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Trump’s Israel-Palestine ‘ceasefire’ deal is failing in ...

2026-04-14T13:21:25Z

Trump’s Israel-Palestine ‘ceasefire’ deal is failing in every way

[ceasefire]

In yet another flagrant violation of ceasefire, Israel has killed at least six Palestinians and wounded others carrying out an airstrike [targeted a police checkpoint ][1]at the entrance of al Bureij refugee camp, in Central Gaza.

## What ceasefire?

Journalist Mohammad Sayyed was among those killed in the attack, which happened in the early hours of 11 April. Several of the injured were reported to be in a serious condition.

[][2]

Throughout its genocide in Gaza, the Israeli occupation has systematically [targeted Palestinian police ][3]across the strip, to intentionally cause the breakdown of law and order, and sow the seeds of chaos amongst the desperate population.

It is now six months since the so called “ceasefire agreement” was signed, in October 2025. But conditions on the ground do not, in any way, resemble that of a ceasefire. Palestinians in Gaza continue to experience extreme hunger, deprivation, injury, and death, because of the Israeli occupation’s ongoing aid restrictions, attacks, and movement restrictions. There is no sense of safety or stability, and recovery or reconstruction is non existent, as all necessary equipment has been blocked from entering Gaza.

Humanitarian organisations – Save the Children, Refugees International, Oxfam, the Norwegian Refugee Council, and the Danish Refugee Council, have produced a [Scorecard,][4] which assesses progress against [Trump’s 20 point peace plan’s][5] stated objectives and commitments.

## Trump’s ceasefire deal has failed

According to Jeremy Konykndyk, president Refugees International said:

> On matters of basic protection, rights, and aid for people living in Gaza, this deal has failed.

Save the Children’s Multimedia Manager, Shurouq, 31, lost her husband and her home during the genocide.

She says:

> There is absolutely no ceasefire. We hear constant bombardment. Many of the explosions we hear are the Israeli military demolishing things, such as standing buildings beyond the yellow line, and within it.

The violence, killing, and indiscriminate airstrikes still take place each day. As of 3 April, more than 700 Palestinians, including at least 180 children have been killed since the so called ceasefire agreement in October 2025. 224 of these Palestinians have been killed near to the ‘yellow line,’ which ‘Israel’ continues to repeatedly shift.

Many hundreds of aid trucks have been blocked by “Israel” from entering the Strip. The Rafah and Jordan border crossings are still closed for aid, yet Trump’s ceasefire deal stated “immediately after the prisoner swap has taken place, aid will be distributed – without interference from either side – by the United Nations and the Red Crescent, along with other international organizations not associated with either Israel or Hamas. Entry of distribution and aid in the Gaza Strip will proceed without interference”.

## Israel throttling aid

The population of Gaza is still struggling to survive, as almost all have lost their source of income, so are primarily reliant on humanitarian aid. But between 28 February and 8 April, [less than 5000 aid trucks ][6]entered Gaza out of 23,400 that were planned.

Oxfam’s Ghada Al Haddad says:

> There is not enough food to eat, and entire neighbourhoods still have no functioning water system because the equipment needed to repair them are not able to enter Gaza. The people are denied the basic tools for survival. Aid is blocked, repairs prevented, movement restricted, and the conditions of life continue to deteriorate, six months into this so called ceasefire. A large proportion of trucks entering Gaza do not even carry humanitarian aid, only commercial goods. These goods are expensive, and not accessible to the vast number of Palestinians, who have no money to spare.

At least [1.7 million ][7]people are still in displacement sites, many with deteriorating tents that are subject to flooding. This is be ause the entry of shelters into the enclave continues to be “[heavily restricted][8]“.

No major reconstruction equipment is allowed into the Strip either. So the piles of rubble remain. People are not only unable to clear space to try and rebuild their homes, but they are also unable to bury their dead still buried underneath the rubble.

When it comes to reconstruction efforts, none is occuring. All critical infrastructure has been intentionally targeted by the terrorist regime of “Israel”, but none has been rebuilt. Health facilities, water and power infrastructure all remains destroyed.

## Trump can’t even deliver on aid

Dr Tanya Haj-Hassan is a paediatric intensive care, and humanitarian doctor who has worked extensively in Gaza. She was last there in February.

She says:

> There is constant bombardment and constant drones. You get the sense that you are in the middle of a war zone, as you were before. The conditions of the ceasefire clearly are not being met.

Haj-Hassan claims patients are now dying of preventable things, because of the conditions brought about by the Israeli occupation, and its:

> targeted and systematic destruction of the healthcare system- through the direct targeting of every hospital in the Gaza Strip, and the continued blockade of aid.

Lack of medical facilities and supplies, combined with the devastating and inhumane conditions experience by the population of Gaza, mean that medical evacuations from the Strip are necessary. But as part of its ongoing genocidal campaign against the Palestinians,[ “Israel” is obstructing patients from leaving][9] abroad. Almost the entire population of Gaza remains trapped inside the Yellow Line, unable to return to their homes- if anything remains of them, and the majority of the Strip.

According to Konykndyk, humanitarian access should be the easiest part of Trump’s “ceasefire plan” to deliver on.

He says:

> They are now trying to turn to much more political issues, such as disarmament and governance of Gaza, but it’s very hard to see how there can be any progress if they can’t deliver on the easiest elements.

## These organisations recommend the following, to ensure a lasting ceasefire

The ceasefire must be in practice, not only in rhetoric

There must be an independent and transparent system to approve aid delivery – The Israeli occupation government cannot be allowed to dictate who and what enters and exits Gaza.

All border crossings into Gaza must be opened.

The new arbitrary restrictions the occupation has placed on [International NGOs ][10]– which provide many of the basic services and are critical to the population – must be lifted.

*Featured image via the author*

By [Charlie Jaay][11]

[1]: https://t.me/QudsNen/218511
[2]:
[3]: https://www.ictj.org/latest-news/israeli%C2%A0attacks-police-sites-kill-six-southern-central-gaza
[4]: https://www.refugeesinternational.org/reports-briefs/humanitarian-scorecard-six-months-in-gaza-ceasefire-is-failing/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2025/10/01/trump-gaza-plan-2/
[6]: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/neither-war-nor-peace-gaza-131737806.html
[7]: https://reliefweb.int/report/occupied-palestinian-territory/opt-humanitarian-situation-report-27-march-2026?_gl=1%2Aspz5bb%2A_ga%2AMTA1MTYwNTQ5My4xNzMxNDQwNDMw%2A_ga_E60ZNX2F68%2AczE3NzQ5MTQwMTYkbzIzOSRnMCR0MTc3NDkxNDAxNiRqNjAkbDAkaDA.
[8]: https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20260304-israel-continues-to-heavily-restrict-shelter-supplies-as-flooding-looms-in-gaza-un/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/04/07/gaza-medical-evacuation/
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2025/08/14/israel-ngo-gaza/
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/charlie-jaay/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/04/14/ceasefire-joke/

Richard Tice’s tax scandal shows how little he respects the law ...

2026-04-13T17:48:26Z

Richard Tice’s tax scandal shows how little he respects the law

[Reform's Richard Tice talking in a video he posted online]

Reform UK’s deputy leader [Richard Tice][1] is trying to just shrug off a tax scandal surrounding one of his companies despite experts saying laws were clearly broken.

The company in question is property investment firm [Quidnet REIT Limited][2]. Alongside Tice, there are two other directors, [Nicholas Tribe][3] and [John Purcell,][4] both of whom Tice has other business interests with.

Experts at [Tax Policy Associates][5] have insisted they are “confident that the company failed to withhold around £120,000 of tax”.

And this wasn’t optional tax as they asserted:

> From 2020 to 2022 it paid around £600,000 of dividends to Mr Tice and his offshore trust. Quidnet was required by law to withhold approximately £120,000 of tax from those dividends and pay it to HMRC. But we believe it’s clear from the company’s accounts and public filings that Quidnet did not pay this tax.

They added:

> Mr Tice has refused to answer the question directly, instead saying that he paid income tax on the dividends. That’s not an answer: the company was legally required to pay tax; the law doesn’t permit REITs to opt to defer their tax obligations.

In other words, the allegation is that Quidnet REIT Limited [broke the law][6].

For Tice, however, it was just a “technicality”, [he told the *Sunday Times*][7], who originally reported the story.

Meanwhile, Reform’s home affairs spokesperson, Zia Yusuf, called the issue “a minor administrative error” and a “non-story”. Yusuf seemed to minimise the law-breaking by claiming “it does look like HMRC netted off in the same way”.

<blockquote class=”twitter-tweet”><p lang=”en” dir=”ltr”>"Richard Tice has not committed tax evasion nor tax avoidance."<br><br>Reform's Zia Yusuf says allegations surrounding Richard Tice about his tax are a "non-story," and states "the Sunday papers are coming after senior Reform figures," as the election period looms.<a href=”https://twitter.com/TrevorPTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>@TrevorPTweets</a>; <a href=”https://t.co/SqtQdNlYEt”>pic.twitter.com/SqtQdNlYEt</a></p>— Sky News (@SkyNews) <a href=”https://twitter.com/SkyNews/status/2043252479492530177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>April 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src=”https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js” charset=”utf-8″></script>

## Richard Tice: Reform millionaires think rules are for other people

We already knew Tice was [a fan of tax havens][8] and [using loopholes to avoid hundreds of thousands of pounds in corporation tax][9]. He has made it clear that [he thinks it’s completely normal and acceptable to do so][10].

Reform leader [Nigel Farage][11], meanwhile, openly stated that he had [bought a house in Clacton][12]. But amid claims he had avoided more than £44,000 in stamp duty by putting the £885,000 property in his partner’s name, he backtracked. He insisted his partner had paid for it upfront with her own money (which the *BBC* said [wasn’t a believable claim][13]).

In Farage’s case, it wouldn’t have been illegal to give money to his partner so the house was in her name, but doing so to pay a lower stamp duty would have been highly hypocritical considering his boisterous criticism of Labour’s [Angela Rayner][14] for doing the same thing. Farage had said at a Reform conference that [Rayner’s decision “screams of entitlement”.][15]

> It screams to a government that, despite all the promises that this would be a new different kind of politics, is as bad, if not worse, than the one that went before.

In reality, it looks like the [wealthy white men leading Reform][16] — who want tough laws for ordinary people on issues like immigration and benefits — also feel entitled to bend the rules when it comes to their own business. And it’s becoming clearer and clearer that they would make [British politics even murkier][17] than it already is.

By [Ed Sykes][18]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/?s=Richard+Tice
[2]: https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/09718143/officers
[3]: https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/06016163/officers
[4]: https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/04420352/officers
[5]: https://taxpolicy.org.uk/2026/04/11/richard-tice-company-failed-to-pay-120k-tax-dividends/
[6]: https://www.thetimes.com/uk/politics/article/richard-tice-tax-reform-farage-vx8j502fr
[7]: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/apr/12/richard-tice-reform-uk-quidnet-reit-tax-dividends
[8]: https://goodlawproject.org/reform-mp-richard-tice-had-millions-squirrelled-away-in-a-tax-haven/
[9]: https://www.thenational.scot/news/25937872.richard-tice-avoided-600-000-tax-exploiting-loophole/
[10]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c8x7yj99jrwo
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/?s=Nigel+Farage
[12]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/09/05/farage-clacton-home/
[13]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce845w70g0yo
[14]: https://www.thecanary.co/?s=Angela+Rayner
[15]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce845w70g0yo
[16]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/11/11/brits-largely-oppose-reforms-anti-climate-agenda/
[17]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/25/reform-crypto-crackdown/
[18]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/oso/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/04/13/richard-tice-tax/

Arsenal show double standards with invitation for Zionist ...

2026-04-13T16:54:10Z

Arsenal show double standards with invitation for Zionist influencer

[arsenal]

Arsenal [comes under scrutiny once again for the way the club chose to handle instances of political expression][1] inside its ecosystem. Whilst their approach has never been consistent, the overwhelming contrast between the treatment of academy kit man Mark Bonnick and influencer Matthew “PapaPincus” Pincus and their corresponding political aﬃrmations exposes a deeper structural imbalance in how modern football institutions outreach duties to police speech, manage risk, and protect commercial interests.

Bonnick, a 61‑year‑old associated with the club for more than two decades, was dismissed subsequent to posting pro‑Palestine comments during the early stages of the Gaza genocide.

Arsenal defended this decision by claiming that Bonnick’s posts “could be perceived as inflammatory or oﬀensive” and as a result, he had “brought the club into disrepute,” citing the media attention that followed. After recourse to appeal was rejected, Bonnick is now pursuing legal action for unlawful dismissal.

## Arsenal allow Zionism

[Coinciding with the timeline of the same conflict, Arsenal‑focused influencer with significant ][2]online reach Pincus gained traction online by postings detailed messages supportive of [Israel’s genocide of Palestine][3]. Screenshots of those posts, including clear amplifications of a pro‑genocidal slogans, have circulated widely since:

> The influencer known as Matthew Pincus is an open Zionist, and Arsenal FC are allowing him to create content directly with the club.
>
> What are you waiting for to appoint Benjamin Netanyahu as honorary president, [@Arsenal][4]? [pic.twitter.com/mTv086IQyT][5]
>
> — Antifa_Ultras (@ultras_antifaa) [April 12, 2026][6]

Despite this, Pincus’ political stance comes unchallenged as he continues to appear pitch‑side, collaborate with club‑adjacent media, and present for *TNT Sports*. Witnessing a clear diﬀerential treatment prompts an obvious question from many supporters – many of whom are now wondering how opposing views of the same conflict can cause a man to lose his job while another remains part of the club’s media orbit?

## Money over morals

Any explanation must account for one technical but important point: Bonnick was an Arsenal employee, meaning that his conduct was subject to the club’s internal disciplinary rules. As his posts drew attention and were reported in the national media, the club moved to protect its reputation.

[Arsenal’s own correspondence is clear that the dismissal was driven not only by the ][7]posts themselves, but by the “reputational damage caused by media coverage.”

By contrast, Pincus does not work for Arsenal. He is an independent creator who operates within the club’s broader influencer network. A club cannot formally discipline someone it does not employ. It can limit access, but that is a choice, not an obligation under contract. This diﬀerence creates an uneven playing field even before politics enters the discussion. However, there is much more to this situation.

## Media bias

Bonnick’s posts were discussed in the national media through the lens of antisemitism debates in British football. Pincus’ posts, while clearly supportive of Israel’s military campaign lacked scrutiny as perhaps they align with a broadly accepted pro‑Israel narrative that many public figures embraced in relation the war.

In practice, the message for the fans and wider audience seems to be, express support for Israel and you will be spared any consequences; express support for Palestine and your life can be derailed.

That contrast makes institutional behaviour hard to ignore. Many have stayed silent, often pointing to reputational risk, which is not a defensible position. Football clubs tend to react to headlines, not principles. Bonnick’s posts became a story; Pincus’ did not.

## The commercial value of influencers

One must also assess the hard commercial truth behind this: it is about money, no matter how tainted the money may be. Influencers like Pincus deliver reach, engagement, and access to younger audiences, assets, clubs and broadcasters increasingly rely on. Arsenal’s approach reflects a wider Premier League trend.

Pushing a creator out of that ecosystem is not as straightforward as disciplining an employee. It can mean lost revenue, strained partnerships, and damage to the club’s digital strategy. Bonnick, by contrast, had no commercial leverage. His job was operational, not public‑facing—so he was easier to remove.

The imbalance is grim, and it is unlikely to change soon.

## The illusion of apolitical football

Clubs often present themselves as “apolitical,” yet the Bonnick–Pincus contrast makes clear that football is not apolitical. It is political in selective, self-serving ways.

That isn’t neutrality. It’s risk management, and it’s ultimately self-defeating: people will see through the pretence and lose trust in clubs that fail to take a morally defensible stand.

The result is a system where the same kind of political expression leads to very diﬀerent consequences, depending on which side it supports.

That is the uncomfortable truth at the heart of this contrast, and it leaves football with an unanswered question: why is support for Palestine so often punished, while support for Israel is so quickly shielded?

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Faz Ali][8]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/05/23/arsenal-israel/
[2]: https://x.com/ultras_antifaa/status/2043333812676092122?s=46
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2025/09/16/un-report-on-gaza/
[4]: https://twitter.com/Arsenal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[5]: https://t.co/mTv086IQyT
[6]: https://twitter.com/ultras_antifaa/status/2043333812676092122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[7]: https://novaramedia.com/2026/02/12/arsenal-employee-sacked-after-criticising-israel-calls-for-review-of-his-case/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/faz-ali/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/04/13/arsenal-double-standard/

Imran Khan’s incarceration weighs on Pakistan’s diplomatic ...

2026-04-13T16:33:10Z

Imran Khan’s incarceration weighs on Pakistan’s diplomatic role

[imran khan]

[Pakistan’s][1] recent role as a mediator on the world stage – trusted by the US, Iran, and the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries (GCC), according to the *[BBC][2]* – is shadowed by Imran Khan’s imprisonment.

Ever ready to muscle in where he doesn’t belong, Keir Starmer shared that he spoke to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, and thanked him for Pakistan’s critical role.

However, it was pointed out by *[Declassified][3]* that the UK has had a ” [muted][4] at best and complicit at worst” reaction to Pakistan’s incarceration of Khan. Khan has been imprisoned since 2023 on corruption charges he rejects. The UK [says][5] Pakistan’s courts are responsible for the legal process, but Khan should receive humane treatment.

> Keir Starmer spoke to Pakistani PM Sharif, but there’s no record he raised the ongoing imprisonment of Imran Khan, who has been held largely in solitary confinement, in “inhumane” detention conditions (UN) and denied family visits.
>
> [👉] [https://t.co/CIb1oWSv5o][6] [pic.twitter.com/TA0Onf4f9G][7]
>
> — Declassified UK (@declassifiedUK) [April 13, 2026][8]

## Imran Khan question

Political commentator Ben Norton posted a claim on X that the US backed a coup against Imran Khan to put the current ‘puppet’ Prime Minister Sharif, in power. He implied that Sharif had allowed the White House to write his public statements for him, sharing a *New York Times* story on the previously agreed, now nulled ceasefire between[ Iran and the USA.][9]

> This is why the US backed a coup against Pakistan’s independent Prime Minister Imran Khan and helped put in power Shehbaz Sharif, a corrupt US puppet from an oligarchic dynasty.
>
> Sharif is such a shameless puppet that the US writes his public statements.[https://t.co/y1Ddyg4hqk][10] [pic.twitter.com/70ZSwyO1oB][11]
>
> — Ben Norton (@BenjaminNorton) [April 10, 2026][12]

Just before the failed talks between Iran and the US in Islamabad over the weekend, Haqooq-e-Khalq Party (HKP) of Pakistan, along with 40 popular movements from around the globe, issued a statement condemning Western supremacy. [The group said they][13]:

> Condemn the escalating war of aggression waged by the United States, Zionism, and its allies against the Islamic Republic of Iran. This hot war was prepared over decades through “cold” yet deadly sanctions, covert sabotage, targeted assassinations, military encirclement, and cognitive warfare. Its aim is to collapse the Iranian state — an agenda of balkanization through ethnic strife and de-develoment through bombardment that has become a hallmark of contemporary imperialist war.

The HKP is part of the Tehreek-e-Tahafuz-e-Ayeen-e-Pakistan (Movement to Protect the Constitution of Pakistan or TTAP), which is a [coalition][14] of several political formations and is headed by Pakistan Tehreek-Insaaf (PTI), Pakistan’s main opposition party, and founded by Khan himself

In February, PTI called a general strike in Pakistan amid Imran Khan’s incarceration, the second anniversary of the “rigged elections”, and Pakistan’s participation in Trump’s Board of Peace for Gaza, according to People’s Dispatch. [The outlet reported][15]:

> February 8 marks the anniversary of the [2024 Pakistani general elections][16], which were held two years after the removal of Imran Khan, of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), from the office of prime minister in a vote of no confidence. The 2024 elections were marred with irregularities, seemingly aimed at preventing the victory of the PTI and Imran Khan who was already in prison.

> View this post on Instagram
>
>
> [A post shared by Peoples Dispatch (@peoplesdispatch)][17]

## Implications

Khan’s imprisonment leaves an obvious question. Had he not been ousted in questionable circumstances, perhaps Pakistan would not have been on the colonial sham of Trump’s Board of Peace. Pakistan’s Ministers would also not be [deleting][18] X posts criticizing Israel.

> We Pakistanis stand by every word of the tweet by [@KhawajaMAsif][19]. We wish and pray our country will play an important role, INSHALLAH, in annihilating and obliterating the illegitimate, illegal, terrorist and genocidal state of Israel. [pic.twitter.com/d1O2ykWzkT][20]
>
> — Haider Ali Butt (@HaiderSalma_) [April 10, 2026][21]

A lawyer and Vice President of Pakistan’s HKP reshared the current [Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s post, criticizing Israel][22]. Asif deleted the post after Zionist pressure.

However, Butt said:

> We Pakistanis stand by every word of the tweet by @KhawajaMAsif.

It is, again, unlikely Asif would have had to delete such a post under Khan. And, neither would Pakistan have found itself the lapdog of the US and Israel even as it stretches to host negotiations with Iran.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [The Canary][23]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/04/10/pakistan-defence-minister/
[2]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3dl0g4rgn5o
[3]: https://www.declassifieduk.org/selective-outrage-britains-silence-on-the-jailing-of-imran-khan/
[4]: https://www.declassifieduk.org/imran-who-the-risky-shift-in-uk-policy-towards-pakistan/
[5]: https://lordslibrary.parliament.uk/imran-khan-rights-and-welfare-during-his-imprisonment/
[6]: https://t.co/CIb1oWSv5o
[7]: https://t.co/TA0Onf4f9G
[8]: https://twitter.com/declassifiedUK/status/2043591778893217913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/04/12/iran-blames-us-for-failure/
[10]: https://t.co/y1Ddyg4hqk
[11]: https://t.co/70ZSwyO1oB
[12]: https://twitter.com/BenjaminNorton/status/2042397509168050657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[13]: https://x.com/ProgIntl/status/2042339226486743362?s=20
[14]: https://peoplesdispatch.org/2026/02/09/hundreds-of-thousands-participated-in-a-national-strike-in-pakistan-against-the-conservative-governments-policies/
[15]: https://peoplesdispatch.org/2026/02/09/hundreds-of-thousands-participated-in-a-national-strike-in-pakistan-against-the-conservative-governments-policies/
[16]: https://peoplesdispatch.org/2024/02/02/pakistan-set-for-polls-amid-popular-resentment-against-countrys-elites/
[17]: https://www.instagram.com/p/DUkGxEzAOXp/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading
[18]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/04/10/pakistan-defence-minister/
[19]: https://twitter.com/KhawajaMAsif?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[20]: https://t.co/d1O2ykWzkT
[21]: https://twitter.com/HaiderSalma_/status/2042642970340659428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[22]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/04/10/pakistan-defence-minister/
[23]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/04/13/imran-khan-incar/

Interview shows Streeting is preparing to challenge Starmer ...

2026-04-12T15:01:12Z

Interview shows Streeting is preparing to challenge Starmer

[Streeting]

On 12 April, Wes Streeting appeared on the Sunday interview shows. With the local elections fast approaching, you’d expect him to be on an election footing. As Saul Staniforth noted, however, it seemed like Streeting was actually gearing up to challenge his boss, [Keir Starmer][1]:

> Words Wes Streeting uses to describe Trumps language and rhetoric: incendiary, outrageous.
>
> Anyone might think there's a leadership election coming up! [pic.twitter.com/Po77FSCo7l][2]
>
> — Saul Staniforth (@SaulStaniforth) [April 12, 2026][3]

As if things couldn’t get any worse in this country!

## Post-Starmer

As everyone knows, Labour are going to get hammered in the upcoming local elections. And when we say ‘hammered’, we don’t simply mean they’re going to get beaten; we mean they’re going to get smushed into paste:

> [‼]NEW | Projected seat change in local elections:
>
> [➡] Ref +2,260
> [🟢] Grn +450
> [🟠] Lib +200
> [🔵] Con -1,010
> [🔴] Lab -1,900
>
> (Source: Stephen Fisher / [@ElectionsEtc][4]) [pic.twitter.com/pkPixJ3Ont][5]
>
> — Stats for Lefties [🍉][🏳️‍⚧️] (@LeftieStats) [March 30, 2026][6]

It’s shaping up to be Labour’s greatest defeat since… well, since possibly ever.

The worry for Labour is it won’t stop with one defeat, either, and that the local election loss will translate into a general election wipeout.

Accordingly, heavy losses in the local elections will mean Labour have no choice but to give Starmer the boot. This might not fix things, but it’s clear there can be no fix with him at the helm, so it’s a necessary step if nothing else.

## Streeting manoeuvres

In the clip at the top, Streeting criticises Donald Trump for threatening to wipe out the civilisation of Iran. Staniforth identified this as Streeting gearing up for a leadership challenge, and there are two good reasons to think this:

1. Trump and his war on Iran are incredibly unpopular in the UK, so it makes sense to attack him.
2. Streeting has no personality traits besides political ambition, so he wouldn’t attack Trump unless it benefitted him.

Of course, you could say that Streeting attacking Trump is a sign that he *doesn’t* want to become PM. After all, as PM, he would have to engage with Trump one-to-one.

The reason why this doesn’t hold up is because Streeting knows what every other politician does – namely that Trump has a cheat code. If a person rolls over and shows Trump their belly, he doesn’t care what they’ve said in the past.

Keir Starmer and Boris Johnson are examples of British politicians who publicly spoke out against Trump only to roll over later on; JD Vance is an example of an American politician:

> JD Vance: “Trump is a really bad candidate and frankly, I think, a really bad person.”
> [pic.twitter.com/GP6HhBq4El][7]
>
> — PatriotTakes [🇺🇸] (@patriottakes) [April 7, 2026][8]

Staniforth also highlighted the following:

> Wes Streeting: "As for Mr Farage, the extent to which that plastic patriot is prepared to fly to Washington on a regular basis to slag off his own country to American audiences, I think is utterly shameful"
>
> Streeting is in campaigning mode (and not for next months elections) [pic.twitter.com/Yai3XvtLWd][9]
>
> — Saul Staniforth (@SaulStaniforth) [April 12, 2026][10]

## Health

As much as Streeting wants to come across as a respectable and righteous politician, he simply cannot get over the disdain he feels for the medical professionals he represents:

> Wes Streeting asks the BMA to stop pretending the govt could have solved everything in 2 years
>
> The BMA never said you could. Resident doctors want pay restoration but recognise it can only happen over several years. That's what they want to negotiate. And you are refusing. [pic.twitter.com/bRQVe2ROX8][11]
>
> — Saul Staniforth (@SaulStaniforth) [April 12, 2026][12]

It’s no secret why Streeting is opposed to our once-successful public health model either, [as James Wright wrote for the *Canary*][13]:

> Labour health secretary Wes Streeting has taken another £55,000 from the ODP Group Ltd—which provides headhunting services to the NHS and private healthcare providers.
>
> The firm’s owner, Peter Hearn, has longstanding links to private healthcare.

Additionally:

> This is not the first donation Streeting has accepted from a Hearn-linked company. In 2023, he took £48, 000 from the OPD Group, according to the National (Scotland). in donations from another company Hearn controls. And the Financial Times has reported that, through seemingly shell companies, Hearn previously donated over £1m to Labour and prominent individual MPs like Streeting from between 2014 and 2023.

## Streeting — Starmer 2.0?

While some have said Streeting would be Starmer 2.0, we don’t think that’s the case. Streeting is more ideologically driven that Starmer, if only because our current PM isn’t curious enough to hold his own opinions.

The problem is that Streeting’s ideology is the toxic privatisation mindset of Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair. In other words, we’ll need to hold on to our public institutions if he becomes PM, because he’ll be selling off everything that isn’t nailed down.

*Featured image via [BBC][14]*

By [Willem Moore][15]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/02/18/epstein-starmer-georgiou/
[2]: https://t.co/Po77FSCo7l
[3]: https://twitter.com/SaulStaniforth/status/2043236774147731965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://twitter.com/ElectionsEtc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[5]: https://t.co/pkPixJ3Ont
[6]: https://twitter.com/LeftieStats/status/2038653615301099831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[7]: https://t.co/GP6HhBq4El
[8]: https://twitter.com/patriottakes/status/2041561145413115915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://t.co/Yai3XvtLWd
[10]: https://twitter.com/SaulStaniforth/status/2043239388893655418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://t.co/bRQVe2ROX8
[12]: https://twitter.com/SaulStaniforth/status/2043241581541511637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[13]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/27/labour-minister-streeting-accepts-55000-donation/
[14]: https://x.com/SaulStaniforth/status/2043245588150362479?s=20
[15]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/04/12/streeting-to-challenge-starmer/

Illegal UK weapons shipment intercepted in Belgian airport bound ...

2026-04-11T14:08:06Z

Illegal UK weapons shipment intercepted in Belgian airport bound for Israel

[Israel]

After the farce of the Starmer government’s [fake and short-lived ‘ban’][1] on arms sales to Israel, illegal weapons destined for Israel have fallen foul of an NGO’s efforts. A disguised cargo of weapons and military spare parts en route from the UK has been [seized][2] at Liège airport in Belgium. An operation by an NGO identified the shipment after concerns were raised about the accuracy of its cargo manifest, which did not disclose the real contents.

The consignment was scheduled to fly on Challenge Airlines, a firm that regularly flies to the genocidal colony.

In total, 33 crates of undeclared military equipment were opened and seized. The contents included laser sights, fire control systems and spare parts for fighter jets involved in the bombing of civilians in Gaza, Lebanon and Iran. The items would have needed specific declaration, followed by authorisation from the Belgian government, to transit legally — an unlikely outcome given [decisions in 2025 in Belgium’s top courts][3] and the policies of federal and regional government.

Belgian authorities have opened an investigation to identify those responsible for the attempted smuggling.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][4]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/05/13/government-in-court-israel-arms-sales/
[2]: https://www.rtl.be/actu/regions/liege/une-cargaison-militaire-interceptee-liege-airport-avant-son-depart-vers-israel/2026-04-10/article/785402
[3]: https://www.politico.eu/article/brussels-court-orders-flanders-belgium-stop-transfer-military-equipment-israel-palestine-dual-use/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/04/11/israel-illegal-uk-weapons/

Animatronic pig to tour Scotland exposing ‘pregnancy cage ...

2026-04-10T22:01:28Z

Animatronic pig to tour Scotland exposing ‘pregnancy cage cruelty’

[Penny the animatronic pig in a farrowing crate at the Scottish parliament]

[Humane World for Animals UK][1] will take its campaign to ban farrowing crates across [Scotland][2] from 11-14 April. The charity will bring a life-size animatronic pig named Penny to towns and cities to highlight the harsh reality faced by tens of thousands of mother pigs on farms.

Penny will appear inside a metal crate like those which confine sows while they give birth and nurse their piglets. The striking installation aims to show the severe restriction which mother pigs endure in these systems.

The tour will visit Aberdeenshire, Perthshire, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Campaigners will meet members of the public and raise awareness about pig welfare. The event will culminate at the Edinburgh City Chambers. Humane World for Animals experts will meet with politicians to urge stronger action to end the caging of mother pigs.

As of 2025, Scotland was home to 25,600 sows. About half of these live in indoor pig farms that routinely keep sows in farrowing crates. Under current laws, they can be confined for up to five weeks in the narrow metal cages every time they give birth, typically two or three times a year.

The cages are so restrictive that the animals are unable to turn around. They have little opportunity to engage in natural behaviour such as nest-building or moving freely with their piglets. This badly compromises their physical and mental health.

Farrowing crates typically measure around 200cm in length and 45-65cm in width. Pigs have been selectively bred to be larger than ever, meaning that the relative space available to a sow is even more restricted than when crates were first introduced.

