Israel's backyard is more known to Israel, than the UK's streets of protesters.

Every liberal risks looking like a donkey.

If death means nothing. Then what?

This is now illegal!

The world is led by leaders not finger pointers.

I might have had problem's during the Biden years, but Biden's character was good and so was his record with Israel. He understood the liberal order, from its history, and was decent. He got us through a tough period. But now a new liberal is being born and it scares me.

So moral force is an interesting idea, but lets not get carried away. It is not in our right to go around judging people while building up a high moral reputation. If we all want to get along then we can't all become the very correct always right never wrong people we despise.

No hero at home, and no hero for the 22 Arab Nations, is King Lear in action.

The moral high ground politics is no different than the public floggings done by the Puritans. If we let that happen, which we won't.

The very nature of recognition of a Palestinian State involves no diplomatic communication, nothing resembling good will, and is then tantamount to bullying. And it turns a blind eye to Hamas acts of extreme rape and torture as a weapon of war. Can this be cynical?

Family values will never include torture.

The world was destroyed but the US survived.

Jews have the right to breath.

My readings indicate that Norway is the most unusual country in the world in some important areas. You're correct. Norway is indeed considered highly unusual in several key areas, particularly in how it manages its national wealth and balances its economic and social policies. It often stands out even among its Nordic neighbors. The World's Largest Sovereign Wealth Fund 💰 Norway's most distinctive feature is its Government Pension Fund Global, commonly known as the "Oil Fund." Established to manage the country's vast oil and gas revenues, it's the largest sovereign wealth fund in the world, with a value exceeding $1.9 trillion. The fund's purpose is to ensure that future generations benefit from the country's petroleum wealth, acting as a long-term savings plan. The government can only spend a small, legally mandated percentage of the fund's returns each year, a practice that prevents overspending and protects the economy from fluctuations in oil prices. A Paradoxical Economic and Environmental Stance 🌍 Norway presents a unique contradiction: it's a major global exporter of oil and natural gas, yet it is also a leader in environmental policy and renewable energy. Its domestic electricity grid is almost entirely powered by hydropower, and it has some of the highest rates of electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the world. This creates a dual identity where it profits from fossil fuels while also setting ambitious domestic climate goals and contributing to international climate initiatives. The Nordic Welfare Model on Steroids 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 While all Nordic countries have robust welfare states, Norway's is particularly well-funded and comprehensive, thanks to its oil wealth. This allows for a very high quality of life, low income inequality, and strong social safety nets. The country consistently ranks at or near the top of global lists for human development, happiness, and social trust. Its generous parental leave policies, free university education, and universal healthcare are all hallmarks of this model. I wonder if its unusual situation has given birth to some innovation Yes, Norway's unusual situation has given birth to a number of significant innovations, particularly in how it manages its oil wealth, energy resources, and social structure. Its unique combination of being a major fossil fuel exporter and a progressive, welfare-focused nation has created specific challenges that have been addressed with innovative solutions. Financial and Ethical Innovation 📈 The Government Pension Fund Global is not only the world's largest sovereign wealth fund but is also a pioneer in ethical investment. Its sheer size and ethical guidelines, which prohibit investments in companies involved in producing certain weapons or with a history of severe human rights violations, have given it considerable influence. The fund's decisions to divest from entire industries, like coal and some tobacco companies, have been seen as a form of "activist" investing on a global scale, influencing other major investors and pushing for greater corporate responsibility worldwide. Energy and Subsea Technology 🌊 Norway's long history as an oil and gas producer in the challenging environment of the North Sea has made it a global leader in subsea technology. This includes the development of robotics, remote-controlled vehicles, and complex infrastructure designed to operate on the seabed. This expertise has also been crucial for its paradoxical shift toward renewable energy. Innovations in offshore wind energy, particularly in floating wind turbine technology, are a direct result of its experience with offshore platforms. The country is also a world leader in hydropower technology, with advanced systems for energy storage and grid management using its vast network of reservoirs as "batteries" to back up other renewable sources. Social and Digital Innovation 🧑‍💻 Norway's extensive welfare state has also driven innovation, especially in the digital realm. The government has prioritized digital public services, aiming for a "digital-first" paradigm. This has led to the development of sophisticated online platforms for managing welfare benefits, healthcare, and other public services, making them more accessible and efficient for its citizens. While this has raised some concerns about digital literacy and access, it represents an innovative approach to delivering public services in a modern welfare state. They will give you a key to a cabin with out any payment? In Norway, you cannot get a key to a cabin for free. The system is managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT), and it requires both a payment for the key and a fee for your stay. The DNT Key System The DNT maintains a network of hundreds of cabins across Norway's wilderness. Many of these cabins are unstaffed or self-service, and are locked with a single, universal key. To get this key, you must: Become a DNT member: Membership provides a variety of benefits, including discounted rates at the cabins. Pay a deposit: The DNT key requires a deposit, which you get back when you return the key. This system is based on trust and a communal understanding that all users will contribute to the maintenance and upkeep of the cabins. Payment for Your Stay Even with the key, a stay at a DNT cabin is not free. These cabins operate on an honor system: Unstaffed Cabins: You are expected to pay for your stay and any food or supplies you use from the cabin's stock. Self-Service Cabins: These have food supplies available, which you must pay for via a form or the DNT's app. Staffed Cabins: These function more like hotels, with on-site staff, and you pay for your stay and meals directly. The fees from membership and cabin stays are what allow the DNT to maintain its extensive network of cabins and hiking trails for everyone to enjoy. What it says though is they have developed ways of living and enjoying life that are cutting edge in terms of happiness Your reading is accurate; Norway, and the Nordic region in general, is often considered a leader in developing lifestyles and social systems that prioritize happiness and well-being. These are often rooted in a combination of social policies and cultural philosophies that are unique to the region. The Philosophy of "Friluftsliv" 🌲 Perhaps the most distinctive Norwegian concept is friluftsliv, which translates to "open-air life." It's a deep-seated cultural philosophy that emphasizes a connection with nature and spending time outdoors, regardless of the weather. This isn't about extreme sports; it's about incorporating simple outdoor activities—like walking, hiking, or cross-country skiing—into daily life. Experts believe this regular engagement with nature is a powerful antidote to stress and a key contributor to mental and physical health. The Unwritten Code of "Janteloven" 🤫 Another influential concept is Janteloven, or the "Law of Jante." This is an unwritten social code that discourages individual boasting and promotes humility and equality. Its core idea is that no one should think they are better than others. While critics argue this can stifle individual ambition, its proponents believe it fosters social cohesion, reduces envy, and reinforces the belief that everyone is a valuable member of society, leading to a strong sense of collective well-being. A Focus on Work-Life Balance ⚖️ Norway's generous social policies are designed to support a healthy work-life balance. With an average work week of around 37.5 hours, a minimum of five weeks of paid vacation, and generous parental leave for both mothers and fathers, the country prioritizes personal and family time. This focus on well-being over long working hours is widely credited with reducing stress and burnout, allowing people to have time for their families, their communities, and for practicing frilu

