The hottest Human Rights Substack posts right now

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Top World Politics Topics

The Life and Death of the Oldest Hostage in Gaza

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1391 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict Human Rights International relations Security
  1. Shlomo Mantzur was a caring father and grandfather who loved spending time with his family. He raised his children to be optimistic and focused on the present.
  2. He was kidnapped at the age of 85 during a violent attack in Israel, becoming the oldest known hostage in the conflict. Many people, including soldiers, expressed a determination to bring him home safely.
  3. Mantzur's early life in Iraq included some happy memories, but he often didn't talk much about his past. His daughters remember him as someone who enjoyed making art and sharing treats with them.

How Western Judges Became Chinese State Puppets

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 55 implied HN points • 25 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Judiciary International Law Human Rights Totalitarianism Legal system
  1. Some Western judges are working in Hong Kong's highest court, but it's seen as supporting China's strict government instead of promoting justice.
  2. Lord Jonathan Sumption, a former UK Supreme Court member, criticized how the law is misused to silence dissent against the Chinese Communist Party.
  3. After seeing how the legal system operates in Hong Kong, Sumption decided he no longer wanted to be involved with it.

The Meaning of Kfir Bibas

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2179 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Conflict Middle East Terrorism Human Rights International relations
  1. Kfir Bibas, a baby taken by Hamas, represents the core of the conflict and highlights its tragic consequences.
  2. Yarden Bibas was released after a long time in captivity, but his family has faced immense loss and grief.
  3. Hamas claims to be returning the bodies of Kfir and his family, marking a painful end to their ordeal.

Matti Friedman: The Family that Never Came Home

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 788 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Current Events International relations Human Rights Media Social Issues
  1. A family from Israel faced a tragic loss, as the husband returned home alive but his wife and two children did not. Their deaths shocked the community, making it hard for people to accept the reality at first.
  2. On a certain day, masked individuals displayed four coffins at a ceremony in Gaza, while Israeli TV chose to show happy pictures of the deceased taken before the conflict. This highlights the stark difference in how narratives are presented in media.
  3. The piece reflects on the emotional impact of loss during war and how it can affect families, leading to deep sorrow and disbelief among their loved ones.

Trump’s Opening Move Against Migrant Sex Trafficking

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1641 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Crime Policy Government Human Rights
  1. New rules are being put in place to protect migrant children from sex trafficking. Now, all sponsors must get fingerprinted and have their backgrounds checked.
  2. There's a big concern about fraud in the sponsorship process for unaccompanied minors. The government wants to make sure that only safe and legitimate sponsors can take care of these kids.
  3. Some people worry that these new rules might slow down the process for getting kids to safe homes. They are also concerned about the potential for sharing sponsor information with immigration enforcement.
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The IDF Didn't Just Target Hospitals, They Destroyed Individual Medical Machines

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1881 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military conflict Human Rights Political Commentary Social justice
  1. Lifesaving medical equipment in Gaza has been intentionally destroyed to prevent medical care. This act raises serious questions about the motivations behind such destruction.
  2. People often ignore the harsh realities of conflicts, focusing instead on domestic political issues. This avoidance can lead to a detachment from the suffering experienced in war zones.
  3. Real opposition to power does not revolve around individual politicians like Trump, but rather against the systems of capitalism, imperialism, and exploitation that enable these issues.

‘I Risked Everything to Blow the Whistle on Britain’s Grooming Gangs’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3083 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice Social Policy Human Rights Political Accountability
  1. A woman named Maggie Oliver exposed a shocking scandal where gangs of men groomed and raped young girls in Britain for many years. She worked hard to bring attention to these crimes, but faced a lot of obstacles.
  2. Authorities often ignored or covered up the abuse to avoid being seen as 'racist'. This led to many victims not getting the justice they deserved.
  3. Recently, more people are finally talking about this issue, which highlights how some waited until it was safe to speak out. Maggie Oliver wants to remind everyone that she raised alarms about this scandal long before it became a trending topic.

