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Music title: Hotboii - Z What I Z (Official Video) Signer: Hotboii Release date: 2/4/2025 Official YouTube link:
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When Donald Trump's fortunes took a downturn in the 90s and he needed to raise cash fast, he sailed his 282ft (85m) superyacht, the Trump Princess, to Asia hoping he could attract Japan's wealthy. It wasn't the first time the businessman had sought out Japanese buyers or lenders for his projects. In the cut-throat world of New York real estate, Trump had a front-row seat from his Fifth Avenue skyscraper of Tokyo's buying spree in the 80s of iconic US brands and properties, including Rockefeller Center. It was then that his worldview on trade and America's relations with its allies was formed, and his fixation on tariffs, a tax on imports, began. "He had a tremendous resentment for Japan," says Barbara Res, a former executive vice-president at the Trump Organization. He watched with jealousy as Japanese businessmen were viewed as geniuses, she says. He felt America wasn't getting enough in return for assisting its ally Japan with military defence. What are tariffs and why is Trump threatening them? Trump often complained that he had difficulties doing deals with large groups of Japanese businessmen. "I'm tired of watching other countries ripping off the United States." That Trump quote could've been pulled from 2016, but it's actually from the late 80s when he made an appearance on CNN's Larry King Live, around the time he first floated his name as a potential presidential candidate. Fresh from sharing his business philosophy in his 1987 book, The Art of the Deal, Trump went on a tirade against America's trade policies in national interviews. In an animated interview with Oprah Winfrey before a live studio audience on The Oprah Show, he said he would handle foreign policy differently by making the country's allies "pay their fair share". He added that there wasn't free trade when Japan was "dumping" products into America's market but making it "impossible to do business" there.Jennifer Miller, an associate professor of history at Dartmouth College, said others shared his concerns about the economy at the time. Japan provided competition for US manufacturing, particularly in consumer electronics and cars. As US factories were shuttering and new Japanese brands entered the market, pundits were talking about Japan surpassing the US as the world's leading economy. "Trump is sort of symbolic of a lot of people who were kind of questioning American leadership in the American-led international order, and whether it actually served the United States," Prof Miller says. Before his Oprah appearance, Trump had spent almost $100,000 to release an "open letter" in full-page ads in three major US newspapers. The headline read: "There's nothing wrong with America's Foreign Defense Policy that a little backbone can't cure." In it, he said Japan and other nations had been taking advantage of the US for decades. He claimed "the Japanese, unimpeded by the huge costs of defending themselves (as long as the United States will do it for free), have built a strong and vibrant economy with unprecedented surpluses". Trump believed the obvious solution was to "tax" these wealthy nations. "The world is laughing at America's politicians as we protect ships we don't own, carrying oil we don't need, destined for allies who won't help," he wrote. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gp5pw654lo
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Porky Porky is a 1 to 3-year-old male. Porky may be little, but he’s gat a BIG personality packed into this adorable frame. He is a super sweet and spunky guy who loves to bring smiles to everyone he meets. Whether it’s zooming around with his toys, snuggling up for some quality cuddle time, or showing off his playful side, he knows how to keep life fun and full of love. Butterball Butterball is a 3 to 5-year-old male. You might not notice it at first, but he is a little different from your typical kitty — he’s got some unique medical needs, but we promise he is worth the extra care. Butterball does require special food and close monitoring to keep him feeling his best. But here’s the thing: despite his challenges, he is the sweetest cat you’ll ever meet. Butterball will shower you with all the love and affection you could ever want. If you are interested in meeting any of the animals available for adoption at the Cape Coral Animal Shelter, visit CapeCoralAnimalShelter.com for more information. All animals adopted through the Cape Coral Animal Shelter are spayed/neutered, up to date on all age-appropriate vaccines and microchipped. The shelter is at 325 S.W. 2nd Ave., Cape Coral, and hours of operation are Tuesday and Thursday, noon to 5 p.m., and Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Please call 239-573-2002 for more information. If you are interested in meeting any of the animals available for adoption at The Cape Coral Animal Shelter, visit its website at www.capecoralanimalshelter.com for additional information. The shelter is located at 325 S.W. 2nd Ave., Cape Coral, and hours of operation are Tuesday and Thursday, noon to 5 p.m., and Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Please call the CCAS at 239-573-2002 for additional information. https://www.capecoralbreeze.com/opinion/local-columns/2025/02/07/cape-coral-animal-shelter-looking-for-a-loving-home-porky-butterball/
