Tag

Politics And Military

All articles tagged with #politics and military

politics-and-military1 year 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.

politics-and-military1 year ago

"US Generals Criticize State Department for Delayed Afghanistan Evacuation"

Retired Gen. Mark Milley and Gen. Kenneth F. McKenzie criticized the State Department for delaying the evacuation of US citizens from Afghanistan, blaming the department for the chaotic end of the US' longest war. They also accused the US Embassy in Kabul of obstructing coordination on a possible evacuation plan with the military. The hearing, led by Rep. Michael McCaul, focused on accountability for the Abbey Gate bombing and the overall handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal, with Republican lawmakers pushing for answers and Democrats criticizing the hearing as a political show. The US Central Command recently completed an additional review of the Abbey Gate bombing, including more than 50 interviews, to address concerns over the lack of accountability.

politics-and-military1 year ago

"Zelensky's Impending Decision: Dismissing Ukraine's Top General Amid Growing Tensions"

Ukrainian President Zelensky is expected to dismiss army chief Valery Zaluzhny following tensions over the war with Russia, despite denials from the president's office. Zaluzhny's popularity remains high, but his description of the conflict as a stalemate has reportedly strained his relationship with Zelensky. The dismissal comes after Ukraine's counteroffensive against Russian forces made modest gains, leading to a call for a large-scale mobilization effort. Potential successors for the top military position are being discussed, including Kyrylo Budanov and Oleksandr Syrskyi.

politics-and-military1 year ago

"Zelenskyy's Plan to Oust Top General Sparks Tensions in Ukraine"

Rumors of Ukraine's army chief Valerii Zaluzhny's dismissal and potential reassignment to lead the National Security and Defence Council have sparked controversy, with conflicting reports from officials. Despite Zaluzhny's popularity and high public trust, there are doubts about his future due to tensions with President Zelenskyy and perceived failures in last year's counteroffensive. While Zaluzhny's potential move into politics could impact the landscape, the military's historical detachment from politics suggests that his influence may be limited. Potential replacements for Zaluzhny have been named, with the outcome likely to hinge on the success of an upcoming counteroffensive.

politics-and-military1 year ago

"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.

politics-and-military2 years ago

"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.

politics-and-military2 years ago

"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.