Only 3% Of Jewish Israelis Think Trump's Ethnic Cleansing Plan For Gaza Is Immoral

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2440 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion Foreign Policy Middle East Human Rights Social Issues
  1. A small percentage, only 3%, of Jewish Israelis view Trump's plan for Gaza as immoral. This highlights a significant difference in perspectives regarding morality in relation to political actions.
  2. A majority of Jewish Israelis support the controversial plan to relocate the Palestinian population from Gaza. This reflects a broader societal attitude towards Palestinians, where many see them as less deserving of rights.
  3. This lack of empathy and understanding has consequences that extend beyond politics, affecting social values and perceptions within Israeli society. It suggests a deep-seated issue of moral awareness that influences various aspects of life.

As The Gaza Agenda Moves Forward, The Imperial Narrative Shifts With It

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2086 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Affairs Human Rights Political Commentary
  1. The narrative around Gaza's conditions has changed, going from denying any destruction to suggesting it needs to be evacuated due to its unlivable state.
  2. There is a shift in how supporters of Israel talk about the situation, moving from defending military actions to now acknowledging the devastation as a reason for evacuating the population.
  3. Controlling the narrative is crucial, as it reflects how the powers involved justify their actions amidst changing circumstances and agendas.

One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This (w/ Omar El Akkad) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 146 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Media Ethics Human Rights Social justice Political Commentary
  1. Language can hide the truth about violence and suffering. It helps people look away without feeling guilty, making it easier to ignore what's really happening.
  2. Those living under oppression have their own ways to resist, and it's not fair for outsiders to dictate how they should fight back. Resistance comes in many forms, and often there's no right way to do it.
  3. Acts of love and solidarity are happening every day, even in difficult times. These small actions remind us that we are connected and that caring for one another is essential, despite the harsh realities around us.

Do you need permission from the government to do independent research?

DYNOMIGHT INTERNET NEWSLETTER • 1015 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Regulation Research Ethics Law Public Policy Human Rights
  1. You don't always need government approval to do research on people. Many people believe IRB approval is required for all human research, but that's not true.
  2. The rules about what kind of research needs approval are complicated and can vary by state or institution. It's not always clear where the lines are drawn.
  3. Many journals require IRB approval to publish research, which can make it harder for independent researchers to share their findings without going through the process.

She Stood Up for the Truth. Then the UN Fired Her.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1678 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Political theory Human Rights Geopolitics Conflict Studies
  1. Alice Nderitu was a UN adviser on genocide prevention but lost her job for not calling Israel's actions against Hamas genocide. Her situation has raised concerns about political pressure within the UN.
  2. Some view Nderitu's dismissal as part of a larger issue of bias against Israel in UN discussions. A recent article praised her for not bending to political agendas.
  3. Nderitu spoke out after attending a memorial for Holocaust victims, connecting her experience to historical injustices and the importance of speaking the truth.

Did you see her or not?

Disaffected Newsletter • 11670 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Gender Politics Human Rights Cultural Commentary
  1. The Exorcist shows the struggle of seeing the truth while others refuse to acknowledge it. Chris MacNeil, the mother, feels alone in her fight to explain her daughter's possession.
  2. People have been trying to speak out about the reality of gender and biological sex. Many feel their views are dismissed as bigotry, even when they see the truth clearly.
  3. Recent events, like a woman being beaten by a trans athlete, highlight the ongoing debate about sex and fairness in sports, leaving many feeling frustrated and unheard.

Jordan And Egypt Snub Trump's Ethnic Cleansing Plan

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2184 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Commentary Human Rights Middle East Public Opinion
  1. Jordan and Egypt have rejected a plan by Trump to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to their countries. Both nations emphasize their support for Palestinians staying on their land.
  2. There is concern that Trump may still attempt to pressure these nations into compliance with his plan. The resistance from Jordan and Egypt suggests significant challenges for achieving that goal.
  3. There is a critique of how political and media classes share similar views, limiting diverse perspectives and accountability regarding issues like the treatment of Palestinians.