## Scottish public rejects pig cages

[Polling by the organisation revealed that 84% of the Scottish public rejects][3] the use of farrowing crates for mother pigs. Over half of respondents (54%) stated they would be willing to pay more for meat produced from pigs kept in crate-free systems. This shows that farmers could benefit financially by embracing the highest welfare standards.

The UK government has indicated an intention to phase out conventional farrowing crates. But Humane World for Animals warns that some parts of the industry are shifting towards so-called “flexible” farrowing crates. The organisation says these systems still rely on confining mother pigs in cages and are the same kind of prison under another name.

Claire Bass, senior director of campaigns and public affairs at Humane World for Animals UK, says:

> Many people are shocked that such extreme, prolonged confinement is still legal in Scotland. Farmers must end cruel caging, not replace old cages with new ones that would condemn millions more pregnant and lactating pigs to future decades of misery.
>
> A cage is a cage, and the public is clear: mother pigs don’t belong behind bars.
>
> With the Scottish election fast approaching, our tour is turning public compassion into political pressure. Voters across Scotland are demanding change and joining our call for the next Scottish Government to support farmers as part of the effort to put an end to pregnancy cage cruelty.

By touring Scotland with Penny the pig, campaigners hope to spark conversations about the lives of farmed animals. And they’ll encourage parliamentary candidates to support farming systems that allow pigs the space and freedom to express natural behaviour.

*Featured image via Marcus Emmerson / Humane World for Animals UK*

By [The Canary][4]

[1]: https://www.humaneworld.org/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/topics/Scotland/
[3]: https://www.humaneworld.org/en/news/new-polling-reveals-84-scots-support-ban-caging-pigs-farrowing-crates
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/04/10/animatronic-pig-to-tour-scotland-exposing-pregnancy-cage-cruelty/

Farage brands failed Reform candidates ‘liars’ [Farage] ...

2026-04-02T22:44:42Z

Farage brands failed Reform candidates ‘liars’

[Farage]

Reform are having an absolute nightmare in the runup to the local elections. As we’ve reported, [they’ve been losing candidates left and right][1]. If you think this means the party’s vetting procedures aren’t up to snuff, don’t worry. According to Farage himself, the problem is many of the eager Reform members signing up are actually just liars.

> Farage defends Reform’s vetting failures after ‘abhorrent’ incidents[https://t.co/8uAu2Azx0V][2]
>
> — Reform Party UK Exposed [🇬🇧] (@reformexposed) [April 1, 2026][3]

## Farage — Liars, liars

We’ve covered the many woes that Reform have had in the runup to the local elections, with key calamities including:

* [Reform candidate sparks mass resignations in the party][4].
* [Day One Reform activist accuses party of ‘sewer’ politics in explosive resignation letter][5].
* [Farage heckled at Reform’s Jimmy Saville-aping London launch][6].
* [Video emerges of Reform’s ‘Nazi salute’ candidate drink driving][7].
* [Reform’s chaotic collapse continues: Scottish candidate suspended over ‘financial conduct’][8].

[As reported by the *Independent*][9], Farage defended Reform UK’s vetting process by saying:

> sometimes people lie

That’s true, Nigel, yes; this is what you’re supposed to uncover by vetting them.

The *Independent* also reported:

> Reform UK’s home affairs spokesman, Zia Yusuf, also defended the process, stating that out of 8,000 candidates vetted, even a 99.9 per cent success rate means a handful of problematic individuals might still slip through.

If Reform had enjoyed a 99.9% success rate, they would have only had eight problem candidates. The truth is they’ve already had that many between Wales and Scotland alone, and we’re still a month out from the election:

> Reform UK Wales only announced their candidate list 3 days ago and already 3 have quit or been suspended:
>
> Andrew Barry
> Corey Edwards
> Patrick Benham-Crosswell
>
> It’s 6 out of a friend of 73 in Scotland.[#ReformShitshow][10]
>
> — Reform Party UK Exposed [🇬🇧] (@reformexposed) [March 28, 2026][11]

> Reform UK Scotland have seen 5 of their 73 candidates suspended or stood down.
>
> That’s nearly 7% of all of them. [#ReformScotlandShitshow][12] [pic.twitter.com/0FWLJLxafH][13]
>
> — Reform Party UK Exposed [🇬🇧] (@reformexposed) [March 27, 2026][14]

## All eyes on

When Yusuf was pressed on the number of candidates dropping out by the *BBC’s* Laura Kuenssberg, [Yusuf said][15]:

> Yes, of course it’s reasonable to hold Reform to account.
>
> But what consistently happens is the BBC pounces on every single Reform mishap and gives it vastly disproportionate coverage in your news cycles – and completely ignores the far most voluminous misdemeanours and frankly egregious things from other parties do.

This is the problem Reform have.

They want to be the biggest party in the country, but they don’t want the inevitable scrutiny that comes with it.

And as Kuenssberg pointed out:

> proportionally, Reform has lost more candidates over this kind of thing happening than other political parties

Farage’s response to his party’s candidate crisis is to brand signups ‘liars’.

We can’t imagine that going down well with the Reform faithful, but we’ll see.

*Featured image via [Canva][16]*

By [Willem Moore][17]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/31/reform-resignations/
[2]: https://t.co/8uAu2Azx0V
[3]: https://twitter.com/reformexposed/status/2039344035802825045?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/31/reform-resignations/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/29/reform-activist-accuses/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/29/farage-heckled-at-reforms/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/28/reform-nazi-salute-candidate/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/21/reform-chaotic-collapse/
[9]: https://www.independent.co.uk/bulletin/news/farage-reform-vetting-nazi-salute-corey-edwards-b2949306.html
[10]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReformShitshow?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://twitter.com/reformexposed/status/2037923039619191207?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[12]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReformScotlandShitshow?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[13]: https://t.co/0FWLJLxafH
[14]: https://twitter.com/reformexposed/status/2037611563612270596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[15]: https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/amp/entry/zia-yusuf-slams-bbc-amid-questions-over-reform-candidate-scandals_uk_69c90090e4b06be0a3089250/
[16]: https://www.canva.com/photos/free/
[17]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/04/02/farage-brands-failed-reform/

Trump and the US have lost the Iran war and we need keep pointing ...

2026-04-01T20:07:04Z

Trump and the US have lost the Iran war and we need keep pointing it out

[Trump]

US president Donald Trump doesn’t appear to have any idea what he is doing over the Iran war. Trump has claimed victory several times, while also pledging to keep bombing. He’s told reporters that the war will end with or without a deal now.

Trump cannot tell the truth that this war is lost. The US has been humiliated. Pointing this out must be at the centre of any anti-war politics going forward.

## Trump is finished

The *Financial Times* [reported][1] on 31 March that Trump told journalists:

> We’ll leave whether we have a deal or not. It’s irrelevant.

The US and Israel attacked Iran first on 28 February without provocation. Iran was offering [unprecedented concessions][2] in negotiations at the time. The Pentagon has since [stated][3] there was no imminent threat from Iran. And the UN’s atomic watchdog, the IAEA, has said there is [no evidence][4] Iran was developing a nuclear weapon.

The Iranian government remains intact after over a month of intensive US and Israeli attacks. The US-Israeli attack’s [main achievement][5] seems to be a global energy crisis after Iran predictably closed the straits of Hormuz, a vital oil channel.

The FT also [reported][6] on 31 March that Trump indicated he wanted to:

> knock out every single thing there.

Adding:

> They don’t have to make a deal with me when we feel that they are . . . put into the Stone Ages” without being able to “come up with a nuclear weapon”.
>
> Despite this erratic and belligerent rhetoric, there’s a strong sense that the war is lost in everything but name.

## It’s over

Author and journalist Spencer Ackerman [wrote][7] on 31 March:

> IT’S WEEK FIVE of the Iran War—past the point Donald Trump initially forecasted it would be over—and the Trump administration has a new line: The Strait of Hormuz doesn’t matter.

He [referred][8] to an interview on 30 March in which secretary of state Marco Rubio tried vaguely to save face for the US. Rubio did this by, among other things, trying to:

> convince an audience that the aims of the war were limited, achievable and consistent.

Ackerman went on:

> Here we have the foreign minister of a belligerent power—the regnant superpower, no less—insisting that if the U.S. ceases fighting with the Strait of Hormuz closed, it’s still victory by the original terms the U.S. set out, no matter how thoroughly Iran has obviated those terms.

Adding:

> That’s not just a lost war. That’s a humiliation.

The warmongers can’t be allowed to get away with their ridiculous assertion that the US, which has achieved none of its goals, has in any way won:

> A narrative that the 2026 War was a success will hasten both that return and to the deeper catastrophes it will unlock.

He warned that we must tell the truth of the US defeat or:

> We will be right back here if the architects, the profiteers, the propagandists and the forerunners of this war get away with their evasions once again.

One of the reasons we still got an Iran war after the disasters of Libya, Afghanistan, Iraq and others is that no proverbial heads rolled. On Iran, they have to. Failure in this area guarantees the next war – and the one after that.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Joe Glenton][9]

[1]: https://www.ft.com/content/77e5184d-9854-4a30-b53c-498223b436a5?syn-25a6b1a6=1
[2]: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/full-transcript-omani-foreign-minister-badr-albusaidi/
[3]: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/pentagon-tells-congress-no-sign-that-iran-was-going-attack-us-first-sources-say-2026-03-02/
[4]: https://aje.news/xgc2gx?update=4359748
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/24/iran-consolidates-its-oil-superpower-status/
[6]: https://www.ft.com/content/77e5184d-9854-4a30-b53c-498223b436a5?syn-25a6b1a6=1
[7]: https://www.forever-wars.com/so-you-lost-a-war-to-iran/?ref=forever-wars-newsletter
[8]: https://www.forever-wars.com/so-you-lost-a-war-to-iran/?ref=forever-wars-newsletter
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/joeglenton/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/04/01/trump-iran-war-latest/

Pro-Palestine coalition expresses shock at “huge setback for ...

2026-04-01T19:43:46Z

Pro-Palestine coalition expresses shock at “huge setback for civil liberties”

[Palestine]

The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) and Stop the War (StW) formed a coalition in shared opposition to the genocide in Gaza. Since then, more than 20 national protests across the UK have demonstrated that the [British public does not support the mass killing of Palestinians][1].

However, authorities convicted PSC director Ben Jamal and StW vice-chair Chris Nineham on two counts under the [authoritarian Public Order Act ][2]introduced by Suella Braverman.

This ruling has sent shockwaves through the pro-Palestinian community, as repressive police powers actively undermine and [curtail the ability to protest][3].

Refusing to be deterred, the PSC has published a [statement][4] on behalf of the coalition, condemning the verdicts as:

> extraordinary and shocking and a huge setback for civil liberties.

We spoke to Chris Nineham following his conviction under this draconian law:

> Stop the War and Palestine Solidarity Campaign activists Chris Nineham and Ben Jamal have been found guilty of "breaching protest conditions" – we spoke to Chris Nineham[@STWuk][5] [pic.twitter.com/zDr6JxRDeJ][6]
>
> — Canary (@TheCanaryUK) [April 1, 2026][7]

## “A seismic threat to democratic freedoms” say pro-Palestine coalition

In this statement, it is made clear that Nineham and Jamal intend to appeal their verdicts. Helping them with that appeal, they will have full support of the pro-Palestine coalition behind them. Undoubtedly, they will have support of the wider British public in which a [majority oppose Israel’s bloodthirsty actions][8].

They then go further by highlighting “significant concerns” about how the six-day trial was conducted. These concerns will be subsequently raised in their imminent appeal.

Arguably pointing to a stitch up, the statement [reads][9]:

> The substantive issues at the heart of the case were clear. From the stage that day, Ben Jamal explained that a delegation of leaders of the coalition, plus MPs, trade union leaders and members of the Jewish bloc, would walk peacefully in a symbolic protest towards the BBC to lay flowers to mark the Corporation’s failures to report the truth of genocide in Gaza.
>
> Ben made clear that, if stopped by the police, the flowers would be laid at the police line. In the event, as copious video evidence shows, police officers invited the delegation to pass though.

They also argue that the [claims of public disorder][10] made by the police were categorically untrue.

In fact, they underscore the violence that they did [see that day][11]:

> The only moment of violence was when Chis Nineham was brutally pulled to the ground and hauled away by police officers.

Contradicting Police Commander Adam Slonecki’s adamant insistence that the imposed late restrictions did not follow political pressure from pro-Israel groups, they [added][12]:

> The logs of the Police Gold Commander Adam Slonecki reveal that enormous political pressure was placed on the police by pro-Israel groups to prevent a protest at the BBC.

Islington MP Jeremy Corbyn has condemned the judge’s verdict, saying he is “appalled”:

> I am appalled by today’s verdict against Ben Jamal and Chris Nineham.
>
> In January 2025, we held an entirely peaceful demonstration in support of Palestinian people. At all times, they — and we — followed all police instructions. We ended the demonstration by laying down flowers… [https://t.co/A8bCsKOJ9X][13]
>
> — Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) [April 1, 2026][14]

Defending the actions of Jamal and Nineham at the protest, which Corbyn was also taking part in, he wrote:

> In January 2025, we held an entirely peaceful demonstration in support of Palestinian people. At all times, they — and we — followed all police instructions. We ended the demonstration by laying down flowers at their feet to mourn the deaths of Palestinian children.
>
> Today’s verdict is a dark day for civil liberties in this country — and is a disgraceful assault on the right to protest.

We [wrote][15] earlier today after the court’s judgement:

> It is clear that the government are refusing to back down in its attempts to intimidate and bully British citizens into no longer standing by our Palestinian comrades. Heavily funded by the Israel Lobby, Starmer’s government have long ignored and diminished rising islamophobia, whilst unduly declaring anti-Zionist positions as antisemitic.

## Crime and Policing Bill

The [statement][16] goes on to draw attention to the [Crime and Policing Bill][17] which is making its way through Parliament:

> It confirms the view, widely held across civil society, that these proposed increased powers represent a seismic threat to democratic freedoms.

They [raise alarm][18] at the chilling impact this is clearly intended to have on people supporting Palestinians:

> The unprecedented charging and now conviction of leaders of a movement that has brought millions to the streets in support of the people of Palestine is designed to chill ongoing opposition to genocide, apartheid and illegal occupation.

It [finishes][19] with a typical show of dogged resistance to state oppression and repression:

> It will not succeed.

That it most certainly won’t, as a call to action is heard for the upcoming protest on the 16 May in London:

> So, Ben Jamal and I have been convicted for organising a peaceful protest against genocide in a bizarre decision by one judge.
>
> This is a big attack on civil liberties.
>
> We will appeal. We call for a massive mobilisation in support of the Palestinian people for Nakba on 16 May. [https://t.co/ftX7S069Bl][20]
>
> — Chris Nineham (@ChrisNineham) [April 1, 2026][21]

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Maddison Wheeldon][22]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2025/06/05/arms-embargo-israel-uk-poll/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/07/protest-gave-us-the-right-to-vote-womens-day-suffragette-stunt-against-anti-protest-laws/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/01/14/mps-approve-expansion-of-anti-protest-powers-covering-animal-testing-sites/
[4]: https://palestinecampaign.org/palestine-coalition-statement-on-ben-jamal-and-chris-ninehams-trial-verdict/#:~:text=Today%E2%80%99s%20guilty%20verdicts%20in%20the%20case%20of%20PSC,full%20support%20of%20the%20Palestine%20Coalition%20in%20that
[5]: https://twitter.com/STWuk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://t.co/zDr6JxRDeJ
[7]: https://twitter.com/TheCanaryUK/status/2039358978774233410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2025/06/05/arms-embargo-israel-uk-poll/
[9]: https://palestinecampaign.org/palestine-coalition-statement-on-ben-jamal-and-chris-ninehams-trial-verdict/#:~:text=Today%E2%80%99s%20guilty%20verdicts%20in%20the%20case%20of%20PSC,full%20support%20of%20the%20Palestine%20Coalition%20in%20that
[10]: https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/met-police-commander-denies-jewish-groups-legal-threats-led-ban-palestine-march-bbc
[11]: https://palestinecampaign.org/palestine-coalition-statement-on-ben-jamal-and-chris-ninehams-trial-verdict/#:~:text=Today%E2%80%99s%20guilty%20verdicts%20in%20the%20case%20of%20PSC,full%20support%20of%20the%20Palestine%20Coalition%20in%20that
[12]: https://palestinecampaign.org/palestine-coalition-statement-on-ben-jamal-and-chris-ninehams-trial-verdict/#:~:text=Today%E2%80%99s%20guilty%20verdicts%20in%20the%20case%20of%20PSC,full%20support%20of%20the%20Palestine%20Coalition%20in%20that
[13]: https://t.co/A8bCsKOJ9X
[14]: https://twitter.com/jeremycorbyn/status/2039288949378629951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[15]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/04/01/pro-palestine-protest/
[16]: https://palestinecampaign.org/palestine-coalition-statement-on-ben-jamal-and-chris-ninehams-trial-verdict/#:~:text=Today%E2%80%99s%20guilty%20verdicts%20in%20the%20case%20of%20PSC,full%20support%20of%20the%20Palestine%20Coalition%20in%20that
[17]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/2026/03/26/netpol-report-policing/
[18]: https://palestinecampaign.org/palestine-coalition-statement-on-ben-jamal-and-chris-ninehams-trial-verdict/#:~:text=Today%E2%80%99s%20guilty%20verdicts%20in%20the%20case%20of%20PSC,full%20support%20of%20the%20Palestine%20Coalition%20in%20that
[19]: https://palestinecampaign.org/palestine-coalition-statement-on-ben-jamal-and-chris-ninehams-trial-verdict/#:~:text=Today%E2%80%99s%20guilty%20verdicts%20in%20the%20case%20of%20PSC,full%20support%20of%20the%20Palestine%20Coalition%20in%20that
[20]: https://t.co/ftX7S069Bl
[21]: https://twitter.com/ChrisNineham/status/2039311875989479755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[22]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/maddison-wheeldon/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/04/01/psc-jamal-nineham-palestine/

PETA want Northerners to roll spuds downhill instead of eggs [An ...

2026-04-01T09:06:00Z

PETA want Northerners to roll spuds downhill instead of eggs

[An egg and a potato with a 'VS' symbol between them, PETA logo]

If the above headline makes no sense to you, it’s because you’re unfamiliar with the tradition of [egg rolling][1]. This is a game played around Easter in which children roll hard-boiled eggs down a big hill. The reason you’ve never heard of it is because it’s localised to Scotland and the Lancashire city of Preston.

It’s hitting the news now, because PETA have stepped in to ask that we use potatoes instead of eggs. And as a Prestonian myself, I want to say this is the worst thing to ever happen to someone in the Easter period (barring the crucifixion, of course).

> PETA is urging a city council to "modernise" their famous Easter egg roll – by swapping traditional hens' eggs for dyed potatoes.[https://t.co/pdCFY6vRaE][2]
>
> — ITV Granada Reports (@GranadaReports) [March 31, 2026][3]

## The spud, the bad, and the eggly

[*Wikipedia* notes the following about egg rolling][4]:

> In Lancashire there are annual egg rolling competitions at Holcombe Hill near Ramsbottom and Avenham Park in Preston. Egg rolling has been a tradition at Avenham Park for hundreds of years, but in recent years chocolate eggs have been used.

We were already using chocolate eggs when I grew up in the 90’s, so this is nothing new. If it rained, we used to roll them down the stairs at home. When I grew up, I was baffled to learn that most people eat their chocolate eggs without first rolling them down some sort of incline.

*Wikipedia* adds:

> Traditionally, the eggs were wrapped in onion skins and boiled to give them a mottled, gold appearance (although today they usually are painted), and the children competed to see who could roll their egg the farthest. There is an old Lancashire legend that says the broken eggshells should be crushed carefully afterward, or these would be stolen and used as boats by witches.

No one believes the above now, of course, because it’s well known Preston witches build their boats from fiberglass.

Getting to the story at hand, [*Blog Preston* reported][5]:

> An animal rights organisation has urged Preston City Council to swap eggs for dyed potatoes for the annual tradition of egg-rolling.
>
> People have been visiting Avenham Park to roll eggs down the hill for more than 150 years and thousands of people attend every year.
>
> But PETA has written to Preston City Council urging them to switch eggs for dyed ‘Easter potatoes’ – despite the majority of people now rolling chocolate eggs rather than boiled eggs.

In PETA’s own words:

> Children love animals and would be sad to learn that the eggs used for fun and games at Preston’s egg rolling event come from tormented hens who live miserable lives on Britain’s farms.
>
> Easter should be a time of renewal and joy for all sentient beings – and that means hens, too.

There are a couple of problems with PETA’s stance. The first is they’re several decades too late, because people mostly use chocolate eggs now. The second is there are no inspectors checking attendees’ eggs to ensure they’re up to code. People just rock up and roll; it’s incredibly informal like that.

As Preston City Council said:

> The event does not prescribe the type of egg to be rolled, and visitors have the choice as to what they roll down the hill.

This isn’t the first time that [PETA has attached itself to a baffling campaign anyway][6]:

> Dear [@peta][7]
>
> As the parent of a child with Autism, kindly get in the bin.
>
> What is your issue with people who are neurodivergent?
>
> This is next level ableism and flat out lies. [pic.twitter.com/G8gvVgsRhE][8]
>
> — Alex Tiffin (@RespectIsVital) [January 5, 2021][9]

If you’ve read this and would like to know more about Preston, our other big controversy is that [historians keep asking our promoters stop claiming Toto wrote their smash hit *Africa* in one of our nightclubs][10]. [We’re also the birthplace of R2-D2 actor Kenny Baker (RIP)][11].

*Featured image via [Visit Preston][12]*

By [Willem Moore][13]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2025/06/06/peta-beagle-animal-testing/
[2]: https://t.co/pdCFY6vRaE
[3]: https://twitter.com/GranadaReports/status/2038897083558600965?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Egg_rolling#:~:text=In%20Scotland%2C%20pace%2Deggin%20is,including%20pash%2C%20peace%20and%20paste.
[5]: https://www.blogpreston.co.uk/2026/03/peta-asks-preston-to-switch-eggs-for-potatoes-in-150-year-old-egg-rolling-tradition/?fbclid=IwY2xjawQ3Z25leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe5COTrNi4T5V6aZ84fE7hDelYBWGjhhPSdWaLwq3K_HMWAJPzJ8IWkOXjCfc_aem_-1gu2Y82mOqiF3StomKa_g
[6]: https://time.com/2798480/peta-autism-got-milk/
[7]: https://twitter.com/peta?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[8]: https://t.co/G8gvVgsRhE
[9]: https://twitter.com/RespectIsVital/status/1346399964130402304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[10]: https://www.blogpreston.co.uk/2026/02/a-compromise-to-suit-everyone-after-new-blue-plaque-installed-at-all-hopes-no-promises/
[11]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lancashire-37076450
[12]: https://www.visitpreston.com/article/6658/Egg-Rolling-2026
[13]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/04/01/peta-spuds/

Sex worker claims US troops are preparing for deployment to Iran ...

2026-04-01T08:57:12Z

Sex worker claims US troops are preparing for deployment to Iran

[Charm Daze and an image of US troops, Iran]

The US has denied that it’s planning a ground invasion of Iran. Despite this, [there have been signs that the US is preparing for what will undoubtedly be another catastrophic land war.][1] One of the latest is that US troops are telling strippers that deployment is imminent:

> AMERICA DECIDES ‘26: Who do you trust when it comes to whether the troops are getting deployed?
>
> OSINT strippers or manifesto-publishing access journos? [pic.twitter.com/BBsIw5Z4Po][2]
>
> — ParaPower Mapping (@KlonnyPin_Gosch) [March 29, 2026][3]

## Iran ground invasion signs

In the video above, [influencer Charm Daze says][4]:

> So I work at a strip club next to several military bases and something I have noticed lately is all the military guys are coming in and they’re spending all their money… It’s sad. They’re like kind of depressed, and they’re like just coming in like ‘oh yeah, we’re gonna have fun like we’re getting’ – what is it called? Deployed? – ‘like we’re getting deployed next week…
>
> I don’t want to spread misinformation or anything, but it’s just like, a lot of them are really kind. And to see these young guys that look like my pinky toe, they’re so – they’re like fetuses – coming in and then dancing with them and then being like, bye.
>
> It’s actually making me emotional.
>
> It’s fucked up.

In response to the above, [a military commenter advised troops not to tell their secrets to their strippers, barbers, etc][5]:

> This stripper has singlehandedly caused an OPSEC crisis and panic amongst ex-military careerists.
>
> OSINT strippers, hold the line! Double your Army brass seduction efforts! [https://t.co/iA8g88pIFL][6] [pic.twitter.com/8jI0OScRDr][7]
>
> — ParaPower Mapping (@KlonnyPin_Gosch) [March 30, 2026][8]

The problem, of course, is that many of these troops will feel like their lives are being thrown away for the benefit of oil executives and Jeffrey Epstein associates. As such, why should they care about keeping the empire’s secrets?

*Featured image via [Charm Daze (Instagram) ][9]*

By [Willem Moore][10]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/14/us-sends-uss-tripoli/
[2]: https://t.co/BBsIw5Z4Po
[3]: https://twitter.com/KlonnyPin_Gosch/status/2038342961814180027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://www.instagram.com/cgetsnakey/
[5]: https://x.com/KlonnyPin_Gosch/status/2038665292923260957?s=20
[6]: https://t.co/iA8g88pIFL
[7]: https://t.co/8jI0OScRDr
[8]: https://twitter.com/KlonnyPin_Gosch/status/2038665292923260957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWfRBaBD0F_/
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/04/01/iran-invasion/

US dropping anti-tank mines over Iranian village [iran] The US ...

2026-03-31T15:06:44Z

US dropping anti-tank mines over Iranian village

[iran]

The US has air-dropped anti-tank mines in southern Iran, which have killed several people so far.

> Bellingcat identified the mines found overnight in Kafari, Iran as US BLU-91/B anti-tank mines from the Gator Scatterable Mine System. At least two people were reportedly killed.
>
> These mines were deployed over a village near a Iranian missile base. [pic.twitter.com/Ymzb9iu9Bp][1]
>
> — Trevor Ball (@Easybakeovensz) [March 26, 2026][2]

## Iran attacked

The mines appear to be US-made [BLU-91/B anti-tank mines][3]. They are part of the “Gator” scatterable mine system. Aircraft disperse them over a wide area to disable vehicles and restrict movement.

The Gator system is an:

> air-delivered dispenser system or cargo bomb that distributes mines over an area. These dispensers contain a mixture of either 94 or 60 BLU-92/B anti-personnel and BLU-91/B anti-vehicle mines depending on which dispenser is used.

The mines are:

> bi-directional, electro-mechanically armed, Self-Destruct (SD), Anti-Personnel (AP) landmine that is designed to wound or kill by its HE-Frag and deployed as part of the GATOR landmine delivery system.

And:

> These mines were found in Kafari, Iran approximately 2 kilometers outside the South Shiraz Missile Base. [pic.twitter.com/RYYhIUHr4G][4]
>
> — Trevor Ball (@Easybakeovensz) [March 26, 2026][5]

Dr NR Jenzen-Jones, Director of Armament Research Services, told *Bellingcat* that:

> The BLU-91/B is dispensed from the CBU-78/B or CBU-89/B air-delivered cargo bombs (cluster munitions).
>
> “The presence of square ‘aeroballistic adaptors’ indicates that the mines seen here were delivered by air. Similar mines can be dispensed from the vehicle- or helicopter-based Volcano system.”

## Cluster munitions

Technically, the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) [prohibits][6] the use, production, stockpiling or transfer of cluster munitions and requires states to ensure that they claim no further victims.

However, neither Israel nor the US [signed][7] the CCM. That might have something to do with them being some of the biggest producers of the weapon. Obviously, we already know that Israel and the US do not care about international law, especially when they could be making money.

The BLU-91/B is [activated][8] two minutes after being deployed. However, sometimes they fail to arm correctly or explode.

The mines also contain a self-destruct feature with variable delays of 4 hours, 48 hours, or 15 days. This means they can randomly explode hours or even days after the US dispenses them.

Unlike the BLU-92/B anti-personnel mines, the BLU-91/B anti-tank mines do not have an anti-handling device, meaning they don’t detonate when disturbed. [However][9]:

> they may detonate when moved, because the mine may sense a significant change from its original orientation.

Of the countries involved in the illegal war on Iran and Lebanon, records show that the US is the only country that possesses Gator Scatterable Mines.

According to *Bellingcat*:

> They were developed after the US stopped supplying arms to Iran. A review of Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s (SIPRI) [Arms Transfer Database][10], and US [Major Arms Sales][11] does not show any transfers of these mines to Israel.

## Cluster munitions

The same pedo friends of Epstein, who [double-tapped a girls][12]‘ school in Minab, are now dropping a type of highly destructive cluster munitions on civilian villages.

The US preaches about freeing Iran from the ‘regime’, yet its initial attack was illegal and unprovoked. And now, it is deploying weapons which cannot distinguish between soldiers and children, or tanks and tractors. Once the US drops them from the sky, it has zero control over them.

The ICJ should be trying Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth, alongside Netanyahu and his cronies.

*Featured image via [WION/YouTube][13]
*

By [HG][14]

[1]: https://t.co/Ymzb9iu9Bp
[2]: https://twitter.com/Easybakeovensz/status/2037238338256531928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://cat-uxo.com/explosive-hazards/landmines/blu-92-landmine
[4]: https://t.co/RYYhIUHr4G
[5]: https://twitter.com/Easybakeovensz/status/2037238341108674897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://www.icrc.org/en/law-and-policy/cluster-munitions
[7]: https://opil.ouplaw.com/display/10.1093/law:epil/9780199231690/law-9780199231690-e2086
[8]: https://www.bellingcat.com/news/2026/03/26/us-iran-mines-israel-village-missile-munitions-weapons-war-conflict/
[9]: https://www.marines.mil/Portals/1/Publications/FM%2020-32%20W%20CH%201-4.pdf#page=90
[10]: https://armstransfers.sipri.org/ArmsTransfer/TransferRegister
[11]: https://www.dsca.mil/Press-Media/Major-Arms-Sales
[12]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/12/trump-iran-murder/
[13]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wl1hTCy2He8
[14]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/hg/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/31/iran-munitions/

Spiteful Starmer suspends MP who criticised jury reforms [Keir ...

2026-03-31T14:33:22Z

Spiteful Starmer suspends MP who criticised jury reforms

[Keir Starmer and Karl Turner]

Keir Starmer has [suspended Karl Turner MP][1] after the latter made several criticisms of the Labour government. It also follows an interview Turner gave to independent journalist and [*Canary* contributor Jody McIntyre][2]:

> [🚨] BREAKING: Karl Turner MP has had the Labour whip suspended after criticising the Government's reforms to jury trials
>
> — Politics UK (@PolitlcsUK) [March 31, 2026][3]

## Starmer crushing dissent

*Politics UK* [added][4]:

> It’s understood several Labour MPs raised concerns about a recent interview Turner gave to activist Jody McIntyre, who stood against Jess Phillips at the last election
>
> Turner said: “I am being told that I have had the whip suspended but I have not had any notification from the whips about this. It seems journalists have been told but I have not”

Providing further context, [they said][5]:

> Update: It’s understood Turner was told by the Chief Whip earlier today via email.