I understand your concerns. The Jewish community in the UK is facing a deeply troubling period, with a significant increase in antisemitic incidents that have caused fear and anxiety. Rising Antisemitic Incidents Data from the Community Security Trust (CST), a charity that monitors antisemitism in the UK, and government police statistics show an unprecedented surge in anti-Jewish hatred. The number of recorded incidents has reached historic highs, with a sharp spike occurring in the aftermath of the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel. This increase has been sustained over time, leading the Jewish community to a "new reality" of heightened security concerns. Abusive Behavior: The vast majority of incidents involve abusive behavior, ranging from verbal abuse and threats to online harassment. Violence and Vandalism: There have also been numerous instances of violent assaults, as well as damage and desecration of Jewish property, including synagogues, schools, and cemeteries. University Campuses: Antisemitism has become a significant problem on university campuses, with some Jewish students reporting feeling unsafe and isolated. Political and Societal Context Experts and community leaders suggest that the rise in antisemitism is often directly linked to events in the Middle East. While criticism of Israel is not inherently antisemitic, the CST has noted that rhetoric aimed at Israel and Zionism often "influences, shapes and drives contemporary anti-Jewish discourse." There are also concerns that some high-profile cultural events and political rhetoric have acted as catalysts for real-world antisemitism. Government Response The UK government has condemned the rise in antisemitism and has taken some steps in response. Increased Funding: The government has provided increased funding to the CST to enhance security at Jewish schools and other communal sites. Working Groups: A new Antisemitism Working Group has been established to address the issue. International Definition: The UK has adopted the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism as a tool to help public bodies identify and combat anti-Jewish hatred. Despite these measures, many in the Jewish community feel that the response from authorities and institutions has been inconsistent and insufficient. This video details a report that concludes antisemitism is a stain on Britain and shares reaction from former defense secretary Dame Penny Mordaunt. Antisemitism 'refuses to be consigned to history', says report