Hamas Murdered Their Son. What Do They Think of the Ceasefire?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3134 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflict International relations Human Rights Terrorism
  1. Three women were recently released after being held hostage by Hamas for 15 months, marking the start of a ceasefire. This exchange includes bringing back some Israeli captives in return for Palestinian prisoners.
  2. Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a young Israeli man, was taken by Hamas during an attack at a music festival where many were killed. His fate was uncertain for a long time, which caused great distress to his family.
  3. The ongoing situation involves deep emotions, with the families of the hostages expressing their feelings about ceasefires and the impact on their loved ones. They seek answers and hope for peace in a troubled region.

Just Rule Everything

News from Uncibal • 795 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Environmentalism Philosophy Literature Human Rights
  1. Some environmental activists seem more focused on attacking humanity than actually solving climate problems. Their actions, like vandalizing art, show a deeper anger towards civilization itself.
  2. Pride is highlighted as a major issue, causing people to see themselves as superior and leading to resentment towards others. This mindset can eventually lead to harmful actions against humanity.
  3. There's a connection between extreme environmentalism and beliefs similar to Marxism. Both can express a desire to destroy rather than build, showing a shared discontentment with the existing world.

They're Still Slaughtering Civilians In Gaza

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1634 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Military Action Middle East Conflict resolution
  1. Many Palestinians are still being killed in Gaza, even after a ceasefire was announced. The ongoing violence raises concerns about the true nature of this supposed ceasefire.
  2. Palestinian lives are often viewed as less valuable compared to Israeli lives. This unequal perspective contributes to the ongoing violence and suffering in the region.
  3. There are troubling instances of dehumanization where Palestinians are seen as expendable. This mindset can lead to tragic outcomes, such as the killing of innocent civilians, including children.

EU Travel Ban On Three Journalists Is Flagrant Violation Of Human Rights

Michael Shellenberger • 1019 implied HN points • 26 May 25
🌍 World Politics Human Rights Sanctions Freedom of Speech International relations Media censorship
  1. The EU has banned three journalists from entering its countries, claiming they spread pro-Russian propaganda. This action raises serious concerns about freedom of speech.
  2. Banning journalists and freezing their bank accounts seems extreme and threatens press freedom. It could set a dangerous precedent for how countries deal with dissenting voices.
  3. Many people believe it's important to allow diverse opinions, even those supporting foreign nations, as long as they don't involve illegal activities. Censorship could harm democracy and peaceful activism.

The Saturday Read: Blasted skylines

The Saturday Read • 459 implied HN points • 19 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East Conflict Leadership International relations Human Rights
  1. Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas, was killed by Israeli forces, highlighting ongoing violence in Gaza. His death might temporarily limit the threat from Hamas, but deep issues remain unresolved for both sides.
  2. A kibbutz resident expressed that after recent violence, his focus has shifted solely to protecting his own family rather than helping those in Gaza. This shows the intense personal strife and survival mindset amidst conflict.
  3. The region faces a complex situation where even after Sinwar's death, the future remains uncertain. It raises concerns about possible retaliation and the rebuilding of Gaza, which has suffered immense destruction.

One More Dead Palestinian Kid

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1550 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Conflict Human Rights Military Action Social Issues
  1. A two-year-old girl was tragically killed by Israeli forces in the West Bank, highlighting the ongoing violence in the region. It's heartbreaking to see such young lives lost.
  2. The author expresses deep emotional pain and despair regarding the loss of innocent lives, especially children, in conflict situations. These deaths leave a lasting impact on families and communities.
  3. The repetition of such tragedies can feel overwhelming, as if each death adds to an endless cycle of suffering. This ongoing situation calls for more awareness and compassion for those affected.

