Open Thread – Weekend 28 Oct 2023


The Harvest, Henry Dawson, 1866

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H B Bear
H B Bear
October 28, 2023 4:54 pm

It’s Peter van Onselen isn’t it?

Don’t call us.

Makka
Makka
October 28, 2023 4:55 pm

I think you are missing the point JC.

Iran has no way to defeat the US. But that is not to say that Iran and/or her moslem supporters cannot inflict very serious damage to US assets and the west around the globe and at home.

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 4:58 pm

Long-range anti-ship missile enters Iranian service

That’s great, and if they used that on a single US ship – even if it failed- the response would be a little traumatic for Iran. The US has the capability to carpet bomb every single inch of land on earth.

Top Ender
Top Ender
October 28, 2023 4:59 pm

Where are the bodies? A question that should be asked about the “Frontier Wars.”

I dunno. Aboriginals didn’t bury their dead IIRR like Christians did. So there would have been massive destruction from animals.

Mind you, it’s one of the greater con jobs of ancient/medieval chronicling to claim massive numbers killed in battles – and for there to be very little evidence in graves nearby.

Put it this way. Two armies of 500 each fighting each other, with about 60 dead on the losing side sounds much more impressive if you add zeroes.

“It was the army of King John versus the men of King Bruce. 5000 on each side and the losers lost 600.”

Tom
Tom
October 28, 2023 4:59 pm

Moonee Valley Turf Club puts its foot in it. Two weeks after a big majority of punters told our Abo activist grifters to piss off, the entertainment at the W.S. Cox Plate opens with a fat old white bloke welcoming sports fans to their own country with pointless non-musical noise from a didgeridoo.

What is it with sports monopolies? Every one of them insults their audience with woke bullshit.

Barking Toad
Barking Toad
October 28, 2023 5:00 pm

Veteran presenter Tracey Holmes resigns from the ABC just months after her husband Stan Grant also left

Oh noes – not Tracey gone, following sTan?

How will I ever not watch their ABC again?

cohenite
October 28, 2023 5:01 pm

Iran has one great advantage over the yanks; which is the madness or will to do shit things. Under biden the US is just mad. They wouldn’t cross Trump.

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:01 pm

I think you are missing the point JC.

Iran has no way to defeat the US. But that is not to say that Iran and/or her moslem supporters cannot inflict very serious damage to US assets and the west around the globe and at home.

There’s no point to miss. Iran’s use of proxies around the world is going to come to a end soon enough and this war has to be fought, because those bearded mullah monkeys have it coming. There’s no way of avoiding this, I believe.

Chris
Chris
October 28, 2023 5:02 pm

The US has the capability to carpet bomb every single inch of land on earth.

Readers added context: Democrats prefer to carpet bomb USA and its deplorables 20 times over, rather than do the rest of the earth.

H B Bear
H B Bear
October 28, 2023 5:04 pm

Resigning from the ALPBC? Jeez things must be crook.

Mother Lode
Mother Lode
October 28, 2023 5:04 pm

It’s Peter van Onselen isn’t it?

Yes! A more subtle Arlene Composta.

The same airs of progressive earnestness, the same brazenly ridiculous sophistries.

H B Bear
H B Bear
October 28, 2023 5:05 pm

“C’mon Tracey, we’re leaving.”

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:05 pm

cohenite
Oct 28, 2023 5:01 PM

Iran has one great advantage over the yanks; which is the madness or will to do shit things. Under biden the US is just mad. They wouldn’t cross Trump.

They talked big and made threats when Trump kaboomed Soleimani. He told them he was taking their threats very seriously and would respond harshly if they continued. They stopped.
.

Chris
Chris
October 28, 2023 5:07 pm

How will I ever not watch their ABC again?

I don’t know how, amirite?
The camp mess has the ABCTV on most of the time. Fortunately silent most of the time.
We get to ignore a cavalcade of average looking but very expensive females, and a very few blokes who happen to look like good dancers.

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:07 pm

I don’t even think they will throw the first punch against US, but if it comes they’ll probably target their carrier groups.

What do you think their proxies are doing now that you mentioned earlier?

calli
calli
October 28, 2023 5:07 pm

Resigning from the ALPBC?

It’s called retiring with a flourish.

You don’t expect them to go quietly into that good pasture do you?

hzhousewife
hzhousewife
October 28, 2023 5:08 pm

Soon some of those 2 million people scraping by on little food and water may just have a thing to say about the well fed energetic young men manning the missile bunkers. At very least some of the fighters may avail themselves of the hidden food and medicines for their own kith and kin upstairs squatting in squalor. Once that starts happening, it could break down pretty rapidly. The convoys of trucks will have to be long indeed to keep 2 million people in food and water for four months, I can’t see that happening.

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:09 pm

Iran’s card against the West is the Straight of Hormuz.

They’ve been playing this threat since the Shah was removed. It’s getting close to the time when they have to be carpet bombed to oblivion.

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 5:11 pm

What do we think the average daily civilian mortality rate in G@z@ might have been prior to the butchery of 7th October? Those bodies, with appropriate dressing, would be available for propaganda purposes, correct? Any guesses at the rough number of ‘props’?

Morsie
Morsie
October 28, 2023 5:12 pm

The Ranga and Head putting on a master-class.Enzed dropping catches.

Boambee John
Boambee John
October 28, 2023 5:15 pm

JC

If the US hit the Iranian oil export terminal (Kharg Island???), how quickly could the US revive the fracking and exploration that Hiden shut down, and build the cancelled pipelines, to enable increased oil and gas exports to Europe?

Makka
Makka
October 28, 2023 5:15 pm

The thing is that we need to divorce the regular Iranian people and the religious loons tied in closely with the mullahocracy.

The US or the west didn’t lift a finger to help the masses going out against the mullah’s recently. They had an opportunity and whimped out.

“The US has the capability to carpet bomb every single inch of land on earth.”

True, but as we have recently witnessed, the US hasn’t got the will. A bunch of towel headed goat herders saw them off with their tail between their legs. Now, Talis are great pals with…… China. Who are now pals with ….. Russia.

US presence and involvement has resulted in much worse outcomes for all concerned.

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:16 pm

What is it going to use to hit Tehran?

If they were really intent in hitting Tehran, they would also use B 52s that can be sent from various bases around the world – including the US – and refueled in the air.

The carrier groups would also be able to remain outside of the missile range and hit Iran.

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:21 pm

B John

Dunno, but I read a report the says the US has now replaced Russia’s oil exports to Europe. I didn’t know this. I knew they were heavily supplying gas, but now oil too.

https://www.energymonitor.ai/industry/a-missed-opportunity-eus-new-oil-imports-are-a-backdoor-to-russia/

Chris
Chris
October 28, 2023 5:22 pm

US presence and involvement has resulted in much worse outcomes for all concerned.

I don’t know; the survivors all seem to have iphones.

Makka
Makka
October 28, 2023 5:23 pm

I don’t know; the survivors all seem to have iphones.

They are handing them out FOC in Italy. OPM magic money.

rosie
rosie
October 28, 2023 5:23 pm

I think last time (2014) all deaths from natural causes were included in the gaza war death toll.
Even the msm now admits there is no differential between terrorist or civilian deaths in Gaza.
Also, and unfortunately, child deaths can also be terrorist deaths, plenty of teenage boys engaged in military activity/weapon manufacturer.
Not to mention how many have been killed by the 550 plus hamas misfires.

Mother Lode
Mother Lode
October 28, 2023 5:25 pm

Mind you, it’s one of the greater con jobs of ancient/medieval chronicling to claim massive numbers killed in battles – and for there to be very little evidence in graves nearby.

I remember when reading Bury’s History of Greece (which very properly ignored everything in Greece’s history after the death of Alexander the Great since from that moment all the Greeks did was brag about their history up until Alexander the Great. And Nana Mouscouri.)

He detailed the story of the Battle of Marathon, and the extreme disparity of casualites, especially the number of Athenian dead compared to Persian – with the Athenian number of 192 seeming fancifully light. But then he noted that the monument raised after the battle named each of the Athenian dead, so there was a check in that. The Persians retreated after the battle so they must have been seriously impacted by the battle and the Athenians athenians really had achieved a remarkable victory.

As explained in Bury the Athenian (with about 10% Plataeans) marched toward the Persian lines and then, at a distance I forget but which very deliberately chosen, the ‘charged at a run’ which the Persians were totally unable to calculate – like the Turks at Beersheba.