McIntyre published his interview with Turner on X/Twitter. As we reported at the time, [the interview related to Starmer’s ex-chief of staff Morgan McSweeney][6]:

> This morning on Sky News, Keir Starmer said that it is “a little bit far-fetched” to think that McSweeney could have known that “sometime in the future there would be a request for the phone”.
>
> Labour MP Karl Turner told me this morning that the statement is “absolute bollocks”. [pic.twitter.com/ANxfikYWai][7]
>
> — Jody McIntyre (@jodymcintyre_) [March 26, 2026][8]

> Turner, the MP for East Hull, told me: “There are messages on there, probably slagging off the PM.”
>
> He described McSweeney’s “antecedence for dishonesty”:
>
> “He was chasing down journalists for being journalists! You can’t trust the bastard without interrogating every detail.” [pic.twitter.com/KE6mpMfSd9][9]
>
> — Jody McIntyre (@jodymcintyre_) [March 26, 2026][10]

> Labour’s Karl Turner alleges that Morgan McSweeney is “still running the job” in the background, and that several MPs are “very angry” about the situation.
>
> Turner added that Starmer’s work as head of the CPS “ought to show him that McSweeney’s version of events is not credible”. [pic.twitter.com/zXPO4w2miP][11]
>
> — Jody McIntyre (@jodymcintyre_) [March 26, 2026][12]

> Labour MP Karl Turner told me he doesn’t believe McSweeney’s story:
>
> “If I lost my phone, I’d be calling Shabana direct. I’ve f***ed up, I’ve got messages slagging off x, y, + z, and I don’t want them on the front pages.
>
> Every police officer in the area would be notified, FACT!” [pic.twitter.com/yYVn42CSGn][13]
>
> — Jody McIntyre (@jodymcintyre_) [March 26, 2026][14]

> I report on the stories mainstream media cannot.
>
> My journalism is funded by my generous readers. If you value my work, please consider making a donation: [https://t.co/SgLnupRJib][15]
>
> Subscribe to read my full length articles: [https://t.co/WmzzjvtKYb][16]
>
> Follow [@jodymcintyre_][17] for more.
>
> — Jody McIntyre (@jodymcintyre_) [March 26, 2026][18]

The following tweet from 29 March suggests the whips may have approached Turner before now (that or he was being sarcastic):

> I got the memo now. Morgan McSweeney was mugged, reported that to the police, followed all the processes. Any questions around this is just conspiracy theory territory, really. Let’s move along now. [🤷🏼‍♂️]
>
> — Karl Turner MP (@KarlTurnerMP) [March 29, 2026][19]

Elsewhere, Turner has indeed criticised Labour’s plans to end trial by jury as a universal right:

> Yes, we committed to specialist court in our [@UKLabour][20] manifesto. We did NOT commit to doing away with the right to elect jury trial in serious criminal cases which can result in imprisonment for 3 years on conviction. [https://t.co/WWHCB5AaNp][21]
>
> — Karl Turner MP (@KarlTurnerMP) [March 30, 2026][22]

> .[@MoJGovUK][23] Ministers including [@DavidLammy][24] have been pretending that Sir Brian Leveson blames the backlog in Crown Courts on jury trials when in fact he never has. Sir Brian confirmed as much in evidence before the Public Bill Committee today. [https://t.co/lmkMiGTK5G][25]
>
> — Karl Turner MP (@KarlTurnerMP) [March 25, 2026][26]

> 30 charitable organisations wrote to ⁦[@DavidLammy][27]⁩ warning him of the risks of ‘undermining justice’.Two of those orgs have apparently said they want to retract from that letter after meeting Ministers, why? [https://t.co/H0MdwjYFIz][28]
>
> — Karl Turner MP (@KarlTurnerMP) [March 25, 2026][29]

[Turner has previously threatened to step down and force a by-election in protest over the government’s position on jury trials][30].

## What changed?

McIntyre has also criticised the government plans, [writing for the *Canary*:][31]

> On 10 March, the Labour government’s bill to restrict access to jury trials, a right enjoyed by English citizens for over 800 years, [successfully passed its first reading][32] in the houses of parliament.
>
> As [previously reported][33], the Minister for Courts, Sarah Sackman, announced plans for many criminal cases to be heard by only a judge and a magistrate, in order to reduce a backlog of ten of thousands of cases.
>
> This is despite that fact that, in 2017, now justice secretary [David Lammy concluded that juries][34] “act as a filter for prejudice”, following an independent review commissioned by then prime minister David Cameron. In 2020, [he said][35]:
>
> > Jury trials are a fundamental part of our democratic settlement. Criminal trials without juries are a bad idea… The government needs to pull their finger out and acquire empty buildings across the country to make sure these [trials] can happen in a way that is safe … you don’t fix the backlog with trials that are widely perceived as unfair.
>
> Now, Lammy wants to get rid of them.
>
> My investigations reveal that this erosion of democracy has been shaped by Lammy and Sackman, two pro-Israeli lawyers-turned-politicians, who have both been captured by lobbyists and arms traders.

If Labour have suspended Turner for his opinions on trial by jury, then they’ve suspended him for holding an opinion which was Labour orthodoxy until recently.

In other words, it’s another sign that Labour under Starmer are lurching towards crushing dissent.

*Featured image via [Downing Street (Flickr)][36]*

By [Willem Moore][37]

[1]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/mar/31/karl-turner-labour-whip-suspended
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/jody-mcintyre/
[3]: https://twitter.com/PolitlcsUK/status/2038959094963273921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://x.com/PolitlcsUK/status/2038962143152799930?s=20
[5]: https://x.com/PolitlcsUK/status/2038965782571290734?s=20
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/26/labour-mps-are-gunning/
[7]: https://t.co/ANxfikYWai
[8]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_/status/2037133572662837623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://t.co/KE6mpMfSd9
[10]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_/status/2037133578132160521?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://t.co/zXPO4w2miP
[12]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_/status/2037133584327147580?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[13]: https://t.co/yYVn42CSGn
[14]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_/status/2037133591222575441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[15]: https://t.co/SgLnupRJib
[16]: https://t.co/WmzzjvtKYb
[17]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[18]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_/status/2037133597971276027?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[19]: https://twitter.com/KarlTurnerMP/status/2038223961301955050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[20]: https://twitter.com/UKLabour?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[21]: https://t.co/WWHCB5AaNp
[22]: https://twitter.com/KarlTurnerMP/status/2038632955283640616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[23]: https://twitter.com/MoJGovUK?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[24]: https://twitter.com/DavidLammy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[25]: https://t.co/lmkMiGTK5G
[26]: https://twitter.com/KarlTurnerMP/status/2036889128055263538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[27]: https://twitter.com/DavidLammy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[28]: https://t.co/H0MdwjYFIz
[29]: https://twitter.com/KarlTurnerMP/status/2036844150956478644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[30]: https://spectator.com/article/labour-mp-threatens-by-election-over-jury-plans/
[31]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/24/jury-trials-zionism/
[32]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cpw0eg9q7kwo
[33]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/11/20/right-to-trial/
[34]: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a82009040f0b62305b91f49/lammy-review-final-report.pdf
[35]: https://www.criminalbar.com/resources/news/monday-message-24-11-25/
[36]: https://www.flickr.com/photos/number10gov/54693529924
[37]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/31/starmer-turner/

Reform candidate sparks mass resignations in the party [Ben Flook ...

2026-03-31T11:10:51Z

Reform candidate sparks mass resignations in the party

[Ben Flook and Nigel Farage, Reform]

As we’ve reported, Reform [is having no end of issues with candidate selection for the local elections][1]. The party may have thought it had a victory recently when it secured a seasoned politician to run for the position of Croydon mayor. Unfortunately for them, however, the fact that this candidate is an ex-Tory has pushed several Reform loyalists to resign:

> It’s no Flook: dozen Reform candidates resign over candidate[https://t.co/FIUvVVShFh][2]
>
> — Reform Party UK Exposed [🇬🇧] (@reformexposed) [March 30, 2026][3]

## Reform chaos in Croydon

The story was reported by *Inside Croydon* who do great work reporting on the politics in their area. This reporting has included [excellent coverage of housing minister Steve Reed][4] and the dubious activities he got up to in the area.

In their latest piece, [*Inside Croydon* write][5]:

> Dan Milner-Tebbutt, who until last Monday was the local party’s chair and primed to be Reform’s first mayoral candidate in Croydon, yesterday announced that he had quit the party altogether, saying, “Croydon deserves serious politics – politics driven by a love for the borough, not by career ambition.”
>
> Tebbutt’s resignation has been followed by around 10 other disgruntled members quitting, angry at how Farage’s party HQ has imposed Flook on them as their Croydon mayoral candidate. Most of those resigning were to have stood as council candidates in the local elections on May 7. They have left a gaping hole in Reform’s candidate list, with the declaration deadline fast approaching.

The candidate being imposed on them is one Ben Flook. Although, to be fair, he may just be a placeholder for whoever gets announced next:

> Tory 2.0 latest from Reform [👀]
>
> Ben Flook, a long time right hand for Jenrick, is now the candidate for Mayor of Croydon.
>
> Why him? Because the last one quit 48 hours before he was to be unveiled.
>
> This is now the 4th time Reform are announcing a Mayoral candidate for Croydon… [https://t.co/lHJht4bVsN][6]
>
> — Samuel Hemsley (@SJRH03) [March 29, 2026][7]

One of the election candidates to quit was Kosta Dexiades, [who said][8]:

> When I joined Reform, I thought it was not the Establishment,” demonstrating a naivety that ought to disqualify anybody from holding political office automatically.
>
> Unfortunately, that’s not what you get when you join Reform in Croydon.
>
> Decisions in Croydon are not made in Croydon. They are made by HQ in London.
>
> The issue with this is that we waited for nearly a year to get a Mayor candidate. We didn’t know until it went to Inside Croydon yesterday that the Mayor candidate actually doesn’t really care about Croydon.
>
> The person who is getting to be a candidate is a parliamentary person who just wants to be an MP, but not to deal with the issues in Croydon.
>
> And the fact that we weren’t told, as members, who it was until the last minute shows the contempt that Reform have for the people of Croydon.

## Tip of the iceberg

[As we reported][9], the Croydon situation is really just the tip of the iceberg for Reform:

> With the local elections fast approaching, Reform UK are gearing up for a fight. The problem is they keep punching themselves in the face — most notably by [borrowing a Jimmy Saville catchphrase][10] and by refusing to dismiss a [would-be candidate who did a Nazi salute][11]. Shockingly, however, it seems like things are even worse under the surface than they are on top:

> Reform candidate for Swansea in the upcoming Welsh elections steps down.
>
> Very strong statement.
>
> "Politics is a dirty game, but Reform has sunk deep into the sewer when it should have been a beacon of decency."
>
> This tallies with what many long-term Reform members have been… [pic.twitter.com/HKY9cgucTX][12]
>
> — Will Hayward (@WillHayCardiff) [March 28, 2026][13]

> In only a couple of weeks you’ve had 5 candidates suspended or quit! [https://t.co/b406LfFNVA][14]
>
> — Reform Party UK Exposed [🇬🇧] (@reformexposed) [March 28, 2026][15]

> Reform UK Councillors Gone: Updated
>
> Todd Ferguson, resigned over the leadership of Malcolm Offord in Scotland.
>
> [➡] Kicked Out
> Brian Black
> Oliver Bradshaw
> Paul Thomas
> Bob Ford
> Bill Barratt
> Ed Hill
> James Regan
> Mark Broadhurst
> Paul Bean
> Adam Smith
> Daniel Taylor
> John Allen
> Nicole…
>
> — Reform Party UK Exposed [🇬🇧] (@reformexposed) [March 30, 2026][16]

If things are this bad *before* the local elections, we dread to think what could happen if Reform do as well as expected:

> [‼]NEW | Projected seat change in local elections:
>
> [➡] Ref +2,260
> [🟢] Grn +450
> [🟠] Lib +200
> [🔵] Con -1,010
> [🔴] Lab -1,900
>
> (Source: Stephen Fisher / [@ElectionsEtc][17]) [pic.twitter.com/pkPixJ3Ont][18]
>
> — Stats for Lefties [🍉][🏳️‍⚧️] (@LeftieStats) [March 30, 2026][19]

As we’ve reported, Reform-run [councils have proven chaotic to say the least][20], and this mayhem could now sweep the nation.

*Featured image via [Ben Flook][21]*

By [Willem Moore][22]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/29/reform-activist-accuses/
[2]: https://t.co/FIUvVVShFh
[3]: https://twitter.com/reformexposed/status/2038667117239656520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://insidecroydon.com/2025/10/13/the-fraud-how-reeds-labour-spied-on-croydon-councillors/
[5]: https://insidecroydon.com/2026/03/30/its-no-flook-dozen-reform-candidates-resign-over-candidate/
[6]: https://t.co/lHJht4bVsN
[7]: https://twitter.com/SJRH03/status/2038262406321676296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[8]: https://insidecroydon.com/2026/03/30/its-no-flook-dozen-reform-candidates-resign-over-candidate/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/29/reform-activist-accuses/
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/29/farage-heckled-at-reforms/
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/28/reform-nazi-salute-candidate/
[12]: https://t.co/HKY9cgucTX
[13]: https://twitter.com/WillHayCardiff/status/2037912746260336749?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[14]: https://t.co/b406LfFNVA
[15]: https://twitter.com/reformexposed/status/2038005308736278693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[16]: https://twitter.com/reformexposed/status/2038684531616559475?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[17]: https://twitter.com/ElectionsEtc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[18]: https://t.co/pkPixJ3Ont
[19]: https://twitter.com/LeftieStats/status/2038653615301099831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[20]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/11/06/kent-council-reform/
[21]: https://x.com/Ben_Flook
[22]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/31/reform-resignations/

Journos are treating Polanski’s dancing as a national crisis ...

2026-03-31T10:15:25Z

Journos are treating Polanski’s dancing as a national crisis

[Andrew Neil and Zack Polanski]

The British media is infamous for getting bent out of shape over the most trivial of issues. Zack Polanski, meanwhile, is famous for throwing shapes on the dancefloor.

Now, these two issues have come to a head in the most grave and disturbing fashion possible:

> Glastonbury-style dancing?
>
> LOL.[https://t.co/0qbagSvIYp][1] [pic.twitter.com/YlhMfRxDjb][2]
>
> — Zack Polanski (@ZackPolanski) [March 30, 2026][3]

Sorry, did we say ‘grave and disturbing’? We meant ‘laughable and ridiculous’.

## Polanski and “Glastonbury-style dancing”

Suzanne Moore used to write for the *Guardian*. She left after her gender critical articles (i.e. transphobic dross) [led to her receiving criticism][4]. These days, she works for the *Telegraph – *an outlet whose audience is more susceptible to her ‘*woman shouts at cloud’* style journalism.

In her latest piece, [Moore writes:][5]

> It’s easy to dismiss the Green Party leader’s appearance on stage, but Jeremy Corbyn showed how effective it can be at luring new voters.

This is true; Jeremy Corbyn was very much a pied piper figure.

They covered this up, but Corbyn led a conga line of 10,000 revellers out Glastonbury 2018 and into one of his re-education camps.

In Polanski’s latest incident of groove warfare, he danced on stage at an anti-far right protest:

> "Look around. Look at the people around you. We are intergenerational. We are white, we are black, we are Asian, we are Muslim, Christian, Jewish, non-faiths. We are community"
>
> "And together, we will win"
>
> We WILL win. [https://t.co/vzJZBLAQYD][6]
>
> — Anne Greensmith [💙] (@snowleopardess) [March 29, 2026][7]

The beauty of focusing on the dancing is that you don’t have to talk about what the protest was actually about – i.e. the growing far right.

People are ridiculing Moore, anyway, including Polanski himself:

> [#GlastonburyStyleDancing][8]? [https://t.co/a4lgEq6JcW][9]
>
> — Zack Polanski (@ZackPolanski) [March 30, 2026][10]

> [https://t.co/pQ7XlcuxYH][11] [pic.twitter.com/mCgLS2pu3f][12]
>
> — Derek Pakora (@DeathlyAcorn) [March 30, 2026][13]

Moore wasn’t the only one suffering from discophobia either; the following is from *GB News *founder Andrew Neil:

> We have this Green party leader dancing around like a demented numpty and Lib Dem leader Ed Davey mounting one stupid stunt after another. Polls currently give them around 35% of the vote combined. No wonder we are increasingly regarded as not a serious country. Because we’re… [https://t.co/sGVLYlHdsy][14]
>
> — Andrew Neil (@afneil) [March 29, 2026][15]

The problem is that Neil is something of a “demented numpty” himself:

> Demented numpties dancing, you say? [https://t.co/FP99mh4lGU][16] [pic.twitter.com/PbXnFZprSJ][17]
>
> — Colin the Dachshund (@DachshundColin) [March 29, 2026][18]

To hypocrites like Neil, we say ‘*let he who is without sin throw the first shape*‘.

## Dancing the right away

Much like the backing dancers in the *Smooth Criminal* video, Polanski is leaning in:

> Another poll in front of Labour?
>
> We're coming for Reform next!
>
> Time for rent controls, nationalise our public services & protect our NHS.[https://t.co/0qbagSvIYp][19] [pic.twitter.com/T1LrG77Ohm][20]
>
> — Zack Polanski (@ZackPolanski) [March 30, 2026][21]

[Given the Greens polling][22], it seems like their focus on policy over frivolity is cutting through.

> This is why Daily Mail journalists are going after my family now.
>
> The right wing propaganda machine will not work on the Green Party.
>
> We're ready to end Rip Off Britain, end the cost of living crisis and make hope normal again. [https://t.co/w9uyGh8mfP][23]
>
> — Zack Polanski (@ZackPolanski) [March 28, 2026][24]

In other words, his detractors aren’t joining in the fun because they’ve nothing to dance about.

*Featured image via [X][25]*

By [Willem Moore][26]

[1]: https://t.co/0qbagSvIYp
[2]: https://t.co/YlhMfRxDjb
[3]: https://twitter.com/ZackPolanski/status/2038672357779272017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://www.standard.co.uk/comment/the-guardian-freedom-of-speech-suzanne-moore-b1099386.html
[5]: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2026/03/30/zack-polanski-green-party-dancing/
[6]: https://t.co/vzJZBLAQYD
[7]: https://twitter.com/snowleopardess/status/2038198201698705913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[8]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/GlastonburyStyleDancing?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://t.co/a4lgEq6JcW
[10]: https://twitter.com/ZackPolanski/status/2038692424344633704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://t.co/pQ7XlcuxYH
[12]: https://t.co/mCgLS2pu3f
[13]: https://twitter.com/DeathlyAcorn/status/2038676311695126947?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[14]: https://t.co/sGVLYlHdsy
[15]: https://twitter.com/afneil/status/2038292347604144469?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[16]: https://t.co/FP99mh4lGU
[17]: https://t.co/PbXnFZprSJ
[18]: https://twitter.com/DachshundColin/status/2038366584566173915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[19]: https://t.co/0qbagSvIYp
[20]: https://t.co/T1LrG77Ohm
[21]: https://twitter.com/ZackPolanski/status/2038674828958339154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[22]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/28/zack-polanski-daily-mail/
[23]: https://t.co/w9uyGh8mfP
[24]: https://twitter.com/ZackPolanski/status/2037812348736426373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[25]: https://x.com/ZackPolanski/status/2038674828958339154?s=20
[26]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/31/polanski-dance/

Caster Semenya denounces Olympics’ anti-intersex policy for ...

2026-03-30T15:22:34Z

Caster Semenya denounces Olympics’ anti-intersex policy for what it is – ideology

[Caster Semenya]

Double Olympic champion runner Caster Semenya[ has announced that she will challenge the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) new ban on intersex and trans athletes][1]. She’s also encouraging fellow Olympians to join her in a class action lawsuit.

On Thursday 26 March, the IOC announced that it was reinstating mandatory sex testing for eligibility to compete in women’s athletics. It plans to require all participants to undergo an SRY test, which detects the presence of a Y-chromosome-linked gene.

## Caster Semenya: ‘I was told I needed to have surgery’

Semenya has become a figurehead of the battle around the borderlines of women’s sport after facing years of highly public legal battles over her natural testosterone levels. In an [article for the *New York Times, *she explained that:][2]

> In 2009, as I prepared to run in the Berlin World Championships, athletic authorities sent me for some medical testing. Because of my looks, there had been speculation from my fellow athletes, sports officials, the media and fans that I was not what I said I was.
>
> I arrived at the medical appointment expecting to be checked for performance-enhancing drugs. Instead, at age 18, I had my first gynecological exam. Afterward, I learned that I had XY chromosomes, rather than the typically female XX pairing, and high levels of testosterone, produced by undescended testicles I didn’t know I had. In order to continue racing as a woman, I was told, I needed to have surgery to remove them.

After Semenya refused to undergo the unnecessary operation, authorities instead required her to take medication to lower her testosterone. The medication caused extreme fatigue, nausea, headaches, and brain fog. When Semenya stopped taking it, she was barred from competing, and instead became a coach.

Despite having lived her entire life as a woman, [the IOC’s new document][3] refers to people like Semenya as “biological males”. It insists that this “does not and cannot change”.

## ‘It came as a failure’

As such, it’s unsurprising that Semenya has been[ a vocal critic of the IOC’s ruling,][4] and its new president, Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe. On Sunday 29 March, at a press conference in Cape Town, Semenya [said of Coventry that:][5]

> For me, personally, for her being a woman coming from Africa, knowing how African women or women in the global south are affected by that, of course, it causes harm.

Black and brown women have been targeted by a [disproportionate level of arbitrary sex testing][6] in sports.

Semenya went on to criticise the IOC’s previous requirement for sex testing:

> It came as a failure. And that’s why it was dropped.
>
> For you as a woman, why will you be tested to prove that you fit? You know, it’s like now we need to prove that we are worthy as women to take part in sports. That’s a disrespect for women.

The IOC abandoned its previous requirement of blanket sex tests for women in 1999. The tests were of questionable scientific merit, and [often caused][7] severe identity crisis, social isolation, demeaning reactions from the public, depression, and suicide.

Following its U-turn, the IOC[ will now require girls][8] to take the test from age 15 and up.

## ‘It does not save women’s sport’

In an [exclusive interview with ][9]*Sky News, *Semenya stated that:

> I’m fighting for women’s dignity. Those who say, ‘I am not going to be tested to prove that I’m a woman’ … I will encourage them to do that to stop this nonsense.

As such, she also announced her plans to tackle the IOC in court:

> I will encourage athletes to come together as a class action … because this does not make sense. It does not save women’s sport.

The interviewer questioned Semenya on the IOC’s new guidance.[ It states that there is a][10] “10-12 per cent Male performance advantage” in running and swimming, and up to 100% in punching and lifting sports.

However, the document somehow failed to mention that intersex and trans athletes often reduce their testosterone. Just five years ago, the IOC held that this eliminated their potential advantage.

Semenya replied:

> Based on what? There’s no scientific proof about what has been said. It’s an ideology.

She’s right to question the IOC’s science, given that [the Olympic body has failed to share it with the public][11]. What we do know is that this latest ruling completely contradicts [the IOC’s science from just five years ago][12], which stated that trans people “should not be deemed to have an unfair or disproportionate competitive advantage”.

The IOC’s ‘new science’ now happens to align with the views of Donald Trump. When he came to office, the far-right American president [moved to ban trans athletes][13] from all sport in the US. This is particularly convenient, given Los Angeles will host the next Olympic games.

## Ideology over all

Semenya is also correct in her statement that this is an ideological battle. In the *Guardian’s *article on Semenya’s [criticism of the IOC][14], it states that:

> The best-known DSD [difference of sex development] athlete of recent years is Semenya, who has male XY chromosomes.

Semenya doesn’t have ‘male XY chromosomes’. She has XY chromosomes – she hasn’t nicked them from some bloke; she’s a woman, who has lived her whole life as a woman. These are neutral statements that nobody – not even Semenya herself – started questioning until she started winning.

Across humanity, both sex and gender are a [spectrum filled with countless variations.][15] The belief that men have XY chromosomes and women have XX chromosomes is just that – a belief. It isn’t a fact – in fact, it’s demonstrably false, as in Semenya’s case.

We’re told that the distinction is natural, and therefore good and right. In fact, the distinction is so natural that we require women like Semenya [(and countless intersex babies)][16] to undergo unnecessary, often non-consensual surgeries and take medication in order to make them more ‘natural.’

Separating men and women into two distinct categories and insisting that they can never meet is a legal fiction. It relies on the perpetuation of intersexist and transphobic violence against anyone caught in the borderlands. Natural, universal distinctions [don’t need police at their boundaries. ][17]

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Alex/Rose Cocker][18]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2025/07/11/caster-semenya-wins-appeal/
[2]: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/21/opinion/running-body-semenya.html
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/27/olympics-transphobia/
[4]: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/mar/29/caster-semenya-olympic-gender-verification-tests-disrespect-for-women
[5]: https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2026/3/29/olympic-gender-test-a-disrespect-for-women-south-africas-semenya-says
[6]: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/for-women-athletes-of-color-outsized-scrutiny-over-gender-is-nothing-new-historians-say
[7]: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/50266766_Is_there_a_right_not_to_know_one's_sex_The_ethics_of_'gender_verification'_in_women's_sports_competition
[8]: https://news.sky.com/story/if-women-must-stop-competing-so-be-it-semenyas-rallying-cry-over-olympics-transgender-athlete-ban-13525463
[9]: https://news.sky.com/story/if-women-must-stop-competing-so-be-it-semenyas-rallying-cry-over-olympics-transgender-athlete-ban-13525463
[10]: https://stillmed.olympics.com/media/Documents/International-Olympic-Committee/EB/policy/policy-on-the-protection-of-the-female-category-english.pdf
[11]: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/mar/27/olympics-transgender-women-athlete-ban-human-rights-response-ntwnfb
[12]: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/mar/26/why-olympics-u-turned-gender-rules-sex-testing
[13]: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/mar/29/caster-semenya-olympic-gender-verification-tests-disrespect-for-women
[14]: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/mar/29/caster-semenya-olympic-gender-verification-tests-disrespect-for-women
[15]: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/sex-redefined-the-idea-of-2-sexes-is-overly-simplistic1/
[16]: https://blog.policy.manchester.ac.uk/posts/2018/05/genital-normalising-surgeries-on-intersex-infants-a-scandal-in-waiting/
[17]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/27/olympics-transphobia/
[18]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/alexrosecocker/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/30/semenya-denounces-olympics/

Zionist settlers intensify attacks against Palestinians in West ...

2026-03-30T11:17:38Z

Zionist settlers intensify attacks against Palestinians in West Bank

[Blood stains mark the back of a Palestinian man's head having been subjected to Israeli settler violence in March 2026]

While all eyes are focused on the bigger regional issues, there has been an unprecedented increase in settler [violence across the occupied West Bank][1].

Attacks on Palestinians by illegal “Israeli” colonists are no longer isolated acts of violence but a state policy of deliberate and organised terrorism.

At a recent press briefing, Palestine’s minister of foreign affairs and expatriates, Varsen Shahin, pointed to a sharp increase in the frequency and severity of settler attacks. She explained that such violence includes murder, physical assaults, the burning of homes and agricultural lands, destruction of infrastructure, theft and incitement practices, such as targeting places of worship.

The objective of these actions, she said, is to intimidate Palestinians and force them off of their land.

[][2]

Shahin stressed that the situation in the occupied West Bank can no longer be viewed as isolated “acts of violence”, but as terrorism. She described this settler terrorism as “a deliberate and organised system of provocation” and a “state policy” designed to terrorise, displace and inflame.

> Its purpose is to uproot us and provoke reactions that can be exploited for escalation against us. It is a calculated strategy to justify continuation and expansion of genocidal violence against the Palestinians, carried out by settler militias and armed gangs, who are illegally residing in occupied territory and supported by “very influential people in the government.

## Israeli settlers armed by government, protected by IOF

These colonial Jewish settlers operate under the protection of the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF). They are armed and funded by the “Israeli” government, and [constitute a direct extension][3] of policies of annexation and settlement expansion. Shahin noted that the impunity and lack of international accountability, which has been ongoing for decades, has allowed Israel to do whatever it wants, including getting away with genocide.

She said:

> Settler terrorism complements the accelerating settlement expansion that is occurring, through approval of new settlement units, new settlements, new planning measures and new legislation. All this entrenches the settlement enterprise and fulfills Israel’s expansions and colonialist policies, and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people.

She added:

> These acts are illegal under international law and aim to normalise permanent control of the occupied state of Palestine, undermine the Palestinian right to self-determination, and try to force us to leave. When we are forced to leave, they will then call that voluntary.

More than 20 Palestinians have been injured in the latest reported settler attacks.

In the[ Khalla Amira and Rujoum Ali areas][4] of Masafer Yatta, in the South Hebron Hills, settlers released their livestock near people’s homes on 25 March. They assaulted Palestinians in the area, injuring and hospitalising several. The IOF then arrived, firing tear gas and sound grenades at residents. Seven Palestinians were abducted and several people were detained.

[][5]

## Tragedy: One man, 31, dead, and others injured

In [another incident ][6]in the evening of the same day, vehicles carrying Palestinian workers on the Umm al-Khair to Fateh Sidreh road, in the Masafer Yatta area, were chased by settlers accompanied by the IOF. They opened fire on the vehicles which led to one overturning and catching fire.

Yusri Majed Abu Qabita, 31, was killed and three other Palestinian men were injured.

[][7]

No Palestinian is spared from this settler terrorism. [An elderly man ][8]was injured in an attack in the Tubas governorate, in the Northern occupied West Bank.

[East of Tulkarm,][9] in the town of Ramin, settlers stole sheep and injured two Palestinian men.

About 750,000 Zionist settlers live illegally in settlements across the occupied West Bank, including east Jerusalem. They carry out crimes against Palestinians all day every day, but harsh words and meaningless sanctions from the international community do absolutely nothing to stop them. As yet, they have faced no accountability for any of their vicious crimes.

Fourteen Palestinians were killed by settler terrorism in 2025 while 11 people have been murdered in the first three months of 2026, according to figures from the Colonisation and Wall Resistance Commission (CWRC).

In 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled[ “Israel’s” occupation of Palestine is illegal][10], and called for all settlements in the West Bank and east Jerusalem to be evacuated.

Shahin summed up the situation and said:

> Not only are our lives, our dignity and our rights threatened, but humanity, morality and justice under international law, and its applicability to all similarly. This is a real test. If the test fails in Palestine it will fail elsewhere, and the suffering will mount elsewhere.

[][11]

Featured image via

By [Charlie Jaay][12]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/17/israeli-settlers-assault/
[2]:
[3]: https://x.com/palestine_un/status/2036822746328383577
[4]: https://x.com/qudsnen/status/2036775235244957833
[5]:
[6]: https://t.me/azzamaddas/168531
[7]:
[8]: https://x.com/qudsnen/status/2037070666944364700
[9]: https://t.me/a7rartullkarm/236676
[10]: https://www.icj-cij.org/node/204176
[11]:
[12]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/charlie-jaay/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/30/israeli-settler-attacks/

Sabotage throttles Green conference as members left heartbroken ...

2026-03-28T20:27:26Z

Sabotage throttles Green conference as members left heartbroken over “Zionism is Racism” motion

[Zionism is Racism]

The [Green Party][1] held its Spring Conference on Saturday 28 March, with members meeting online to debate and vote on the party’s future direction. At the centre of attention is a [highly poignant][2] and [emotionally charged][3] motion: Zionism is Racism.

## Zionism is Racism

After members [overwhelmingly backed bringing the motion forward][4] – despite earlier attempts to block it entirely – pro-Palestinian Greens are now watching closely to see if the party will formally break with Zionism.

This embattled call for principled leadership has been led by Lubna Speitan, who referred to her Palestinian heritage and her people’s immeasurable suffering at the hands of their occupier, genocidal Israel.

After years of watching powerful leaders offer [diplomatic cover][5] while hundreds of thousands of men, women, and children have been murdered, with those surviving left to [endure constant bombardment][6] and sheer deprivation, socialists are now demanding far more from those in power.

## Pro-Israel saboteurs running rampant in the Greens – still.

However, as mentioned previously, the motion has faced no [end of pressure][7], whether from pro-Zionist Greens or typical hateful attacks from [pro-Israeli lobby][8] groups. Just today, another member proposed to rule “Zionism is Racism” [out of order][9] by arguing they already have a policy for two state solution.

On the other hand, if any policy should be thrown out, it is the two-state solution. Palestinians should have an inherent right to define what justice looks like for their people, and many argue that the prospect of two states is no longer viable on land that is rightfully theirs.

Nonetheless, sabotage or delay tactics have clearly been at play in the Greens today, with two votes of no confidence were brought in the very last twenty minutes. Each time, hundreds of Greens told them where to go by throwing the vote of no confidence out.