What is trumps position on technocracies Donald Trump's position on technocracies is largely anti-technocratic. His political rhetoric and policies have often been framed as a rejection of expert-led, data-driven governance, and a push against what he refers to as the "establishment" and the "deep state." Here's a breakdown of his stance: Rejection of "Expert" Consensus: A central theme of Trump's populism is a distrust of experts, whether they are scientists, economists, or career civil servants. He has often questioned or dismissed scientific consensus on issues like climate change and public health, and has advocated for policies that prioritize his political agenda over the recommendations of technical specialists. This is seen by many as a direct challenge to the idea that a government should rely on a class of unelected experts for decision-making. Emphasis on "The People" over Elites: Trump's political appeal is rooted in the idea that he is a voice for the "forgotten people," who have been left behind by globalist and technocratic elites. He presents himself as an outsider who is not beholden to the same bureaucratic and academic systems that he argues have failed the country. This narrative positions him directly against the foundational principles of a technocracy, which elevates the role of a professional elite. Politicization of Government Agencies: In his presidency, Trump has been criticized for appointing political loyalists to positions that have traditionally been held by non-partisan experts. His administration has also been accused of interfering with the work of scientific agencies and government departments, and of seeking to reduce the power and autonomy of career civil servants. This is a move away from the technocratic ideal of a stable, professional bureaucracy that operates independently of day-to-day politics. Policies Reflecting an Anti-Technocratic Stance: His policies, such as withdrawal from international agreements and efforts to deregulate industries, have been seen as a rejection of the global and institutional norms often developed and promoted by technocratic bodies. This approach often prioritizes national interests and a populist vision over international cooperation and expert-driven policy. In essence, Trump's political movement is a form of anti-technocratic populism, which argues that the will of the people, as he defines it, should supersede the judgments of a credentialed and unelected expert class.

In a tecknocracy are people controlled In a technocracy, people are controlled, but the nature and extent of that control can vary. The core idea of a technocracy is that decisions are made by experts (scientists, engineers, and other specialists) based on their technical knowledge, rather than by elected politicians or public opinion. How Control is Exercised In a technocracy, control over people's lives isn't necessarily through brute force or oppression, but rather through the implementation of policies and systems designed for the "greater good" as determined by the expert class. This can manifest in several ways: Data-Driven Governance: Decisions regarding public services, infrastructure, and even personal behavior might be based on extensive data collection and analysis. For example, traffic flow might be optimized using sensors and AI, leading to strict regulations on driving that individuals must follow. Merit-Based Society: A technocracy often promotes a society where a person's role and status are determined by their skills and education. This can lead to a highly structured and less socially mobile society, where individuals are guided into specific career paths deemed most beneficial to the system. Social Engineering: Experts might design social and economic systems to nudge people toward certain behaviors, such as encouraging healthy lifestyles through mandatory health monitoring or promoting specific educational tracks through targeted incentives. While proponents argue this approach leads to a more efficient and rational society, critics worry it can lead to a loss of individual freedom and a lack of accountability, as unelected experts are not answerable to the public. The control in a technocracy is often subtle and systemic, focusing on optimizing society as a complex machine rather