So instead of being decimated under a shower of arrows, and before the Persian front line was ready? The Athenians were amongst them hacking them to bits.

I don’t know if this was a phalanx formation but if it was then it was all the more amazing as the phalanx had to move slowly to maintain cohesion.

Then there is the globe conquering Nana…

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:26 pm

Without escort, no.

No, as the carrier groups would be more than happy to provide cover.

The carrier groups also have capability to refuel fighters in mid air.

One the carriers apparently is quite new to the US fleet and has about 80 planes on board. These things are air forces on water.

Then there are very real precision missile strikes against Iranian missiles bases, which the US would be charting every second of the day.

Tom
Tom
October 28, 2023 5:26 pm

The victory of $2.80 favourite Romantic Warrior (J: J.McDonald; T: D. Shum) in Australia’s weight-for-age championship, the $5 million W.S. Cox Plate at Moonee Valley, opens the floodgates for international raiders to try to win the Southern Hemisphere’s most famous race outside of the Melbourne Cup.

Air freighting of thoroughbreds between Hong Kong and Melbourne will now become a super-highway.

Johnny Rotten
October 28, 2023 5:28 pm

And for Junior Cretin (JC) and other cronies –

We are All Searching For an Answer

https://youtu.be/XEDatFQ3m98

Just for the record, they were Russians in America. Back in the U.S.S.R., there was little demand for a Chicago during the Communist Days. But Russia’s Leonid & Friends is making people smile in the U.S.A. This song, “I’ve Been Searching So Long,” was released in 1974 as part of their album “Chicago VII,” this powerful ballad delves into the theme of yearning, longing, and the search for love. However, the interpretation depends on who is listening. For some, it reflects the turmoil and loneliness they have endured in their love lives. For others, it reminds them of the universal struggle to find genuine connection and lasting love.

I think this applies to our lives in general as we search for simple, honest government and to get along with our lives and enjoy our families instead of always being manipulated by those in power regardless of their political party. “I’ve Been Searching So Long” undeniably strikes a chord with its powerful lyrics and emotive melodies that applies still to our political situation.

https://www.armstrongeconomics.com/armstrongeconomics101/opinion/we-are-all-searching-for-an-answer/?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=RSS

bons
bons
October 28, 2023 5:31 pm

Nothing to do with Iran, but..
We hired a stunning Iranian engineer.
She had everyone mesmerised. She was the cause of a little friction and lots of booting the young blokes from around her cubicle.
She was also taking kickbacks from subbies.
Tears of regret when she was marched out the door. But the place was much calmer following the ending of our Persian experience.

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:33 pm

The fighters don’t have the range.

That depends on Iranian missile range. Do you know what that is?

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:34 pm

Dover, what you implying is that Iran is impregnable because of it’s superior air defenses? That’s veering toward Baghdad Bob bullshit.

bons
bons
October 28, 2023 5:35 pm

Tom. Where does all that massive prize money come from?

Can we get some for our local gymkhana?

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:36 pm

Johnny Rottenhead is posting a link to a convicted felon.

Here’s the explanation.

https://armstrongecmscam.blogspot.com/p/where-and-how-to-complain.html

Makka
Makka
October 28, 2023 5:37 pm

Then there are very real precision missile strikes against Iranian missiles bases, which the US would be charting every second of the day.

Has to be the main target, along with all C&C and comms centers around Iran. If the exchange ended there , we will all be the better.

Knuckle Dragger
Knuckle Dragger
October 28, 2023 5:38 pm

Back in the U.S.S.R., there was little demand for a Chicago during the Communist Days

So Armstrong contends that there was no black market in the USSR during the Cold War? Righto.

“I’ve Been Searching So Long” undeniably strikes a chord

With people looking for gullible idiots with open wallets.

A pensive, thoughtful vignette from the convicted fraudster and 11 year prison veteran.

Sancho Panzer
Sancho Panzer
October 28, 2023 5:41 pm

Why are we sending fighters to Tehran?

Chris
Chris
October 28, 2023 5:44 pm

Dover, what you implying is that Iran is impregnable because of it’s superior air defenses? That’s veering toward Baghdad Bob bullshit.

Iran has fought air defense for real, and ground war even more so. Their core national competence is bloody-mindedness. It would take a pretty savage war to make them sit down.

And they are here as well as there.

johanna
johanna
October 28, 2023 5:48 pm

I just read a transcript of this year’s Andrew Olle lecture, this year given by Leigh Sales. She mouthed all the words about how journalists are supposed to be impartial. She hinted that in some cases that might not have been the case. Regrettable.

Lotsa high-minded stuff about the need to avoid taking a side,

No mention of TheirABC’s clearly partisan approach to the wildly unpopular ‘Voice,’

FMD, these people live in Dreamland.

Tom
Tom
October 28, 2023 5:48 pm

Tom. Where does all that massive prize money come from?

Punting.

Australia has the world’s best prizemoney system, because, unlike the UK and Europe, it’s tied to betting turnover.

As a result — especially after the unplanned boom caused by Kung Flu — Australia has the world’s richest horse-racing prizemoney.

And governments love it because they’re getting rich off betting taxes.

Horse-racing is in Australia’s blood. Every town in the country with a pub has had a racecourse for the past 150 years, storied by its famous poets and historians like Banjo Paterson.

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 5:49 pm

The CIA World Factbook online estimate of the mortality rate for G@z@ [pre-war of course] is 2.88 per 1,000 of population. My high school vege maths makes that out to be 6, 048 deaths annually; 16.5 per day.

Why is this relevant? Propaganda. Bodies for hire. Each day, a ‘fresh’ 16.5 corpses likely unrelated to divine retribution, will be available to arrange artistically in front of the vile international media.

Given that only an estimated 3% of the G@z@n population is over the age of 65, the vast majority of these bodies will be young or youngish.

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 5:49 pm

It would take a pretty savage war to make them sit down.

Well they made all sorts of noises when cousin”Sol” was taken out and they ended up being empty threats. There would not by any land war between Iran and the US.

Dot
Dot
October 28, 2023 5:54 pm

The USN strike fighters and USAF strategic bombers have stand off weapon capabilities.

Far greater than the biggest and baddest S-300.

Top Ender
Top Ender
October 28, 2023 5:57 pm

If they were really intent in hitting Tehran, they would also use B 52s

Submarine-launched Tomahawks with conventional warheads, I suggest. That’s what Clinton used in 1997 against terrorist training bases in Afghanistan.

You have zero chance of losing an aircraft that way.

rosie
rosie
October 28, 2023 5:58 pm

Unable to reach ambulance services, Palestinians were transporting the dead and injured to hospital in their cars, Reuters quoted the correspondent as saying.

At the Guardian, must be some fuel left.
Israel claiming to have hit 150 underground targets overnight.

Vicki
Vicki
October 28, 2023 5:59 pm

I remember when reading Bury’s History of Greece (which very properly ignored everything in Greece’s history after the death of Alexander the Great since from that moment all the Greeks did was brag about their history up until Alexander the Great.

One of the many things I love about this blog is the attachment of many of its patrons to classical Ancient History. Maybe it explains the great depth of understanding of human behaviour that is present here.

Now, Mother Lode…..in respect to the phalanx ….yes, it was already employed by the Spartans and others. The linking the shields allowed an effective counter to the larger, but disorganised numbers of the “barbarians”.

And good old Bury! Heavens, I bet it is no longer used today, but it was, and still is, an excellent coverage of the magnificent rise of classical Greek culture, although archaeological discoveries and resolutions of historical controversies will no doubt make it outdated today.

And BTW I totally agree with you about the lack of interest in Greek/Macedonian history after Alexander’s extraordinary conquest of the great eastern nations. Husband and I followed the footsteps (by car!) of Alexander years ago as he invaded the domain of the Persians in modern day Turkey. We followed his journey down the Ionian coast, up into the Anatolian high land, through the Cilician Gates, down to Tarsus (where he almost died from pneumonia after plunging into ice cold water from the mountains) and down the coast where he encountered the army of the Persian king & fought the battle of Issus. A burial mound was still there, near the town of Iskenderum (Turkish for “Alexander”) – but has probably been destroyed by the recent catastrophic earthquake in the area.

Alexander then proceeded into modern Syria. But that was where we said goodbye to him.

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 6:00 pm

The wikipedia entry on G@Z@ is a pretty solid wall of omissions.

Mother Lode
Mother Lode
October 28, 2023 6:04 pm

Unable to reach ambulance services, Palestinians were transporting the dead and injured to hospital in their cars, Reuters quoted the correspondent as saying.