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The Chevrolet Blazer might not be around much longer. A new report from GM Authority, citing “sources close to that matter,” alleges the automaker will eliminate the gas-powered crossover from its American lineup after 2025. Sales for the stylish crossover continued to fall last year, down 20 percent from 2023. Chevy sold the most Blazers in its second model year, nearly reaching 95,000 units sold, but it has never replicated that level of success since. The Blazer first went on sale in 2019 in the US.Motor1 reached out to Chevrolet to verify the report. A Chevy spokesperson declined to comment on the report, saying only the company had no portfolio changes to share.Chevy builds the Blazer at its Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico, where it also assembles an assortment of electric vehicles from General Motors, like the Chevrolet Blazer EV, the Equinox EV, and the Cadillac Optiq—and the Honda Prologue. Automotive News reported this week that GM eliminated a shift at the factory, reducing it to just two.A January 2023 tweet from Mexico’s Economic Ministry announced GM would produce only electric vehicles at the facility in 2024, but that deadline has passed. The Blazer shares a platform with the Cadillac XT5 and XT6, which GM Authority also reports could get cut after 2025. https://www.motor1.com/news/750015/chevrolet-blazer-dead-after-2025/
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Former Pakistan cricketer Yasir Arafat has been appointed as South Africa’s bowling consultant for the tri-nation ODI series featuring hosts Pakistan and New Zealand. Yasir Arafat, who played three Tests, 11 ODIs and 13 T20Is for Pakistan, arrived in Lahore from London and has joined the Proteas' training camp ahead of their opening match against New Zealand on 10 February. The former all-rounder is the first Pakistan Test cricketer to complete an ECB Level 4 coaching course at Loughborough University. He has served as a bowling coach for county teams such as Sussex and Surrey and worked with the Perth Scorchers in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL). Additionally, Yasir Arafat has been Pakistan’s High-Performance Coach and the bowling coach for the Hong Kong national team. Yasir Arafat described his new role as a valuable experience, attributing his appointment to his familiarity with local conditions. “It is a good opportunity for me to work with the South Africa team. I’ve been given the role because of my familiarity with the conditions here,” he said. While acknowledging the absence of senior players due to T20 leagues and injuries, he expressed confidence in South Africa’s younger players. “Unavailability of experienced players makes a difference, but youngsters are also talented,” he added. The tri-nation ODI series, running from 8 to 14 February, will serve as a key preparatory event for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which begins on 19 February in Karachi. Pakistan will face New Zealand in the opening match, while South Africa’s first game is scheduled for 10 February. The final will be played between the top two teams on 14 February. https://tribune.com.pk/story/2527304/former-pakistan-all-rounder-yasir-arafat-joins-south-africas-coaching-staff
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From love and passion to a sense of dread and danger, red is a colour that evokes multiple emotions. Even in the animal kingdom, red plays a crucial role in alerting against potential danger, attracting a mate, or simply blending into the background. This is also why a huge variety of furry creatures and stunning birds are drenched in the hues of red. Here is a list of 7 such stunning creatures in red- Red Panda Known for its cute, small build, these adorable creatures are native to the wilderness of India, Nepal, and Bhutan. They are also known as the ‘firefox’ due to their fiery shade of fur. However, despite their name, they are not linked to pandas and live on trees.Like their ancestors, the red fox is known for its cleverness and predatory nature. They are densely po[CENSORED]ted across the continents of Europe and America. They prey on smaller animals such as raccoons, rodents, birds rabbits, etc.The ladybird beetle, commonly known as the ladybug, is po[CENSORED]r for its dainty polka-dotted appearance. They also prove useful in gardens since they get rid of aphids and other plant-eating pests that may destroy plants. Thus, in many cultures across the globe, they are also regarded as the symbol of good luck and health.The red squirrel is a symbol of the majestic forests that sprawl across Europe, South America, and parts of North America. They prefer to stay in forests and eat seeds, nuts, and berries, unlike grey squirrels that thrive in urban areas. Scarlet Macaw One of the most majestic birds in the animal kingdom, the scarlet macaw is drenched in hues of red, yellow, and Tuscan blue. This scarlet red bird is known for its intelligence and loud, screeching call. It is native to the Amazon rainforest and parts of South America. https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/pets-animals/7-most-stunning-red-animals-in-the-world-9718702/