One member in the last 10 minutes bravely pointed out the very clear tactic at play to subvert the democratic vote on whether Zionism is indeed racism.

Which, obviously, it bloody well is.

Unwilling to be deterred, [Lubna Speitan][10] spoke powerfully defending her motion in the morning, saying:

> Okay, as you know, I am Palestinian. This party says it stands with Palestinians and is one of the supporters for its stance. And I’m here today for those Palestinian and bringing forward this motion drafted by Palestinians. And with support from our Jewish allies with legal input on our motion.

adding:

> Zionism is racism has had a record-breaking number of over 332 proposals.

Poignantly, she highlighted the clear attempts to subvert democracy by some members:

> .. this attempt being made to rule out order is an attempt, an attack at democracy. To silence me, a Palestinian Muslim woman, confronting the racist reality of Zionism and its erasure of my family and people.
>
> There are a huge number of people here who want to hear this motion.

Acknowledging the attacks they have received for this motion, Speitan reminded that taking action would be in line with international law and the Geneva Convention.

## We are so sorry, Lubna – you deserved justice and true democracy

Ahead of the planned Zionism is Racism vote, Lubna became emotional and teary as she reminded of the impact of Zionism on her loved ones. She powerfully argued that Zionism has been the dispossession of her mother, the scars across her father’s body and emotionally added:

> it’s the 56 of our relatives slaughtered in this genocide.

She finished:

> A vote for this motion is a vote for clarity and equality. Zionism is racism and must be truly confronted… We reject all amendments to this motion. Free Palestine.

Subsequently, the chair said they could no longer proceed straight after Lubna powerfully spoke – and ended the conference. Frankly, it was incredibly painful and heartbreaking to witness the cold way in which this highly anticipated and emotionally charged motion ended up unheard.

So, the saboteurs won out, once again. And one thing is for sure; democracy, compassion and frankly, basic human decency, lost out once more.

Shame on all those who worked against such a crucial and landmark motion – history will not look kindly on you.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Maddison Wheeldon][11]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/topics/green-party/
[2]: https://www.politico.eu/article/uk-green-zack-polanski-zionism-is-racism-motion/
[3]: https://bright-green.org/2026/03/27/why-anti-zionists-should-oppose-the-zionism-is-racism-motion-at-green-party-conference/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/28/green-party-chair-vote/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/02/24/mike-huckabee-israel/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/01/22/gaza-winter/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/28/green-party-conference-system/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/26/spectator-cover/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/28/green-party-chair-vote/
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/2026/02/24/zionism-is-racism-green-party-motion/
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/maddison-wheeldon/

https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/03/28/zionism-is-racism-green-party/

Yemen’s Houthis have joined Israel’s war on the side of Iran ...

2026-03-28T19:03:55Z

Yemen’s Houthis have joined Israel’s war on the side of Iran

[Houthis]

In a new moment of escalation, the Houthis of Yemen have joined Israel’s war on the side of Iran:

> JUST IN: [🇾🇪][🇮🇷] Yemeni Houthis officially enter war against US & Israel in support of Iran.
>
> "Our operations will continue until the objectives are achieved." [pic.twitter.com/1TmQcRRrHz][1]
>
> — BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) [March 28, 2026][2]

## Houthis escalation

The Houthis entered the war by launching a military attack on Israel ([who themselves began the conflict by attacking Iran][3]):

> BREAKING: Yemen's Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said the group has carried out its first military attack against Israel. [pic.twitter.com/N8cbNVu6aq][4]
>
> — Al Jazeera Breaking News (@AJENews) [March 28, 2026][5]

[*al Jazeera *reported:][6]

> Yemen’s Houthi rebels have attacked Israel with a barrage of ballistic missiles – their first such strikes since the United States-Israeli war on Iran began.
>
> Brigadier-General Yahya Saree, a military spokesperson for the Houthis, announced the attack on Saturday on the rebels’ Al Masirah satellite television.
>
> Strikes “will continue until the declared objectives are achieved, as stated in the previous statement by the armed forces, and until the aggression against all fronts of the resistance ceases”, Saree said.
>
> The Israeli military said it intercepted one missile.

> The U.S. gives Israel billions of dollars in military aid, why don’t you ever say “Israel’s U.S.-backed military” launches strikes? [https://t.co/f7aXD5kvc7][7]
>
> — Assal Rad (@AssalRad) [March 28, 2026][8]

As of right now, the Houthis have only declared hostilities against Israel — not the US:

> Very interesting: Ansarallah, also known as the Houthis, are saying they will continue to respect the ceasefire they negotiated with Trump, which allows them to strike Israel but not US forces [https://t.co/VMGQY6HytZ][9]
>
> — Ryan Grim (@ryangrim) [March 28, 2026][10]

A new opponent entering the war could prove to be a real problem for Israel. [As we reported on 27 March][11], Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid:

> shared a post—viewed by 1 million users— warning that Israel is facing a security disaster and that the military is “on the verge of collapse.”
>
> He cited Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, who sounded the same alarm to political-security cabinet. In a veiled message to Netanyahu, he Lapid said:
>
> “Anyone who heard him yesterday will not be able to say, “I didn’t know.””

> The IDF could soon collapse if there is no solution to the shortage of manpower, IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir warned in remarks during a security cabinet meeting held on Wednesday.
> Reporting by: [@keshet_neev][12] [@Jeremybob1][13] [https://t.co/DZ4TN6nDzv][14]
>
> — The Jerusalem Post (@Jerusalem_Post) [March 26, 2026][15]

The war on Iran has led to [the partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz][16]. As we’ve all learned, this has proven disastrous, because vast percentages of the world’s fuel, fertiliser, gas, and other resources pass through this narrow passage. What people may learn next is that the Houthis are positioned to close an entirely different strait.

> Terrifying warning for the global economy. An expert details Iran's ultimate masterplan: a coordinated multi-strait blockade choking off Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, plus targeting the Suez Canal and Saudi pipelines. They have the power to completely paralyze Western trade. [pic.twitter.com/HplfBdOmal][17]
>
> — Furkan Gözükara (@FurkanGozukara) [March 28, 2026][18]

The Bab-al Mandab Strait leads to Egypt’s Suez Canal. This passage allows ships to travel through the Mediterranean, facilitating shipping between Europe and Asia without a need to travel around Africa.

Capital markets commenters the Kobeissi Letter [noted the following][19]:

> In a major escalation, Yemen’s Houthi Group has officially joined the war with a ballistic missle launch at Israel, just as the war hit its one-month mark.
>
> All eyes are now on the Bab al-Mandab Strait.
>
> If closed, the world loses another ~6 million barrels of daily oil supply

## War

The Houthis entering the conflict is another sign that things could continue to escalate. It’s also another moment of grim vindication for those who warned that launching a war in the Middle East would be chaotic, costly, and futile.

*Featured image via [Al Jazeera][20]*

By [Willem Moore][21]

[1]: https://t.co/1TmQcRRrHz
[2]: https://twitter.com/BRICSinfo/status/2037825290823401976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/02/28/iran-attacks-by-us/
[4]: https://t.co/N8cbNVu6aq
[5]: https://twitter.com/AJENews/status/2037793073930125745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/3/28/yemens-houthis-claim-responsibility-for-a-missile-attack-on-israel-2
[7]: https://t.co/f7aXD5kvc7
[8]: https://twitter.com/AssalRad/status/2037813050842230915?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://t.co/VMGQY6HytZ
[10]: https://twitter.com/ryangrim/status/2037909848331878769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/27/netanyahu-rival-says-israeli-army-will-collapse/
[12]: https://twitter.com/keshet_neev?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[13]: https://twitter.com/jeremybob1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[14]: https://t.co/DZ4TN6nDzv
[15]: https://twitter.com/Jerusalem_Post/status/2037254123158978959?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[16]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/02/28/iran-unleashes/
[17]: https://t.co/HplfBdOmal
[18]: https://twitter.com/FurkanGozukara/status/2037841965006332203?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[19]: https://x.com/KobeissiLetter/status/2037855390361166123?s=20
[20]: https://x.com/AJENews/status/2037793073930125745?s=20
[21]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/28/houthis-have-joined-war/

Green conference votes AGAINST energy company nationalisation ...

2026-03-28T18:45:17Z

Green conference votes AGAINST energy company nationalisation

[Green Party]

The Green Party conference has voted in favour of a motion opposing nationalisation of “the five largest energy supply companies”.

Despite the party currently having [over 215,000 members][1], the motion passed with just 478 members voting in favour of it. 192 opposed it, and 15 didn’t vote.

Polls have [consistently][2] shown that the [vast majority of the UK agrees with public ownership of energy companies][3], and that [this opinion][4] has increased in recent years. This is in no small part because of the devastation of the [cost of living crisis][5].

## No nationalisation of ‘electricity retail’ or ‘electricity generation and storage’

The motion called for the deletion of a [previous commitment][6] that:

> The five largest energy supply companies will be nationalised.

Instead, it called for the insertion of:

> As natural monopolies with, at present, high profit margins, electricity national transmission and regional distribution will be brought into public ownership.

And it wanted to insert a position that “electricity generation and storage” are not natural monopolies and should therefore:

> have diversity of ownership including private, public, municipal and community schemes

Likewise, it argued that “electricity retail” has “low profit margins” and is not a natural monopoly. Therefore, it sought to add a statement that:

> electricity retail will not be nationalised and consumers will have a choice between diverse retailers operating with fair competition.

In reality, as one speaker at the conference insisted, people in vulnerable positions often find it very difficult to find the best deal when choosing between “diverse retailers”.

An amendment that didn’t pass sought to add “as a first priority”, so the new motion would read:

> electricity retail will not be nationalised as a first priority

And accompanying this was a note that:

> Electricity retail will be more effectively regulated, ensuring fair treatment of vulnerable customers.

## What do Green Party members think?

Nuance and policy decisions relating to careful investigation of evidence absolutely matter.

But would the 215,000+ Green members really agree that removing a pledge to nationalise energy giants is the right way to go?

If they disagree, involvement in conference procedures will need to increase in the future.

Featured image via [BestforBritain][7]

By [The Canary][8]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/06/greens-reach-215000-members/
[2]: https://weownit.org.uk/blog/biggest-ever-poll-shows-huge-support-nationalisation
[3]: https://yougov.com/en-gb/articles/50098-support-for-nationalising-utilities-and-public-transport-has-grown-significantly-in-last-seven-years
[4]: https://www.unitetheunion.org/what-we-do/unite-investigates/unplugging-energy-profiteers-the-case-for-public-ownership/unite-investigates-renationalising-energy-costs-and-savings-full-report
[5]: https://www.greenpeace.org.uk/resources/power-shift-report/
[6]: https://www.greencoordinate.co.uk/archive/autumn2023/motions/consolidating-the-energy-ipps-agreed-at-spring-conference-2023/
[7]: https://www.bestforbritain.org/the_view_from_brighton_best_for_britain_at_green_party_conference
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/28/green-party-conference-votes/

Green conference showed democracy, but also how easily it’s ...

2026-03-28T18:42:54Z

Green conference showed democracy, but also how easily it’s undermined

[Green Party]

The Green Party is having its first conference since the [major uptick in membership numbers][1] in recent months. But the first day didn’t go smoothly. Because while it showed the party’s internal democracy in full swing, it also showed how easily cynical efforts can undermine it.

## Green Party — The workings of a democratic process

First of all, there were reports of [an attack on the party’s online voting system][2]. This led to a suggestion of carrying out a ‘hands up’ voting strategy instead. But [members quickly raised concerns about this because it could seriously affect the integrity of the voting][3]. So the focus returned to resolving the online voting issues.

The amount of items on the agenda for the day already seemed very ambitious. But with the setbacks, the time available to get through all the agenda items shrank very quickly.

When the tech team had fixed the online voting system, members could promptly progress with votes. And one in particular sought to ensure there was sufficient democratic accountability for the [Standing Orders Committee][4]. While this caused another big delay, it seemed to be in the interest of fostering greater democracy.

Through all of this, meanwhile, equal numbers of members could speak for or against all decisions. This allowed people to justify themselves before members voted. That was the same in the case of several no-confidence votes in the chair (which also caused delays to the conference agenda).

In the end, members had a chance to raise and explain concerns, vote, and then keep moving forwards.

It would, however, have been good to see more of the massive membership present (only around 700-900 members attended). And it would also have been good if delays and time limits hadn’t prevented members from getting to vote on all motions in front of them.

## The hindering of progress and the blocking of a key vote

It’s very clear that Green members present cared deeply about issues and wanted a fair hearing. And legitimate challenges always arise when interacting with other people, especially online. But it’s fair to think that some interventions were not in good faith.

The [Zionism is Racism][5] motion lingered over the day. And efforts inside and outside the party absolutely tried to delay or prevent a vote on it. The excessive use of no-confidence votes in particular seemed intent on pushing the motion back.

Whether or not the delays of the day sought to prevent the Zionism is Racism vote or not, they did. And while the conference followed democratic procedures, these also worked to prevent Green Party members from voting on the important motion.

*Featured image via the [GreenParty][6]*

By [The Canary][7]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/06/greens-reach-215000-members/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/28/green-party-conference-system/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/28/green-party-chair-vote/
[4]: https://greenparty.org.uk/members/internal-elections/2025-internal-elections/standing-orders-committee/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/01/26/green-party-motion-on-zionism/
[6]: https://greenparty.org.uk/members/internal-elections/2025-internal-elections/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/03/28/green-party-conference-showed/

BBC disputes Tom Skinner’s £2k Question Time payout claim [Tom ...

2026-03-28T18:09:04Z

BBC disputes Tom Skinner’s £2k Question Time payout claim

[Tom Skinner, the Question Time logo, and a pile of cash]

Tom Skinner is famous for three things:

1. Not being political.
2. Being a member of Reform UK (a political party).
3. “Bosh”.

> Thomas Skinner used to post long ChatGPT paragraphs about how he's not political, and he's just a normal guy grafting. [pic.twitter.com/WjcwjD3ZUn][1]
>
> — Mukhtar (@I_amMukhtar) [January 20, 2026][2]

In his efforts to explain how un-political he is, Skinner appeared on the politics show *Question Time* on 26 March. When asked why he did it, Skinner told everyone he was paid £2,000. Now, the *BBC* has thrown this claim into question:

> Question Time can confirm that panellists who are not politicians are offered an appearance fee of £150.
>
> — BBC Question Time (@bbcquestiontime) [March 27, 2026][3]

## Bosh!

[As Mukhtar highlighted][4], this is what Skinner brought to the table on *Question Time*:

> This is the same guy who called Zack Polanski a bell end because he didn't agree with his politics. [pic.twitter.com/lRXvDy0efs][5]
>
> — Mukhtar (@I_amMukhtar) [March 27, 2026][6]

In the above clip, Skinner says:

> what I don’t like about social media is it’s always about dividing people. It’s always about people screaming and shouting – ‘if you don’t agree with me, if you don’t agree with what I stand for, or if you don’t agree with my politics, I hate you, this, that, the other. You’re a gammon or you’re a snowflake’.
>
> Why are we not… I try and spread a bit of positivity and a bit of love, do you know what I mean?

‘*People should be nicer to each other*‘ – wow – with pearls of wisdom like this, you can see why they’d pay him thirteen times the going rate.

> Politics has to be about more than professional politicians. But Tom Skinner is hardly adding anything to the sum total of human wisdom with his 'I am a bit of a geezer' which he has monetised to punt his right-wing pro-Farage views. [#bbcqt][7] [https://t.co/okG6dWvxUV][8]
>
> — Gerry Hassan (@GerryHassan) [March 26, 2026][9]

Because Skinner is linked to Reform UK ([and also to US vice president JD Vance][10]), people have argued the *BBC* [should have made his political affiliations known][11]:

> Right-wing influencer and Reform UK member Tom Skinner was on Question Time last night – but the BBC just ignored his political links [👀] [https://t.co/GFsjMi8uKI][12]
>
> — The National (@ScotNational) [March 27, 2026][13]

> Let’s be right, Tom Skinner isn’t on [#bbcqt][14] tonight due to his political insight but instead because he’s a vocal supporter of Reform
>
> If Reform have put him forward over any one of their 8 actual MPs, it’s a shocking indictment of the sheer lack of talent within their party [pic.twitter.com/AVWoYcAARb][15]
>
> — David (@Zero_4) [March 26, 2026][16]

Skinner claimed he wasn’t there to represent a political party; he was simply there to make a tidy £2k:

> Isn’t it suspicious that a guy who kept saying “I ain’t political, I really ain’t” then meets JD Vance, suddenly claims he’s joined Reform, urges people to back Nigel Farage as the next PM, and is now being paid £2k by the BBC?
>
> I'm actually not hating on him for taking the 2k. [pic.twitter.com/TmV8taAIp3][17]
>
> — Mukhtar (@I_amMukhtar) [March 27, 2026][18]

## Tom Skinner — Grand

At this point, it’s clear that someone is lying, and we’re inclined to believe it could be either party.

For some in depth analysis of *Question Time*, be sure to follow us on social media ([links at the top of the page][19]):

> The Canary has been analysing [#bbcqt][20] every week this year to look for evidence of systemic bias. Here's what we found in last week's episode… [#QuestionTime][21] [pic.twitter.com/JHZayR5eva][22]
>
> — Canary (@TheCanaryUK) [March 26, 2026][23]

*Featured image via [BBC][24]*

By [Willem Moore][25]

[1]: https://t.co/WjcwjD3ZUn
[2]: https://twitter.com/I_amMukhtar/status/2013635750445654122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://twitter.com/bbcquestiontime/status/2037620870546354407?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://x.com/I_amMukhtar/status/2037450855264174574?s=20
[5]: https://t.co/lRXvDy0efs
[6]: https://twitter.com/I_amMukhtar/status/2037450855264174574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[7]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/bbcqt?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[8]: https://t.co/okG6dWvxUV
[9]: https://twitter.com/GerryHassan/status/2037311657127428356?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/editorial/2025/09/16/thomas-skinner-strictly/
[11]: https://www.thenational.scot/news/25973349.bbc-fire-question-time-omits-tom-skinners-reform-uk-links/
[12]: https://t.co/GFsjMi8uKI
[13]: https://twitter.com/ScotNational/status/2037467447423332520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[14]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/bbcqt?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[15]: https://t.co/AVWoYcAARb
[16]: https://twitter.com/Zero_4/status/2037276008471027779?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[17]: https://t.co/TmV8taAIp3
[18]: https://twitter.com/I_amMukhtar/status/2037550792404521123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[19]: https://www.thecanary.co/
[20]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/bbcqt?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[21]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/QuestionTime?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[22]: https://t.co/JHZayR5eva
[23]: https://twitter.com/TheCanaryUK/status/2037314120119152995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[24]:
[25]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/28/tom-skinner-bbc-disputes/

Reform’s Matt Goodwin ‘flayed’ in debate on AI book ...

2026-03-28T17:31:39Z

Reform’s Matt Goodwin ‘flayed’ in debate on AI book inaccuracies

[Reform]

Matt Goodwin was the unsuccessful Reform UK candidate in the [Gorton & Denton by-election][1]. Not content with losing that race, Goodwin went on to find all new ways of being a loser in the aftermath. Most recently, this saw him [publishing a book that was filled with dodgy stats, fake quotes, and AI hallucinations][2].

In a last ditch attempt to save his reputation, Goodwin debated a critic on 27 March. Knowing what we know about Goodwin, you may be unsurprised to learn this went horribly for him:

> Gobsmacking self-humiliation by the badloser self-publishing this pile of Ai hallucination slop & race-baiting rubbish.[@andytwelves][3] utterly flays him here it’s incredible stuff [😭] [https://t.co/NP8sOZmSt2][4]
>
> — Zoe Gardner (@ZoeJardiniere) [March 27, 2026][5]

## Reform’s own MattGPT

[As Skwawkbox reported for the *Canary* on 24 March][6], journalist Andy Twelves discovered several problems with Goodwin’s book *Suicide of a Nation*. Twelves noted issues like the following:

> Claim 1: “In one year 1 classroom in Bradford, only four of twenty eight pupils spoke English as their first language. Teachers report spending large amounts of time simply mediating between dozens of languages, making normal teaching almost impossible and slowing down the rate of progress for everybody.”
>
> Reality: I cannot find any evidence of this claim at all. I checked local, and national news, and his own X page. I believe from the lack of referencing, and the way it’s written, to be an AI hallucination.
>
> Claim 2: “In 2019, BBC West Midlands highlighted schools where children speak more than thirty different languages, making normal teaching almost possible. Teachers often feel they are no longer running a school but a translation service.”
>
> Reality: I cannot find any evidence of BBC West Midlands writing this story at all. There is an article about a primary school from [the Metro in 2021][7]:
>
> BBC West Midlands does not exist, it’s BBC Midlands.
>
> Claim 3: “In Leicester, Luton, Slough, and virtually all of London, most primary school pupils’ main language is no longer English”
>
> Reality: This is statistical illiteracy. The main language of all of those primary schools, and their pupils is English. He does not understand EAL.
>
> Claim 4: “This is, put simply, not sustainable.” Reality: Every ofsted report you read from all of the primary schools he’s vaguely referenced confirm the strong progress by Year 6 of EAL students, as the same as their English First Language counterparts.

The list went on and on despite Twelves having only read the first few chapters. Notably, none of Goodwin’s allies defended him. In fact, some right-wing outlets came out against him:

> I regret to inform the house, [@GoodwinMJ][8] has even lost the [@spectator][9]. read me here: [https://t.co/lDJktnhpvU][10] [https://t.co/D7Cb7dy3oT][11] [pic.twitter.com/c0K80aBvGj][12]
>
> — andy twelves (@andytwelves) [March 24, 2026][13]

Goodwin must have realised his career was in jeopardy. Clearly wanting to salvage it, he agreed to debate Twelves on *GB News*.

The problem is there was no set of words Goodwin could string together to fix this mess. The second problem is there were things he could say that would definitely make things worse.

## Debatable

After Goodwin lost in Gorton & Denton, people began referring to him as ‘Matt Badloss’. Following the publication of his book, people started calling him ‘MattGPT’. Bizarrely, Badloss attempted to defend his use of AI by asking ChatGPT what it thought:

> [🇬🇧] Failed Reform UK candidate Matt Goodwin defends himself against accusations his book was written by ChatGPT by reading a statement written by ChatGPT.
>
> Analysis of Goodwin's new book, Suicide of a Nation, found that it invents numerous quotes by historical figures, uses false… [pic.twitter.com/ywNgV2AEsw][14]
>
> — Europa.com (@europa) [March 27, 2026][15]

> Matt Goodwin using AI in an attempt to demonstrate that he didn’t use AI to write his book is an unexpectedly great TV moment.
>
> — Matthew Stadlen (@MatthewStadlen) [March 27, 2026][16]

In the clip above, an indignant Goodwin said:

> I ran it through ChatGPT. Do you want to know what ChatGPT says? It said this does not read like an AI written book. There is no credible evidence this book was written by AI. In fact, no, let me finish because this is important. This is about integrity. In fact, the dominant signals in this book point the other way. There’s pro-human authorship. There’s emotionally driven language. There’s escalating rhetoric. There’s signature voice writing. There’s long-range argument structure.

So the untrustworthy software which made up a load of quotes said we can trust Goodwin.

Convinced?

In another wonderful moment, [Goodwin said][17]:

> You asked me, ‘has this book been peer reviewed by experts’. Every single demographic projection in this book was reviewed by some of the world’s leading demographers.

When asked to “name them”, Goodwin looked surprised then smiled awkwardly. As it turned out, he couldn’t name a single expert, with Twelves asking if Goodwin needed to get on ChatGPT to ask who the world’s leading demographers were.

Goodwin was also torn apart for not understanding in his book that children who speak English as an Additional Language (EAL) can actually speak English (hence it being ‘an additional language’):

> Not sure but very likely I’d be categorised EAL as a kid & been in those stats.
>
> Matt’s dog whistles are trying to sow undue concern.
>
> I was always British & fluent in English, I was just bilingual.
> This is not a bad thing, it’s the norm globally outside Anglo-speaking countries. [https://t.co/MkcSx2lHom][18]
>
> — Zoe Gardner (@ZoeJardiniere) [March 28, 2026][19]

Twelves highlighted many more inaccuracies too:

> 'This isn't political, it's just about truth.'
>
> Andy Twelves explains why he has been so critical of Matt Goodwin's latest book and the use of AI to help write it.
>
> [📺] Freeview 236, Sky 512, Virgin 604
> [🇬🇧] Become a Friend of GB News: [https://t.co/mNsRsGC8ef][20] [pic.twitter.com/ZebbftYjCS][21]
>
> — GB News (@GBNEWS) [March 27, 2026][22]

As people highlighted, Goodwin’s book contains so many issues that even if every one had a justification, it would still be an error-riddled mess of a work:

> You can blame your critics for focusing on minor points at the expense of a broader argument if you accidentally attributed something to the New York Post rather than the New York Times. You can't do it if you have a series of imaginary quotes.[https://t.co/GPFfde7eRA][23]
>
> — Ben Sixsmith (@BDSixsmith) [March 27, 2026][24]

Things have gotten so embarrassing for Reform’s Goodwin that his detractors feel sorry for him:

> There's a point in a person's life where their friends should step in. Intervene.
>
> Has Goodwin set fire to every bridge he crossed? Does he have nobody?
>
> He's been ritually humiliated to the point that there's no coming back from this.
>
> I almost feel sorry for him.
>
> Almost. [🤏] [https://t.co/BuBCJbxWIP][25]
>
> — Don McGowan (@donmcgowan) [March 27, 2026][26]

Twelves himself is not among those showing sympathy for MattGPT:

> Current scenes [#MattGoodwin][27] [@andytwelves][28] [https://t.co/XWIDdtUIx7][29] [pic.twitter.com/Jj2EBHokVQ][30]
>
> — Albie (@albieamankona) [March 27, 2026][31]

## Professional unaliving

At this point, Goodwin’s career may be unsalvageable.

Our suggestion is he changes the name of his book from *Suicide of a Nation* to *Suicide of a Career*. That won’t turn things around, but it would show he’s capable of some degree of honesty. It would also be very funny, and lord knows this miserable loser could do with a laugh.

*Featured image via [GB News][32]*

By [Willem Moore][33]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/02/27/gorton-and-denton-win/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/24/goodwin-failure/
[3]: https://twitter.com/andytwelves?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://t.co/NP8sOZmSt2
[5]: https://twitter.com/ZoeJardiniere/status/2037640656781181257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/24/goodwin-failure/
[7]: https://metro.co.uk/2021/06/24/birmingham-pupils-speak-30-languages-at-primary-school-dubbed-mini-united-nations-14821875/
[8]: https://twitter.com/GoodwinMJ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://twitter.com/spectator?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[10]: https://t.co/lDJktnhpvU
[11]: https://t.co/D7Cb7dy3oT
[12]: https://t.co/c0K80aBvGj
[13]: https://twitter.com/andytwelves/status/2036497504540176510?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[14]: https://t.co/ywNgV2AEsw
[15]: https://twitter.com/europa/status/2037619801518944752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[16]: https://twitter.com/MatthewStadlen/status/2037670434330550693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[17]: https://x.com/evertonblue76/status/2037676008543850757?s=20
[18]: https://t.co/MkcSx2lHom
[19]: https://twitter.com/ZoeJardiniere/status/2037797244284387546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[20]: https://t.co/mNsRsGC8ef
[21]: https://t.co/ZebbftYjCS
[22]: https://twitter.com/GBNEWS/status/2037594596998291869?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[23]: https://t.co/GPFfde7eRA
[24]: https://twitter.com/BDSixsmith/status/2037619519657517210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[25]: https://t.co/BuBCJbxWIP
[26]: https://twitter.com/donmcgowan/status/2037665722399154239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[27]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/MattGoodwin?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[28]: https://twitter.com/andytwelves?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[29]: https://t.co/XWIDdtUIx7
[30]: https://t.co/Jj2EBHokVQ
[31]: https://twitter.com/albieamankona/status/2037643441924944182?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[32]: https://x.com/GBNEWS/status/2037603357141934578?s=20
[33]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/28/reform-matt-goodwin-flayed-in-debate-on-ai-book-inaccuracies/

Watch: Green Party’s Mothin Ali provides brilliant take on race ...

2026-03-28T17:00:51Z

Watch: Green Party’s Mothin Ali provides brilliant take on race and social class

[Green Party]

The Co-Deputy Leader of the Green Party Mothin Ali has released [a beautiful and moving video][1] about his upbringing in Sheffield, conveying some vital truths about the class unity needed to take on Britain’s establishment.

It starts with Ali on a bus talking about a recent encounter in London:

> So, I was in London the other day and this bloke, he comes right up to me. He says, “Why don’t you eff off back to where you came from?” And you know what? I thought I will. So, I came back here to Sheffield.

From there, we hear about Ali’s upbringing amidst the heavy industry of the 1980s, and the working class unity that existed across racial groups, even if prejudice wasn’t entirely absent from British life at the time. He recalls how the community was shattered by the policies of Margaret Thatcher. Now 40 years later in a deindustrialised society, the social fragmentation caused by those neoliberal policies has seen [racist attitudes skyrocket][2].

## Ali: we must work “side by side” to shatter chains of capitalism

As Ali says:

> That man in London, when he saw me, all he saw was my beard, my topi, my brown skin. Like it was me. Like it was me to blame. All he saw was our differences. So I get why we had to come back here to remember what we’d lost. It wasn’t just the work or the factories, it was something else.

In the past, Ali points out, when two such people met:

> We saw those chains, chains of hardship and debt. And we knew that the only way we’d ever lift them was together, side by side.

Thatcher knew that sites of industry — coal mines, steel mills, factories — were crucial locations for building class consciousness. Where people of different ethnicities and religions met and saw a common cause with one another, and where trade unions provided [a political education on class realities][3]. The employer was the enemy, not the person with a different skin colour beside you on the job. It was your employer who was underpaying you, overworking you, disregarding your safety, and [taking most of the profit for themselves][4].

Thatcher referred to the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) as “[the enemy within][5]“. However, in reality it was all trade unions, and all sites of working class organisation that she wanted to crush. That she surely did, and instituted massive waves of privatisation that saw [vital national assets sold off to corporations][6].

## Green Party — strong left-wing communicators key to beating back the right

After four decades, the results of this project are clear. [Sky high energy prices][7], a [barely functional health service][8], [rivers overflowing with shit][9] and a society where it seems nothing works any more. In the vacuum filled by the fading of trade unions, [racist demagogues][10] like those of Reform and Restore have been able to sell fictions about the causes of these problems, blaming migrants and Muslims. Overt racism thought to be virtually extinct has returned in appalling fashion. Mothin Ali is no stranger to this,[ having been the victim himself on more than one occasion][11].

George Monbiot has often [cited the importance of story telling in political projects][12], and bemoaned the left’s inability to match the right in this regard. Fortunately, the Green Party have now proven themselves to be effective tellers of simple truths, delivered in an emotionally powerful way. Similarly, leader Zack Polanski is an outstanding communicator, rarely caught flat-footed in an interview.

In a social media age, these are essential skills for beating back racist snake oil salesmen intent on distracting us from our true enemies — bosses, landlords and the craven politicians that back them.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Robert Freeman][13]

[1]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPsR1hfTaAA
[2]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/mar/03/half-reform-voters-believe-non-white-british-citizens-forced-encouraged-leave
[3]: https://www.counterfire.org/article/why-trade-unions-matter-to-marxists/
[4]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jiMEonqImM
[5]: https://radicalteatowel.co.uk/radical-history-blog/thatchers-enemy-within-the-miners-strike-of-198485
[6]: https://tribunemag.co.uk/2023/11/mick-lynch-rail-privatisation-has-been-30-years-of-failure
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/02/26/energy-bills-fall/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2025/12/15/streeting-nhs-collapse/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/04/27/water-companies-overcharging/
[10]: https://www.thepoke.com/2026/03/19/nigel-farages-racist-rhetoric-about-brilliant-young-minds-being-replaced-with-goat-herders-from-afghanistan/
[11]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/sep/04/new-deputy-green-leader-mothin-ali-suffered-racist-abuse-family-seaside-trip
[12]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDKth-qS8Jk
[13]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/robert-freeman/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/28/green-party-brilliant-take/

Watch: Amazon’s ‘Alexa’ will say “Free Ukraine” but ...