If I know Paliwood I would think the dead drove themselves to the hospital.

Bruce
Bruce
October 28, 2023 6:05 pm

“Morosi gave it all a bit of zip and zing though- nothing like an Asian sex bomb”

And provided a potentially interesting (and likely apocryphal) slogan for Queensland Tourism:

“See Cairns in June”

The swamp of Australian politics has been poisonous from the Whitlam days onward.

Bruce of Newcastle
Bruce of Newcastle
October 28, 2023 6:06 pm

Nice commemoration in Armidale today:

Armidale hosts rare military parade (Ncl local news, 28 Oct)

The streets of Armidale were transformed today for a rare military parade.

The special Freedom of Entry procession was held for one of the region’s most historic military units, the 12th/16th Hunter River Lancers.

AAR cavalry regiment with a history going back to 1885. Here’s the wiki:

12th/16th Hunter River Lancers

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 6:07 pm

Palestinians were transporting the dead and injured to hospital in their cars

That they can reach medical attention means (a). civilian mobility has not been measurably impeded (by the wholesale destruction of infrastructure such as roads), and (b). that hospitals are open for business illustrates how Isr@el has NOT been actively targeting these nodes of civilian infrastructure as was initially suggested.

The inability to access ambulance services means nothing without a broader context. Perhaps this service was always inadequate, or was not universally available. As a propaganda statement however …

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 6:18 pm

I imagined that a Greek phalanx might have been more suited to a defensive purpose?

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 6:24 pm

According to some bloke called Herodotus at the online World History Encyclopedia – I’m incorrect, and the phalanx – which another website states was only 8 hoplites x 8 hoplites (which seems more maneuverable) – was indeed used ‘at a run’ at Marathon.

Note to self: See if this Herodotus bloke still has his book in print. I’d like to know more detail.

Bruce of Newcastle
Bruce of Newcastle
October 28, 2023 6:29 pm

Iran’s card against the West is the Straight of Hormuz.

Briefly. 😀

Half the Iranian fleet was sunk in an afternoon, and the only reason the other half wasn’t was that Reagan wanted to give the Iranians a chance to back down. Which they did, abjectly.

I think that little rocket-potting exercise the USS Carney pulled off last week was a small reminder to Iran, who’d had their proxies fire about a dozen silkworms at her sister USS Mason in the same place in 2016. It was quite embarrassing for the Iranians how badly that went.

Boambee John
Boambee John
October 28, 2023 6:30 pm

JC

Thanks re oil and the US.

Boambee John
Boambee John
October 28, 2023 6:33 pm

IIRC, Silkworm is a developed version of the old Soviet SS-N-2 Styx. Guidance et al might have been improved, but it probably remains a large, relatively slow, missile.

Boambee John
Boambee John
October 28, 2023 6:34 pm

A Styx sank the Israeli destroyer Eilat, a Second World War UK ship, after the 1967 stoush.

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 6:35 pm

O.K. … there’s a difference between a traditional Greek phalanx and a Macedonian phalanx. Interesting.

Would you like to know more?
Oh. Starship Troopers flashback.

Katzenjammer
Katzenjammer
October 28, 2023 6:35 pm

The CIA World Factbook online estimate of the mortality rate for G@z@ [pre-war of course] is 2.88 per 1,000 of population.

@Muddy, are there any figures available for infant mortality rates? Pallywood is running auditions.

GreyRanga
GreyRanga
October 28, 2023 6:37 pm

Herodotus histories online free from google books.

cohenite
October 28, 2023 6:39 pm

Those poor hostages; I said at the beginning they were as a good as dead; the hamas dogs released a few for PR points and then claimed most have been killed by Israeli bombing. The hamas propaganda and the media are going to defeat Israel; again.

Katzenjammer
Katzenjammer
October 28, 2023 6:40 pm

Mind you, it’s one of the greater con jobs of ancient/medieval chronicling to claim massive numbers killed in battles – and for there to be very little evidence in graves nearby.

Colonial frontier wars, for instance.

Morsie
Morsie
October 28, 2023 6:42 pm

Australia throwing away early dominance due to Mitch Marsh blocking away.

rosie
rosie
October 28, 2023 6:43 pm

Of course the dead and injured could have been hamas fighters in and around the 150 underground structures Israel claims to have hit overnight.

calli
calli
October 28, 2023 6:43 pm

Yes, cohenite. I fear so. Some of those faces are burned into my synapses.

The released were tokens. Cruel, cruel buggers.

This is what the LORD says: “A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.” Jeremiah 31:15

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 6:43 pm

Katzenjammer.
One expects that a claim of increased infant (and other) mortality due to a ‘lack of medical supplies’ will be part of an info space (propaganda) package in the near future.

I find the whole propaganda/information space competition for influence fascinating, because I think there are elements that can be transferred and adapted to fit the political and social spheres, which our opponents long ago figured out.

rosie
rosie
October 28, 2023 6:45 pm

I don’t know Cohenite, I think Israel have the resolve to see this through to the end.
Over 2000 ultra orthodox have volunteered, though they won’t be used as fighters as they will have insufficient training.

rosie
rosie
October 28, 2023 6:46 pm

No more mowing the grass, it’s time to dig up the lawn and replace it.

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 6:47 pm

Thanks, GreyRanga. I did a bit of classics reading in my youth, but memory is not what it … something. Bubbles. Red wine. …

The development of military tactics throughout history is a particular interest.

Bruce of Newcastle
Bruce of Newcastle
October 28, 2023 6:47 pm

BJ – Yes, they were Iranian built versions. Still at that time the Houthis got a hit on an UAE naval catamaran with one, which gutted the ship completely. Sad, since the cat had been built in Tassie.

Tom
Tom
October 28, 2023 6:51 pm

The hamas propaganda and the media are going to defeat Israel; again.

No. I now believe — especially after the apartheid referendum — that most of the Australian electorate now understands that governments routinely lie to them and have no interest in providing what they want.

The propaganda industry’s business model is that Australia voters are so stupid they’ll believe whatever they’re told.

That may have worked 30 years ago, but I no longer think it does.

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 6:52 pm

… claimed most [hostages] have been killed by Israeli bombing

I’m still inclined to think that a few at least, have been secreted from the area as extra insurance. I don’t know if that is practical, but that’s what I would do.

I would also expect that a future claim will be that h@m@s had no control over other groups, and therefore did their best to ‘protect’ as many hostages as they could. Wait for it.

Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
October 28, 2023 6:55 pm

From the Oz, on the subject of the Aboriginal flag. Said flag would have been flying high at the side of the Aboriginal warriors, during the “Frontier Wars?”

Patricia
1 hour ago
But, but, but surely that flag was flying high at the side of a sovereign some two hundred plus years ago when battles were fought and sovereignty never ceded. That surely is what a national flag represents. It wasn’t?

Bruce of Newcastle
Bruce of Newcastle
October 28, 2023 6:56 pm

Herodotus histories online free from google books.

Evil evil Goolag evil!

Go to Project Gutenberg. Most of the other Greek authors are probably available there too. Lots of excellent stuff to be had for free!

miltonf
miltonf
October 28, 2023 6:56 pm

How did we end up teaching these confused tenets to impressionable eleven- and twelve-year-olds? I discovered that the progenitors of the gender cult, such as radical cultural revolutionary Judith Butler (“they/them”), started by spreading this nonsense throughout American university campuses. The ideas then oozed forth rapidly into Australian universities, and into the curriculum via the Safe Schools Coalition.-The US: Exporter of evil ideas and misery

Katzenjammer
Katzenjammer
October 28, 2023 7:01 pm

Those poor hostages; I said at the beginning they were as a good as dead

We don’t know what instructions have been issued to IDF. If (say) three IDF are confronted in a tunnel by a few Hamas with one holding a knife to the neck of a 70 year old woman or a youth in her 20s like yourself, do you all lay down your weapons, or do you aim the first shot at the hostage’s forehead as a mercy shot, and take out the Hamas rats. Many Israelis will have to figure how to live with this for the rest of their lives.

miltonf
miltonf
October 28, 2023 7:04 pm

That teachas could even think about inflicting this poison on minors says to me that they are the dregs.

Katzenjammer
Katzenjammer
October 28, 2023 7:05 pm

I discovered that the progenitors of the gender cult, such as radical cultural revolutionary Judith Butler (“they/them”), started by spreading this nonsense throughout American university campuses.

From Judith Butler – “Understanding Hamas, Hezbollah as social movements that are progressive, that are on the Left, that are part of a global Left, is extremely important.”