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A federal judge has blocked Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) from accessing the personal financial data of millions of Americans in Treasury Department records, according to court documents. US District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer issued a preliminary injunction on Saturday to prohibit access, ordering Musk and his team to immediately destroy any copies of records. The move comes after 19 state attorneys general sued the Trump administration after Doge, a cost-cutting initiative led by Musk, was given access to the records. They argued access for Musk, a "special government employee", and Doge, which is not an official government department, violated federal law.There was no immediate comment from the White House, President Donald Trump or Musk. The Democratic state attorneys general sued Trump, the Treasury Department and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Friday. Engelmayer's order, issued early on Saturday, said the states would "face irreparable" harm without immediate relief. "That is both because of the risk that the new policy presents of the disclosure of sensitive and confidential information and the heightened risk that the systems in question will be more vulnerable than before to hacking," the order read. The order restrains the defendants from granting access to Treasury Department records containing personally identifiable or confidential information to special government employees, political appointees, and other employees from outside the department. The injunction restricts anyone else from accessing those records other than civil servants who need to do so for their work at the Bureau of Fiscal Services and have passed background checks. The judge further ordered any person among those restricted to immediately destroy copies of records. The conditions will remain in place until the next court hearing on 14 February. Tech titan and billionaire Musk has been heavily involved in upheaval during Trump's second term, with Doge leading major cuts at the US Agency for International Development (USAID), which distributes billions of dollars of aid globally. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjw4g2q62xqo
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Artist: 21 Savage Real Name: Shéyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph Birth Date /Place: October 22, 1992 Age: 32 Social status (Single / Married): Single Artist Picture: Musical Genres: Hip Hop Awards: Grammy Award for Best Rap Song-MTV Video Music Award for Song of the Year-Billboard Music Award for Top Rap Song Top 3 Songs (Names): 21 savage - can't leave without it-Glock In My Lap. 21 Savage-21 Savage - a lot. 21 Savage Other Information: Shéyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph (born October 22, 1992), known professionally as 21 Savage, is a rapper based in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. Born in London, he moved to Atlanta with his mother at age seven.
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Job growth in the US slowed last month but unemployment remained low, in a sign of a solid, if more subdued economy. Employers added 143,000 jobs in January, while the unemployment rate slipped to 4% from 4.1%, according to the Labor Department report. The figures set the stage as US President Donald Trump enters the White House promising a major shake-up, including cuts to government spending and the federal workforce, mass migrant deportations and higher tariffs on many goods coming into the US. The proposals have raised uncertainty about the path ahead for the world's largest economy. Last month, the US central bank cited questions about the future as it announced it would not cut interest rates, hitting pause after a series of cuts that had started in September. Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell also said the bank's concerns about the job market had subsided. Despite the slowdown in jobs growth last month, analysts said they did not see much in the report to spark new worries, noting revisions to earlier data indicating that job growth in November and December was stronger than previously estimated. "A lower-than-expected January payrolls number was more than offset by upward revisions to November and December's totals and a downtick in the unemployment rate," said Ellen Zentner, chief economic strategist for Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. "Those who'd hoped for a soft report that would nudge the Fed back into rate-cutting mode didn't get it." Employers in health care and retail sectors drove the job gains in January, which came as the country was hit by wildfires and winter storms. Average hourly pay was up 4.1%, compared with January 2023, according to the report. The report was affected by annual revisions, which incorporate more detailed data on job growth. Those showed fewer job gains in 2024 overall than previously estimated. US shares were little changed after the news. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said the report showed "the Biden economy was far worse than anyone thought, and underscores the necessity of President Trump's pro-growth policies". Despite the revisions, the latest report suggested that the job market is more stable than it was just a few months ago, said Samuel Tombs, chief US economist for Pantheon Macroeconomics, which said it was no longer expecting the Fed to cut rates in March. "All told, the economy created fewer jobs than we previously thought last year, but the trend no longer appears to be deteriorating," he said. He warned that the firm still expected a "relapse" in jobs growth "given the muted level of hiring indicators and elevated uncertainty about the new administration's economic policies". https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5yd88d2lxzo
