politics-and-military28.985 min read
Pentagon Faces Backlash Over Alleged Concealment of Four Additional U.S. Troop Deaths in Iran War
23 days ago•Source: Common Dreams
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2.8 min•2 years ago
"Israel's Push for Ultra-Orthodox Military Service Sparks Political Tensions"
The Bank of Israel has warned of economic repercussions if more ultra-Orthodox Jewish men do not join the military, citing the increased personnel needs during the recent conflict with Hamas. The exemption of ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service since 1948 has led to a disproportionate burden on other soldiers and the economy. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government aims to end these exemptions, but faces opposition from ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties, leading to a rift in the coalition. The Bank of Israel also highlighted the economic impact of the fast-growing ultra-Orthodox sector and emphasized the need for fiscal discipline in the face of increased defense spending.
5.405 min•2 years ago
"US Generals Criticize State Department for Delayed Afghanistan Evacuation"
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"Zelenskyy's Plan to Oust Top General Sparks Tensions in Ukraine"
Al Jazeera English•2 years ago
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"Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin Returns to Pentagon After Cancer Surgery Complications"
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin returned to the Pentagon for the first time since his secret hospital trip for prostate surgery, amid tense strategy sessions on how the U.S. should respond to a drone attack in Jordan that killed three U.S. service members. The White House says the attacks are backed by Iran and carried out by its proxies. Austin's return comes as the U.S. seeks to avoid a wider conflict with Iran, with top officials advising President Biden on potential responses. Meanwhile, Republican critics are calling for U.S. strikes inside Iran, while experts warn of the risk of further escalation in the Middle East.
"Israel's 2024 Budget: $15 Billion Allocated for Wartime Defense, Cuts to Education and Health"
Israel's cabinet approved an increased budget of $15bn for 2024, allocating funds for the ongoing war efforts and increasing funding for other departments, despite internal divisions. The amended budget includes cuts to government departments, increased spending, and additional funds for military hardware, army reservists, and internal security. The budget deficit for 2024 has widened to 6.6% of Israel’s GDP, and the country may rely on US military and financial support. The budget now faces legislative scrutiny in the Knesset, and long-term recovery depends on finding a way to end the war.
"The Controversy Surrounding Defense Secretary Austin's Hospitalization and Its Impact"
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, hospitalized for prostate cancer treatment, was integral to planning and authorizing the strike on the Houthi targets in Yemen, despite being in the hospital. The U.S. launched the significant strikes while Austin was in the hospital, participating in meetings and discussions virtually. The administration faces criticism for not disclosing Austin's hospitalization sooner, with some lawmakers calling for his resignation. The strikes were in response to Houthi attacks on commercial shipping, and the administration is managing fallout from the situation.