Another quote from someone with open eyes – “Today, the world is full of wilfully blind callous perpetrators and complicit witnesses who see no Evil and hide behind a veneer of intellectual abstraction.”

miltonf
miltonf
October 28, 2023 7:13 pm

Had never heard of Judith Butler- bad bad person. What passes for ejucashun.

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 7:14 pm

Katzenjammer
Oct 28, 2023 7:01 PM

My fertile (and utterly unqualified/inexperienced) imagination pictures homo h@m@s avoiding subterranean combat wherever possible, and concentrating on trapping IDF and eliminating them by means other than small arms.

Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
October 28, 2023 7:16 pm

Hostage families demand explanation of Gaza strikes
Agency writers
Agency writers

Families of Israeli hostages held by Hamas militants in Gaza on Saturday demanded an immediate government explanation about the fate of the captives after the army intensified strikes on the Palestinian territory.

The main group representing more than 220 people believed abducted in the October 7 attacks by Hamas sought an immediate meeting with ministers.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said in a statement that relatives were angry over the “absolute uncertainty regarding the fate of the hostages held (in Gaza), who were also subject to the heavy bombings”.

Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Israel must stop the “madness” and end the Gaza strikes.

Perhaps Turkey could offer to re-settle surrendered Hamas fighters?

Chris
Chris
October 28, 2023 7:19 pm

$3.5 MILLION PLAN: Australia to wipe out ‘extremist’ male trend
Experts in adolescent development have spoken out about a little-known $3.5 million Australian government plan to stop an emerging generation of toxic males.
Experts in adolescent development are cautiously welcoming a little-known, multimillion-dollar Australian government effort to nip toxic masculinity in the bud.

To end violence against women and children, the federal government aims to reshape young male attitudes toward healthy, respectful relationships as “extremist influencers” like Andrew Tate influence minds.

The initiative, known as the “Healthy Masculinities Project,” is poised to launch next year as a three-year trial, supported by $3.5 million in funding.

This innovative project will tackle the insidious impact of social media messaging targeting young men and boys, with the primary aim of eradicating gender stereotypes perpetuated online and promoting a culture of respect and supportive relationships among peers.
The project will engage the target school-age male audience through face-to-face interactions at sporting clubs, community organisations, and on social media.

Recent research has revealed 25 per cent of teenage boys in Australia look up to social media personalities who propagate harmful gender stereotypes and endorse violence against women.

The government has channelled funding through the First Action Plan Priorities Fund, an $11.9 million fund which is part of the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children 2022-32.

Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said there is a need for young men to develop supportive relationships with their male peers and marked the project as a critical first step towards fostering healthy male attitudes.

Ms Rishworth cited the links between harmful forms of masculinity and the perpetration of violence against women.

“Research shows there are strong links between harmful forms of masculinity and the perpetration of violence against women,” she said.

“Educating boys about healthy masculinity and providing them with positive role models are important steps to ending cycles of violence.”

(snip a load of stuff about Andrew Tate)

The experts recommended long-term, direct, and targeted initiatives that challenge detrimental social norms affecting boys’ mental health and emotions while adopting a “gender-transformative” approach based on best practices.

“We also challenge the assumption that boys need only to hear from other men about how to develop positive masculinity, and note that the inclusion of only male role models in healthy masculinity programs are not backed by robust evidence,” they wrote.

They argued boys benefit from interacting with individuals of diverse gender identities at all life stages.

The experts warned that featuring only male role models may reinforce negative aspects of healthy masculinity programs.

“The reasons boys and young men find extremist influencers like Andrew Tate appealing are complex and multifaceted, and so must be the approaches we use to address them,” they said.

The pair urged the federal government and the Minister for Social Services to consult widely with experts in the field and lean on established research.

So boys get healthier relationships from hanging out with mental cases and pedos?

Aaaaalllrighty then.

Chris
Chris
October 28, 2023 7:24 pm

Judging by the ‘reach’ (or is it reach-around) of the ALPBC for its 1.3 Billion dollars, this $3.5M will be barely enough for office space and gender sensitivity training of about 15 ‘influencers’.

Chris
Chris
October 28, 2023 7:26 pm

Funny how Andrew Tate and Hamas are both ‘weird beards’. Maybe ban beards, hoodies and masks instead?

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 7:28 pm

I posed this question yesterday, but there were no takers: What does Victory look like for h@m@s?

Is their victory state purely political, or a combination of military and political elements?

If it is political (international and regional attention; promises of future funding/other support, increased reputation, etc.), have they ‘won’ already?

miltonf
miltonf
October 28, 2023 7:28 pm

The war against men and boys continues- straight out of the canbra coven.

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 7:31 pm

B of N.
Thanks. Will do.

rosie
rosie
October 28, 2023 7:32 pm

Victory for hamas is from the river to the sea, not today, not next week, five, ten, twenty, fifty, one hundred years, whatever it takes.

Bruce of Newcastle
Bruce of Newcastle
October 28, 2023 7:32 pm

Experts in adolescent development have spoken out about a little-known $3.5 million Australian government plan to stop an emerging generation of toxic males.

Of a certain religion?
Who like to protest in Hyde Park?
Didn’t think so. Sigh.

Dot
Dot
October 28, 2023 7:38 pm

I posed this question yesterday, but there were no takers: What does Victory look like for h@m@s?

I fear victory and a secure peace for Israel is annexation of Gaza, Southern Lebanon and the Golan Heights at a minimum; after severely deprecating Syrian and Iranian assets.

Israel probably doesn’t want to go this far but there’s too much to lose from constant threats. 100+ years more of this; what are the possible outcomes?

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 7:39 pm

Australia to wipe out ‘extremist’ male trend.

‘P.C.’ used to stand for Political Correctness.
It now means Precautionary Castration.

Insidious seems like a neutral adjective now.

Dot
Dot
October 28, 2023 7:42 pm

$3.5 MILLION PLAN: Australia to wipe out ‘extremist’ male trend

Sack dickhead family law judges
Gaol false accusers for 10+ years
Stop funding Hamas and the PA
Legislate to overturn the unelected effective ban on pre nups (BFAs) in Australia
Defund Marxist-feminist loons who push an ideology that LOOKING at a woman is the same as a violent armed rape

That’s a start.

Dot
Dot
October 28, 2023 7:45 pm

Some curious facts about “deboonkers”

Mick West hasn’t had a job in 15 years
Won’t reveal where his income comes from
Is a code pisser, not a scientist
Perma banned from Wikipedia for use/abuse of sick puppet accounts
Does not have a monetised media/social media account
Lives in a salubrious locale
Also glows in the dark (suspected)

Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
October 28, 2023 7:45 pm

7 minutes ago
IDF targets Hamas commanders and infrastructure
Yoni Bashan
Yoni Bashan

Israeli Defence Forces spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari has just provided an update on Israel’s military operations in Gaza, telling reporters that in addition to artillery, the IDF has deployed infantry and combat engineers into the Hamas-controlled territory.

Rather than exit the Gaza Strip, as in previous operations, these forces are understood to be remaining in place for further ground activities.

Overnight, more than 150 underground targets and infrastructure were destroyed by the Israeli military, along with the deaths of at least two key leadership figures.

The IDF said it had eliminated Hamas’s naval commander, Ratib Abu Tzahiban, along with Hamas’ head of aerial array, Asem Abu Rakaba.

In a statement, the IDF said, “Tzahiban planned and commanded the naval infiltration attempt carried out on October 24th, which was thwarted by Israeli naval forces.”

Both Tzahiban and Abu Rakaba are alleged to have orchestrated the October 7 massacres in southern Israel, with Abu Rakaba accused of leading the efforts to knock out Israel’s defensive systems at the border with Gaza.

Hamas footage released after the massacres depicted the use of drones being used for this purpose.

“It’s currently a weakened enemy,” Hagari said of Hamas. “We’re advancing according to the stages of the war. No IDF soldiers have been hurt.”

Efforts to bring home more than 200 hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza remained a national priority, Hagari added, saying that humanitarian aid, including food, water and shelter, is being provided to all Gaza residents who had moved south of the river that divides the territory, as urged by Israel.

H B Bear
H B Bear
October 28, 2023 7:45 pm

They argued boys benefit from interacting with individuals of diverse gender identities at all life stages.

Hendo tried to point out the difficulties with that to Mincing Marr. Without luck it appeared.

DrBeauGan
DrBeauGan
October 28, 2023 7:46 pm

I don’t know Cohenite, I think Israel have the resolve to see this through to the end.