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Researchers in Australia said Thursday that they have for the first time successfully produced the first kangaroo embryos through in-vitro fertilization, in a breakthrough that may help save endangered species from extinction. Australia is not short of kangaroos — the bouncing creatures are commonly eaten there — but they are from the marsupial group of mammals that is mostly found in the country and has lost many species to extinction. The researchers' use of IVF on kangaroo eggs and sperm may help support the conservation of those marsupials, said Andres Gambini, lead researcher and University of Queensland lecturer.“Our team built on years of experience working with reproductive technologies in domestic animals like livestock and horses,” Gambini told NBC News via email. “By adapting these techniques to the unique biology of kangaroos, we were able to create an embryo in the lab for the first time.” The research will help scientists learn more about how marsupial embryos grow because the class reproduces differently compared to other mammals. “Kangaroos have a very short pregnancy, and the embryo can go into suspended animation for several months,” Gambini said. “Our success with IVF helps us better understand these early stages of development.” Australia is one of the world's most biodiverse countries but also has the highest rate of mammal extinction. Australia’s invasive species council says that since the European settlement, at least 33 mammal species have become extinct, with many of those marsupials. A historically high rate of extinction led the Australian government in 2022 to announce a 10-year “zero extinctions” plan to protect those under threat, reserving at least 30% of the country’s land mass for conservation. “If we keep doing what we’re doing, more plants and animals will become extinct,” Australian Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said in the report. “Even koalas are now endangered on the east coast of Australia.”Now, more than 2,200 species in the country are classified as threatened with extinction, according to a 2023 report by the nonprofit Australian Conservation Foundation. “The laws that are meant to be protecting Australia’s nature are failing,” the report said, adding that the country’s major conservation policy as it existed then was “barely monitored, rarely enforced and full of loopholes that allow businesses to destroy nature.” While kangaroos are not endangered, the University of Queensland researchers hope the latest breakthrough can help to preserve other endangered marsupial species native to the continent, including koalas, Tasmanian devils and northern hairy-nosed wombats. “This work gives us a new tool to help preserve genetic material in endangered species,” Gambini said. “By creating and freezing embryos, we can safeguard the unique genetic of these animals.” It's not the first time IVF has been used as a tool to preserve endangered species. Last year, scientists in Italy achieved the world’s first IVF rhino pregnancy, offering hope for saving Kenya's northern white rhino — of which there are only two animals left on the planet — from extinction. They did so by transferring a lab-created rhino embryo into a surrogate mother. Still, the latest IVF breakthrough is just one step on a long road to a more comprehensive solution, Gambini said. “There are many unknowns, as we are just on the beginning and there is lot to discover yet,” he said, adding that when combined with other strategies, “it can make a real difference for species at risk.” https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/kangaroo-embryo-ivf-australia-marsupials-endangered-conservation-rcna190951
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BMW is rumored to launch its first electric M3 in 2027. We already know it won't outright replace the gas model, with the company confirming the next-gen M3 will also get a straight-six engine, just like the current car. Thankfully, it sounds like the ICE-powered M3 will be sticking around for a while... so long as the law allows it. BMW M vice president for customer, brand, and sales Slyvia Neubauer confirmed as much in a recent interview with the Australian publication CarExpert. “We offer all-electric M Performance models in most segments that deliver the genuine M feeling without any local emissions," Neubauer said. "But, we also believe that there will be room for other driver technologies, such as hybrid or conventional drives."With demand for EVs leveling off, keeping the gas-powered M3 around makes sense. Not every M3 buyer will want to switch to electric, even if it offers more performance. We've known for nearly a year BMW is planning to keep both iterations in the lineup, thanks in part to relaxed emissions regulations. “You can trust us, we are prepared for the future," Neubauer told CarExpert. "I