We Live In A Nightmare

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2989 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Society Governance Activism Human Rights
  1. Many people don’t realize that we are already living in a dystopia where societal problems like capitalism and militarism are ignored. Understanding this is crucial for recognizing the real issues in our world.
  2. When you wake up to the truth, you begin to see the suffering caused by your government and the media. This awareness can be upsetting but is vital for genuine change.
  3. True happiness isn’t found in what society defines as success, like careers or consumerism. Instead, it lies in meaningful connections, nature, and honest experiences.

You're invited

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 5 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics International relations Geopolitics Foreign Policy Human Rights Conflict Studies
  1. This weekend, there will be discussions on important topics, including Russia's secret activities in Africa and their impact on Europe.
  2. Philip Obaji is a journalist who has bravely reported on human rights abuses by Russian paramilitaries in Africa, and he will share his insights on this troubling situation.
  3. Former US Ambassador Robert Holley will join discussions about his experiences in Morocco and the Western Sahara conflict, providing valuable perspectives on North Africa.

The Biden Administration Declares That A Genocide Is Happening… In Sudan

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2156 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Foreign Policy Human Rights International relations Political Commentary
  1. The Biden administration has officially declared that a genocide is happening in Sudan, holding a paramilitary group responsible for horrific acts against civilians.
  2. There is criticism of the U.S. for its role in supporting both genocidal actions in Gaza and the atrocities in Sudan, highlighting a contradiction in their foreign policy.
  3. The author believes that the problem lies within the U.S. government and its imperialistic actions, suggesting that simply changing leaders will not solve the ongoing issues of violence and genocide.

All Of Western Civilization Owns This Genocide

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2570 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Historical context Imperialism
  1. Blaming the Gaza genocide solely on Jews ignores the larger role of Western civilization in these events. This issue is not just about religious groups but about our society's behaviors and choices.
  2. The narrative that all problems stem from Jews is often used by far-right ideologies to avoid confronting the true nature of Western civilization, which has a history of violence and oppression.
  3. It's important to recognize the broader context of conflict, including Western imperialism's role in global injustices. Acknowledging our collective responsibility can lead to a path toward healing and positive change.

The Western Way of Genocide

The Chris Hedges Report • 453 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Geopolitics Human Rights Conflict International Law Military Affairs
  1. Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis with no clean water or food, leading to widespread sickness and suffering among its population.
  2. The ongoing violence and destruction in Gaza are seen as part of a larger strategy to control resources and land, with little support from international allies to stop it.
  3. Historical patterns of genocide and oppression are highlighted, stressing that current actions are not unique, but rather resemble past atrocities committed by powerful nations against marginalized groups.

Natan Sharansky: Why Can’t Israel’s Leader Visit Auschwitz?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1534 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🌍 World Politics International Law Middle East Human Rights Antisemitism Geopolitics
  1. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu can't attend the Auschwitz commemoration due to war crime charges from the ICC. This situation is highly ironic since it's a significant event related to Jewish history.
  2. The ICC's charges against Netanyahu have been criticized by the Biden administration as having no legal basis, but Poland has not taken action to support his attendance.
  3. Important legal concepts like 'crimes against humanity' and 'genocide' were created by Polish-born Jews after the Holocaust, which adds another layer of irony to the accusations against Israel today.

Day 7 of Gaza ceasefire: U.S.-manned Netzarim corridor vehicle checkpoint set to open today

All-Source Intelligence Fusion • 529 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Military Affairs Human Rights Government Contracts Security Measures
  1. A vehicle checkpoint controlled by the U.S. is set to open in Gaza, allowing some displaced people to return home. This is part of a ceasefire agreement that started recently.
  2. Two American companies, UG Solutions and Safe Reach Solutions, are involved in managing the checkpoint. They are not very well known but have connections to security operations.
  3. There are concerns and questions about the backgrounds of these companies. One of them is linked to a shell company, and there are calls for more transparency about who is really behind these operations.