‘Real Starvation Stuff’ Given its Nazi history and its status as one of Israel’s most important allies, Germany had always been unlikely to recognize a Palestinian state before it was established. But Mr. Merz was determined to be a part of the diplomatic efforts. A day after Mr. Macron’s announcement, the German chancellor, the French president and Mr. Starmer issued a joint statement calling for an end to the war, the release of hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, an enormous influx of aid and a halt to any Israeli plans to annex more territory. The trio held a call the next morning. They agreed the situation was “appalling,” according to a British written summary of the meeting. Food was trickling into Gaza, but not fast enough. There was no prospect of a cease-fire. Image Friedrich Merz and Emmanuel Macron are talking in front of a building being guarded by men in military uniforms. Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany with Mr. Macron in Berlin last month. The next day, without telling the Germans, Mr. Macron recognized the state of Palestine.Credit...John MacDougall/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images The three nations — known as the E3 — have more influence when they are aligned. Their unity also gives them political cover domestically. So Germany has not criticized either France or Britain on their decisions to recognize a Palestinian state, in part, a senior German official said, because it needs E3 unity to help manage its own sharp domestic critics on Gaza. Advertisement SKIP ADVERTISEMENT On Sunday, July 27, Mr. Merz spoke with Mr. Netanyahu directly. The chancellor left the call frustrated, according to a person familiar with the conversation, who spoke anonymously given the sensitivity of the subject, after the Israeli prime minister insisted during the call that there was no starvation in Gaza and that Hamas was stealing the ample food being delivered. The next day, Mr. Merz and Mr. Macron called in to a meeting between Mr. Trump and Mr. Starmer in Scotland. The Europeans urged Mr. Trump to pressure Mr. Netanyahu to allow more aid into Gaza, according to an official who spoke on the condition of anonymity given the sensitivity of the subject. After the meeting, Mr. Trump acknowledged the dire situation. “That’s real starvation stuff, I see it, and you can’t fake that,” Mr. Trump told reporters. “We have to get the kids fed.” A Unity Conference The day after Mr. Trump left Britain, Mr. Starmer made it official. He would recognize Palestine unless Israel moved swiftly to end the war and embark on a path toward a permanent peace. Mr. Lammy echoed his boss in a speech at the United Nations. “It is with the hand of history on our shoulders that His Majesty’s Government therefore intends to recognize the State of Palestine,” he said. He received a standing ovation. Canada joined Britain and France soon after. Advertisement SKIP ADVERTISEMENT Mr. Starmer’s announcement surprised the Germans. They already viewed Mr. Macron’s announcement as counterproductive, hardening Israel’s tone and Hamas’s stance in cease-fire negotiations in Qatar, which had collapsed. That same day, Mr. Powell began sharing drafts of the British plan with the allies in the hopes of seizing a moment when heightened global outrage was being met with new examples of political will. Mr. Powell and others in the British government had been working on the plan for months, and had struggled to get Arab leaders to sign on. Now, along with France and Germany, they tried again. It was unclear to the diplomats whether Mr. Trump would support the plan, which incorporated some of the same ideas that officials in foreign capitals had proposed in the past to no avail. According to two European officials, it called for a technocratic Palestinian government for Gaza linked to a reformed Palestinian Authority; an international security force; a full withdrawal by Israel; U.S.-led monitoring of the cease-fire; and — ultimately — two independent states. The British plan also presented an “annex of implementation” with a timeline that included the previously scheduled U.N. conference, sponsored by France and Saudi Arabia, aimed at reviving efforts toward a two-state solution. The plan envisioned Arab commitments at the conference and an eventual cease-fire in Gaza, culminating in a Saudi- and French-led peace plan for two states at the U.N. General Assembly in September.