can also reassure you the all-electric M3 that I just mentioned, will have a brother with a combustion engine. They will exist in parallel. So no matter what the customer demand is, we will be able to cater for all needs in any market, as long as regulation allows.” The electric M3 will debut first in 2027 as a direct replacement to the current car, before a new gas-powered M3 is introduced in 2028, according to BMWBlog. Like the new M5, it's likely to gain hybrid power, though we suspect M will simply use a 48-volt mild hybrid setup to keep weight down (the M5 is a full-fat plug-in with a sizable battery). BMW hasn't confirmed any of this info, so take it with a grain of salt. One thing we're sure of, though, is that the next gas M3 won't get a manual transmission. A board member told the media last year the stick shift's days are numbered at the company. So it's likely that the stick will be phased out of the M3 and M4 after this generation is done. Tragic. https://www.motor1.com/news/749990/bmw-will-keep-gas-m3-as-long-as-regulations-allow/
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After months of criticism and waiting, the work at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore has finally been completed. The Champions Trophy 2025 starts on February 19, and the Gaddafi Stadium is one of the three venues to host the upcoming prestigious event.The stadium is now equipped with new LED screens, seats, floodlights and a renovated dressing room as well. The PCB has decided to inaugurate the renovated stadium in a grand manner. This article will shed light on all the details you need to know about the Gaddafi Stadium. When Is The Gaddafi Stadium Inauguration? The inauguration of Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will take place in a grand manner on February 7. What time will the ceremony Begin In Lahore? The Gaddafi Stadium inauguration will start at 5:30 pm Pakistan Standard Time (PKT). For the Indian fans, the event will start from 6:00 pm Indian Standard Time. Who Will Inaugurate The Renovated Gaddafi Stadium? Notably, several notable dignitaries will be present in Lahore to witness the mega-event. However, Pakistan PM Shahbaz Sharif will officially inaugurate the stadium on Friday, February 7 as he is the chief guest. Are Fans Allowed To Witness The Mega-Event? The PCB has invited the fans to be a part of the celebrations and not only that but they have also made the entry free.Who Will Perform At Gaddafi Stadium Inauguration? It is worth noting that it will be a star-studded show and several Pakistani renowned stars such as Ali Zafar, Aima Baig, and Arif Lohar will perform live. What To Expect During Gaddafi Stadium Inauguration? Besides the musical acts from Ali Zafar, Aima Baig, and Arif Lohar, the PCB has also planned a Light show, firework show, and also live Dhol performances. Further, the ICC has also dropped a teaser of the Champions Trophy 2025 anthem, featuring Atif Aslam. Notably, the fans can expect the event to also release the official anthem sung by Aslam. Not only that, but Pakistan will also launch their official jersey for the Champions Trophy 2025 during that inauguration. https://cricket.one/cricket-news/champions-trophy-gaddafi-stadium-inaugurations-date-time-star-performers/67a5ccbc703dbcd7d84b4482
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Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of health complications worldwide, but prevention doesn’t always require drastic lifestyle changes. Small, consistent adjustments to daily habits can significantly impact heart health over time. While many people focus on major interventions, the subtle, everyday choices often make the biggest difference. But what are these small yet effective changes, and how do they contribute to long-term cardiovascular health? Indianexpress.com spoke to Dr CM Nagesh, general secretary at the Indian College of Cardiology, to understand how simple lifestyle adjustments can have a lasting impact on heart health and help prevent cardiovascular diseases. Six small changes in daily habits that can help protect against heart diseases The six small but impactful changes in daily habits that can help protect against heart disease are:Dr Nagesh says, “Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, to improve heart health. Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure, boost circulation, and strengthen the heart muscle. Small changes, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator or walking after meals, can make a difference.” Eat a heart-healthy diet “Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats (such as those from nuts, seeds, and olive oil) to support cardiovascular health,” emphasises Dr Nagesh, adding that a diet high in processed foods, trans fats, and added sugars contributes to obesity, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance, all of which increase the likelihood of heart disease. Regularly consuming fast food, sugary beverages, and highly processed snacks leads to chronic inflammation and arterial damage.” https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/six-small-lifestyle-changes-healthy-heart-according-to-a-cardiologist-9815053/