Meditations On A Six Year-Old Amputee Crawling Through Gaza With The Help Of A Roller Skate

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2421 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Human Rights Middle East Military International relations
  1. A six-year-old boy in Gaza, who lost his legs due to violence, uses a roller skate to help him move. His situation highlights the painful realities many children face in conflict zones.
  2. Many children in Gaza now feel that death is imminent, with a significant number wishing for it. This shows the deep emotional and psychological scars caused by ongoing violence.
  3. The author expresses deep sorrow for the plight of children like Mohammad. It’s important to acknowledge the sadness of such situations without trying to put a positive spin on them.

Let Yourself Be Shattered By Gaza

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2086 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Conflict Human Rights International relations Middle East War Crimes
  1. People often care more for pets than for suffering children in places like Gaza. This shows a disconnect with real human suffering while prioritizing our comforts.
  2. Being 'shattered' or deeply affected by tragic events can lead to personal growth. It helps us reconnect with our feelings and strengthens our human empathy.
  3. True beauty and understanding can emerge from heartbreak. Experiencing pain can clear our vision and help us appreciate life and nature in a deeper way.

The Deep Roots of Irish Antisemitism

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1813 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Antisemitism Middle East Human Rights Historical Analysis
  1. Ireland's criticism of Israel has grown significantly, becoming more intense than other countries, including some in the Arab world.
  2. The Israeli government decided to close its embassy in Ireland, citing the country’s extreme stance against Israel.
  3. The roots of Irish antisemitism are highlighted through personal family history and the historical context of Ireland's relationship with the Jewish community.

Arab Regimes and the Betrayal of Palestine (w/ Farah El-Sharif) | The Chris Hedges Report

The Chris Hedges Report • 159 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East International relations Geopolitics Conflict Studies Human Rights
  1. Many Muslim leaders prioritize their relationships with Western powers over their own people, leading to betrayal, especially regarding Palestine. This often results in silence or complicity in the face of violence against their communities.
  2. The oppression faced by Muslim communities is deeply tied to colonial and imperial actions, which continues to create divisions and reap devastation across the region. The struggle in Gaza highlights the extent of this systemic injustice.
  3. Young Muslims are seeking strong, moral leadership that stands for justice and integrity. They feel disillusioned by leaders who fail to uphold these values, and they are inspired to look to historical figures who embodied true resistance.

“Don’t put ‘gender’ into law - it’s a terrible idea”, the Women’s Rights Party & Mana Wāhine Kōrero tell NZ’s Law Commission.

A B’Old Woman • 1119 implied HN points • 17 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Rights Human Rights Legislation Social Issues Activism
  1. Adding 'gender' to the law could harm women's rights. Many believe it could create confusion about sex-based rights.
  2. The process to submit opinions on this issue isn't fair. Not everyone has equal access to technology or the ability to express their views clearly.
  3. There's a call for more attention to the negative impacts of letting men identify as women in women's spaces, and a need for women's voices to be heard.

He Fought for Freedom. Then He Chose Prison.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2341 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Human Rights Authoritarianism Freedom of Speech International relations
  1. Jimmy Lai is a billionaire from Hong Kong who has been a strong critic of the Chinese government for many years. He founded a popular newspaper and has been involved in numerous pro-democracy protests.
  2. Lai is currently in solitary confinement in prison due to his political activities. Despite this, he remains hopeful and continues to write diary entries that show his strong spirit.
  3. He chose to stay and fight against oppression, even though he had the means to escape. His decision reflects his commitment to his supporters and the fight for freedom in Hong Kong.