2026-03-28T12:20:33Z

Watch: Amazon’s ‘Alexa’ will say “Free Ukraine” but avoids “Free Palestine”

[Amazon]

A US man has found that Amazon’s ‘Alexa’ AI will repeat a wish for pretty much any country to be free — but not “Free Palestine”.

Instead it performs contortions to avoid it, talking about the supposed ‘complex international situation’, before he eventually corners it into claiming “Free Palestine” involves “promoting harm or violence”. Presumably the Ukraine-Russia war is all roses and marshmallows.

But eventually, it seems even an AI can be worn down by the moral force of truth and justice:

> A young man documents how the voice assistant ‘Alexa’ evades repeating the phrase ‘Free Palestine,’ in an experiment demonstrating how global algorithms and software are manipulated to obscure the truth and silence Palestinian voices. [pic.twitter.com/MO4gglQIH9][1]
>
> — Eye on Palestine (@EyeonPalestine) [March 26, 2026][2]

Why on earth wouldn’t Amazon, which is owned by ultra-billionaire Jeff Bezos, has an [Israeli subsidiary][3] and [earns billions][4] from providing ‘cloud’ services to the military of genocidal apartheid Israel [and to its suppliers][5], want to say “Free Palestine”..?

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][6]

[1]: https://t.co/MO4gglQIH9
[2]: https://twitter.com/EyeonPalestine/status/2037279123345678588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-annapurna-m-a-amazon-com-idUSKBN0KV0SG20150122
[4]: https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2025/3/5/truth-dies-in-darkness-dont-blame-bezos#:~:text=Some%20have%20accused%20Bezos%20of:%20*%20**Assaulting,%22displace%22%2C%20and%20%22relocate%22**%20*%20**Defending%20the%20indefensible**
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2025/10/27/amazon-israel-arms-suppliers/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/28/amazon-alexa-will-say/

Orgreave inquiry finally underway [Orgreave] The Starmer ...

2026-03-28T00:09:26Z

Orgreave inquiry finally underway

[Orgreave]

The Starmer government has finally announced the start of its bland inquiry into state violence during the ‘Battle of Orgreave’ coking plant [during the 1980s miners’ strike][1].

The inquiry’s brief should be to identify those who should stand trial or at least face disgrace for sending heavily-armed police, and [soldiers dressed as police][2], to viciously beat prosecute striking miners then prosecuted the victims. It should be shaming media bosses and ‘journalists’ who helped smear the victims. Like the BBC’s [editing][3] of footage to falsely portray miners as attacking first.

> This photo was taken 36 years ago today just before the massed ranks of police attacked and brutalised the miners at Orgreave.
> Later that day [@BBCNews][4] reversed their film to make it look to the whole nation like the miners attacked first.
> Don’t ever forget that.[#OrgreaveJustice][5] [pic.twitter.com/M7PaIdfyyA][6]
>
> — Ian Prowse (@IanProwse) [June 18, 2020][7]

Instead, its job will be to “aid public understanding” — but not until 2028, almost four years after Starmer conned his way into government after promising a prompt inquiry into the police charge.

## Orgreave — the war on miners

As the Thatcher regime continued its war on the miners and its cover-up of its own crimes, it tried to jail 95 miners but the trials collapsed. South Yorkshire Police were eventually [forced][8] to pay more than half a million in compensation and costs, a large sum at the time. But [no police officer was ever disciplined][9], let alone prosecuted.

The Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign said the government had taken far too long to begin inquiry and paid tribute to its members’ tenacity in continuing to push for it. Anglican bishop of Sheffield Pete Wilcox, who will chair the inquiry, said he wanted to resolve the trauma of miners and their communities and would:

> follow the evidence without prejudice, wherever it may lead, wholly independent of government, law enforcement or any other public body.

Anyone who has observed the [contempt][10] establishment creature Starmer and his hangers-on have [shown][11] to the Orgreave campaign for years will know that Wilcox will have another fight on his hands to keep that promise.

The Orgreave Truth and Justice Campaign, which has sought a statutory inquiry since forming in 2012, welcomed the announcement, although it said it was disappointed at the time taken to reach this formal start.

The campaign said its members, who include former striking miners, had needed “determination and tenacity”, supported by the wider labour and trade union movement. It said: “We have … tried our best to influence the process to ensure this does not become a police-led inquiry but one shaped by the miners and their experiences.”

## The truth

Sarah Jones, the policing minister, said the panel’s purpose was to get to the truth about the Orgreave events. She said:

> I’ve had the privilege of meeting the campaigners, and I think the overriding sense of injustice is obviously palpable, but also the sense that people just haven’t been believed or listened to for a very long time.
>
> What is important to me is that people have the confidence to come forward, with whatever information we’re going to need, and to be able to tell their story of what happened in a way where they know that they will be listened to and believed.

South Yorkshire police said they were “fully committed to supporting the Orgreave inquiry”.

The four panel members are Wendy Williams, a former chief prosecutor in the Crown Prosecution Service and inspector in the police and fire service inspectorate; Mary Bousted, a former joint general secretary of the National Education Union; Joanna Gilmore, a senior lecturer in law at the University of York who specialises in public order, human rights and policing policy; and Angela Sutton-Vane, a historian with expertise in archiving and preserving police records.

Wilcox said:

> I wish to help resolve a trauma that persists to this day — for the miners who were injured at Orgreave, who were arrested at Orgreave, who feel their story has not yet been fully told. For their families and communities, and for the relationship between police and the mining community.
>
> I will follow the evidence without prejudice, wherever it may lead.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][12]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/editorial/2024/06/18/battle-of-orgreave-40/
[2]: https://skwawkbox.org/2016/11/03/exclusive-explosive-new-eye-witness-testimony-shows-orgreave-not-about-rogue-police/
[3]: https://x.com/IanProwse/status/1273593664493813760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1273593664493813760%7Ctwgr%5Eaa0118cb3a2e787fe13e004403746613a762dc49%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fskwawkbox.org%2F2020%2F06%2F19%2Fstarmer-exploited-miners-for-votes-but-didnt-mention-orgreave-on-anniversary-of-brutal-police-assault%2F
[4]: https://twitter.com/BBCNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[5]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrgreaveJustice?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://t.co/M7PaIdfyyA
[7]: https://twitter.com/IanProwse/status/1273593664493813760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[8]: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/jul/22/orgreave-truth-police-miners-strike
[9]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2016/may/16/orgreave-inquiry-calls-grow-after-damning-hillsborough-verdict-for-south-yorkshire-police
[10]: https://skwawkbox.org/2022/04/29/labour-no-platforms-miners-orgreave-truth-and-justice-campaign/
[11]: https://skwawkbox.org/2020/06/19/starmer-exploited-miners-for-votes-but-didnt-mention-orgreave-on-anniversary-of-brutal-police-assault/
[12]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/28/orgreave-inquiry-finally-underway/

University of Reading among top EU recipients for border security ...

2026-03-27T23:47:45Z

University of Reading among top EU recipients for border security research supporting repressive migration policies

[EU]

The University of Reading is one of the top universities to receive research and innovation funding from the EU’s Framework Programmes and a range of other EU instruments to support the building of Europe’s border regime.

A new report from the Transnational Institute, “[Border Labs,][1]” highlights how universities are deeply involved in Europe’s repressive border and migration policies in multiple ways.

> View this post on Instagram
>
>
> [A post shared by Transnational Institute (@transnationalinstitute)][2]

Three UK universities were in the top 20 recipients of EU funding for border security and control research: the University of Reading, Queen Mary University of London, and Sheffield Hallam University. From 2002 to May 2025, over 200 universities, higher-education institutions, and academies participated in 110 EU Framework Programme projects related to border security and control, receiving a total of over €100 million in EU funding.

Although UK universities were temporarily excluded from EU funding following Brexit, a new agreement has allowed them to fully participate again from 2024 onwards.

From biometrics and surveillance to AI, lie detection, drones, and other unmanned systems, the report documents universities working across a wide range of border-control technologies.

## AI and pseudoscience

The report points out that there is investment in technologies that are not merely repressive. Some are straight-up stupid and are done through opaque ways, like spin-off companies.

These spin-off start-ups are built on university research. The same academics who did the research often run them.

Manchester Metropolitan University was a recipient of EU funding for iBorderCtrl, a Horizon 2020 project that ran from 2016 to 2019.

[Silent Talker][3] was a Manchester Metropolitan University spin-off that claimed its AI could detect lies. Its creators claimed it could detect deception by analysing facial micro-expressions.

The company is now dissolved, and accusations of pseudoscience have followed it.

## Working with arms companies

The report also shows how deeply universities are embedded with the arms industry.

Italian defence giant Leonardo is the most frequent corporate partner of universities in EU-funded border security projects. It has collaborated repeatedly with Finland’s Laurea University of Applied Sciences and the Università degli Studi di Roma La Sapienza. These partnerships span projects on maritime surveillance, hybrid threats, and customs interoperability.

In the UK, BAE Systems has a longstanding relationship with the University of Southampton. The report gives an example of how the border-industrial-academic complex works.

BAE funds research through the university’s Centre for Research in Active Control. That partnership helped produce [ClanTect][4], a university spin-off that sold heartbeat detectors to [Frontex][5] and the UK Border Force.

The report describes Frontex as “a central node in the EU’s securitised border regime.” Frontex is the European Border and Coast Guard Agency.

## EU and the Saudi connection

The report also brings out a connection between European universities and Saudi Arabia.

Frontex has a longstanding cooperation with the[ Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, or NAUSS][6]. The institution is based in Riyadh and linked to the Saudi royal family. Its governing council includes senior officials from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Morocco, and Jordan.

The report says

> Training of security forces in Arab countries is an important part of the university’s programme, which is where Frontex has stepped in. Institutional contacts date back to at least 2020, at a time when Saudi Arabia was playing an active role in the Yemen War.

Canary reported this week on [Saudi Arabia’s record][7].

The Western-backed Gulf theocracy is one of the biggest recipients of UK arms exports.

African trade unions have accused it of widespread violations against migrant workers: forced labour, wage theft, physical and sexual abuse, and systemic racism. Workers have been locked in homes, forced to work 18 to 20 hours a day, denied wages, healthcare and rest.

Saudi Arabia is now trying to dismiss a formal complaint at the International Labour Organisation.

## Netanyahuisation of EU universities

Michele Lancione, who wrote the foreword, argues that Europe is seeing a Netanyahuisation.

That means universities are not simply being controlled by far-right governments.

They are being reshaped to serve the military-border-industrial complex, just as Israeli universities have been reshaped to serve occupation and genocide.

In Israel, universities have become servile to the military occupation of Palestine. No Israeli institution has spoken out against the genocide in Gaza.

Europe is heading the same way, the report warns.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [The Canary][8]

[1]: https://stopwapenhandel.org/app/uploads/2026/03/BorderLabs-Report-TNI-v3-23March2026.pdf
[2]: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWTLmK8jKM4/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading
[3]: https://www.mmu.ac.uk/news-and-events/news/story/intelligent-lie-detector
[4]: https://www.clantect.com/
[5]: https://www.frontex.europa.eu/
[6]: https://nauss.edu.sa/en/Pages/default.aspx
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/26/saudi-arabia-abuses-migrant-workers/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/27/eu-recipients-for-border-security/

Sky finally covers Israel torturing toddler — but smears dad ...

2026-03-27T22:45:07Z

Sky finally covers Israel torturing toddler — but smears dad and omits half story

[Sky News]

Sky News has finally covered Israel’s torture of one-year-old *toddler* — three days [after][1] the Canary and other independent outlets and five days after the news first [broke][2] in Arabic media. But typically, the broadcaster only covered half the story — and masked the other half with baseless Israeli propaganda.

Sky dressed up the cigarette burns and nail wounds inflicted on little Jawad Abu Nassar as ‘suspected’ signs of torture. It left out that the torture lasted ten hours. It omitted completely that Israeli guards tortured the little boy to force his father to make a false confession of belonging to Hamas. And then Sky parroted the Israeli military’s claim that the dad — who is still missing — is a member of Hamas:

[][3]

UN-accredited human rights expert Mohamad Safa was a lot more thorough in his description:

> Israel kidnapped and tortured a one-year-old child in front of his father for 10 hours, burning cigarettes and inserting nails into his legs, in an attempt to extract a false confession under duress.
>
> Israel kidnapped and tortured a baby! [pic.twitter.com/ExRFq14T4M][4]
>
> — Mohamad Safa (@mhdksafa) [March 22, 2026][5]

Unforgivably shoddy by Sky News — but lightyears ahead of the BBC, which still [hasn’t mentioned][6] either Jawad or his torture by Israeli abductors. It is likewise silent on [all the other children Israel has tortured][7] for **decades**.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][8]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/24/israeli-military/
[2]: https://x.com/mhdksafa/status/2035821880288952489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2035821880288952489%7Ctwgr%5E760fca74567f68e91d69a144a5500f84b4d01668%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecanary.co%2Fglobal%2Fworld-analysis%2F2026%2F03%2F24%2Fisraeli-military%2F
[3]:
[4]: https://t.co/ExRFq14T4M
[5]: https://twitter.com/mhdksafa/status/2035821880288952489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/search?q=israel+torture&d=NEWS_PS&edgeauth=eyJhbGciOiAiSFMyNTYiLCAidHlwIjogIkpXVCJ9.eyJrZXkiOiAiZmFzdGx5LXVyaS10b2tlbi0xIiwiZXhwIjogMTc3NDYyNDQ0MiwibmJmIjogMTc3NDYyNDA4MiwicmVxdWVzdHVyaSI6ICIlMkZzZWFyY2glM0ZxJTNEaXNyYWVsJTJCdG9ydHVyZSUyNmQlM0RORVdTX1BTIn0.tmlYxVxGWp7E63COsQM1l8vQLKSmiaK7BLY18p1mCqU
[7]: https://www.omct.org/en/resources/urgent-interventions/israel-palestinian-children-still-being-tortured-in-israeli-prisons
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/27/sky-news-finally-covers-israel/

Watch: Israeli MP calls murdering Gaza children ‘normal’ ...

2026-03-27T22:14:23Z

Watch: Israeli MP calls murdering Gaza children ‘normal’

[Israeli]

Far-right Israeli Knesset member Yitzhak Kroizer is an unashamed, racist advocate of the murder of Palestinian children. He is a party ally of [possibly-deceased genocidal maniac Itamar Ben-Gvir][1] and the [son of a settler rabbi linked][2] to Israeli terrorist Meir Kahane. Kroizer told Israel’s parliament that there are “no innocent children” in the occupied West Bank and that he doesn’t have “even a bit of any kind of feeling of mercy for Palestinians”:

> [🚨]HOLY SHIT !!!!!
>
> Israeli politician Yitzik Kroizer says killing Palestinian children is normal if it supports the IDF mission.
>
> He adds there are no innocent children in the West Bank.
>
> Repost this. Please I beg you [pic.twitter.com/jCZPrQtG4i][3]
>
> — Save Gaza (@Alee93ale) [March 26, 2026][4]

He fits right into the [murderous, child-raping Epstein state][5].

Featured image via the Canary

By [Skwawkbox][6]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/11/ben-gvir-settlers/
[2]: https://www.kikar.co.il/political-news/434587
[3]: https://t.co/jCZPrQtG4i
[4]: https://twitter.com/Alee93ale/status/2037086461195882702?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/02/28/iran-school-massacres-done/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/27/israeli-mp-calls-murdering/

Met police challenged over unlawful arrest policy for Palestine ...

2026-03-27T18:56:04Z

Met police challenged over unlawful arrest policy for Palestine Action support

[Police carry a protester at a demonstration in Trafalgar Square calling for the lifting of the proscription of Palestine Action]

London-based law firm Hodge Jones & Allen LLP has written to the Metropolitan police challenging its revised policy on Palestine Action support. The firm has warned that any arrests the Met makes under the policy are likely to be unlawful.

The letter, written on behalf of campaign group Defend Our Juries, comes after [a shock U-turn from the Met][1]. Late on 25 March, the force [announced that it will resume arrests][2] under Terrorism legislation for people holding signs referencing support for [protest group Palestine Action][3]. This is despite the High Court ruling in February that the proscription of the group was unlawful.

This is a complete departure from [the Met’s previous position][4]. In an initial response to the ruling, the Met announced in February that it would stop making arrests of people showing support for the group. It said it would focus on collecting evidence instead.

While the Court stayed the effect of its judgment pending a government appeal, Hodge Jones & Allen argues that any arrests in the interim would be unlawful. This places significant pressure on the Met to justify its new position.

The letter states:

> The Metropolitan police’s position is based on a misunderstanding of the legal position and will produce profoundly unfair results and unlawful arrests.
>
> The decision of the High Court to ‘stay’ the effect of their ruling is not determinative of the legal position.
>
> The Metropolitan police should have due regard, when assessing whether to conduct an action such arrest, to the fact that the High Court has unanimously found the legal position to be unlawful. Pending any successful appeal, that is an authoritative statement of the legal framework at present.

The letter highlights that courts have already adjourned all trials connected to the Defend Our Juries “Lift the Ban” campaign. Prosecutors themselves have indicated that proceedings should not continue until the legal framework is clarified. This would make any arrests futile as well as unlawful, since prosecutors can’t charge or conclude cases.

The letter continues:

> In view of the difficulties in any case being charged or being concluded with a trial, we can see no merit in any arrest. We submit as follows:
>
> Firstly, we fail to see how any arrest allows an officer to have reasonable suspicion that an offence has been committed nor that the “necessity” condition under s24 PACE 1984 is fulfilled. If an officer considers that there may be an offence, then the previous policy of monitoring and collecting evidence is sufficient.
>
> Secondly, those seeking to take part in the “Lift the Ban Campaign” are exercising their rights under Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
>
> It is clear that this is a campaign aimed at de-proscription. Any arrest is an interference with that right, and in these circumstances cannot be considered proportionate.
>
> Therefore, we regard any arrest as unlawful.

## Why is expressing support for Palestine Action suddenly arrestable again?

The [Met’s previous position][5] was that a “focus on gathering evidence”, rather than arrests, would be “the most proportionate approach”. It is unclear what has prompted the force to change their assessment of proportionality, other than recent correspondence with Defend Our Juries.

On 19 March, [Defend Our Juries wrote to the Met commissioner, Mark Rowley][6], to raise the case of a woman arrested on 15 March. Police arrested her for holding a sign expressing support for Palestine Action, in breach of the Met’s policy at the time. The group was not consulted prior to the policy change announced on 25 March, and further mass arrests under Terrorism legislation are now expected in Trafalgar Square on 11 April, when [Defend Our Juries’ next silent vigil is planned][7].

As the letter highlights, the only basis for these arrests is a law which the High Court has ruled to be unlawful. Hodge, Jones & Allen is seeking urgent assurances from the Met that participants in the “Lift the Ban” campaign will not be arrested while the legal position remains unresolved.

A spokesperson for Defend Our Juries said:

> The Met has lost the plot. The ‘Lift the Ban’ campaign against the unlawful proscription of Palestine Action was vindicated by the High Court, and yet they’re still going to arrest us on terrorism charges for peaceful protest even now.
>
> Rather than admit that the arrest of a woman under the Terrorism Act on 15 March breached their own policy, they have now changed the policy to try to make it fit retrospectively. That’s just embarrassing.
>
> The Met will now waste even more public resources on arresting hundreds more people for terrorism charges on the basis of a proscription order which the High Court has already ruled unlawful.
>
> How can they believe that’s proportionate or in the public interest? Nothing has changed since they said on 13 February that stopping arrests was “the most proportionate approach we can take.
>
> The deputy assistant commissioner stated that they needed to give ‘clear guidance’ to their officers. Nothing says ‘clear guidance’ like regularly changing your mind over the unlawful arrests of thousands of peaceful protesters holding paper signs.

*Featured image via M Lyman / Defend Our Juries*

By [The Canary][8]

[1]: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TMDn6zhmnMsoLT0AjNWrxy5WQ4f5me6Ccjuc6lFE-2Q/edit?link_id=2&can_id=867c8925049b6e035f83f6c3bec1dabd&source=email-met-police-u-turn-police-to-resume-terror-arrests-of-elderly-and-disabled-despite-high-court-ruling&email_referrer=email_3165831&email_subject=met-police-challenged-over-unlawful-arrest-policy-for-palestine-action-support&tab=t.0
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/26/palestine-action-restart/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/topics/palestine-action/
[4]: https://news.met.police.uk/news/met-response-to-high-court-ruling-on-palestine-action-506156
[5]: https://news.met.police.uk/news/met-response-to-high-court-ruling-on-palestine-action-506156
[6]: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bdxeMJg0c8K3O-x_8OLTHwxvUPHDyzD-nX2pOFnAJFU/edit?link_id=5&can_id=867c8925049b6e035f83f6c3bec1dabd&source=email-met-police-u-turn-police-to-resume-terror-arrests-of-elderly-and-disabled-despite-high-court-ruling&email_referrer=email_3165831&email_subject=met-police-challenged-over-unlawful-arrest-policy-for-palestine-action-support&tab=t.0
[7]: https://defendourjuries.net/lift-the-ban/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/27/met-police-challenged-over-unlawful-arrest-policy-for-palestine-action-support/

UK government advisory report condemns global fur trade [Fox in ...

2026-03-27T17:42:46Z

UK government advisory report condemns global fur trade

[Fox in Finnish fur farm fur trade]

The Animal Welfare Committee, which advises the UK government, has published a damning report condemning the animal suffering involved in the fur trade.

Its [report on ‘the responsible sourcing of fur’][1] calls out the suffering inflicted on animals who are confined in cages on fur farms or caught in brutal traps in the wild. And it indicates support for legislative action, stating:

> consumer and market forces currently do not and cannot provide sufficient pressure to adequately safeguard animal welfare.

Despite banning the farming of animals for their fur more than two decades ago, the UK imports millions of pounds worth of animal fur from overseas every year. This creates a double standard, says [Humane World for Animals UK][2] (formerly called Humane Society International UK), which leads the [#FurFreeBritain campaign][3].

The charity is calling on the UK government to act on the report’s findings and deliver on its recent Animal Welfare Strategy commitment to ‘uphold high animal welfare standards in trade’ by banning the UK’s bloody fur trade for good.

Meanwhile, DEFRA has published responses to its 2021 Call for Evidence on the UK fur trade. The results show more than 96% of the almost 30,000 respondents strongly agreed that killing animals for their fur is wrong. Respondents:

> overwhelmingly did not support the import, sale or export of fur or fur products.

Claire Bass, senior director of campaigns and public affairs for Humane World for Animals UK said:

> It’s clear from the Committee’s findings that trading in fur from caged, tormented, diseased and injured animals is completely at odds with the UK government’s recent Animal Welfare Strategy commitment to ‘uphold high animal welfare standards as part of our approach to trade’.
>
> The Committee states that fur should not be sourced from animals who have not had ‘a life worth living’ or a humane death and then explains all the ways in which the global fur trade fails to meet these criteria.
>
> The previous Labour government rightly banned fur farming 25 years ago. We must now stop outsourcing that same suffering overseas. The government now has both formal evidence and a strong public mandate to end the UK’s bloody fur trade.

## Animal Welfare Committee report quotes and conclusions

The Animal Welfare Committee states that:

> Within a commercial setting it is not possible and is unlikely to ever be possible to farm species such as fox and raccoon dog without having a detrimental effect on their health and welfare, or in a way which meets their welfare needs.

It adds:

> There are no species being farmed for fur whose welfare needs are being adequately met by current standards and safeguards.

The report’s concerns include:

* Criticism that cage sizes within industry ‘welfare assurance’ schemes are ‘insufficient to meet physical and psychological welfare needs’, and cage design is inadequate.
* The use of inhumane killing methods, including CO2 which ‘has been shown to be a highly aversive method of killing mink [which] fails to kill rapidly’, and anal electrocution.
* Criticism of fur industry assurance schemes for both farmed and trapped fur, including outdated welfare science and lack of: consistency, training, unannounced inspections, independent auditing and traceability.
* Lack of industry consideration of the experience and welfare of individual animals on fur farms, with welfare assurance schemes such as WelFur permitting a high threshold of allowance for animals with serious welfare problems (e.g 15% of foxes may have ‘severely bent feet’).
* Challenges with traceability of the country of origin, species and method of production of fur (farmed or trapped) imported into the UK, using available data from HMRC.
* Although over a third (37%) of fur imported to the UK over the last 10 years came from China, the Committee was unable to obtain any evidence about industry application of ‘welfare certification’ schemes in the country.
* Concern that trapping standards for fur subsequently imported into the UK are ‘not sufficient to prevent unnecessary suffering, and do not adequately protect animal welfare’. The standards permit lethal head/chest crushing traps that take five minutes to kill species including beavers and otters.
* Concern that “consumers are not currently able to accurately identify whether products are fur of animal origin (wild caught or farmed) or ‘faux’ fur, or a mixture of the two”.

## Public opposition to the fur trade

The evidence released today, of animal suffering and also of strong public opposition to the fur trade, now puts the need for a fur import ban beyond doubt. Therefore, Humane World for Animals UK is calling on the government to act swiftly.

More than 200 MPs support the Fur Free Britain campaign. Ruth Jones MP led a Westminster Hall debate earlier in March which saw cross-party support for the issue.

There is also strong public support for a ban on fur imports and sales. 77% of UK voters believe that when a type of farming is banned in the UK for being too cruel, we should also ban imports of [products produced the same way overseas][4].

Last year campaigners handed in a 1.5 million signature petition to the prime minister in support of a ban. Furthermore, the vast majority (93%) of the UK public reject wearing real animal fur, while only 3% wear it. The same poll found that the words 79% of people most closely associated with a fashion brand selling fur are ‘unethical’, ‘outdated’, ‘cruel’ and ‘out of touch’.

The Animal Welfare Committee’s findings echo the damning indictment delivered by the European Food Safety Authority’s 2025 scientific opinion on the welfare of animals on fur farms. It concluded that the cage systems used on fur farms fail to meet the basic welfare needs of mink, foxes, raccoon dogs and chinchillas. And this includes the industry’s so-called “high welfare” or “certified farms”.

*Featured image via Kristo Muurimaa / Oikeutta eläimille / Humane World for Animals UK*

By [The Canary][5]

[1]: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/animal-welfare-committee-awc-opinion-on-the-responsible-sourcing-of-fur#:~:text=fur
[2]: https://www.humaneworld.org/en/about-us
[3]: https://www.furfreebritain.uk/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-news/2026/03/18/first-ever-icelandic-fur-farm-expose-highlights-urgent-need-for-uk-action/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/27/uk-government-advisory-report-condemns-global-fur-trade/

Israel gets zero mentions in government’s ‘report’ on ...

2026-03-27T17:41:34Z

Israel gets zero mentions in government’s ‘report’ on foreign interference. No wonder

[israel]

The government’s ‘Rycroft Review’ [report][1] on foreign interference in UK politics has been confirmed as a sham immediately it was published, after it failed to mention Israel a single time. And this is only what *Skwawkbox* and others predicted, since Starmer minister Steve Reed is a die-hard ‘friend of genocide’ who also [didn’t mention Israel once when commissioning it in December 2025][2].

## Israel: those who will not be named

Russia gets seven mentions. Israel – so far ahead of other countries in terms of interference in UK politics that it’s (literally) out of sight – none at all. And Reed is ‘under fire’ for – oops – ‘forgetting’ to disclose just how tight he is with the Israel lobby. Or mention it at all. Just like he ‘forgot’ the [massive donations he’s accepted][3] from the Israel lobby:

> NEW: A Labour minister is under fire after failing to declare his relationship with the pro-Israel lobby when he unveiled a report on foreign interference in the UK
>
> Steve Reed failed to declare his affiliation with the influential Labour Friends of Israel group [pic.twitter.com/nJGIUm6sFh][4]
>
> — Laura Webster (@LauraEWebsterr) [March 26, 2026][5]

In fact, its very absence from the report is as clear a demonstration as could be of the extent of its influence. The *National* [describes][6] Reed’s omission as “incredible”, but in the literal sense it’s the absolute opposite: totally believable and unsurprising. Just appalling.

The scale of the farce becomes even clearer when China and Iran get a special mention – just as Israel is looking to drag the UK into its illegal war on Iran. A section titled “*How serious is the problem?*” of “long-term strategic foreign interference” quotes a government briefing naming those two countries as the crux of the problem:

> The UK is a **target of long-term strategic foreign interference and espionage from elements of the Russian, Chinese and Iranian states** which, in different ways, **seek to further their economic and strategic interests and cause harm to our democratic institutions**”.

But not Israel. Noooo. No no no no no. Who even *is* Israel?’, the uninformed reader might ask.

## Beep boop

So, a minister superglued to the Israel lobby – which terrifies British politicians and broadcasters alike and believes it is entitled to demand special consideration at every turn – commissions a report that conspicuously omits, *completely*, any mention of the biggest foreign interferer in UK (and US) politics.

“This is not the droid you’re looking for. Move along, move along.”

Nothing to see here. Obvs.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][7]

[1]: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-rycroft-review-report-of-the-independent-review-into-countering-foreign-financial-influence-and-interference-in-uk-politics/the-rycroft-review-report-of-the-independent-review-into-countering-foreign-financial-influence-and-interference-in-uk-politics#overview
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2025/12/18/israel-missing-from-uk-foreign/
[3]: https://www.declassifieduk.org/israel-lobby-funded-half-of-keir-starmers-cabinet/
[4]: https://t.co/nJGIUm6sFh
[5]: https://twitter.com/LauraEWebsterr/status/2037180157694267548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://www.thenational.scot/news/25971346.minister-incredible-israel-lobby-omission-speech/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/27/israel-reed/

Ipswich Town staff and fans complain at ‘apolitical’ club’s ...

2026-03-27T17:29:19Z

Ipswich Town staff and fans complain at ‘apolitical’ club’s Farage stunt

[farage]

Staff and fans of Ipswich Town football club have complained bitterly at an unannounced stunt to promote [racist][1] far-right [Trump fan][2] Nigel Farage. Farage [published][3] a promotional video for his politics filmed as he stood on the Portman Road pitch. The club then had insisted it is “apolitical” and [denied][4] “formally” inviting Farage to visit the club, but details that have emerged since refute the denial, [showing][5] that:

> [👉]An associate of CEO Mark Ashton sent an invite to Nigel Farage
> [👉]Farage was met by Marcus Nash, director of media and communications
> [👉]Ashton and COO Luke Werhun had lunch with Farage
> [👉]The club gifted Farage SIX ‘Farage 10’ shirts
> [👉] Employees outside a select few were unaware of the stunt
> [👉]Members of staff have made complaints
>
> This is despite the club claiming they were ‘apolitical’ in a statement made on Wednesday.

Farage’s lunch was provided free – the latest in a long line of freebies provided to the racist bigot by wealthy and often [foreign][6] donors. He also [failed to declare][7] more than £380,000 in outside earnings within the legally-required timeframe.