They have to. And ignoring the foul propaganda from helpful partisans is going to be essential. Israel simply can’t trust anyone, including the Biden administration.

After what happened on October 7, Israel is morally free to destroy all of Gaza. The only rational assumption is that anyone in Gaza is hostile and wants to murder any Jew they can get to. If there were ever any good guys in Gaza, they’d have got out before this.

The fact that no other Muslim country wants to take refugees says it all. They have the moral responsibility if Gaza is destroyed totally.

JC
JC
October 28, 2023 7:51 pm

Forget the hall of fame thing, but he was scouted for the Red Sox

The Boston Red Sox scouted Donald J. Trump HEAVILY during his time at the New York Military Academy.

If Trump wasn’t being called by God to become a billionaire mogul and President of the United States, he would have been a Hall of Fame baseball player for the Boston Red Sox.

cohenite
October 28, 2023 7:53 pm

Had never heard of Judith Butler- bad bad person

A typical hatchet faced lesso who is so dumb she doesn’t realise her and other mad lesso feminist’s assault on traditional sexuality has allowed the trans monsters to crawl out and attack women including lessos.

Chris
Chris
October 28, 2023 7:58 pm

Had never heard of Judith Butler- bad bad person

A typical hatchet faced lesso who is so dumb she doesn’t realise her and other mad lesso feminist’s assault on traditional sexuality has allowed the trans monsters to crawl out and attack women including lessos.

A whole lot of years ago I started following a blog ‘Butterflies and Wheels’ run by Ophelia Benson and Jeremy Stangboom, authors of a book called ‘Why Truth Matters‘.
One of the chief reasons they wrote it was the dishonest feminist writing of one Judith Butler.

Mark from Melbourne
Mark from Melbourne
October 28, 2023 8:05 pm

Unable to reach ambulance services,

That cannot be correct!

Gaza has the most efficient ambulance service in the World. Each and every time some poor civilian is injured, there’s always an ambulance either there or pulling up within seconds. I saw it on YouTube.

GreyRanga
GreyRanga
October 28, 2023 8:06 pm

TE will tell you better than myself that in the recreation of battles in war gaming the results are pretty much the same as real life and thats on the shake of a dice.

Indolent
Indolent
October 28, 2023 8:09 pm
Makka
Makka
October 28, 2023 8:09 pm

The Hakka… what a load of bs.

Chris
Chris
October 28, 2023 8:10 pm

Would it still be bs if it were a Makka Hakka?

Makka
Makka
October 28, 2023 8:14 pm

You a Kiwi Chris?

Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
October 28, 2023 8:14 pm

TE will tell you better than myself that in the recreation of battles in war gaming the results are pretty much the same as real life and thats on the shake of a dice.

Was there ever a war game produced, based on the “Frontier Wars?”

Viva
Viva
October 28, 2023 8:16 pm

Alexander then proceeded into modern Syria. But that was where we said goodbye to him.

Vicki you don’t need to be left behind

Order a dvd titled “In the footsteps of Alexander the Great” in which Michael Wood makes the trek so you don’t have to!

Roger
Roger
October 28, 2023 8:16 pm

No mention of TheirABC’s clearly partisan approach to the wildly unpopular ‘Voice,’

In ethics that’s called lying by omission.

Sales herself was accused of misrepresenting the Uluru Statement in an all-staff email to ABC news personnel.

Katzenjammer
Katzenjammer
October 28, 2023 8:20 pm

I posed this question yesterday, but there were no takers: What does Victory look like for h@m@s?

Don’t view it in political wrappings. In their view, Arab Muslims lost honour in 1948, 1967 & 1973. Hamas has bloodied Israel. hamas has positioned Palestinians as the Muslims who regained honour for Islam. In aspects that matter to Muslims, Hamas did more damage to Israel’s reputation than all the Arab forces in previous wars. Even if they don’t exist into next year they could end up being written in future Islamic histories as the successors to Saladin.

Chris
Chris
October 28, 2023 8:37 pm

Was there ever a war game produced, based on the “Frontier Wars?”

Settlers of Cataan
Squatter
GO

DrBeauGan
DrBeauGan
October 28, 2023 8:40 pm

Hamas has bloodied Israel. hamas has positioned Palestinians as the Muslims who regained honour for Islam.

If that was regaining honour, then the Muslim conception of honour disgraces every Muslim.

calli
calli
October 28, 2023 8:47 pm

If that was regaining honour, then the Muslim conception of honour disgraces every Muslim.

We know that from the vile phone call boasting about killing ordinary people in their homes. Big, bwave servants of Tash.

H B Bear
H B Bear
October 28, 2023 8:48 pm

In ethics that’s called lying by omission.

A standard ALPBC MO. More often than not ask yourself what is missing?

Aaron
Aaron
October 28, 2023 8:48 pm

Well that one slipped under the ABC family tree radar.

More couples than tinder.

Mrs Tan.

Pogria
Pogria
October 28, 2023 9:00 pm

Bob Carr’s missus is dead.
Nope, don’t care.

Sancho Panzer
Sancho Panzer
October 28, 2023 9:01 pm

Tracey Holmes has had several stints at Aunty, and this probably won’t be the last (although she is in her late 50’s).
Strangely, she has ventured out into the wider world a few times, but always returns.
A Holming pigeon.

H B Bear
H B Bear
October 28, 2023 9:04 pm

A Holming pigeon.

How’s the veal?

Dr Faustus
Dr Faustus
October 28, 2023 9:06 pm

Big, bwave servants of Tash.

I’d like to think that Tash will pounce on the monsters and subject them to eternal digestion.

Sancho Panzer
Sancho Panzer
October 28, 2023 9:07 pm

I’ll be here all week.
And, yes, it’s veally, veally good.

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 9:12 pm

Katzenjammer
Oct 28, 2023 8:20 PM

A sound comment with which I agree.
Perhaps my use of the word ‘political’ was misleading.

Dr Faustus
Dr Faustus
October 28, 2023 9:16 pm

UN General Assembly calls for ‘humanitarian truce’ in Gaza leading to halt in Israel-Hamas fighting

Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian U.N. ambassador, called the General Assembly “more courageous, more principled” than the divided U.N. Security Council, which failed in four attempts during the past two weeks to reach agreement on a resolution.

Frustrated Arab nations went to the General Assembly, where there are no vetoes — just as Ukraine did after Russia’s February 2022 invasion because of Moscow’s Security Council veto power — to press for a U.N. response. And the United Arab Emirates Ambassador Lana Nusseibeh, the Arab representative on the Security Council, expressed delight at the result.

“120 votes in this kind of geopolitical environment is a very, very high signal of the support for international law, for proportionate use of force, and it is a rejection of the status quo that is currently happening on the ground,” she said.

The 14 countries that voted against the resolution include Israel and its closest ally, the United States, five Pacific island nations and four European countries — Austria, Croatia, Czechia and Hungary, all European Union members. Eight EU members voted in favor.

France’s U.N. Ambassador Nicolas De Riviere said his country supported the resolution “because nothing could justify the suffering of civilians,” and he urged collective efforts to establish a humanitarian truce.
[…]

Mansour said the European votes indicate they can be “very helpful” in pursuing a Security Council resolution “or in maximizing pressure in Israel to stop this war.”

Unfortunately, this resolution almost guarantees that French and US hostages will star in ‘beheading porn’ to drive the ‘give up and play the game’ point home in time for the next Security Council meeting.

DrBeauGan
DrBeauGan
October 28, 2023 9:21 pm

Big, bwave servants of Tash.

I’m afraid that the worship of Tash has spread to the West.

I’d have some respect for any Muslim who declared that October 7 was a stain on Islam. Because it is.

MatrixTransform
October 28, 2023 9:25 pm

Had never heard of Judith Butler

unfortunately I read some of her crap too since my Ex had them on the shelf back in the early 2000’s along with Adorno, Zizek, and RW Connell

Connell is a an interesting one. Home-grown Aussie

early writing as RJ Connell … the bloke

nek minnit it’s Raewyn Connell … the same bloke but is a ‘she’ all over the internets ever since

Connell was in the hands of every Gender Studies and Queer politics undergrad .

and probably still is.

Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
October 28, 2023 9:35 pm

“Yasser Arafat has stated that “Jordan is Palestine.”Other Arab leaders, even King Hussein and Prince Hassan of Jordan, from time to time have affirmed that “Palestine is Jordan and Jordan is Palestine.” Moreover, in 1970 – 1971, late called the “Black September” period, when King Hussein waged war against Yasser Arafat’s Arab PLO Forces, who had been operating freely in Jordon until then, it was considered not an invasion of foreign terrorists but a CIVIL war.”

