ATACAMS. This places much of the Russia rear area under threat - the big army command posts, troop concentrations and logistics. Restrictions in the past were based on a fear of escalating the conflict, but now with multiple diplomatic deceptions in regards to peace talks, Trump is opening this up as one pressure on Russia.
Russia has one more week before Trump’s wrath comes to bear. The increased used of deep US weapons may be the tip of the iceberg to the many tools Trump and Ukraine’s European allies have to hurt Russia.
ISRAEL –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing - Apr 24, 2025
Key overnight developments -
- IDF preps the battlefield in Gaza with massive air and artillery fire.
——— GAZA FRONT / HAMAS ———————————
Israeli planes and tanks pounded the eastern and northern outskirts of Gaza City overnight Saturday to Sunday, destroying buildings and homes, residents said, as Israeli leaders vowed to press on with a planned offensive on the city.
Khan Yunis under fire: Israeli airstrikes and artillery shelling target the center and east of the city in the southern Gaza Strip. Ground forces have nearly encircled it and adjacent areas to the east.
The Israeli military said on Sunday that its forces have returned to combat in the Jabalia area in recent days, to dismantle militant tunnels and strengthen control of the area.
———“ISLAMIC RESISTANCE” ———————————
Israeli media reports that Mossad and military intelligence are preparing an extensive list of targets for the Houthis
The plans call for strikes on “centers of gravity” in response to missile and drone attacks on Israel
The targets in Israel’s latest strike on the Houthis: the Presidential Palace and senior Houthi officials Other target included the capital’s secretariat building in Tahrir Square in central Sana’a, the oil company station on Al-Sitteen Street in the capital, Sana’a, a Houthi military base and central power station.
Israeli military: Houthis fired a rocket at Israel on Friday for the first time with a cluster munition warhead.
OBSERVATION - Looks like the start of a series of strikes warned about by Israeli media.
———INTERNATIONAL ——————————-
Egyptian army reinforces forces along Gaza border amid fears of Gazans fleeing to Rafah - Israel Hayom
OBSERVATION - In the past when these ‘Palestinians’ roamed Egypt, they helped to try to overthrow the govt. An action they’ve attempted in every other arab state they flocked to. Needless to say, Egypt is very tense over mass exodus of Gazan rabble into the country.
——— ASSESSMENT AND FUTURE OPERATIONS ————————-
Heavy air and artillery strikes are preparation of the battle field for the entry of ground forces. Israel is pressing the fight with deployed and mobilized forces while waiting for the reserves to report, fall in on equipment and enter the fight.
Expect greater shouting about the (fake) famine in Gaza and more Hamas attempts to derail operations via a hostage exchange ‘plan’. Hamas is facing the full wrath of the IDF as it enters its main stronghold and so far both tactics of famine and remaining hostages are not working to blunt it.
In Lebanon and Syria, Israel is still taking advantage of targets of opportunity, though lately at a slower pace as efforts to move diplomatically to eliminate those threats move forward.
Iran –
Threat Level - ADVISORY July 17, 2025
Hossein Ashtari, advisor to Iran’s armed forces chief of staff:
“We hope Israel has learned a lesson from the war it started and will not repeat such actions, otherwise it will face a harsher blow than before”
OBSERVATION - More big talk about how they defeated Israel. These are propaganda elements directed internally to distract from the massive water and power shortages and outages.
***
Ebrahim Azizi, head of Iran’s Parliamentary National Security Committee:
“Triggering the snapback mechanism has no legal or political validity, and the Europeans have not the slightest authority to invoke it”
“Any reckless, hostile, and irresponsible action by Europe will face an immediate and decisive response from the Islamic Republic.”
OBSERVATION - Iran is scared tp death of the impending “Snap Back” sanctions. Its economy is in shambles and is not being helped by emphasis on the military. So Iran resorts to its wore out threats against Europe.
ADDITIONAL - A lot of threats recently towards Israel and the US. In large part trying to rebuild public confidence in the military and distract them from economic woes. Were Iran to launch an attack - with the public suffering from lack of water an power - likely revolts would start as Israel/US launch counter strikes, maligning living conditions even harder.
Iraq -
Arab media reported on August 18 that a US military convoy departed Ain al Asad airbase, a military facility hosting US forces in western Iraq, on its way to Syria. An Iraqi security source speaking to Shafaq News claimed that all US soldiers will leave Ain al Asad by September 15. A limited number of US forces may remain in Baghdad, while others relocate to bases in Syria and Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan.
In a statement to the Iraqi News Agency, Hussein Alawi, an advisor to Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al Sudani, said that the international coalition gathered to fight the Islamic State (IS) will end its mission in Baghdad and Ain al Asad airbase next month.
Iraqi officials have been concerned that any instability in Syria may affect Iraq and could provide an opportunity for the Islamic State to resurge. Additionally, Shiite communities in Iraq distrust Syria’s new regime and hold special animosity for interim President Ahmad al Sharaa, who fought with Al Qaeda in Iraq as an insurgent during the Iraq War.
OBSERVATION - Big gamble, but Iraq thinks it can handle the anti-ISIS operations more on its own. Under biden, ISIS has become more active and threatening, so time will tell just how successful this will be for Iraq.
Syria -
Threat Level - ADVISORY July 25, 2025
Around 30 Druze factions, including Sheikh Karama forces, announced they merged into the “National Guard Forces” and will operate under the guidance of Hijri as their “spiritual authority”
OBSERVATION - Situation between the Druze and the Syrian govt remain tense as the Druze do not trust Damascus. And with good reason - leadership has supported genocidal attacks on other ethnic groups in the country.
One of the few things the Mullahs know how to do well is keeping their boots on the faces of the Iranian people...
Tousi TV and Israeli sources have been reporting Iranian revolts against Mullahs and IRGC for weeks.
https://www.youtube.com/live/9rFlYQEzpxs?si=a4wUi1q81gRT5o7k
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