The Real Israel

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2980 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Social Issues Human Rights Conflict analysis Media Critique
  1. Many people are starting to understand the harsh reality of life in Israel and Palestine, which is very different from what is often taught. This includes seeing the conflict and its impact more clearly.
  2. There are serious allegations of violence and human rights abuses by Israel against Palestinians. These claims include attacks on civilians, including children, and targeting aid workers.
  3. The situation has made it clear that peaceful resolutions are needed, and many believe that real change can happen only when people prioritize human rights and compassion over conflict.

Either Watch The Footage Of Dead Kids In Gaza Or Stop Supporting Israel

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1951 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Opinions International relations Human Rights Media Critique Conflict Studies
  1. People who support Israel need to understand the reality of the situation in Gaza. Watching footage of the suffering there is important to form an honest opinion.
  2. If someone hasn't seen the evidence of violence, their thoughts on the issue might be based on denial or avoidance. It's hard to genuinely engage with a topic without understanding the facts.
  3. It's not okay to express opinions on Gaza while ignoring the harsh truths. To have a meaningful conversation, people must confront the real consequences of their beliefs.

This Dystopia Depends On Hiding Inconvenient Truths

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2021 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social Issues Government reform Media Control Public Policy Human Rights
  1. Our society often ignores uncomfortable truths to maintain a sense of normalcy. This hiding helps keep people from realizing the suffering that exists in the world.
  2. Inconvenient realities, like waste disposal and poverty, are often pushed away from our view. By doing this, we avoid facing the consequences of our actions.
  3. The truth eventually comes to light. Sooner or later, we will have to confront the realities we've been avoiding and take responsibility for them.

Letting Palestinians Move Is Not "Ethnic Cleansing"

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 3535 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Middle East Immigration International relations Human Rights Political Discourse
  1. People often argue about definitions of words instead of focusing on real-life impacts and solutions. It's important to prioritize human well-being over getting stuck in technical debates.
  2. Allowing Palestinians to move to safer places can be a positive solution. Instead of considering it 'ethnic cleansing,' it should be seen as a humanitarian effort to help those in need.
  3. Many people in Gaza might want to leave for better opportunities, especially after facing conflict. Supporting their choice to move could lead to a more peaceful future for everyone involved.

Only the State Forgives

News from Uncibal • 278 implied HN points • 03 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Policy Human Rights Judiciary State power
  1. The modern state has taken on the role of providing forgiveness and redemption, much like the medieval church did. This change is so complete that many people don't realize it's happened.
  2. There are complex cases, like that of a young man involved in a violent crime, where the state considers human rights and mental health before making decisions on punishment and deportation.
  3. The situation reflects a deeper political theology, showing how state decisions can influence personal lives and highlight the tension between justice and compassion.

Inside Assad’s ‘Human Slaughterhouse.’ Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1298 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Geopolitics Conflict Human Rights Religion
  1. The fall of Assad's regime in Syria marks a major change in the country's political landscape. Many people are unsettled about what this means for safety and future leadership.
  2. Syria's Christians are particularly worried about their safety and what might happen next now that Assad is gone. There are fears that the new leaders might not protect them.
  3. The harsh reality of Assad's regime is becoming clearer as people look back on the horrors of his rule. Many are seeking answers about missing loved ones and want to confront the legacy of violence in places like Sednaya prison.

Simon Sebag Montefiore: After Assad

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1247 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🌍 World Politics Middle East Conflicts Governance Revolution Human Rights
  1. The Assad dynasty ruled Syria for 53 years with extreme violence and family power struggles, resembling a mix of Mafia operations and royal court intrigue. This brutal regime led to significant suffering and loss of life in the country.
  2. Bashar al-Assad's regime faced major uprisings during the Arab Spring, resulting in a horrific and bloody response that left around 600,000 Syrians dead. The backing of allies like Iran and Russia helped him maintain power amidst chaos.
  3. Recent events show a dramatic change as statues of Assad are toppled, prisons are opened, and many oppressors are fleeing. However, while this moment brings hope, the uncertainty of the future still looms large in the Middle East.