“From Time Immemorial”: Joan Peters; Page 240.

Roger
Roger
October 28, 2023 9:36 pm

“120 votes in this kind of geopolitical environment is a very, very high signal of the support for international law…”

Odd that international law doesn’t seem to apply to Hamas.

MatrixTransform
October 28, 2023 9:36 pm

A typical hatchet faced lesso who is so dumb she doesn’t realise her and other mad lesso feminist’s assault on traditional sexuality has allowed the trans monsters to crawl out and attack women including lessos.

she ain’t dumb … we are

her and her ilk appear to have succeeded on our watch

you should read her stuff and fully understand that creating monsters is exactly what she wants

Crossie
Crossie
October 28, 2023 9:39 pm

Didn’t Marcia Langton promise that “Welcome to Country” was finished, if the referendum was defeated?

Come on, lefties never keep their word.

Roger
Roger
October 28, 2023 9:45 pm

France’s U.N. Ambassador Nicolas De Riviere said his country supported the resolution “because nothing could justify the suffering of civilians,” and he urged collective efforts to establish a humanitarian truce.

From proposing an international anti-Hamas coalition to a truce in less than a week.

I note once Macron was back in France he started talking about terrorism as something the French would just have to live with.

Didn’t go down well in the media.

Crossie
Crossie
October 28, 2023 9:48 pm

How very dare black fellas think for themselves! A travesty!
I said at the very start that the vote for Teh Voice among the Aboriginal population would be low. Would be interested in the final breakdown in this cohort.

The Yessers are the most racist people, they decided ahead of time that all aboriginals will think as they want them to think, they were incapable of imagining aboriginal Australians as normal people.

On the election evening I thought it odd that Channel 7 allotted only 30 minutes after the news to the referendum reporting but they were right. By 7:25 pm they called it for No and that is why they are the most popular free to air television network in Australia, they got it right.

Crossie
Crossie
October 28, 2023 9:56 pm

she ain’t dumb … we are

her and her ilk appear to have succeeded on our watch

you should read her stuff and fully understand that creating monsters is exactly what she wants

MT, someone commented today somewhere else about the Maine shooter that in the past people like him were institutionalised in mental hospitals but now we let the roam freely. The same used to be done to people who were not sure who or what they were such as transsexuals and multiple personalities but now we let them roam freely as well and even arrest people who point out the truth.

When the Richmond Report into psych institutions came out in the early 80s it was the worst thing that could have happened to NSW. Mental hospital were closed and inmates let free. Ever since then the homeless situation just kept getting worse. Perhaps when we have had enough of this crap we will go back to pre-Richmond.

MatrixTransform
October 28, 2023 10:07 pm

recently got back from the last show of Authentic Flamenco at the Capitol Theater in the heart of Babylon.

Paula Rodríguez, la bailarina que ha llevado el arte español hasta Australia

outstanding, mesmerising, brilliant

front-row VIP seats, and

even got a photo of us on stage with the performers after the show where I had my hand on her arse

… just kidding but I was tempted

Crossie
Crossie
October 28, 2023 10:10 pm

Roger
Oct 28, 2023 10:15 AM
When the ABC tells us its broadcasts come from Gadigal land rather than Pyrmont, or when Qantas welcomes us to Naarm instead of Melbourne, is this because we are illegitimate occupiers of someone else’s land?

In the words of Bill Maher, ‘Hand it back or shut up.’

Every time I hear this at an event or on a flight I think how unintelligent or stupid the announcer would have to be not to realise what the statement means, that they are insulting almost everyone on board.

MatrixTransform
October 28, 2023 10:13 pm

in the past people like him were institutionalised

my Ex was trouble with a photographic memory which was trouble

still, she had her good points

she used to say that universities were free-range mental asylums for the rich

Crossie
Crossie
October 28, 2023 10:14 pm

Razey
Oct 28, 2023 10:20 AM
Jenin AL Qassam Statement: “Gaza is being destroyed and the whole world is silent and watching”

My response to this is:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YahDLTODDg

Or better still FAFO.

Razey
Razey
October 28, 2023 10:20 pm

God help us when conscription is implemented to fight WW3. Imagine the whining from the gen Z and left wing loons. Note, this time women will be drafted (all of a sudden, they won’t want their feminism).

duncanm
duncanm
October 28, 2023 10:25 pm

Crikey,

I just watched Harry Brown with Michael Caine.

That is one dark movie.. and a standout for Caine.

MatrixTransform
October 28, 2023 10:26 pm

God help us when conscription is implemented to fight WW3

leaving the paid carpark today I’m interacting with the parking robot

I’ve swiped the credit card and I’m typing my phone number into the robot interface to get a reciept

the whole time the missus is in the passenger seat going “the gate’s up!, go! … it’s up … are you listening to me? … it’s up ”

… imaging being stuck in a tank with one

duncanm
duncanm
October 28, 2023 10:26 pm

How will I ever not watch their ABC again?

who?

duncanm
duncanm
October 28, 2023 10:27 pm

Razey
Oct 28, 2023 10:20 AM
Jenin AL Qassam Statement: “Gaza is being destroyed and the whole world is silent and watching”

they’re in the ‘find out’ stage of ‘fuck around’.

Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
October 28, 2023 10:28 pm

“From Time Immemorial”: Joan Peters; Page 240.

Contains a chapter on how Arab landlords, in “Palestine” were prepared to sell their landholdings to wealthy Jewish businessmen, at well above the going rate, provided they were paid in gold…

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 10:40 pm

how Arab landlords, in “Palestine” were prepared to sell their landholdings to wealthy Jewish businessmen

In the Ayn Rand Institute Youtube video I linked to earlier, which deconstructed the sequence of four maps of Isr@el frequently used for anti-Isr@eli propaganda, there was a passing mention that documentation existed proving some early J*wish settlers formally purchased their land, rather than simply squatted as I had somehow previously assumed.

Gabor
Gabor
October 28, 2023 10:41 pm

MatrixTransform
Oct 28, 2023 10:26 PM

leaving the paid carpark today I’m interacting with the parking robot

I’ve swiped the credit card and I’m typing my phone number into the robot interface to get a reciept

the whole time the missus is in the passenger seat going “the gate’s up!, go! … it’s up … are you listening to me? … it’s up ”

She is right you know, and what if you don’t have a phone?
Strange as it seems lots of people do without it.
And they drive!

Bruce
Bruce
October 28, 2023 10:42 pm

@ Rosie:

“No more mowing the grass, it’s time to dig up the lawn and replace it.”

Given the locale, perhaps a “Mediterranean Lawn”?

A substantial concrete slab; token garden edges; optional.

duncanm
duncanm
October 28, 2023 10:42 pm

Muddy
Oct 28, 2023 10:40 PM

In the Ayn Rand Institute Youtube video I linked to earlier,

muddy,

thanks for that link – it was very informative.

duncanm
duncanm
October 28, 2023 10:43 pm

who lotta gunfire in gaza at the moment..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpF3b5bsVXY

Crossie
Crossie
October 28, 2023 10:47 pm

Razey
Oct 28, 2023 10:53 AM
Antisemitic robots now:

Google’s Chatbot Refuses To Talk About Israel (OAN, 27 Oct)

Microsofts Bing Chat shut me down after realsing that it had to admit Hamas were terrorists murdering Jews. These ‘AI’ bots are woke and stupid.

The so-called AI is nothing more than the programmers behind the label. The programmers have been told to refuse any responses that are positive to Israel. Don’t believe the hype, the real AI is generations away and even then the real human mind will be ahead in the strategy department. I’m not afraid of the future, it’s the past that will haunt us.

OldOzzie
OldOzzie
October 28, 2023 10:49 pm

Israel—and America—Have No Choice but to Act

As Israel begins its ground invasion in Gaza, Niall Ferguson and Jay Mens on the hard strategic decisions facing the West.

October 28, 2023

Zugzwang is one of the ultimate challenges for a chess player.

In zugzwang, a player is in a situation where any move can only weaken one’s position and carries the risk of checkmate—but not moving isn’t an option. Beyond the intrinsic horror of Hamas’s October 7 massacre, it is now obvious that the attack was designed to provoke Israel into reacting. The extent of the zugzwang is increasingly clear, and Israel has few good options. Nor does the United States.