> Nigel Farage’s visit to Ipswich Town’s Portman Road stadium has prompted a significant social media backlash.
>
> Ipswich insist Reform UK and Farage were not formally invited by the club … but The Athletic has been told a slightly different story.
>
> [📝] [@Dan_Sheldon_][8]
>
> Free to read… [pic.twitter.com/ojBbQQRmH4][9]
>
> — The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) [March 24, 2026][10]

Club staff have complained and fans groups have expressed their outrage on social media. Supporters’ group Blue Action accused bosses of letting the club they love be:

> egregiously exploited by a political figure for personal gain and those in charge seemingly allowing and even welcoming it … risk[ing] alienating large numbers of the fanbase and fomenting division.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][11]

[1]: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cgexg4lz2q5o#:~:text=Reform%20UK%20leader%20Nigel%20Farage,No.%22
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/10/farage-trump-connection/
[3]: https://x.com/Nigel_Farage/status/2036418238956077147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2036418238956077147%7Ctwgr%5Ecd842c1cf91301ce02a6236fab4dd50a4d72c240%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nytimes.com%2Fathletic%2F7146892%2F2026%2F03%2F26%2Fipswich-town-nigel-farage-reform-uk%2F
[4]: https://x.com/TheAthleticFC/status/2037213364401606719?s=20
[5]: https://x.com/TheAthleticFC/status/2037213364401606719?s=20
[6]: https://www.desmog.com/2026/01/07/nigel-farage-reform-uk-accepted-10000-gifts-from-abu-dhabi-uae-petrostate/
[7]: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/nigel-farage-standards-breaches-investigation-parliament-reform-b2904518.html
[8]: https://twitter.com/Dan_Sheldon_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://t.co/ojBbQQRmH4
[10]: https://twitter.com/TheAthleticFC/status/2036511237614518520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/27/farage-stunt/

Associated Press finally uses the word ‘invasion’ to describe ...

2026-03-27T16:55:19Z

Associated Press finally uses the word ‘invasion’ to describe Israel’s actual invasion

[israel]

The *Associated Press (AP)* has [finally used the word invasion to describe][1] Israel’s illegal actions in Lebanon.

Of course, it could have used something far more accurate – like an “illegal invasion by a supremacist ethnostate” – but that’s probably pushing the boat out a bit too far.

## Israel reported on with a crumb of accuracy

In true Western media fashion, it felt the need to publish a whole think piece on why it finally decided to tell the truth.

Such brave journalists, finally opening a dictionary.

> Why are you so terrified of reporting basic facts?
>
> — AIPAC Tracker (@TrackAIPAC) [March 26, 2026][2]

It only took two and a half years for the journalists at *AP* to actually do their jobs.

> BREAKING: AP uses word to mean what word means [https://t.co/d3rsQAS5pU][3]
>
> — Ali Abunimah (@AliAbunimah) [March 27, 2026][4]

And, the [article][5] should indeed have been just one sentence.

> This article coulda been one sentence: “We are calling Israel’s invasion of Lebanon an invasion because that is what you call it when a country invades another country”. [https://t.co/0eoZFNVNGp][6]
>
> — Colter Louwerse (@ColterL) [March 27, 2026][7]

But instead, *AP* decided to quote ‘Israeli officials’, i.e. terrorists, in detail.

*AP* also decided to state that:

> Israel has invaded Lebanon four times in the past 50 years: 1978, 1982, 2006 and 2024.

It did this without offering any context or mentioning that all four invasions were very, very illegal.

There is literally no other circumstance where an international news outlet would feel the need to justify such a basic editorial decision. But because it’s Israel…

> Imagine the kind of iron control over the media that requires a full published explanation when a word is used correctly against Israel [https://t.co/kIlUzWrtIr][8]
>
> — Sarayu Pani (@sarayupani) [March 27, 2026][9]

> Jokes aside, this is actually really telling. In no other circumstance would AP feel it has to explain/justify reporting news accurately. They only feel the need to do this because they are constantly being hounded by pro-Israel orgs like CAMERA that demand a pro-Israel bias. [https://t.co/ASdwGTKf4U][10]
>
> — Tariq Kenney-Shawa (@tksshawa) [March 27, 2026][11]

Israel could tell the right-wing media the sky was green and they would probably publish it, because… ‘antisemitism’.

> ‘Israel says the sky is green. Others say it’s blue. Here’s why we’re now calling it blue.’ [https://t.co/RE80ZqFQyu][12]
>
> — Davide Mastracci (@DavideMastracci) [March 26, 2026][13]

## Still minimising the truth

Yes, a Western news outlet is finally admitting that it doesn’t usually tell the truth.

> “We’ve decided to tell the truth. Here’s why we usually don’t.” [https://t.co/v2YK1FuWeV][14]
>
> — Omar Sakr (@omarsakrpoet) [March 27, 2026][15]

However, notice how no media outlets describe Russia’s invasion as an invasion of ‘Eastern Ukraine’. It’s simply an invasion of Ukraine – a sovereign nation which has the right to self-defence under international law.

To make matters worse, it took *AP* only two days to correctly name Russia’s invasion.

> It took [@AP][16] two days to call Russia’s invasion of Ukraine an invasion. I found the article.
>
> It took four weeks of total destruction for them to call Israel’s actions in Lebanon an invasion, and they even felt the need to explain why.
>
> That comparison is truly remarkable.…
>
> — Abdullah Hassan (@8abdullahhassan) [March 26, 2026][17]

*AP* describing Israel’s actions as an ‘Invasion of Southern Lebanon’ is a precursor to one thing and one thing only. That is Israel annexing the south of Lebanon – and the media whitewashing it.

> Only because it’s become untenable to deny manifest reality. Also though note how it’s still “southern” Lebanon and not just Lebanon. Whereas Russia of course is always referred to as invading Ukraine, not eastern Ukraine [https://t.co/phkEZHTmcR][18]
>
> — Nate Bear (@NateB_Panic) [March 27, 2026][19]

Meanwhile, *AP* and the majority of other corporate media outlets still refuse to use the words genocide, ethnic cleansing, apartheid, and illegal occupation. I know that’s a lot of letters to get in the right order, but come on…

> Ethnic cleansing too spicy? Land theft too onerous? Vandalism too old school? [https://t.co/QAj1LFFK9v][20]
>
> — Robert Young Pelton (@RYP__) [March 26, 2026][21]

> Allow me to congratulate myself for reluctantly telling the truth eventually.
>
> We needed to wait until it was a full-blown ethnic cleansing and annexation to use “invasion,” which will now be used to minimize it. [https://t.co/sLy9Ca5ee1][22]
>
> — Y Disassembler (@loomdoop) [March 27, 2026][23]

Next, they’ll tell us that naming an invasion an invasion requires a meeting at the Avengers compound with Tony Stark.

> Since when does calling an invasion an invasion require analysis, deliberation, a newsroom vote, & an announcement?
>
> — Hala Jaber (@HalaJaber) [March 26, 2026][24]

The essay is, no doubt, intended to preemptively address antisemitism claims. Because we all know that only Israel can be invaded by illegal terrorists.

The article is much like Israel’s ‘pre-emptive strikes’ – absolute bullshit.

> The Associated Press has to write an essay pre-emptively defending themselves from “antisemitism!” shrieking after reaching the difficult decision to report accurately about even one thing israelis have done.
>
> This agency controls almost half the news Western press contains! [https://t.co/irGjKBPrTb][25]
>
> — Crixiv 2 [🇵🇸] (@solzhenidiot) [March 26, 2026][26]

It’s a ten out of ten to the *Associated Press* for learning the correct definition of a word. Get them a Pulitzer Prize.

Maybe they’ll try [genocide][27] next? Or [ethnic cleansing][28]? We’ve linked the definitions, just in case you’re struggling, *AP*.

Of course, they won’t – because it’s only genocide or a war crime when it’s not Israel committing it.

This whole stunt by *AP* is nothing but a hilarious attempt to claw back any remaining credibility.

*Featured image via [Al Jazeera English/ YouTube][29]*

By [HG][30]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/03/09/lebanon-puts-resistance/
[2]: https://twitter.com/TrackAIPAC/status/2037291635625881985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://t.co/d3rsQAS5pU
[4]: https://twitter.com/AliAbunimah/status/2037344126157422597?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[5]: https://apnews.com/article/iran-lebanon-invasion-attack-war-ap-style-2e22f39ce455f859483463550c0725f0?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=share
[6]: https://t.co/0eoZFNVNGp
[7]: https://twitter.com/ColterL/status/2037377609445589053?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[8]: https://t.co/kIlUzWrtIr
[9]: https://twitter.com/sarayupani/status/2037408294386672123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[10]: https://t.co/ASdwGTKf4U
[11]: https://twitter.com/tksshawa/status/2037420424116719988?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[12]: https://t.co/RE80ZqFQyu
[13]: https://twitter.com/DavideMastracci/status/2037304665382031585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[14]: https://t.co/v2YK1FuWeV
[15]: https://twitter.com/omarsakrpoet/status/2037383400844382532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[16]: https://twitter.com/AP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[17]: https://twitter.com/8abdullahhassan/status/2037299594040668220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[18]: https://t.co/phkEZHTmcR
[19]: https://twitter.com/NateB_Panic/status/2037467201993576667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[20]: https://t.co/QAj1LFFK9v
[21]: https://twitter.com/RYP__/status/2037287938124660902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[22]: https://t.co/sLy9Ca5ee1
[23]: https://twitter.com/loomdoop/status/2037400507724267982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[24]: https://twitter.com/HalaJaber/status/2037315376703295832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[25]: https://t.co/irGjKBPrTb
[26]: https://twitter.com/solzhenidiot/status/2037299670477615139?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[27]: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genocide
[28]: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ethnic%20cleansing
[29]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFh1k3fC3WQ
[30]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/hg/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/27/israel-ap/

British military trained troops from 14 countries on UK’s own ...

2026-03-27T16:28:52Z

British military trained troops from 14 countries on UK’s own human rights watch list

[british military]

The British military trained nearly 2000 overseas troops in its defence academies between 2017 and 2025. That figure includes personnel from 108 countries. Shockingly, fourteen of those countries are on the UK’s own human rights watchlist.

The British-based Action on Armed Violence (AOAV) [reported][1] on 24 March 2026 that the UK considers those states to have:

> significant issues relating to democracy, governance or civil liberties.

Yet the UK still trained them anyway…

The so-called International Defence Training (IDT) programme is meant to:

> promote professionalism and improve standards among partner forces.

AOAV said they fear the courses risk:

> strengthening security forces accused of abuses.

## British military teaching dictatorships

The countries include Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, and Uzbekistan. AOAV also [said][2] there were obvious gaps in the figures. For example:

> Israel does not appear in the dataset, despite the MoD previously confirming that a “limited number” of Israeli personnel have been trained in the UK. No explanation is given for the omission.

AOAV [said][3] the IDT permits:

> foreign military personnel to attend courses at UK institutions including the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and the Defence Academy in Shrivenham.
>
> Training ranges from basic officer instruction to specialist and postgraduate courses. The government says the programme helps build long-term relationships and encourages adherence to international norms.

Adding:

> An MoD spokesperson has previously said that all training is “carefully assessed” and aligned with UK values.

## Real risk of violations

Dr Iain Overton, Executive Director of AOAV, [said][4]:

> There is a real risk that UK training may end up enhancing the capabilities of forces that go on to commit violations.

In September 2025 *Declassified UK* [revealed][5] the UK was still training Israeli soldiers at the Royal College of Defence Studies (RCDS) two years into the genocide:

> The soldiers trained at RCDS include Colonel Yaniv Asor, the current chief of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) Southern Command who oversees military operations in Gaza.
>
> Asor was recently accused by the head of the Israeli air force of responsibility for mass civilian casualties in Gaza.

Charlie Herbert, a retired British army general, told *Declassified *at the time*:*

> That it has taken so long to bar IDF officers from the prestigious Royal College of Defence Studies is a disgrace.
>
> Even now, it is not sufficient to ban them from 2026. Instead all IDF personnel currently studying or training at UK military establishments should be expelled immediately.

The British government is speaking out of both sides of its mouth again. Its proclaimed commitment to human rights and a mythical ‘rules-based international order’ have been sorely exposed by support for [Israeli genocide in Gaza][6] and an [illegal US attack][7] on Iran. The fact the UK is still training authoritarian regimes alongside all this should shock precisely nobody.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Joe Glenton][8]

[1]: https://aoav.org.uk/2026/uk-trained-military-personnel-from-14-countries-on-its-own-human-rights-watchlist-new-data-reveals/
[2]: https://aoav.org.uk/2026/uk-trained-military-personnel-from-14-countries-on-its-own-human-rights-watchlist-new-data-reveals/
[3]: https://aoav.org.uk/2026/uk-trained-military-personnel-from-14-countries-on-its-own-human-rights-watchlist-new-data-reveals/
[4]: https://aoav.org.uk/2026/uk-trained-military-personnel-from-14-countries-on-its-own-human-rights-watchlist-new-data-reveals/
[5]: https://www.declassifieduk.org/britain-trained-israeli-soldiers-fighting-in-gaza/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/12/12/british-complicit-gaza-genocide/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/21/starmer-allowing-the-us/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/joeglenton/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/27/british-military-training/

Dean Lewis loses Dutch court case over abuse claims [dean lewis] ...

2026-03-27T15:53:32Z

Dean Lewis loses Dutch court case over abuse claims

[dean lewis]

Dean Lewis has lost a Dutch court case against a former partner who claimed that the relationship was abusive on social media. Lewis demanded that ex-partner Sanne van Ooijen retract several statements she made about the nature of their two-and-a-half-year relationship.

At the heart of the case was the fact that Sanne van Ooijen had been in a relationship with Dean Lewis – the world-famous pop star and singer she had been a devoted fan of. She experienced this relationship as a victim, as she felt it had been abusive. She then shared her account of that relationship on her social media channels and in personal conversations with others.

This prompted the [now disgraced singer to send multiple demand letters][1] from his Australian lawyer. This was followed by a demand letter from his Dutch lawyer. On 25 February 2026, Dean Lewis then filed summary proceedings against Sanne van Ooijen before the Dutch court.

Ultimately, this culminated in summary proceedings on Friday, 27 March 2026.

## Dean Lewis loses case

It was only after the relationship ended that Van Ooijen was able to reflect on it from a distance and with greater objectivity. During the hearing, she stated the following:

> I came across so many different stories from other girls on social media sharing their experiences with Dean. And that’s when it really hit me — I wasn’t crazy, it wasn’t my fault. What he did to me is not okay, and I’m allowed to feel that way and talk about it, because that is how I experienced it. And it appears to be a pattern that repeats itself with him, based on what I’ve seen and heard.

The Dutch court case brought by Lewis was to:

> 1. To prohibit Van Ooijen from, regardless of the manner and via which medium, making statements public, and/or disseminating false accusations about Lewis via personal or group messages, or suggesting these, including in any case the accusations of having a narcissistic personality disorder, rape, the (sexual or psychological) abuse of women, or that Lewis has otherwise (rb: presumably meant otherwise) committed sexually transgressive behavior, or qualifications and/or terms of similar purport:
>
> IE. To order Van Ooijen to, within 48 hours after service of this judgment,
>
> a. remove all messages about or referring to Lewis and keep them removed from all social media pages of Van Ooijen, including TikTok, Instagram and YouTube (and subsidiaries)

However, the Dutch court ruled that what Sanne van Ooijen expressed falls well within the bounds of freedom of expression under [Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights. ][2]

Therefore, the court dismissed all seven claims brought by Dean Lewis in their entirety. Sanne van Ooijen is also not required to issue any retraction. Additionally, Lewis is required to pay her legal costs in full.

The court considered:

> The use of the word ‘abusive’ does not therefore (automatically) constitute an accusation of criminal conduct. The fact that Van Ooijen retrospectively described her relationship in those terms, as that is how she felt, is not unlawful.

## A pattern

But Sanne van Ooijen was not the only one to speak out about her experience with Dean Lewis.

As the *Canary* has previously reported, many other young female fans have reported similar experiences with Lewis.

Hundreds more women and girls have come forward on social media with a wide range of abuse allegations against Lewis. From domestic abuse and sexual assault, to messaging underage girls with extreme content – it has become clear that Lewis has an ever-growing raft of allegations against him.

The *Canary* also previously reported on an [alleged cover-up][3] of Lewis’ behaviour by Island Records Australia.

Lewis then blocked journalists and refused to refund fans who no longer wanted to attend his shows. He even [threatened the *Canary*][4].

Since then, the *Canary* has heard from many women about Lewis’ tirade of cease-and-desist letters and threats to sue unless they issue apologies. Of course, many of these young girls lack access to lawyers and have no choice but to comply.

Dean Lewis thinks he can throw his money, power, and weight around to get what he wants. From threatening young girls with legal action (because yes, Dean, 19-year-olds are still girls!) to sending journalists threatening emails, it has become clear that when the truth fails, powerful men believe that attempting to intimidate and scare people will get them what they want.

Merel Teunissen (Liaise Advocaten), Sanne van Ooijen’s lawyer, commented on the case:

> I find it enormously courageous that Sanne refused to be intimidated by a world-famous pop star with deep pockets, who first instructed an Australian lawyer and later a Dutch lawyer to make far-reaching legal demands. A pattern he is now repeating with other women — women who, unfortunately, do not have access to legal assistance and therefore yield to those sweeping legal demands. Sanne chose not to be silenced and fought back through legal means. With success!

*Featured image via Dean Lewis/[YouTube][5]*

By [The Canary][6]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/02/23/dean-lewis-threats/
[2]: https://www.echr.coe.int/documents/d/echr/convention_ENG
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2025/11/04/dean-lewis-allegations/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/02/23/dean-lewis-threats/
[5]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtuqQ3MBEyQ
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/27/dean-lewis-loses/

Undercover police officers were ‘authorised’ to target arms ...

2026-03-27T15:14:30Z

Undercover police officers were ‘authorised’ to target arms trade campaigners

[DSEi protest Undercover police infiltrated anti-arms trade campaign]

Testimony given to the Undercover Policing Inquiry this week has provided further details of systematic targeting against anti-arms trade campaigners, including Campaign Against Arms Trade (CAAT).

On 23 March, the inquiry heard from CAAT’s media coordinator, Emily Apple. She testified to the impact of [undercover police spying][1] on CAAT and other anti-arms trade and environmentalist groups.

HN3, an undercover Met police officer operating under pseudonym ‘Jason Bishop’, had been “authorised” to target CAAT as an organisation, the inquiry heard. Among other groups Bishop targeted were Disarm DSEI and protests at the RAF Fairford base.

Bishop had even managed to become a signatory to the Disarm DSEI bank account, managed its PO Box, and had access to the organisation’s email address.

An internal police report on Bishop’s undercover activities dating to 2003 shows that the Met police’s motivation to target DSEI protesters was borne out of concern that the protests:

> could influence the financial wellbeing of the State.

## 139 undercover officers under examination

The inquiry is examining how 139 undercover police officers working for the Met police’s Special Demonstration Squad / Special Duties Squad (SDS) spied on over a thousand anti-war and environmentalist groups between 1968 and at least 2010.

The inquiry twice refused core participant status to CAAT, despite SDS targeting it. When the inquiry initially began in 2015, it argued there was no substantive proof that the SDS had spied on CAAT.

The [inquiry rejected CAAT’s second application][2] in 2024 on the grounds that reports on CAAT were due to ‘collateral intrusion’ – meaning consequential invasion of a third party’s privacy – arising from spying on Apple.

However, in her testimony, Apple pointed to a report by SDS manager, HN49, who confirmed that HN3 (Bishop) had been:

> authorised to target CAAT because the group was known to hold protests and demonstrations, which had the potential to result in serious public disorder.

CAAT was also the victim of systematic corporate spying by Martin Hogbin, who infiltrated the organisation from 1997-2003 and provided information to BAE Systems.

CAAT has asked the inquiry to investigate the relationship between its undercover officers and corporate spies, and whether any of the information reported by Hogbin to BAE Systems ended up with the Met / SDS, since Hogbin and Bishop (HN3) knew one another.

A spokesperson from CAAT said:

> The latest revelations from the Undercover Policing Inquiry provide yet more sordid details of the Met’s systematic, invasive and manipulative spying on anti-arms trade and environmentalist campaigners.
>
> It is now abundantly clear that Met police undercover officers were explicitly authorised to target CAAT, in brazen contempt for our right to protest and campaign against a corrupt and destructive arms trade. This revelation further calls into question the inquiry’s refusal to include CAAT as a core participant.
>
> Given the established links between corporate spies like Hogbin, and police spies like Bishop (HN3), it is high time the inquiry corrected course and examined the links between corporate spies and undercover police.
>
> At a time when the British state is at its most authoritarian and repressive towards anti-war and anti-genocide campaigners, a full accounting of all skeletons in the Met’s closet is a must.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [The Canary][3]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/topics/spycops/
[2]: https://www.ucpi.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/20240222-Core-Participants-51-RULING.pdf
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/27/undercover-police-officers-were-authorised-to-target-arms-trade-campaigners/

Italy’s ties to Trump are a political repellent— is Starmer ...

2026-03-27T14:29:44Z

Italy’s ties to Trump are a political repellent— is Starmer taking note?

[Italy alliance with trump proves costly]

Italian Prime Minister[ Giorgia Meloni][1] is lurching so far to the right that her [friendship][2] with Donald Trump and allied tech-bros may have [cost][3] her a key referendum.

## Trump as “repellent”

In a referendum she called on judicial reforms, Italians vote 54% for the “No” campaign, while 46% supported the “Yes” vote Meloni backed.

The *Conversation* recently [reported][4] that any association with Trump now acts as a “repellent” for Italy’s political class. This doesn’t exclude the political right and is precisely the pathway that led to Meloni’s referendum defeat. The outlet also noted that[ Peter Thiel’s][5] recent Rome visit sparked Catholic outcry, with Italians labelling Palantir CEO a heretic and an opponent of the Church doctrine. That didn’t go down well.

> References to Trump now act as a repellent for the entire Italian political class, including the right. This factor played a role in [the vote against the referendum, which is a major blow for Meloni][6]. It is also worth noting that the visit of [Palantir CEO Peter Thiel ][7] to Rome in March 2026 sparked both calculated political indifference and an [outcry among Catholic circles][8]: Thiel was labelled a heretic and an opponent of the social doctrine of a religious institution that remains steadfast in its defence of democracy.

This marks a sharp contrast with the warm welcome Meloni reserved for Elon Musk until 2024.

The *FT* [reported][9] that while Meloni’s friends include MAGA ideologue Steve Bannon and Thiel’s PayPal co-founder and longtime friend Elon Musk, Pope Leo XIV has warned of the dangers of AI.

According to *[MSNBC][10]*, Thiel sold out Rome to preach that Western civilisation is crumbling. He piled the blame on “people who strive for peace, work for justice, and want to embrace diversity.”

## Starmer needs to pay attention

Starmer would be wise to take note of these events. Italians have started resenting Atlanticism—like in the UK, where polling [showed][11] significant opposition to the prospect of the UK blindly supporting [Trump’s][12] Iran war.

Meloni obviously ignored these signs. *[ECFR][13]* polling from last November showed a significant decline in trump advocates, even among members and supporters of Meloni’s party, Brothers of Italy.

The lesson for Starmer is clear. Atlanticism has a cost. In Italy, that cost was a referendum defeat.

Labour’s[ recent loss][14] of a hundred-year seat to the Greens should have been a wake-up call.

Lucy Powell had an epiphany—voters need a reason to back Labour. Perhaps Powell and her boss, Starmer, should smell the coffee and accept that piggybacking with Trump and his tech-bro allies will cost Labour what little support they have left.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [The Canary][15]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2022/09/29/fascism-takes-further-hold-with-the-election-of-giorgia-meloni-in-italy/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/2026/03/10/starmer-blair-lite/
[3]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/crl1ne8dj1eo
[4]: https://theconversation.com/italy-middle-east-crisis-pushes-the-meloni-government-away-from-the-us-274314
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/uncategorized-en/2026/02/08/palantir-softball-session/
[6]: https://www.france24.com/en/europe/20260323-italian-voters-reject-giorgia-meloni-s-judicial-reform-in-referendum-defeat
[7]: https://www.reuters.com/technology/thiels-secretive-rome-conference-draws-church-attention-2026-03-15/
[8]: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/17/world/europe/peter-thiel-rome-antichrist-catholics.html
[9]: https://www.ft.com/content/fc1e7e9a-9d5d-4217-b9b2-38069eb1197b?syn-25a6b1a6=1
[10]: https://www.ms.now/opinion/peter-thiel-antichrist-evangelism-christianity-billionaires
[11]: https://inews.co.uk/news/politics/uk-voters-no-joining-trumps-iran-war-poll-4276359
[12]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/26/iran-colonel-mocks-trump/
[13]: https://ecfr.eu/article/the-trump-trap-why-melonis-referendum-defeat-is-a-warning-for-europe/
[14]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/25/labour-powell/
[15]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/27/italy-meloni-referendum-defeat-trump/

‘This is not a trade deal, it’s a hostage situation’ – ...

2026-03-27T13:51:06Z

‘This is not a trade deal, it’s a hostage situation’ – EU–US talks

[Image of nodding donkey in US oil field EU-US trade deal]

Campaigners at [350.org][1] are raising concerns over ongoing EU–US trade deal negotiations. They’re warning that the proposed agreement risks locking Europe into decades of [fossil fuel][2] dependency. But at the same time it would expose households to rising energy costs and geopolitical pressure.

The warning comes amid escalating pressure from the Trump administration, which has threatened to restrict gas supplies to Europe unless the deal is agreed without amendments.

[Reports][3] indicate the trade deal could include forced commitments for Europe to purchase up to $750bn in US energy, including oil and liquefied natural gas, at a time when governments should be accelerating the transition to clean, homegrown energy.

Campaigners say the proposal risks repeating the mistakes of Europe’s past reliance on Russian gas. That dependency triggered soaring prices and economic instability following the invasion of Ukraine.

Clémence Dubois, 350.org global campaign manager, said:

> This is not a trade deal, it is a hostage situation that will leave European households paying the ransom for years to come.
>
> Europe bled billions escaping Russian gas dependency. Now it is sprinting, eyes open, into the same trap. MEPs have a simple choice: ratify a deal that was never put to them democratically, or assert that parliament exists for exactly this moment.
>
> Russian gas or American gas, the pipeline changes but the dependency doesn’t. Bills will still be high and gas-addicted countries vulnerable.
>
> Renewable energy offers a clear alternative: wind and solar are already cheaper than gas in most of the world. They do not start wars, their prices do not spike when a shipping lane closes. The answer has been sitting here the whole time.
>
> The only scarce resource in this crisis is courage.

Campaigners also raised alarm that the proposed trade deal could weaken key protections for EU citizens. These include environmental standards, food safety rules, and corporate accountability measures.

Dubois added:

> The only way to ensure long-term energy security and stable bills is to end dependence on fossil fuels altogether. The technology is ready, the economics are clear, what’s missing is the political will.

350.org is calling on European lawmakers to reject any agreement that deepens fossil fuel reliance or undermines public protections, and instead prioritise investment in renewable energy and energy independence.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [The Canary][4]

[1]: https://350.org/?r=GB&c=EU
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/topics/fossil-fuels/
[3]: https://www.ft.com/content/6bf153e4-11af-44d5-9d1c-48b5c7ad26ef?syn-25a6b1a6=1
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-news/2026/03/27/this-is-not-a-trade-deal-its-a-hostage-situation-eu-us-talks/

Signs to ‘US war crimes base’ appear in Fairford, ...

2026-03-27T13:06:52Z

Signs to ‘US war crimes base’ appear in Fairford, Gloucestershire

[Sign to US war crimes base in Fairford]

.Signs directing locals to a nearby ‘[US war crimes base][1]‘ have appeared in Fairford, Gloucestershire.

In March 2026, *Declassified UK *[reported][2] that B-52H and B-1B warplanes were seen flying from RAF Fairford to bomb Iran. ⁣Keir Starmer had initially [refused][3] use of the base in February, except for “defensive” purposes. But as with the Gaza genocide, the word “defensive” has been stretched beyond all meaning.

With the UK government continuing to exploit every possible loophole to excuse its complicity in war crimes, guerrilla campaigners have chosen to cut through the noise. The signs appeared along access roads on 26 March.

## Protests at RAF Fairford

It’s not the first time RAF Fairford has been subject to protests by anti-war campaigners. The base was at the centre of a high-profile [direct action trial][4] in 2003. Five protestors were charged with criminal damage for breaking instrument panels on tankers and cutting the brakes on trailers used to carry bombs.

Keir Starmer was, at that time, a part of the protestors’ defense council. Now he’s [enabling][5] use of the same site for another illegal war. At the same time, he’s [cracking down][6] on those who take similar action to prevent war crimes.

By [The Canary][7]

[1]: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWWnh7pjAPl/
[2]: https://www.declassifieduk.org/how-britain-is-involved-in-trumps-iran-war/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/03/22/starmer-iran-triangulation/
[4]: https://www.theguardian.com/uk/2007/jul/07/politics.antiwar
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/03/22/starmer-iran-triangulation/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/06/20/breaking-palestine-action-break-into-raf-brize-norton-and-escape-undetected/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/27/war-crimes-fairford/

Wes Streeting accepts £55,000 donation from private healthcare ...

2026-03-27T13:06:47Z

Wes Streeting accepts £55,000 donation from private healthcare recruiter

[Labour minister accepts private donations]

Labour health secretary Wes Streeting has [taken][1] another £55,000 from the [ODP Group Ltd][2]—which provides headhunting services to the NHS and private healthcare providers.

The firm’s owner, [Peter Hearn][3], has longstanding links to private healthcare.

## The donation

Millionaire recruitment mogul Hearn is the ultimate controller of the ODP Group. In addition to overseeing senior NHS recruitment, Hearn also works on recruitment for private healthcare providers. This dual role is particularly interesting, as the NHS and private providers are in competition for staff.

Lobbyists and firms with private healthcare connections have [brought][4] in over half a million pounds to Labour’s cabinet since 2023.

That’s on top of a £4m [donation][5] to the party from Quadrature Capital, which has significant investments in private healthcare. More broadly, MPs have [accepted][6] £2.7m in donations from private healthcare linked companies or individuals since 2023.

This is not the first donation Streeting has [accepted][7] from a Hearn-linked company. In 2023, he took £48, 000 from the OPD Group, [according to the *National*][8] (Scotland). in donations from another company Hearn controls. And the *Financial Times* has [reported][9] that, through seemingly shell companies, Hearn previously donated over £1m to Labour and prominent individual MPs like Streeting from between 2014 and 2023.

## Labour is a “party for the rich”

Scottish Greens co-leader Gillian Mackay said that Labour is a party for the “rich,” betraying its working class origin story.

> Once again, the Labour Party are showing the public that they are the party for the rich, leaving working people and families in the lurch. While Labour takes donations from those that profit from sickness and bad health, the Scottish Greens will continue to stand up for an NHS that is fit for purpose, that everyone can use and is free at the point of use Voters across Scotland have a chance on May 7 to finally end the status-quo, and vote for a party that will make change happen. A political system that finally works for people, not for profit.

SNP MSP Clare Haughey added:

> It is high time the Labour Party came on clean on whether its health policy is being shaped by patient needs or lining shareholder pockets

It’s no wonder private healthcare-linked firms are donating to Streeting. The Labour prime minister [said][10] in January 2025 that the government will increase private provison of NHS services by 20%. But in some areas it has already increased by significantly more than that.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [James Wright][11]

[1]: https://www.thenational.scot/news/25967768.wes-streeting-panned-55k-donation-private-health-linked-firm/
[2]: https://privatisation.everydoctor.org.uk/donor/opd-group-ltd-a-company-controlled-by-peter-hearn/
[3]: https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/officers/E7eLmNw_88oJC-uYMU4PryzLDqY/appointments
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2024/09/05/labour-private-healthcare-donations-nhs/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2024/09/25/labour-quadrature-rachel-kyte/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/03/18/everydoctor-mps-donations/
[7]: https://www.thenational.scot/news/25047376.wes-streeting-takes-53k-private-health-recruiter-pre-nhs-cuts/
[8]: https://www.pressreader.com/uk/the-national-scotland/20240414/281603835505298
[9]: https://web.archive.org/web/20250312085131/https://www.ft.com/content/124e1566-e5dc-4e1e-8ca4-082bf272f6e6
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/01/06/nhs-plan-labour/
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/james/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/27/labour-minister-streeting-accepts-55000-donation/

Reform have cancelled democracy and are having an auction instead ...