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The International Criminal Court (ICC) has vowed to continue its judicial work after US President Donald Trump signed an order to impose sanctions on its staff. The ICC said it "stands firmly" by its personnel and the order seeks to harm its "independent and impartial" work. Trump's order accuses it of "illegitimate and baseless actions", after the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza, which Israel denies. The ICC also issued a warrant for a Hamas commander. The ICC is a global court, although the US and Israel are not members, with the power to bring prosecutions for genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. In its statement, it said: "The ICC condemns the issuance by the US of an executive order seeking to impose sanctions on its officials and harm its independent and impartial judicial work." It added it stood by its personnel, pledging "to continue providing justice and hope to millions of innocent victims of atrocities across the world". In recent years, the court has issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin over alleged war crimes in Ukraine, Taliban leaders for "persecuting Afghan girls and women" and Myanmar's military leader for crimes against the Rohingya Muslims. More than 120 countries are members, including the UK and many European nations. International Criminal Court: What is the ICC and what does it do? Judges at the court have said there are "reasonable grounds" to suggest Netanyahu, his former defence minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas' Mohammed Deif - who died last year - bear "criminal responsibility for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity". But a White House memo circulated on Thursday accused the Hague-based ICC of creating a "shameful moral equivalency" between Hamas and Israel by issuing the warrants at the same time. Trump's executive order said the ICC's recent actions "set a dangerous precedent" that endangered Americans by exposing them to "harassment, abuse and possible arrest". The order adds it "threatens to infringe upon the sovereignty of the United States" and "undermines" the national security and foreign policy work of the US and allies. The sanctions, announced while Netanyahu was in the US, place financial and visa restrictions on individuals and their families who assist in ICC investigations of American citizens or allies. The move has been met with condemnation by many US allies, including the Netherlands and Germany. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the UK supported the independence of the ICC. The United Nations (UN) has called for the measure to be reversed, while Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission president, said on X that the ICC "must be able to freely pursue the fight against global impunity". But in a post on X on Friday, Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said he "strongly" commended Trump's executive order. He claimed the ICC's actions were "immoral and have no legal basis", accusing the court of not operating "in accordance with international law". Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said on Facebook on Friday that Trump's decision was "absolutely understandable", alleging the ICC had "in recent times disguised itself as a biased political tool". Hungary's government has received widespread criticism for retaining close ties to the Kremlin following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and has invited Netanyahu to visit despite the international arrest warrant.A former clerk to the court's first chief prosecutor warned the sanctions could have "a profound practical impact" on its operations. "The sanctions... do have the potential of freezing property and assets, as well as suspending entry into the United States of ICC officials and their immediate family members," Zachary Kaufman told the BBC World Service. The US has repeatedly rejected any jurisdiction by the body over American officials or citizens, and has accused the ICC of placing constraints on Israel's right to self-defence, while ignoring Iran and anti-Israel groups. During his first term in office, Trump imposed sanctions on ICC officials who were investigating whether US forces had committed war crimes in Afghanistan. This included a travel ban and asset freezes against former chief prosecutor Fatou Bensouda. Those sanctions were lifted by President Joe Biden's administration. Last month, the US House of Representatives voted to sanction the ICC, but the bill foundered in the Senate. In response to efforts to what they described as attempts to challenge the ICC's authority, nine nations - including South Africa and Malaysia - launched the 'Hague Group' last month in an effort to defend the court and its rulings. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2p19l24g2o
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Artist: Lil Durk Real Name: Durk Derrick Banks Birth Date /Place: October 19, 1992 Age: 32 Social status (Single / Married): Married Artist Picture: Musical Genres: Hip hop trap drill Awards: Best Melodic Rap Performance Best Rap Song Top 3 Songs (Names): Laugh Now Cry Later-Broadway Girls-Drake Knife Talk Other Information: Lil Durk was born on October 19, 1992 to Dontay Banks and a nurse in Chicago. The name of his mother is not known. He has a brother, D Thang, who is also seen in some of the videos of Lil Durk. He had to shoulder responsibility at a very young age as his father was jailed when he was just 7 years old.