No one should have been surprised by the attacks on Israel by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ).

Over the last year, there have been more than a dozen public meetings between Iranian officials and the leaders of Hamas, Hezbollah, and PIJ. Enormous quantities of men and matériel have moved from Iraq into Syria, with other matériel arriving by land and air to Lebanon.

Hezbollah and the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), the common thread of the region’s so-called “Axis of Resistance,” have worked to build and consolidate enormous bunkers and fortifications across Syria along with Hezbollah.

Some anticipated another Lebanon War, others expected another Gaza War, and others expected a Third Intifada.

The only thing few—if any—expected was a design to drag Israel into all these battles and several more at once.

The Imperative to Act

In the aftermath of October 7, Israel must strike back. Propelled by nationwide rage, a new government of national unity in Jerusalem has vowed to destroy Hamas.

If that is the true goal, a ground operation in Gaza is necessary. Such an operation began in Israel on Friday night.

The very nature of urban warfare means that it will have an enormous human cost and an uncertain duration.

And this is not just urban warfare: there are two Gazas—the aboveground and the underground network of tunnels where Hamas’s men and weapons are stored.

And time is not on Israel’s side. International support is already waning, and nowhere more than in the Arab world.

Egypt and Jordan, Israel’s most important security partners in the region, have already accused Israel of planning the ethnic cleansing of Gaza. Worse still, the operation will tie down a significant portion of Israel’s manpower and assets. Israel will, as a result, be especially vulnerable to the risk of overextension.

Gaza isn’t the only problem. There is also the West Bank, where unrest is already growing and where the Palestinian Authority is at risk of collapse.

Then, to the north, Hezbollah has its vast arsenal of rockets, drones, men, and missiles in Lebanon, while on the Syrian border tens of thousands of Iraqi militants have amassed with the goal of “liberating” the Golan.

Thousands more Iranian-made drones and ballistic missiles are spread out across dozens of bases in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen.

For that reason, Israel now relies on American support. Jerusalem is likely waiting for the last of American reinforcements—including another carrier strike group—to arrive in the region prior to launching its attack. But is there an alternative?

The Cost of Inaction

Israel cannot not move—the essence of zugzwang. Those calling for a cease-fire do not seem to understand the existential implications of October 7, or the fact that 224 people, including many children, have now been held hostage by Hamas for three weeks.

Allowing Hamas to maintain its Islamist dystopia in the Gaza Strip after the October 7 massacre would leave Israel in a state of permanent fear.

The Cost of Action

The prospect of a multifront war means that Israel would be hard-pressed to attack Iran itself. The United States has the ability to attack Iran. The question is if it has the will to do so. Right now, it seems the answer is no.

It is telling that the Biden administration did not meaningfully retaliate to more than a dozen attacks by Iranian proxies in a single week, causing over 30 American casualties.

Only on Friday did U.S. forces launch two air strikes against facilities used by the IRGC and its proxies in eastern Syria.

But these were billed by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin as “precision self-defense strikes” because, in Austin’s words, “The United States does not seek conflict and has no intention nor desire to engage in further hostilities.”

Equally revealing is the White House’s continued prevarication about the extent of Iran’s involvement on October 7.

The administration’s repeated suggestion that it was little more than an enthusiastic bystander is impossible to reconcile with the evidence that, for example, 500 Hamas terrorists got specialized combat instruction at Iranian facilities as recently as September.

This is Iran’s war.

But this administration refuses to acknowledge as much for fear that it will be compelled to act.

But even “precision self-defense” action has a cost—namely, that it emboldens rather than impairs the enemy. Should the war nevertheless escalate, the United States could face a massive wave of attacks against its military assets in the region, forcing it to choose between effective capitulation or another “forever war” in the Middle East.

Moreover, given the deep reluctance of the United States to do anything that might be interpreted as escalation, Iran may well seize the moment finally to test a nuclear weapon. That would be a sort of regional “checkmate.”

The latest estimates suggest that Iran would need only around four weeks to acquire enough weapons-grade uranium for a nuclear bomb and would only need around six months to prepare a test—just in time for the eve of the U.S. presidential election.

The Failure to Deter

The New Axis

A Concerted Response

The problem for Israel is that, unlike chess, this is a multiplayer game.

And the main player on Israel’s side, the United States, does not yet appreciate that it too is under zugzwang. Israel and America have to act.

And they have to act together. The alternative is victory not only for Hamas, not only for Iran, but also for the new Axis the Western world confronts.

Steve trickler
Steve trickler
October 28, 2023 10:53 pm
Colonel Crispin Berka
Colonel Crispin Berka
October 28, 2023 10:59 pm

Chris
Oct 28, 2023 8:37 PM

Was there ever a war game produced, based on the “Frontier Wars?”

GO

Exactly.
Go was probably the most authentic simulation of the Pokemon frontier wars.
The descendants of Mewtwo are the rightful owners of this land. Every park, every city.
Gotta claim `em all.

Knuckle Dragger
Knuckle Dragger
October 28, 2023 11:01 pm

Josh Hazlewood.

Glenn McGrath’s metronomic replacement is injury-riddled at 32 years of age, has bowled like shit throughout the World Cup so far and his head’s not in the game, judging by his numerous misfields.

You haven’t finished a Test series in years due to injury – in your most recent case, side strains which are a fast bowler’s death knell. You can’t be relied on to go five days of cricket without doing yourself a mischief, and there are quicker, better and younger bowlers than you kicking the door in.

You will never get another IPL, or for that matter BBL contract either.

It’s time, son.

MatrixTransform
October 28, 2023 11:04 pm

And they drive!

I know … was counseled several times today on my driving

Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
October 28, 2023 11:04 pm

there was a passing mention that documentation existed proving some early J*wish settlers formally purchased their land, rather than simply squatted as I had somehow previously assumed.

Something like 6% of the land had been brought outright, by the wealthy Jewish businessmen, from the absentee landlords of Damascus.

Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 11:12 pm

Steve trickler
Oct 28, 2023 10:53 PM
Avi: The world needs to be reminded of what happened here three weeks ago today

Worth watching, even for those who are well aware of what happened.

Sadly, regardless of the fact checking and awareness raising – including the live kill-p@rn (snuff) footage which I refuse to watch – a substantial number of people will continue to disbelieve the reality. They will side – at least outwardly (which is what matters at this point) – with the twisted, deluded myths of reptilian victimhood, not because of the content of the information they are being exposed to, but because of the identity of the sender/s. I don’t mean the J*wish people, but Outsiders.

Until we, conservatives, take control of the narrative, nothing we say will change the state of decay; no reasoned argument or logical proposal will triumph, because as Outsiders, we are not to be trusted. Without first repositioning ourselves, we are staring at puddles.

Steve trickler
Steve trickler
October 28, 2023 11:19 pm

Muddy
Oct 28, 2023 11:12 PM

Sadly, regardless of the fact checking and awareness raising – including the live kill-p@rn (snuff) footage which I refuse to watch

I am in the same boat. Will not watch.

Indolent
Indolent
October 28, 2023 11:21 pm
Indolent
Indolent
October 28, 2023 11:24 pm
Muddy
Muddy
October 28, 2023 11:24 pm

Thanks, Zulu. That’s an area in which I need to do more research.

Steve trickler
Steve trickler
October 28, 2023 11:28 pm

A stroll with Cash.

—-

woof bark growl:

Cash 2.0 Great Dane in Chinatown downtown Los Angeles 6

Knuckle Dragger
Knuckle Dragger
October 28, 2023 11:30 pm

The Hun:

The health ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said at least 7,703 people have been killed in the war with Israel that erupted on October 7.

‘That erupted on October 7’ might be more accurately described as ‘started by Palestine and Hamas on October 7’.

More than 3,500 children were among the dead, the ministry added.

Uh huh. Riiiight.