2026-03-27T12:47:29Z

Reform have cancelled democracy and are having an auction instead

[farage]

After less than a year in power, a Reform council has cancelled democracy. For the first time anyone can remember, Durham County Council has just decided to cancel a full council meeting, “due to a lack of business.”

Council meetings are the forum where the public – you, know, the ones who pay the council tax – get to ask questions and see decisions made. Where other elected representatives get to challenge decisions. Residents will be asking if the councillors will hand back their allowances since they’re not bothering to hold the meetings they’re paid to attend. This contempt for democracy is a warning for what would happen if they won national power.

## Cuts, cuts, cuts

It’s less than a year since Reform won Durham County Council with a landslide: 65 out of 98 seats. [As predicted][1], they would struggle when it came to actually running a local authority.

Reform Durham were elected on a pledge to cut waste. But after fifteen years of austerity, services were already cut to the bone. Instead, they cut funding to town and parish councils, forcing a 6.92% increase in council tax precepts to make up the difference. Leisure centres and [kids playgrounds][2] are on the chopping block. A [school free transport scheme has been cut][3] with 143 kids now paying for passes.

They’ve abolished the council tax reduction scheme. Thousands of people in poverty are now liable for council tax. [Report][4] after [report][5] shows that this just racks up debts onto the most vulnerable. Many of those affected experience mental ill-health or physical disabilities. People just end up in a debt spiral with court orders against them. Councils rarely get their money back. It’s counterproductive – the extra despair increases pressure on local services.

The Money and Mental Health Policy Institute charity, chaired by money saving expert Martin Lewis, [described councils’ polices][6] of sending in bailiffs as “worse than loansharks.” There’s a total of £6 billion in council tax arrears across the country, and it’s rising year on year. You can’t get blood out of a stone.

The fact that Reform Durham have ran out of policies to implement makes a mockery of their claim to take back control. They still collect their £13,300-a-year salaries though, and that’s without any extras for being on committees.

So here’s the question: does the evidence show that Reform are on the side of ordinary people?

## Discrimination and bullying

In a move that surprised literally no one, we did see a lot of performative actions around flags. Notably, they [removed the Pride Flag][7] just before the Durham Pride event. So apparently they support ordinary people, but not if they’re queer. And their deputy leader in Durham, Darren “[Crafty][8]” Grimes, posted on social media that he refused to attend Diversity, Equality and Inclusion training. Except there wasn’t any – [he made it up][9] for attention.

Like all parties, Reform’s voter base [is a coalition of different views and values][10].

There’s always been a nasty, xenophobic streak to Farage personally. 34 independent witnesses cite [extreme racist comments and bullying][11]. But he’s not racist enough for the ethno-nationalist culture warriors who are splintering off into Advance UK and Restore UK.

The shine is coming off Reform. They lost the Caerphilly by-election in November. Farage had been hanging round the count looking to do some media gloating, but high-tailed it out of Wales once they could see the piles of votes. He’s not even in the corner of his own candidates.

## Losing ground

Reform [lost in Denton and Gorton][12]. And [were sore losers][13]. In Durham they lost the Murton ward by-election earlier this month, with an 11.2% swing against them. After less than a year in charge, Reform Durham are down to 60 councillors.

Many Reform voters were drawn to Reform on a “we don’t trust politicians” and “no one is on our side” line. Most of us would agree with that. A lot of people believed that same line when Boris Johnson used it, despite being an Eton-educated Bullingdon Boy.

They can see their high streets declining. They can feel the cost of living crisis. Once you get past the tribal hard-liners, many Reform voters don’t really think Reform have any answers, they just want to send a message. They [want to be heard][14]. Instead, they are seeing neoliberalism being imposed on the Reform Party from the top. They’re wondering why loads of ex-Tories with serious corruption records are taking senior positions in their party.

## Corruption

So Reform Durham have snubbed families with kids, people who live in towns, LGBT+ people, those with disabilities, those with mental health problems, and of course, anyone who [doesn’t fit their definition of British][15]. But who have they supported?

Welsh Reform leader Nathan Gill is serving a [ten and a half year jail sentence][16] for accepting Russian bribes. What a patriot. Although whether he supported Putin or just his own bank account is hard to tell.

Farage certainly supported Trump’s idiotic attacks on Iran, which are wrecking the finances of millions of Britons. Then [changed his mind][17] when he realised he was out of touch with the public.

Reform are keen supporters of tax dodging, too. Earlier this month, Richard Tice MP, Reform’s deputy leader, was rumbled as [having dodged £600,000][18] in tax through a rare legal loophole. He then doubled down saying he was all in favour of tax avoidance.

Farage himself is never seen in his constituency. He’s too busy earning more from side-hustles than any other MP in Parliament – [over £1.1 million][19]. A true man of the people. Remember that next time you’re wondering if you can afford a holiday.

Here’s another question. What prompts a man who is already a multi-millionaire to spend his time saying whatever he’s told to say [for £70 a pop on Cameo][20]? Including pushing dodgy crypto currency investments. Is that the behaviour of someone who is serious about fixing Britain? Is he really on your side, or is he [for sale to the highest bidder][21]?

Reform have cancelled democracy, and are having an auction instead.

By [Jamie Driscoll][22]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2025/05/08/reform-take-back-control/
[2]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cze801ke3eko
[3]: https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/25847393.durham-county-council-votes-cut-school-transport-scheme/
[4]: https://england.shelter.org.uk/professional_resources/news_and_updates/council_tax_debt_collection
[5]: https://debtjustice.org.uk/press-release/cost-of-living-crisis-pushes-1-2-million-more-people-into-council-tax-arrears
[6]: https://www.theguardian.com/money/article/2024/sep/09/martin-lewis-authorities-handle-unpaid-council-tax-like-worst-loan-sharks
[7]: https://www.facebook.com/JamieDriscollNE/posts/im-straight-but-for-years-ive-flown-the-pride-flag-behind-me-in-every-tv-intervi/1264585835671041/
[8]: https://x.com/miffythegamer/status/1895970166128992625
[9]: https://informuk.org/reforms-phony-war-on-woke/
[10]: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/nov/13/reform-uk-voters-revealed-slapdash-coalition-nigel-farage-labour
[11]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/jan/08/go-back-home-farage-schoolmate-accounts-bring-total-alleging-racist-behaviour-to-34
[12]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/10/24/caerphilly-by-election/
[13]: https://www.thedailymash.co.uk/politics/getting-elected-with-muslim-votes-is-illegal-actually-sniffs-farage-20260227264515
[14]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2025/05/09/after-the-local-elections-why-are-politicians-still-not-listening/
[15]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/jan/27/matthew-goodwin-gorton-and-denton-reform-uk-minorities
[16]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c5yd878ejqko
[17]: https://observer.co.uk/news/politics/article/leaders-flip-flop-over-iran-war-as-party-falls-out-of-step-with-supporters
[18]: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/mar/16/britons-should-strive-to-pay-minimum-tax-legally-possible-richard-tice-reform
[19]: https://www.itv.com/news/2026-03-25/farage-tops-list-of-mps-outside-earnings-making-43000-for-filming-cameos
[20]: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/mar/22/racist-meme-nigel-farage-cameos-online-far-right
[21]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/25/reform-crypto-crackdown/
[22]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/jamie-driscoll/

https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/03/27/reform-democracy/

Zack Polanski calls out Sadiq Khan’s leasehold betrayal [Zack ...

2026-03-27T12:43:05Z

Zack Polanski calls out Sadiq Khan’s leasehold betrayal

[Zack Polanski and Sadiq Khan]

Zack Polanski has provided some much needed clarity to the issue of leasehold properties.

Showing he’s a Labour man through and through, Sadiq Khan is tackling the problem by acknowledging it exists while doing sweet eff-all to fix it:

> Sadiq Khan just refused to commit to no more new build leasehold buildings in London.
>
> Literally moments after banging on about how bad leasehold is and that it's a feudal system.
>
> The Labour hypocrisy knows no ends. What do they stand for other than to protect wealth & power?
>
> — Zack Polanski (@ZackPolanski) [March 26, 2026][1]

## Polanski speaks out

In response to Polanski, the group Free Leaseholders posted the following:

> Well done. [@MayorofLondon][2] [@SadiqKhan][3] has a dire record on leaseholder liberation.
>
> In his 2021 manifesto, he promised to lead the way on commonhold with a pilot scheme.
>
> It never happened.
>
> The promise then disappeared from his last manifesto.
>
> Vested interests before the people. [pic.twitter.com/d8ZyLuKL79][4]
>
> — Free Leaseholders (@FreeLeasehlders) [March 26, 2026][5]

[The group explain the following on their site][6]:

> Leasehold is a long-term tenancy agreement where you pay for the right to occupy the property you live in, but you don’t truly own the flat itself or the bricks and mortar.
>
> When you buy a home, you shouldn’t gain a landlord. But that’s the case for 5.3 million households like ours across England and Wales. We’re subject to ground rent to stay in our homes, crippling service charges, the constant threat of forfeiture if we don’t pay up, and have no control over how our homes are managed.
>
> The leasehold system has turned our dreams of home ownership into a nightmare.
>
> It dates all the way back to 1066 – and it doesn’t exist in most of the world and where it used to, they’ve worked out it’s no longer fit for purpose.
> But for decades, governments have been pledging to abolish it but each time they’ve given in to pressure from powerful lobbies that benefit from leasehold.
>
> That’s why leaseholders across the country are coming together – we need to be louder than the vested interests. Together, we can call on politicians to stand their ground and end this broken system once and for all.

The group also said that leaseholds could “collapse the property market”:

> Student loans are a government-backed, wealth-destroying scam.
>
> Want another preying on the young?
>
> Leasehold has made the first rung of the property ladder toxic.
>
> “Buy” a flat and become a wage slave to a freeholder.
>
> Leasehold will collapse the UK property market.
>
> WATCH [👇] [pic.twitter.com/Ck9ZlSGgDZ][7]
>
> — Free Leaseholders (@FreeLeasehlders) [February 24, 2026][8]

Lending credence to this idea, many of the homes which are currently losing value in London are – you guessed it – leaseholds:

> had a quick look through this account and bascially every example is a leasehold lol [https://t.co/K1JetQtxal][9]
>
> — sonny (@SonnyTLoughran) [March 23, 2026][10]

It’s almost as if people don’t want to buy something you can’t own.

## Leasehold London

The problem with leasehold properties is they combine the cost of purchasing a house with the downsides of not actually owning one, [as HG wrote for the *Canary* in January this year][11]:

> Most flats in the UK are leasehold, along with some shared ownership houses.
>
> Freehold means a resident owning their property and the land it is built on. On the other hand, leasehold means owning the property for a fixed period, while still paying ground rent to the landlord, who either owns the building (such as a block of flats) or the land.
>
> When the lease ends, ownership returns to the landlord.
>
> In comparison, commonhold provides freehold ownership for flats or other interdependent buildings.

Labour now have a reputation for betraying the public’s trust on leaseholds, as HG added:

> in the run-up to the 2024 General Election, Labour [promised][12] to:
>
> > act where the Conservatives have failed and finally bring the feudal leasehold system to an end.
>
> Labour literally promised to end leasehold. Whilst we shouldn’t be surprised that Starmer has made yet another U-turn, a £250 cap is a shitshow when it should be zero. And yes, after 40 years, it will change to ‘peppercorn’, or zero. But why in 40 years and not now?

Then, as now, Zack Polanski called Labour out on the issue:

> Time for Government to stop tinkering around the edges and scrap leasehold altogether. [https://t.co/7963GGOzWM][13]
>
> — Zack Polanski (@ZackPolanski) [January 27, 2026][14]

## Promote ownership or get owned

The constant betrayals from Labour politicians are why the Green Party are doing so well against the governing party.

Politicians like Keir Starmer and Sadiq Khan need to remember that much like this nation’s leaseholders, they don’t have the inherent right to remain in their offices forever.

*Featured image via [Barold][15]*

By [Willem Moore][16]

[1]: https://twitter.com/ZackPolanski/status/2037131327292510507?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[2]: https://twitter.com/MayorofLondon?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://twitter.com/SadiqKhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://t.co/d8ZyLuKL79
[5]: https://twitter.com/FreeLeasehlders/status/2037133115299078229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://www.freeleaseholders.org.uk/
[7]: https://t.co/Ck9ZlSGgDZ
[8]: https://twitter.com/FreeLeasehlders/status/2026354976046391334?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://t.co/K1JetQtxal
[10]: https://twitter.com/SonnyTLoughran/status/2036092139654766960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/01/27/starmer-leasehold/
[12]: https://x.com/FreeLeasehlders/status/2015910650858311934
[13]: https://t.co/7963GGOzWM
[14]: https://twitter.com/ZackPolanski/status/2016059297604485377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[15]: https://x.com/JustBarold
[16]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/27/polanski-leaseholds/

A parliamentary debate just highlighted the gaping holes in NHS ...

2026-03-27T12:14:29Z

A parliamentary debate just highlighted the gaping holes in NHS care for EDS and CCI patients

[EDS debate]An impassioned parliamentary debate has shone a spotlight on a group of “not rare”, just “rarely diagnosed”, yet life-threatening chronic, genetic illnesses. However, despite poignant pleas for concrete action, the government has offered little more than warm words to the long ignored patient communities at the centre of the debate.

## EDS and CCI debate takes place in parliament

On Thursday 26 March, a cross-party group of MPs turned out to Westminster Hall to call on the government to address the abysmal lack of NHS diagnosis and medical care services for people living with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS), hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), craniocervical and atlantoaxial instabilities (CCI and AAI).

The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) [are a group of][1] 13 complex genetic tissue disorders. These conditions affect the entire body, often leaving people in daily pain, exhaustion, and isolation. The hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) are connective tissue disorders whose features overlap with the most common type of EDS, hypermobile EDS.

CCI and AAI [involve][2] excessive [mobility][3] at certain junctions in the neck. This can result in restricted blood flow, compression, and damage to nerves in the neck.

For the first time, parliamentarians spanning the political spectrum brought the lack of recognition for this severe and sometimes life-threatening assemblage of conditions into focus. Surprisingly, even Reform’s Lee Anderson took to the floor. Of course, there was a jarring disconnect in an MP who has vociferously punched down on disabled people speaking at a debate on chronic illness. Nevertheless, Anderson made the time to turn up for his constituents – including one whose story he amplified during the debate.

And of course, that striking contradiction isn’t solely the preserve of Reform. Plenty of speakers from other parties will have voted for the government’s benefit cuts. However, for a good hour and half, MPs refreshingly centred the lived realities of their [chronically ill][4] and [disabled][5] constituents.

## The intersections between EDS and CCI

Labour MP Josh Newbury spearheaded the debate. The Crannock Chase MP emphasised how he brought the debate to draw attention to the intersection between EDS and CCI specifically.

He opened it with the story of his 31-year constituent Connor, who lives with both EDS and CCI, explaining that:

> Some people living with EDS experience chronic joint dislocations, severe and persistent pain, and significant neurological complications. One of those complications in cases like Connor’s is CCI, whereby the skull no longer sits safely on the spine, placing pressure on the brain stem and spinal cord.

Recounting Connor’s words, Newbury detailed how:

> He says that his head is quite literally falling off his body. Chillingly, that is not something that is picked up on a scan but not felt; rather, Connor feels his head shifting around dangerously every day, with all the pain that goes with that. He is also acutely aware that his symptoms continue to worsen.

Newbury hit quickly on this point that the [NHS][6] lacks necessary diagnostic equipment – specifically, upright MRI scanners:

> in EDS, the instability comes from ligament laxity and is often positional, so that when someone is upright, the head is not adequately supported by the neck. That is often not visible when patients are lying flat in a standard MRI scanner, so their scans might appear normal despite ongoing neurological symptoms.

Yet gallingly, as the *Canary’s* Steve Topple [recently highlighted][7]:

> senior practitioners advised the-then health secretary Jeremy Hunt in 2013 that upright MRI scanners were desperately needed in the NHS. He ignored them.

## A postcode lottery

Many MPs drove home that care for EDS is also an unreliable postcode lottery. Labour MP Patricia Ferguson underscored research from Edinburgh University [revealing that][8] EDS patients in Scotland:

> can wait up to 20 years for diagnosis

Fellow Labour MP Jayne Kirkham detailed the paucity in medical services in Cornwall:

> One constituent described moving from Kent to Cornwall a few years ago and finding that the services for patients with EDS in Cornwall were “virtually non-existent”. They were initially able to access care at the dysautonomia clinic in Derriford in Devon, but that has since closed with no successor. That has meant that my constituent has spent nearly £1,000 since December on appointments and travel to see private consultants. Many constituents told me that physiotherapy has helped them, but they have experienced long waits and found that there is a shortage of professionals experienced in the condition in the duchy.

Meanwhile, DUP politician Jim Shannon put EDS and CCI diagnosis and care in the context of Northern Ireland’s lack of “detailed prevalence data”.

As it currently stands, the NHS [has commissioned][9] just two specialist diagnostic services for EDS in Sheffield and London.

## No EDS-focused services for CCI patients

In CCI and AAI, the situation is even worse. Newbury said his constituent Connor has been having seizures and difficulty swallowing and breathing in “recent days”. In the process of making enquiries on his behalf, he relayed that he has:

> been told that there is currently no established or commissioned NHS service for investigation, multidisciplinary discussion or surgery for CCI in patients with hypermobile EDS.

Multiple MPs spoke to the fact that the NHS simply doesn’t offer CCI surgery EDS patients need when it becomes quite literally life-threatening. As a result, it has forced patients to make expensive trips abroad for treatment. Many people living with CCI have to fundraise for this because they simply can’t afford the astronomical costs.

And even when patients pay-out for exorbitant air ambulances and private care abroad, Newbury pointed out there’s:

> no aftercare, no consistent access to specialist imaging reviews and no co-ordinated rehab; many people are refused any of the care that would normally follow complex neurosurgery.

## Psychologisation and harm: a history of misogynistic misdiagnosis

The debate highlighted how this gaping hole in diagnostic and care pathways often leads to clinicians gaslighting patients.

At the sharp end of this, clinicians [all too often accuse][10] patients of fabricating their illness, as Newbury brought attention to:

> Many people have told me that they have been diagnosed with Munchausen syndrome, so they are not just dismissed but told that their condition is fictitious.

The psychologisation of a chronic, physiological conditions will be familiar to many in the EDS community and beyond. Clinicians have long treated EDS patients in a parallel fashion to [myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME)][11] patients – a commonly comorbid disease.

2025 research [found that][12] doctors had misdiagnosed 94.4% of EDS patients with psychiatric disorders. The study reviewed misdiagnosis across 429 patients.This included 67% who clinicians had diagnosed with ‘conversion disorder’. Most people will know this psychosomatic condition by its colloquial name steeped in misogynistic history: hysteria. Of course, this is no surprise given that EDS, like ME, occurs in women more often than men.

This shared history of medical harm is all the more reason why the NHS also needs to stop siloing care.

Labour MP Liz Twist highlighted this failure to join up specialisms in the context of the often multiple conditions patients live with:

> EDS and HSD do not exist in a vacuum. Many patients find that the condition overlaps with other conditions, such as postural tachycardia syndrome, mast cell activation syndrome, myalgic encephalomyelitis, chronic fatigue syndrome and gut issues. Those overlapping conditions have an exponential impact on patients who are just trying to manage their everyday life. Under the current system, patients are bounced between different and disjointed secondary care specialties that do not communicate or understand the full breadth of the issue, having been forced to leave primary care practitioners who do not have the support they need to manage these complex patients.

## Acknowledging much, committing to very little

Ultimately however, it was evident in the responding minister’s replies that the political will to tackle the dire lack of diagnosis and care, still isn’t there. Under-secretary for the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) Sharon Hodgson addressed constituents who’d contacted their MPs, stating:

> I want those individuals to know that I hear them, and that I recognise the challenges they face and the uncertainty and distress that many describe.

Largely though, she went through the motions of listening, without actually hearing what they called for.

Dismissing the dangers many face and the surgical care some will need that has forced patients to seek care abroad, she said:

> NHS England continues to strengthen clinically led pathways for people with hypermobility-related disorders, with an emphasis on non-surgical management, co-ordinated physiotherapy, and pain management and rehabilitation, as is consistent with the best available evidence.

On National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines, she stopped shy of agreeing to commission them, committing only to:

> asking the NICE prioritisation board… if it will look at the Wales pathways that she suggested when it considers updating NICE guidance.

Of course, that might be useful if NICE actually *had* any guidelines on them to update in the first place.

The fact, as Hodgson herself acknowledged, CCI is not even “recognised as a distinct NHS diagnosis” got a:

> we will look further into that.

Yet even this wasn’t a commitment to address this, but merely to:

> improve pathway consistency by strengthening the existing framework

Whatever that actually means.

Hodgson made no firm promise to make even a strategy, let alone take concrete steps towards joined-up care. Repeatedly, she fell back only on the NHS’s 10-year plan. But critics [have consistently branded][13] this a wishlist, without funding and detail to make it reality. And speaking of under-resourced and unserious wishlists, Hodgson made reference to the [pitiful research funding commitment][14] in the [ME Delivery Plan][15]. The government evidently isn’t planning to put its hands in its pockets for more research funding into EDS or CCI either.

## Hope alone isn’t enough, but the government couldn’t even give that

Overall, Newbury and the cross-party MPs present made heartfelt appeals on behalf of their constituents living with these devastating conditions.

MPs recognised their responsibility to ensure EDS and CCI patients across the country were made to feel seen and heard. And in sharing the stories of their constituents, they did just that.

They echoed EDS Support UK’s [calls for][16] genuine diagnostic and care pathways. And crucially, as Labour MP John McDonnell made abundantly clear – that means the government actually resourcing all this.

At one point, Newbury noted that “hope” was the “key word” of the debate, because it is:

> something that so many people with the conditions do not have at the moment.

As a result, he poignantly argued that:

> That is what we absolutely need to give them.

However, Newbury and other MPs realised that patients can’t simply live on that ‘hope’ alone. They need tangible action. But as ever for those living with under-recognised chronic health conditions – the government and NHS appear to be moving at a glacial pace.

By [Hannah Sharland][17]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/24/eds-debate-uk-parliament/
[2]: https://thezebranetwork.org/craniocervical-instability
[3]: https://me-pedia.org/wiki/Atlantoaxial_instability
[4]: http://www.thecanary.co/topics/chronic-illness
[5]: http://www.thecanary.co/topics/disability
[6]: http://www.thecanary.co/topics/nhs
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/24/eds-debate-uk-parliament/
[8]: https://www.ehlers-danlos.org/news/eds-uk-campaigning-reaches-holyrood/
[9]: https://www.ehlers-danlos.org/enough/
[10]: https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/ped_rt_eos_advocacy_ppt.pdf
[11]: http://www.thecanary.co/topics/mecfs
[12]: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12191865/
[13]: https://www.local.gov.uk/topics/social-care-health-and-integration/public-health-and-local-government-reflections-10-year#:~:text=In%20conclusion%2C%20the%2010%2DYear,to%20deliver%20on%20its%20promises.
[14]: https://www.meresearch.org.uk/no-additional-funds-envisged-to-implement-me-cfs-delivery-plan/
[15]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2025/04/16/me-delivery-plan-publication/
[16]: https://www.ehlers-danlos.org/enough/
[17]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/hannah-sharland/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/27/eds-parliament-debate/

The economic factors driving femicide in the North of Ireland ...

2026-03-27T11:09:40Z

The economic factors driving femicide in the North of Ireland

[The North of Ireland has a femicide crisis]

A Northern Irish politician, speaking on Good Morning Ulster, cited “precarious work” and “poverty wages” as issues. These contribute to North of Ireland having the worst rate of femicide across Britain and Ireland. During her television appearance, [Sinn Féin MLA Deirdre Hargey said][1]:

> We need a different type of economy that actually supports women within the workplace, where there is well paid jobs and not precarious employment. Some of these women, they don’t have the finance, the independence, and that’s how some of these perpetrators try to encage them.

These issues have come to the forefront of public debate after two young women were murdered in March, as well as the conviction of a man who killed his pregnant partner in 2022.

[Ellie Flanagan, ][2][23 year-old][3][, was murdered on 7 March by ][4]Martin McCarne—her mother’s husband. McCarney was charged with murder and “[possession of an offensive weapon (three knives)][5].”

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) found [28 year old Amy Doherty murdered at an address in Derry on 21 March][6]. They arrested a 30-year-old man arrested on suspicion of the crime.

Finally, on 23 March a jury determined that [Stephen McCullagh had brutally killed partner Natalie McNally][7] at her home in Lurgan three years ago. McCullagh stabbed, beat, and strangled McNally in a brutal attack. He attempted to conceal his crime by blaming it on Natalie’s ex-partner.

# The capitalist culture is harming women

Hargey also discussed the issue of housing, with a[ lack of available properties][8] ready for women wishing to escape domestic violence.

She urged solving:

> …blockages in housing for women who are in situations where there is violence perpetrated against them.

Socialist feminist group ROSA North cited similar underlying causes leading to cruel and violent deaths of women and girls. [They called for Stormont to focus on][9]:

> …ending poverty wages and rampant worker exploitation which disproportionately affects women.

Their statement referred to the need to challenge a capitalist system:

> …which allows wealthy and powerful men to abuse ordinary people rampantly.

The group called for this as part of a broader cultural shift which:

> …challenges the ideas, culture and norms underpinning the violence; that challenges the impunity abusers are imbued with [and] that challenges rape myths and culture…

The Six Counties (the de-colonial term used to refer to the North of Ireland) undeniably has a problem when it comes to ensuring the safety of women and girls. Official data from 2020 to 2025, shows that [there were 30 cases of femicide][10]. That’s a rate of 0.52 per 100,000 people for the period. In contrast, [the rate is 0.45 in England and Wales][11], and [0.24 in Scotland][12]. Most shocking is the comparison with the South of Ireland. There, [the figure is 0.15][13].

For some reason Chief Constable of the PSNI Jon Boutcher thought the appropriate response to this was to defensively quibble over statistics. Rather than simply acknowledge the reality of the problem, he should pledge to improve the force’s approach to it.

# PSNI is not the solution

On 26 March, Boutcher spoke of a statistical error in a 2019 [*BBC* report ][14]that may have given a misleading impression regarding rates of domestic in the North of Ireland. [Speaking before the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee][15] in Westminster, he said that the BBC had cited 8 murders for the year 2017. In reality, only four murders had occurred.

That’s a moot point given the figures discussed above. Boutcher then went on to give a self-serving, rambling, and incoherent response to what the police might do to prevent femicide.

Boutcher instead focused on the [rise of the manosphere][16] — the cretinous online influencers who push a misogynistic worldview, instead of looking at the wholesale issue of femicide. While [turds like Andrew Tate][17] are undoubtedly a malign influence, their recent emergence doesn’t explain rising rates of domestic violence. Over the past [15 years rates remain appallingly high.][18]

Hargey suggested the PSNI need to ask themselves:

> Are we prioritising it as much as we could be?

She said it was “something we have been pushing the police on.” Like any social problem, the police are rarely the sole nor ultimate solution. They can however do more and invest greater funds to ensure women are protected.

Recognising the scale of the crisis, ROSA North called for everyone in society to be part of a movement combating gender violence. Citing MeToo, Ni Una Menos in Latin America, and Black Lives Matter, the group said:

> Let’s look to them for the much needed inspiration to keep fighting for the radically different world we believe possible.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Robert Freeman][19]

[1]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002t2b5
[2]: https://www.psni.police.uk/latest-news/murdered-enniskillen-woman-named-ellie-flanagan-aged-23
[3]: https://www.psni.police.uk/latest-news/murdered-enniskillen-woman-named-ellie-flanagan-aged-23
[4]: https://www.psni.police.uk/latest-news/murdered-enniskillen-woman-named-ellie-flanagan-aged-23
[5]: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy7j4rmlk47o
[6]: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crm12kellkko
[7]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c393nz3lx71o
[8]: https://www.irishnews.com/news/northern-ireland/housing-waiting-lists-set-to-hit-50000-after-stormont-misses-building-target-UF7JB6SDZNHX3ARP2YCH4NH2YU/
[9]: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1383610797136213&set=pcb.1383610847136208&locale=en_GB
[10]: https://www.psni.police.uk/system/files/2025-11/1990574960/Police_Recorded_Crime_in_Northern_Ireland_1998-99_to_2024-25.xlsx
[11]: https://www.statista.com/statistics/288298/female-victims-of-homicide-england-and-wales-by-relationship-to-offender/
[12]: https://www.gov.scot/publications/homicide-scotland-2024-25/
[13]: https://www.womensaid.ie/app/uploads/2026/02/Womens-Aid-Femicide-Watch-1996-2025.pdf
[14]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-49586759
[15]: https://parliamentlive.tv/Event/Index/4545f5d1-dc7c-49a7-8ff6-31041d14c180
[16]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ms23FeJWvKU
[17]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2025/03/09/kyle-clifford-andrew-tate/
[18]: https://www.psni.police.uk/system/files/2025-11/1990574960/Police_Recorded_Crime_in_Northern_Ireland_1998-99_to_2024-25.xlsx
[19]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/robert-freeman/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/27/femicide-in-northern-ireland/

Farage slammed for skipping BBC QT in his own constituency [Eddie ...

2026-03-27T09:56:26Z

Farage slammed for skipping BBC QT in his own constituency

[Eddie Izzard vs Nigel Farage on immigration - BBC Question Time]

Nigel Farage did not appear on *BBC Question Time* on 26 March. This is despite the latest edition being filmed in ‘his’ Clacton-on-Sea constituency.

## More lies from Farage

The excuse from Farage — now been exposed as a lie — was an alleged* BBC* policy forbidding the show from hosting MPs if the programme is held in their own constituency.

*Skwawkbox* found no supporting evidence for the claim that *BBC Question Time* bars MPs from appearing in their own constituencies.

This was confirmed by Starmeroid MP, Mike Tapp, who appeared on the show back in [December 2025 when it was broadcast from his Dover constituency.][1]

## BBC Question Time’s racist darling

Farage has loomed over *BBCQT* like a Shakespearean ghost, even when he has not been physically present. The *BBC* has invited Farage onto the show 38 times, and [accused of platforming][2] his hateful, populist discourse, to drive engagement.

His absence was mocked by several users from Clacton. One user wrote:

> Farage has been on Question Time more times than he has been at Clacton. At a rough guess probably 30 times.

In a simpler message, another clacton resident wrote:

> He is called Nigel Mirage in Clacton.

## “Nigel Mirage”

And it seems Farage, reeling from tumbling ratings for his party, was not open to the idea of putting forward a Reform MP for the show in his place.

> I seem to remember being on Question Time, a few months ago, in Dover…my constituency.
>
> You were too scared to even put a Reform MP up for tonight it seems.
>
> Weak. [https://t.co/ZgHOvF8puH][3]
>
> — Mike Tapp MP (@MikeTappTweets) [March 26, 2026][4]

The attempts by a few to defend Farage and his lies did not go well:

> What’s your point? He was an MP on QT in his own constituency. This proves Farage is lying again.
>
> — boatnoise (@boat_noise) [March 26, 2026][5]

Farage’s absence in Clacton isn’t exactly surprising, and the [public reaction][6] says it all. He’s usually absent from Clacton, and [hardly ever mentions it in Parliament][7]. [Many angry constituents][8] took to social media to express this and mock the bigoted Reform leader.

One user, responding to the question, would Farage “relish the chance to answer questions in his own electorate eh?” wrote:

> Of course not. That would mean he’d have to actually go to Clacton.

Still, it’s nothing short of embarrassing to be caught out so quickly—though, honestly, what else could anyone have expected?