2 of 8,604 Likes, shares… and shifts on Israel 📲 Inbox Jewish Insider Daily Kickoff Unsubscribe 4:33 AM (4 hours ago) to me Read the online version of the Daily Kickoff August 11th, 2025 Good Monday morning. In today’s Daily Kickoff, we report on Israel’s new war plan following its adoption by Israel’s Security Cabinet and the backlash Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing. We have the scoop on New Jersey GOP gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli’s trip to Israel this week, and report on the condemnation of recent anti-Israel rhetoric from a top Virginia lawmaker by Democratic lieutenant governor nominee Ghazala Hashmi. Also in today’s Daily Kickoff: CENTCOM head Adm. Brad Cooper, Tal Shalev and Jonathan Greenblatt. Spread the word! Invite your friends to sign up.👇 SHARE WITH A FRIEND 🔓 Still reading JI like you always have? You’ll continue getting the Daily Kickoff — no changes there. But to read articles on our website, you’ll now need a free login. 👉 Set up your login » What We're Watching Palantir cofounder and CEO Alex Karp is slated to address House Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-LA) two-day donor retreat in Jackson Hole, Wyo., which kicks off today. In Washington, President Donald Trump is holding a press conference this morning on crime in the nation’s capital. The deputy head of the International Atomic Energy Agency is in Tehran today for meetings with Iranian officials aimed at restarting the nuclear watchdog’s inspections in the country. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that no inspections would take place during this week’s visit, the first after the 12-day war between Israel and Iran in June. What You Should Know A QUICK WORD WITH JI'S JOSH KRAUSHAAR One of the biggest slurs coming from anti-Israel influencers and other crankish extremists is that outside pro-Israel advocacy groups, such as AIPAC, somehow play an inordinate role in the reason so many lawmakers support a close U.S.-Israel alliance. Their misguided belief is that the donations from pro-Israel donors drive lawmakers’ behavior. The reality is that such financial support has reflected the strong public support Israel has long enjoyed — within both parties. But as that public support drops within the Democratic Party (and to a lesser extent, among independents), all the resources in the world won’t be able to prevent progressive-minded elected officials from putting their finger in the wind and reneging on their past backing for the Jewish state. We’re already seeing the consequences of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to expand the war in Gaza by taking control of Gaza City — a decision that has limited support in Israel, and has been drawing criticism even from some of Israel’s stalwart Democratic party supporters at home. But what should be doubly concerning to the Jewish state and its supporters is that several of the Democrats championed by AIPAC’s super PAC in the last two congressional elections — Reps. Valerie Foushee (D-NC), Maxine Dexter (D-OR), and Robert Garcia (D-CA) — have lately become more hostile to Israel, with the former two calling for a cutoff in military aid. And as we documented last Friday, Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-FL), whose initial candidacy was boosted by commitments he made to Jewish leaders amid skepticism about his record on Israel, is now reneging on many of those promises, joining a handful of progressives in calling for a Palestinian state. Some important context: All these Democrats represent some of the most progressive turf in the country, with deep-blue constituencies in Portland, Ore.; Durham, N.C.; and Long Beach, Calif. AIPAC’s engagement in these primaries, electing more mainstream Democratic candidates, was a key marker of the group’s success, given the sizable anti-Israel constituency in all these districts. But ultimately, the overall progressive turn against Israel proved more consequential than these lawmakers’ relationships with AIPAC or the amount of financial support they received in their primaries. It’s hard enough for mainstream Democrats to run against the left-wing tide that’s been gaining ground in their party. In these activist-minded districts, it’s become nearly impossible. Read the rest of 'What You Should Know' here. 🕔 Catch up before the day is over. Upgrade now and get access to our new Daily Overtime afternoon briefing — available only to premium subscribers. 👉 UNLOCK YOUR ACCESS NOW » GAZA GAMBIT Facing criticism from all sides, Netanyahu claims new Gaza plan will ‘end the war speedily’ GIL COHEN-MAGEN/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES Israel’s decision to take control of Gaza City is meant to prevent further prolonging the war, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday. The prime minister’s comments come as elements of the Israeli right and nearly all of the left have railed against the decision, further destabilizing the prime minister’s hold on Israel’s leadership. In a video statement on Saturday night, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said he had “lost trust that the prime minister can and wants to lead the IDF to a decisive victory.” At the same time, tens of thousands of Israelis took to the streets of Tel Aviv to protest against the Cabinet’s decision, calling for an immediate hostage deal, Jewish Insider’s Lahav Harkov reports. Defending the decision: Speaking Sunday at a press conference for foreign media in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said that “Hamas still has thousands of terrorists in Gaza … Hamas is refusing to lay down its arms, so Israel has no choice but to finish the job. Contrary to false claims,” the prime minister argued, “this is the best way to end the war and to end it speedily.” As to whether Israel’s new plan puts hostages in further danger, Netanyahu said that “the option of just doing a war of attrition from a defensive position has not proved itself. It won’t bring [the hostages] out … [It will lead to a] protracted conflict that won’t bring the war to an end.” Read the full story here. POLICY FLIP Two AIPAC-backed Dems announce support for ban on offensive weapons for Israel MELISSA SUE GERRITS/GETTY IMAGES/BILL CLARK/CQ-ROLL CALL, INC VIA GETTY IMAGES Reps. Maxine Dexter (D-OR) and Valerie Foushee (D-NC), two House Democrats who received significant backing from the AIPAC-aligned United Democracy Project super PAC in their primary races against far-left opponents, announced this week that they would support efforts to block offensive weapons to Israel, Jewish Insider’s Marc Rod reports. State of play: They join a third UDP-supported Democrat, Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA), who indicated his support for such a policy more than a year ago. The latest moves highlight the growing anger among Democrats with Israel’s continued war operations in Gaza — and the limited efficacy in advocating for a strong U.S.-Israel relationship towards liberals at a time when public support for the Jewish state within the Democratic party is declining. Read the full story here.

What I feel is that the new liberal vibe is not acceptable to me. The whole thing is almost entirely a gigantic giant sheep of super virtue hiding a wolf creature. If you were to grab a paper out of their head, it would just say: I WANT TO CONTROL PEOPLE. If I am right then great, if I am wrong, well at least its an interesting idea.