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Interest rates are expected to be cut by the Bank of England later, in a move closely watched by households and economists. Analysts predict the benchmark rate will be cut from 4.75% to 4.5%, given the recent weakness in the UK economy which has seen slow growth. The Bank uses interest rates as its main tool for controlling inflation, which is currently above the Bank's target. However, inflation unexpectedly dipped at the end of last year, raising expectations of a rate cut. Inflation is forecast to rise again though, partly due to changes in the Budget as well as uncertainty around US President Donald Trump's threatened use of tariffs. If he does introduce import taxes on countries, it could lead to inflationary pressure globally, causing a knock-on effect on price rises in the UK. Why do interest rates change? The Bank moves rates up and down to try to control inflation, which measures the pace of overall price rises. By raising rates, borrowing is made more expensive, so people have less money to spend. People may also be encouraged to save more. In turn, this reduces demand for goods and slows the rate at which prices are rising. But it is a balancing act - increasing borrowing costs risks harming the economy as it discourages businesses from investing and creating more jobs. Once price rises are more under control, then the Bank will consider lowering interest rates. Its base interest rate heavily influences the rates High Street banks and other lenders charge customers for loans, credit cards and other finance deals. This is most obviously seen in the cost of mortgages. About 629,000 households have "tracker" deals and would see an immediate impact from a rate cut. Typically, their monthly repayment would fall by about £29 as a result of the expected 0.25 percentage point cut later. A similar number of householders have variable rate deals, and lenders will be under pressure to cut their rates if the Bank reduces the base rate. Fixed-rate deals do not change immediately, but the expectation of further rate cuts could lead to new, or renewing, borrowers getting a better deal. Savers would be hit by a base rate fall, as the return they receive from banks is likely to be cut. 'Gradual approach' In December, when rates were held at 4.75%, the Bank's governor, Andrew Bailey, said it would take a "gradual approach to future interest rate cuts". But he added: "We can't commit to when or by how much we will cut rates in the coming year." In the minutes from that meeting, the Bank said there was uncertainty "around how the measures that had been announced in the autumn Budget were affecting growth". Following November's meeting, Mr Bailey would not be drawn on the impact of Trump tariffs on the UK economy, saying "let's wait and see". In the US, the central bank - the Federal Reserve - has indicated it will cut rates at a slower pace this year.When the Bank announces its interest rates decision at 12:00 it will also share a report on where it sees inflation going in the coming months and could hint at its strategy in response. Cutting the UK interest rate would strike a balance between "supporting an economy that appears to have ground to a complete halt and preventing inflation from taking off again", economist Paul Dales from Capital Economics told the BBC. "Trump's tariffs are unlikely to influence UK interest rates much," he added, but wage growth being faster than the Bank's forecast could influence its decision. The UK economy grew by less than expected in November, after not growing at all in the previous two months. A further slowdown is expected as businesses brace for rising costs from April because of budgetary changes such as rising National Insurance contributions and higher minimum wages. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0lzj3g77gpo
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Srinagar, Feb 6, KNT: Animal lovers in Kashmir have taken legal action against individuals involved in the alleged abuse and exploitation of animals, particularly horses.A formal First Information Report (FIR) has been lodged against those responsible for mistreating these animals. Mr. Dawood, an animal rights activist, told Kashmir News Trust that numerous people are exploiting horses for recreational purposes, often without proper care. He specifically pointed out Instagram pages such as ‘Kartooos’ and ‘Gangester’ that upload videos promoting irresponsible horse riding. According to Mr. Dawood, horse owners typically abandon their animals during the harsh winter months to avoid the costs of feeding and sheltering them. These unattended horses are then used by young men, leading to their mistreatment and injuries. Several horses have been found bleeding due to overuse and harsh handling. “We have discovered multiple cases of injured horses, some of them bleeding due to severe exploitation. We cannot remain silent while these innocent animals suffer,” Mr. Dawood stated. He confirmed that a formal case has been registered against those involved, urging authorities to take stringent action against animal cruelty. Animal rights activists have called for stricter regulations to protect animals from such exploitation, emphasizing the need for ethical treatment and responsible ownership. [KNT] https://networkknt.com/2025/02/animal-lovers-file-case-against-horse-abuse-in-kashmir/
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