Arky
October 28, 2023 11:31 pm

Here is how you systemically, over decades, untether a traditionalist, grounded and fully functional civilisation.
..
Step 1: Romanticism.
Tell stories, compelling and riveting stories, about tragedy, true love, loss and deep emotion, setting the young, the beautiful and the love lorn against the harshness of traditions and reality. Romanticise the exotic over the native. Evoke an emotional response.
..
Step 2: Liberty and Emancipation.
Instil in every young person a concern for Freedom over Duty; Rights over Obligations; Liberty over Responsibilities. As if these things aren’t supposed to be in balance, one requiring the other in order to exist, but rather, as if the first is primary and independent over the second, good in and of itself.
..
Step 3: Sensation and Spectacle.
Distract the population with unending “must see” events: Grand finals, Grand Prix, Grand openings, football, fights, massive outdoor concerts. The holiday blockbuster. Make the individual’s ordinary life seem dull and valueless in comparison to the sensations available. Flood out traditional forms of reflection with the gaudy, the moronic and the sensational.
..
Step 4: Extreme Individuality Phase.
All your heroes must project an aura of extreme individuality. For now. To breakdown remaining cohesion. Rock star stances, punk blank stares, sardonic expressions of disdain and derision. Only a temporary stage, later, not to be tolerated.
..
Step 5: Eroticism and Titillation.
Insert sexuality into every work of fiction and art, as a precursor to the penultimate stage…
..
Step 6: Degeneration.
In this stage every form of perversion and degeneration is celebrated. Values are flipped on their heads and the culture inverted. Victimhood is promoted over traditional stoicism.
..
Step 7: Fear and Control.
Take every opportunity to divide and aggravate. Choose issues that are insoluble and intractable. Introduce policies that worsen existing problems. Manufacture crisis. Seize autocratic control

DrBeauGan
DrBeauGan
October 28, 2023 11:33 pm

The health ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said at least 7,703 people have been killed in the war

Given the conduct of Hamas, anyone who believes anything they say is an idiot.

Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
Zulu Kilo Two Alpha
October 28, 2023 11:37 pm

Thanks, Zulu. That’s an area in which I need to do more research.

I’d recommend Joan Peters’ book “From Time Immemorial” and Benny Morris’s “The Birth Of the Palestinian Refugee Problem.” Morris has written three or four excellent books on Israeli history. He’s condemned as an apologist for the Palestinians by right – wing Israelis, and a mouthpiece of the Israeli establishment by the Palestinians….

MatrixTransform
October 28, 2023 11:38 pm

Step 5: Eroticism and Titillation.
Insert sexuality into every work of fiction and art, as a precursor to the penultimate stage…

Foucault and de Beauvoir

Indolent
Indolent
October 28, 2023 11:40 pm
MatrixTransform
October 28, 2023 11:42 pm

Choose issues that are insoluble and intractable

climate change
gender bullshit
occupied territories
and yes votes

MatrixTransform
October 28, 2023 11:44 pm

I’m just glad to see that people are indeed waking up

20 years of dread

… starting to think I’m the last Rastafarian

Arky
October 28, 2023 11:44 pm

climate change
gender bullshit

..
Bingo.

MatrixTransform
October 28, 2023 11:53 pm

don’t forget

occupied territories
and yes votes

Australia hasn’t worked it out yet

your country(sic) has been selected for a colour revolution

Muddy
Muddy
October 29, 2023 12:11 am

More than 3,500 children were among the dead, the ministry added.

That’s 166 per day for the last 21 days.

I’m not aware of the scale of the air strikes, so it’s difficult to know how to analyse that further.

I’m also unsure of what the killed : wounded ratio might be with air strikes in an urban environment, but I’d guess (randomly) perhaps 1 : 2 or 3? Let’s say that it’s 1 killed : 2 wounded. That would make a daily casualty rate of 166 children* killed and 332 wounded. Looking at medical care for the wounded only, that’s 6, 972 wounded since the 7th of October (assuming, for the ease of analysis, an equal amount of air strikes and damage each day).

6, 972 wounded – children only – would place a reasonable pressure on any medical system, correct?

* What upper age limit defines a child for h@m@s?

Muddy
Muddy
October 29, 2023 12:11 am

I’ll pursue those, thanks Zulu.

Digger
Digger
October 29, 2023 12:20 am

The US has the capability to carpet bomb every single inch of land on earth.

There will be trouble if they come near my few square inches… ?

Digger
Digger
October 29, 2023 12:46 am

France’s U.N. Ambassador Nicolas De Riviere said his country supported the resolution “because nothing could justify the suffering of civilians,” and he urged collective efforts to establish a humanitarian truce.

That’s just France being France… If they haven’t got a reason to surrender their own country they sure as hell will advocate for another country to surrender… It is what they do best and most consistently…

feelthebern
feelthebern
October 29, 2023 3:23 am

Rich Baris “The People’s Pundit”
@Peoples_Pundit

1. It’s possible Team RFK doesn’t have a good read on ballot access rules, but his “activator-in-chief” says they’re targeting AK, DE, MD, NV, NH, NC, ND, SC, WV, and WY.

6 Red States.
2 Blue States.
2 Competitive States.

From a rules-only perspective, it makes little sense …

https://x.com/Peoples_Pundit/status/1718281760021086267?s=20

This is why the national polls on RFK Jr don’t matter.
All that matters is how he drags away votes from Trump in key states.

Gabor
Gabor
October 29, 2023 4:17 am

Muddy
Oct 29, 2023 12:11 AM

* What upper age limit defines a child for h@m@s?

I was interested and looked it up, not quite sure what a lunar year is in islam, “Hijri years, not Gregorian” but it is 15 of those or puberty for boys.

9 and or menstruation for girls.

God, reading this , I am glad I have no religion, but Christianity would be far more preferable than this.

How many muslims actually do abide by all those rules I wonder.
I knew an Albanian, who drank like an Irishman but cursing after every mouthful, that it was the Satan’s drink and he hated it. According to him as long as you don’t enjoy it it’s permitted.

I think he made it up.

Tom
Tom
October 29, 2023 4:24 am
Gabor
Gabor
October 29, 2023 5:47 am

Doing a bit of Stickler.

rosie
rosie
October 29, 2023 6:21 am

Dictator Erdogan calling Israel war criminals.
Well he would say that.

Dot
Dot
October 29, 2023 6:23 am

15 is the typical SHTF military age.

Dot
Dot
October 29, 2023 6:24 am

Hopefully New Zealand’s cheating in the ruck gets exposed today.

Useless cheating English ref: “please don’t do that”.

DID YOU GIVE YOUR LABRADOR THE WHISTLE!?

Dot
Dot
October 29, 2023 6:26 am

(Grumble grumble).

Dot
Dot
October 29, 2023 6:29 am

Adios you miserable battleaxes.

ABC (America) will NOT renew “The View” for 2024.

132andBush
132andBush
October 29, 2023 6:38 am

Love the painting.
It’s that time of year again.

Bruce of Newcastle
Bruce of Newcastle
October 29, 2023 6:52 am

See ya!

Pence Pulls Out of Presidential Race: ‘This Is Not My Time’ (28 Oct)

Don’t bother closing the door behind you, we’ll do that. Just get outta here.

The Bungonia Bee
The Bungonia Bee
October 29, 2023 6:52 am

Not The News: there is speculation that Greens and Teals might combine to sponsor a bill making it more difficult to buy hammers.

Bruce of Newcastle
Bruce of Newcastle
October 29, 2023 6:57 am

ABC (America) will NOT renew “The View” for 2024.

Hopefully they’ll leave for someplace like Monaco or Paris, so that the US average IQ rises a little bit.

Joy Behar Claims You Can’t Eat a Deer if You Shoot It With an AR-15 (27 Oct)

She seems to think an AR-15 is a howitzer or something.

lotocoti
lotocoti
October 29, 2023 7:03 am

What upper age limit defines a child for h@m@s?

If they use the same playbook as refugee advocates,
anyone under thirty-two can be portrayed as a child.

Dot
Dot
October 29, 2023 7:12 am

Joy Behar Claims You Can’t Eat a Deer if You Shoot It With an AR-15

Yes, it only shoots 155 mm WP rounds.

A hell of a gun for collectors.

Mother Lode
Mother Lode
October 29, 2023 7:22 am

She seems to think an AR-15 is a howitzer or something.

Every long gun with a magazine is an AR-15 and every hand gun is a glock, as far as these people understand.

The ‘AR’ stands for ‘assault rifle’ which means it is a fully automatic weapon specially designed to kill people so they should be banned.

Mother Lode
Mother Lode
October 29, 2023 7:24 am

making it more difficult to buy hammers.

Assault hammers, surely. Which is the same thing but sounds more dangerous.

Dot
Dot
October 29, 2023 7:32 am

I’ll be shocked if that wasn’t really passed forward.

On review: cheats and you are still 1 point behind.

16 ABs on the field vs 14 Boks.

lotocoti
lotocoti
October 29, 2023 7:34 am

How to provoke a sudden attack of shyness.
Nobody would think any worse of her, if she answered.

calli
calli
October 29, 2023 7:40 am

So half-baked they can’t even bother using sufficient texta to make a decent sign.

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