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][9]

[1]: https://t.co/USlXB4gzpy
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/12/04/polanski-question-time/
[3]: https://t.co/ZgHOvF8puH
[4]: https://twitter.com/MikeTappTweets/status/2037224992849486100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[5]: https://twitter.com/boat_noise/status/2037292481121837163?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1421599826678646&set=a.463596775812294
[7]: https://www.thelondoneconomic.com/politics/nigel-farage-clacton-mentions-parliament-395509/#:~:text=Well%20there's%20a%20surprise...,have%20an%20aversion%20to%20Clacton.
[8]: https://www.independent.co.uk/tv/news/nigel-farage-reform-clacton-lbc-nick-ferrari-video-b2781900.html#:~:text=Annoyed%20Clacton%20resident%20tells%20Farage%20he's%20ignoring%20town%20%2D%20before%20Reform,Ferrari%20stepped%20in%20to%20correct.
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/27/farage-skips-bbc-question-time-clacton/

Israeli military and settlers carrying out regular raids in West ...

2026-03-26T23:46:23Z

Israeli military and settlers carrying out regular raids in West Bank

[West Bank]

Raids carried out by the [Israeli occupation forces][1] (IOF) on the West Bank town of Turmus Ayya, happen very regularly, according to Yaser Alkam.

## West Bank — ‘Turmus Ayya is a peaceful town…. The only violence we see is from the army or from the settlers’

He tells *the Canary*:

> Last night they raided Turmus Ayya starting at 1am, and it continues until this moment. That’s about 12 hours, so far, of continuous raid — going into homes, destroying people’s property and furniture, harassing people, carrying out personal searches and searching their cars. All for no good reason. We haven’t had any incidents around Turmus Ayya for them to claim this is a security raid to look for suspects, or to look for weapons or anything else. Turmus Ayya is a very peaceful town. We’re not violent and we aren’t causing any security issues. The only violence we see is from the army or from the settlers. There is no knock on the door. It does not matter if you are sleeping, the IOF breaks into anyone’s house, at any time they want.

According to Alkam, the IOF will sometimes drive through the streets of the town, without going into any houses. But raids like these, where they go into homes, harrass people and break personal property, happen every week to 10 days.

Sometimes people are arrested during these raids. They are either detained under administrative detention — as there is no evidence against them, or released the following day, after they have been beaten by the occupation.

## Some people are beaten up so badly by the IOF that their bones are broken

Alkam says:

> We’ve had people who are beaten up so badly they have broken limbs. They are trying to scare people with their intimidation tactics, to make us leave our homes and drive us out of the town. It’s working for some people, but not for the majority of us.

Alkam, a lawyer, was born and brought up in Turmus Ayya, but emigrated to the US, just before turning 18. In September 2022, after 35 years in America, he returned to Turmus Ayya with his wife and children to live. He says he felt he owed something to his homeland, that there is a debt he needs to pay to his birth town. He is now the Municipality’s Head of Dept. of Foreign Relations, and tries to spread the word about the injustices happening to the residents of his town.

Around 80 percent of Turmus Ayya’s residents, like Alkam, hold dual citizenship with the US. He says that despite the violence, people have left the US to return to Turmus Ayya with their children. Their children attend local schools, and learn the language, culture and history of Palestine. This, he says, is extremely important:

> With time, if Palestinians keep moving away, Palestine is going to be long gone and forgotten. We don’t want that to happen. Palestinians are struggling to keep their identity, and this is part of maintaining it. For us Palestinians, it’s about a right that we can’t afford to lose — which is our land, our home, our ancestry, and the memories we have in this land. I absolutely don’t regret coming back at all.

## West Bank — in 2023 settlers killed a Turmus Ayya resident

But residents of Turmus Ayya do not only have to put up with the IOF, who destroy their property and terrorise them. Violent colonial Jewish settlers are also a daily threat to life in the town. Settler violence, although sharply increasing since the start of the genocide in Gaza, has been ongoing in Turmus Ayya for decades. The most serious settler attack the town has suffered was in June 2023. Hundreds of settlers from the nearby illegal Shilo settlement stormed the town, firing live ammunition and setting homes and cars ablaze. Ambulances and firefighters were prevented from entering, and one[ Palestinian man was killed.][2]

Alkam has five acres of land he has been unable to access, since October 2023. After just one day of olive picking, in October 2023, he says the army came and kicked him off his land, and he still cannot return.

He says:

> There are[ three settlements][3] near to Turmus Ayya, with the closest being Shilo, established in 1978. The settlers living in Shilo are known as the[ Hilltop Youth][4], and are extremely violent. They want to scare people from going to their lands, so go from one area to another, trying to intimidate and beat people up. Whenever an attack takes place, the army follows, apparently to protect the settlers from Palestinians trying to fight back. We’re not allowed to fight back. We’re supposed to run away. If you stay your ground and don’t run away, that means you’re fighting back!

Residents have repeatedly demanded protection from the American government but, as yet, no assistance has come their way. These settlers see that the US has neglected its own citizens, and this has emboldened them further.

Turmus Ayya is a fairly wealthy town, so farming is not the main source of income for most living here. But for Palestinians, their land and the harvesting of their olives are two of their core identities. They are vital symbols of heritage, resistance, and economic survival, and represent an unbroken, generational connection to their homeland. But in Turmus Ayya vast areas of land have been confiscated and are now controlled by settlers.

## Vast tracts of Palestinian land stolen by the Israeli occupation

Alkam points to a large stretch of land in front of us, and says:

> This here is Turmus Ayya’s farmland, but it’s all beyond our reach. In October 2023, the army declared the area an “unsafe war zone”, and told us all that this is now a closed military zone, instead of just telling us the truth — that they had taken over our land. And over there, also on private Palestinian land, is the outpost of[ Emek Shilo][5], which is about six months old, and was founded by Amishav Melet. He’s a very tough guy, and monitors the entire area. Whenever there’s a settler attack on anyone, you’ll find him on the scene, either minutes before, after, or during the incident. This leads me to believe he is a key decision maker, or organiser of some type.

[West Bank]

Also on land stolen from the people of Turmus Ayya, is Shiloh Winery. Around[ 60 percent ][6]of its 230,000 annual bottles are exported, including to the UK, and it has won consistent international awards. These awards help to not only normalise settlements, such as Shilo, which are all illegal under international, but also to normalise the dispossession of Palestinians from their land. In addition, the Israeli occupation government provides financial support to Shiloh and other West Bank wineries, to help ensure their success.

Alkam says:

> We are not aware of anything that will assist us. The lawyer is against you, the judge is against you, and the law is against you. What can we do? We’re occupied people! All we can do is talk about international law, and seek international protection. But, these days, Israel does not care about international law. The people of Palestine have reached this point of disappointment. It’s a feeling I cannot describe.

*Featured image via [Aljazeera][7]*

By [Charlie Jaay][8]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/07/west-bank-iof-storm/
[2]: https://www.972mag.com/turmus-ayya-settler-pogrom-palestinians-us/
[3]: https://peacenow.org.il/en/israel-expands-shilo-settlements-jurisdiction-to-legalize-the-ahiya-outpost
[4]: https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=Hilltop+Youth+Shilo+settlement&mid=AE73007C9A0F86F0EB6AAE73007C9A0F86F0EB6A&FORM=VIRE
[5]: https://peacenow.org.il/en/settlements/settlement1313-en
[6]: https://www.shilohwinery.com/post/ancient-roots-modern-winery-3?lang=he&utm_source=chatgpt.com
[7]: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/6/21/palestinian-killed-as-israeli-settlers-attack-west-bank-village
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/charlie-jaay/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-news/2026/03/26/west-bank-israeli-military/

Labour MPs are gunning for ‘lying bastard’ Morgan McSweeney ...

2026-03-26T23:12:02Z

Labour MPs are gunning for ‘lying bastard’ Morgan McSweeney

[Labour]

Two Labour MPs have separately issued strong responses to the government’s handling of the Morgan McSweeney phone scandal. Richard Burgon provided his in the form of a Parliamentary Written Question; Karl Turner, meanwhile, called McSweeney a “lying bastard”:

> BREAKING: Labour MP says “lying bastard” Morgan McSweeney is “still running the job”.
>
> Following my investigation yesterday into McSweeney’s unlikely account of a “phone theft”, the MP for East Hull, [@KarlTurnerMP][1], has granted me an exclusive interview.
>
> Here’s what he told me:[🧵] [pic.twitter.com/oegLcdSisg][2]
>
> — Jody McIntyre (@jodymcintyre_) [March 26, 2026][3]

## McSwindle

[As we reported][4], Morgan McSweeney is Keir Starmer’s former chief of staff. He resigned in [resigned in disgrace in February this year][5] to take the fall for hiring Peter Mandelson — [a close associate of the international paedophile Jeffrey Epstein][6].

Now, it’s emerged that McSweeney conveniently had his phone stolen not long after Mandelson got the boot. This has led to [the accusation that McSweeney faked this event as cover to permanently delete messages][7]:

> Q: Critics say the theft and botched investigation of Morgan McSweeney’s phone stinks of a cover-up. Can you understand why people are suspicious about this phone being stolen just as the Mandelson scandal was unfolding? [https://t.co/nDvTL34qZj][8]
>
> — Beth Rigby (@BethRigby) [March 26, 2026][9]

Speaking to *Canary* contributor [Jody McIntyre][10], Labour MP Karl Turner said the following:

> This morning on Sky News, Keir Starmer said that it is “a little bit far-fetched” to think that McSweeney could have known that “sometime in the future there would be a request for the phone”.
>
> Labour MP Karl Turner told me this morning that the statement is “absolute bollocks”. [pic.twitter.com/ANxfikYWai][11]
>
> — Jody McIntyre (@jodymcintyre_) [March 26, 2026][12]

> Labour’s Karl Turner told me that he’s not the only MP wary of McSweeney’s version of events.
>
> “We all think it’s f***ing nonsense. The only one’s who will stick by McSweeney are the 2024 intake. The McSweeney, Mandelson, Doyle, and Faulding selections.”
>
> The inner circle. [pic.twitter.com/MRNPSr3Brj][13]
>
> — Jody McIntyre (@jodymcintyre_) [March 26, 2026][14]

Explosively, Turner has alleged that McSweeney is still the puppet master behind our muppet prime minister:

> The MP for East Hull admitted to having an “association” with Peter Mandelson himself, but said:
>
> “With McSwindle, [Peter] Kyle, [Steve] Reed, and [Wes] Streeting, it’s more than an association…they’re very close friends!”
>
> Streeting + Reed have both lied in defending McSweeney. [pic.twitter.com/OCGXQ1DFOX][15]
>
> — Jody McIntyre (@jodymcintyre_) [March 26, 2026][16]

Turner is one of many to note that McSweeney’s story doesn’t make sense. According to the disgraced McSweeney, he called the police, gave them the wrong details, and then called it a day. Like the rest of us, Turner simply can’t believe that:

> Labour MP Karl Turner told me this morning: “I would say to Starmer: ‘Don’t protect McSwindle! You can’t confirm what he’s saying!’
>
> Let’s get to the real issue: the whole world is at war because we’ve got a mad bastard in the White House indiscriminately bombing countries.” [pic.twitter.com/gyJRP0kAu9][17]
>
> — Jody McIntyre (@jodymcintyre_) [March 26, 2026][18]

## Labour — National Security

Turner isn’t the only Labour MP taking the government to task. [Richard Burgon announced the following][19]:

> I’ve submitted these formal Parliamentary Written Questions following reports that Morgan McSweeney’s phone was stolen.
>
> Given the serious impact this could have on getting the truth about the Mandelson scandal (and even on the Labour Together scandal), we need answers.

Burgon is demanding to know:

Given the track record of Starmer’s government, we can’t imagine we’ll get plausible answers to these questions. The more the pressure builds, though, the sooner Labour will have to force the PM out, and the sooner the better.

*Featured image via [PickPik][20]*

By [Willem Moore][21]

[1]: https://twitter.com/KarlTurnerMP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[2]: https://t.co/oegLcdSisg
[3]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_/status/2037133569617744067?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/26/starmer-pathetic/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/02/08/starmer-mcsweeney-quits/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/02/03/mandelson-interview-epstein/
[7]: https://news.sky.com/story/what-is-the-controversy-over-morgan-mcsweeneys-stolen-phone-13524327
[8]: https://t.co/nDvTL34qZj
[9]: https://twitter.com/BethRigby/status/2037074905263415778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/jody-mcintyre/
[11]: https://t.co/ANxfikYWai
[12]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_/status/2037133572662837623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[13]: https://t.co/MRNPSr3Brj
[14]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_/status/2037133581068238909?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[15]: https://t.co/OCGXQ1DFOX
[16]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_/status/2037133587242197352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[17]: https://t.co/gyJRP0kAu9
[18]: https://twitter.com/jodymcintyre_/status/2037133594401898589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[19]: https://x.com/RichardBurgon/status/2037105432490086596?s=20
[20]: https://www.pickpik.com/busy-streets-of-london-liverpool-street-station-financial-district-gherkin-skyscraper-76980
[21]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/26/labour-mps-are-gunning/

Elbit Systems factory shut down by protesters [Picket at Elbit ...

2026-03-26T17:19:06Z

Elbit Systems factory shut down by protesters

[Picket at Elbit Systems factory in Filton, with police watching Pic by Barold]

On the morning of 26 March in Filton, Bristolians immobilised a weapons factory of [Israeli][1] arms contractor Elbit Systems. The building, used for the production of “battle-tested” drones used for strike missions on men, women and children in Gaza, was forced to a halt by a chain of around 60 people.

The picket line formed at 6.50am, prior to workers arriving, and remained firm for at least 90 minutes. Actionists chanted “Shut Elbit Down!” and “Free Palestine!”, and held [Palestinian][2] flags and banners demanding ” STOP ARMING GENOCIDE”.

> View this post on Instagram
>
>
> [A post shared by Barold (@just.barold)][3]

The protest indicated a clear message: Bristol’s people want to drive contractors like Elbit Systems out of their city. Protesters pushed past barriers blocking access to the main gate, which has 24/7 security guards. And they stood with their arms linked, blocking any workers or vehicles entering the site.

## Elbit Systems fuelling and profiting from genocide

Elbit Systems is [Israel’s main weapons provider and self-proclaimed “backbone”][4] of the Israeli Defense Fleet through supply of drones, armoured vehicles, and munitions. [The company’s UK subsidiary UAV Engines Ltd ][5][manufactures][6] the engine of the Hermes 450 drone. Israel used such a drone to murder UK aid workers in Gaza in 2024.

As the actionists’ banner stating “ELBIT PROFITS FROM MURDER” highlights, in 2024, at the height of the ongoing genocidal campaign in Palestine by Israel, [Elbit announced revenues of US$ 6.8bn][7].

Like [other Elbit Systems facilities][8], activists have targeted this site several times since October 2023. Its sister site in Aztec West closed down last September, years before its lease expiry. It’s likely that direct action had rendered it financially unviable.

The recent US-israeli strike on Iran has further lined Elbit’s pockets. According to the company’s chief exec, Bezhalel Machlis, [Elbit Systems supplies Israel][9] with long-range guided munitions and equipment for electronic warfare.

A spokesperson for the actionists said:

> In January, [Elbit was denied a £2 billion contract with the MoD][10]. In February, [the high court ruled the proscription of Palestine Action unlawful][11] on two grounds.
>
> Most of our brothers and sisters, imprisoned for resisting genocide, have been granted bail and able to return to their loved ones.
>
> These victories are symptoms of a bigger shift. Thousands have signed up to a direct action training to resist companies like Elbit. Its doors in Bristol will shut for good, not because of the government, but because of the people

Another protester said:

> Bristol, through hosting military contractors such as this one we’re outside the gates of, is covering itself in the blood of Palestinian men, women and children. I am horrified to see my city again and again on the wrong side of history. Complicity is no longer an option.
>
> It is our duty as workers with pension pots, payers of tuition fees, parents of children at schools. Where companies like Elbit get free entry to careers fairs, by the way. It is our duty as people of Bristol to disturb the workings of this factory yesterday, today, and tomorrow, until it is forced to shut down.

*Featured image via Barold / the Canary*

By [The Canary][12]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/topics/israel/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/topics/palestine/
[3]: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DWWJ5S1gsx_/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading
[4]: https://5pillarsuk.com/2025/09/07/israeli-arms-firm-elbit-systems-closes-bristol-site/
[5]: https://caat.org.uk/data/companies/elbit-systems/
[6]: https://caat.org.uk/data/companies/elbit-systems/
[7]: https://caat.org.uk/data/companies/elbit-systems/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-news/2026/03/25/ultimatum-issued-by-group-that-torched-elbit-systems-factory-in-czech-republic/
[9]: https://www.middleeasteye.net/live-blog/live-blog-update/elbit-systems-reports-surge-demand-amid-us-israeli-attacks-iran
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/01/14/elbit-systems-loses/
[11]: https://novaramedia.com/2026/02/13/palestine-action-has-defeated-the-government-what-happens-next/
[12]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/26/elbit-systems-factory-shut-down-by-protesters/

‘Draconian’ Apple security check to lock out iPhone owners [A ...

2026-03-26T16:42:06Z

‘Draconian’ Apple security check to lock out iPhone owners

[A man with his head in his hands and a locked iPhone]

As highlighted by Big Brother Watch, iPhone users will soon need to prove their age to maintain internet access. It’s the latest in a line of changes which have come in the wake of the [Online Safety Act][1]:

> [🚨]NEWS: UK iPhone users must now prove their age or lose full internet access
>
> "It is absolutely outrageous that, overnight, Apple has put a chokehold on Britons' freedom to search the internet, access information and use apps unless they provide sensitive ID documents.
>
> This… [pic.twitter.com/GNuCsihcDD][2]
>
> — Big Brother Watch (@BigBrotherWatch) [March 25, 2026][3]

## iPhone changes: “draconian”

Silkie Carlo (Big Brother Watch Director) [said in full:][4]

> It is absolutely outrageous that, overnight, Apple has put a chokehold on Britons’ freedom to search the internet, access information and use apps unless they provide sensitive ID documents.
>
> This means 35 million Brits who have paid hundreds or even thousands of pounds for Apple tech suddenly now have a child’s device unless they comply with invasive demands for personal information that go far beyond what UK law requires.
>
> Apple has crossed the Rubicon with this software update which is more like ransomware, holding customers hostage to ID demands that are invasive, exclusionary and unnecessary.
>
> Children’s online safety is vital but requires better parental controls and thoughtful tech responsibility – not sweeping, draconian, shock demands by foreign companies for all of our IDs and credit cards.

Owners will have to verify their age after accepting the iOS 26.6 software update, [according to the *BBC*][5]. Anyone who refuses to verify their age will be treated like a child on a tablet with parental controls. Ofcom have described this as a “real win for children and families”, even though the move goes beyond what is legally required.

People have responded as follows:

> Age verification is a Trojan horse for total control over the internet, your devices, and your entire digital life.
>
> Not a single child will be protected by this.
>
> If people don't wake up and protest, your country is going to be next. [https://t.co/BiH4F0cs7j][6]
>
> — calle (@callebtc) [March 25, 2026][7]

> Apple just turned 35 million UK iPhones into identity checkpoints. Apple has, without warning, placed a gatekeeper on the devices of 35 million UK users who paid good money for full-featured smartphones and now find themselves holding something closer to a supervised children’s… [https://t.co/5qTTHn18uQ][8]
>
> — Reclaim The Net (@ReclaimTheNetHQ) [March 25, 2026][9]

It looks like Reddit may be the next platform to introduce mandatory age checks:

> [‼] BREAKING: Reddit's CEO announced he is forcing human verification on the platform.
>
> He will force users to verify through biometrics on their device, a third party, or government ID.
>
> Every single option compromises your anonymity. On a platform built on anonymity. [pic.twitter.com/HlpTWU95g7][10]
>
> — International Cyber Digest (@IntCyberDigest) [March 26, 2026][11]

## Experiments

[The *BBC* also reported][12]:

> Apple’s move follows a wider debate in the industry over how to keep young people away from harmful content online and the impact social media can have on children.
>
> The UK government is trialling a test which will see 300 teens have their social apps disabled entirely, blocked overnight or capped to one hour’s use – with some also seeing no such changes at all – in order to compare their experiences.
>
> The test will run alongside the government’s consultation asking whether the UK should follow in Australia’s footsteps by making it illegal for under-16s to have access to many social media sites.

As we’ve covered, [there are reasons to be concerned about the impacts of social media][13]. At the same time, establishment forces are using these concerns to push for an end to online anonymity. The solution to all of these issues begins with wrestling control of the internet back from the US tech monopolies who control 99% of our digital lives.

*Featured image via [Apple][14]*

By [Willem Moore][15]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/07/31/online-safety-act/
[2]: https://t.co/GNuCsihcDD
[3]: https://twitter.com/BigBrotherWatch/status/2036863773202432300?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://x.com/BigBrotherWatch/status/2036863773202432300
[5]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c20qwz9xzr9o
[6]: https://t.co/BiH4F0cs7j
[7]: https://twitter.com/callebtc/status/2036762181253857460?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[8]: https://t.co/5qTTHn18uQ
[9]: https://twitter.com/ReclaimTheNetHQ/status/2036950514470953438?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[10]: https://t.co/HlpTWU95g7
[11]: https://twitter.com/IntCyberDigest/status/2037139798477922722?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[12]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c20qwz9xzr9o
[13]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/26/meta-youtube-sickos/
[14]:
[15]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/26/iphone-security/

Gazan doctor seeks help for Scottish research placement [Gaza ...

2026-03-26T15:58:51Z

Gazan doctor seeks help for Scottish research placement

[Gaza doctor crowd raising for research placement at Edinburgh University]

Palestinian doctor Mohammed Hammad is [looking][1] for help to get from Gaza to Scotland to complete a research project at Edinburgh University.

## The people’s doctor

Hammad completed his medical training in late 2025, during a brief lull in Israel’s genocide in Gaza. Since then, living in a tent in the Mawasi concentration camp, he has been treating sick and wounded Palestinians under Israel’s [illegal blockade][2] of food, fuel and medicines.

Now he has secured a year-long neuroscience research fellowship under [consultant neurologist Prof Rustam al-Shahi Salman][3]. The project will evaluate stroke care in Gaza to find improvements that can be implemented despite Israel’s occupation and genocide. However, the placement and travel costs are not funded. Hammad, who is from Rafah but was displaced to Mawasi in May 2024, is seeking financial support and has set up a [crowdfund][4] to raise cash for the placement.

## Defying the odds

He told *Edinburgh Live*:

> During the war, I volunteered for six months in the Neurology Department at Nasser Medical Complex – the only operating hospital in southern Gaza, serving 1.2 million Gazans. During my final year of medical school, I supported patient care, documentation, neurological emergency management, and CT interpretation under extremely high-pressure conditions.
>
> Hospitals faced severe shortages of electricity, medications, imaging access, and basic medical supplies. There were periods of overcrowding, limited diagnostic capacity, and constant uncertainty.
>
> Some of the most difficult situations involved managing acute stroke cases without access to thrombolysis or advanced stroke unit care, treating prolonged seizures with limited medication availability, and assessing traumatic brain injuries with restricted imaging capacity. There is currently no MRI available in Gaza, and in the south there has effectively been only one functioning CT scanner serving a population of around 1.2 million people.

## Working under siege

On his experience working as a doctor under siege, he said:

> The difficulty was not only the medical complexity, but having to make critical decisions in severely resource-constrained and high-pressure conditions. Despite this, healthcare workers continued to provide care with remarkable resilience.
>
> My immediate family is safe at the moment, but we live under very difficult humanitarian conditions, displacement, limited access to consistent electricity, clean water, and stable infrastructure. For the wider population, daily life is defined by uncertainty and rebuilding from repeated disruption.
>
> This opportunity to come to Edinburgh represents more than academic progression. It is a chance to gain structured research training, international mentorship, and exposure to advanced stroke systems of care — knowledge that I hope to bring back to strengthen neurological services and medical education in Gaza.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][5]

[1]: https://www.edinburghlive.co.uk/news/edinburgh-news/gaza-doctors-edinburgh-university-dream-33489340
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/10/02/gaza-flotilla-protests-uk/
[3]: https://edwebprofiles.ed.ac.uk/profile/professor-rustam-al-shahi-salman
[4]: https://www.gofundme.com/f/mohammad-hammad/cl/o?lang=en_US
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/26/gaza-doctor-seeks-help-research-placement/

Mohamed Salah is a rare Muslim hero in the Premier League [salah] ...

2026-03-26T15:31:38Z

Mohamed Salah is a rare Muslim hero in the Premier League

[salah]

Saying goodbye to Mohamed Salah is not simply about football; when Salah walks away from Liverpool, the club loses more than a prolific scorer; it loses a cultural touchstone. He[ arrived as a hopeful youngster and leaves as one of the defining figures of this generation.][1] A player whose impact extended far beyond goals and trophies.

> A sweet Salah strike to start your Friday [💫][😮‍💨]
>
> [pic.twitter.com/DYwhBI59YK][2]
>
> — Liverpool FC USA (@LFCUSA) [March 20, 2026][3]

## Salah: from Nagrig to the world stage

Before the goals, the trophies and the deafening chants, there was a boy from Nagrig armed with nothing but belief and determination. Salah’s journey is the kind of story sport loves; belief, sacrifice and relentless work. Overcoming setbacks and doubts which would derail many, only sharpened his resolve. Arriving at Liverpool, he did not join the club as a complete player. Instead, he arrived determined to prove himself, to learn and to not only lift a club but also a city.

[][4]

Watching Salah [at Liverpool felt like witnessing something truly rare][5]. From his very first season, there was an unmistakable feeling that something great was brewing. His pace was electric, his finishing was ruthless. Yet it was his relentless desire that truly set him apart. Every run, every touch, every celebration revealed how deeply the club and the fans mattered to him.

Records fell, defenders faltered and stadiums erupted, yet Salah remained unchanged. Even as the goals mounted and high praise surrounded him, he stayed focused, grounded and driven. Champions league nights at Anfield became unforgettable nights charged with belief, noise and pure emotion. When Salah delivered on the biggest of stages, it felt as though he carried the hopes of all the supporters with him.

## More than a footballer

For many Salah has always been more than just a player. As a Muslim football superstar, his expressions of faith on the pitch have been quiet, but powerful. Many a time,[ fans have seen him fall to the floor in sujood][6], a poignant reminder that devotion and elite performance can coexist without apology. His conduct challenged assumptions, opened conversations, and offered representation to millions who had not seen themselves reflected at football’s highest levels.

> According to a Stanford University study, since Mo Salah joined Liverpool, hate crimes in the area decreased by 19% and anti-Muslim comments online have dropped by 50%. Impact on and off the pitch. [pic.twitter.com/pTKOmCshdc][7]
>
> — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) [March 25, 2026][8]

Away from the pitch, his willingness to speak and act on broader issues, notably his dignified support for Palestine, showed a conscience that matched his talent. He used his platform to stand in solidarity rather than seek attention, demonstrating how athletes can carry both influence and responsibility.

And, Salah made global headlines when he remained one of a very small number of professional footballers to challenge UEFA’s complicity in Israel’s murder of Palestinian footballer, Suleiman al-Obeid:

> Can you tell us how he died, where, and why? [https://t.co/W7HCyVVtBE][9]
>
> — Mohamed Salah (@MoSalah) [August 9, 2025][10]

Salah never chased the spotlight; his conduct with teammates, supporters and charitable causes did the talking. His generosity, humility and having humanity in his heart turned admiration into something special.

## What Salah means to me

Legacies are measured largely in silverware when it comes to football. However, Salah gave belief, to a village, to a nation, and to an entire generation by expanding what was possible in the minds of young players who now see his path as proof that origins will not limit destiny. The terraces will keep singing his name, teaching it to fans who never got the chance to watch him live, but ensuring the legend that is Mohamed Salah and his presence will remain at Anfield.

Thank you, Mohamed Salah, for the goals, the grace and the moments that made football feel larger than sport. You leave Liverpool not only as a record breaker but as a bridge between cultures and a symbol of possibility. The Egyptian King will remain part of Liverpool FC for as long as fans in the stands will be singing his name.

It is truly remarkable to witness an African Muslim footballer achieve the highest accolades as Mohamed Salah has done in the most watched league in the world. His journey is a testament not only to his immense talent and perseverance, but also to the rarity of such accomplishments given the current climate in the UK, where the far-right have undertaken a worrying resurgence. Even in the face of increasing censorship and pressure against voices supporting Palestine, Salah has steadfastly maintained his public support for the cause. His rise serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, breaking barriers and challenging prejudices, while paving the way for greater inclusivity within football.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Faz Ali][11]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/25/salah-legacy/
[2]: https://t.co/DYwhBI59YK
[3]: https://twitter.com/LFCUSA/status/2034997438923382830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]:
[5]: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/mar/25/mohamed-salah-liverpool-tribute-thrill-of-my-footballing-lifetime
[6]: https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/explained-mohamed-salah-goal-celebrations-meaning-liverpool-stars-on-pitch-gestures/1uj2zappvknhi1pojuqm0oae6e
[7]: https://t.co/pTKOmCshdc
[8]: https://twitter.com/footballontnt/status/2036752502041854101?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://t.co/W7HCyVVtBE
[10]: https://twitter.com/MoSalah/status/1954215423861240020?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/faz-ali/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/26/salah-liverpool/

LBC host endorses Islamophobic post from notorious Zionist [Tom ...

2026-03-26T15:24:50Z

LBC host endorses Islamophobic post from notorious Zionist

[Tom Swarbrick, LBC presenter]

On 25 March, *LBC* host Tom Swarbrick retweeted a clearly Islamophobic post:

> Tom Swarbrick from LBC and now a guest on Good Morning Britain retweeted this tweet calling Muslims in the West dirty. [pic.twitter.com/AV7mkJFe1d][1]
>
> — Mukhtar (@I_amMukhtar) [March 25, 2026][2]

To make matters worse, the post was from a known liar and propagandist.

## “I hope you all cry forever”

As we reported in 2018, Swarbrick is an establishment hack with zero integrity. [James Wright reported for us at the time][3]:

> Text messages leaked to BuzzFeed show that an LBC presenter tried to stage-manage an interview with a Conservative cabinet minister.
>
> LBC‘s Tom Swarbrick was trying to bag an interview with the unnamed government figure. In the process, he sent the minister the interviewing questions and promised to be gentle. In the end, the interview didn’t go ahead.

The fact that he’s still at *LBC *shows they’ve got about as much [integrity][4] as him.

Here’s how people responded to his retweet:

> Why is LBC presenter Tom Swarbrick endorsing a comment that Muslims are “smelly”? [pic.twitter.com/eLZBMZs3LQ][5]
>
> — Lowkey (@Lowkey0nline) [March 25, 2026][6]

> Tom Swarbrick will post about “dirty Muslims” before delivering a solemn monologue on LBC about why “from the river to the sea” is chilling antisemitism. [https://t.co/O06W22fPcm][7]
>
> — Karl Hansen (@karl_fh) [March 25, 2026][8]

Swarbrick was retweeting a post from Nioh Berg.

Berg is [one of many Twitter users who are widely believed to be an international citizen posing as someone else to get hate clicks from reactionary right-wingers][9]:

> Many are quoting [@NiohBerg][10] as the voice of the oppressed Iranian, the one we must free, the truth of their people, and what they want and need.
>
> What they forget is Nioh isn't Iranian.
>
> He's Chandresh. An Indian paid by Israel, to pretend, but who forgot to delete. [pic.twitter.com/cSTy8ZeiDM][11]
>
> — Ewan MacKenna (@EwanMacKenna) [March 1, 2026][12]

Berg notoriously posted the following in early March, and was retweeted by every moron online as a result ([we now know definitively that it was the Americans who bombed the school][13]):

> [🔴] BREAKING:
>
> The regime in Iran has now confessed that the IRGC mistakenly bombed an Iranian school yesterday, killing many children.
>
> To all the legacy media and pro regime influencers who peddled your fake news:
>
> RETRACT and DELETE. [pic.twitter.com/MNBdIcmvkG][14]
>
> — 𝐍𝐢𝐨𝐡 𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐠 [🇮🇷] [✡]︎ (@NiohBerg) [March 1, 2026][15]

The above should have been a ‘fool me once’ moment for those who follow Berg. However, it looks like there’s no limit to how many times you can fool a guy like Swarbrick.

Following considerable backlash, Swarbrick has now deleted his retweet.

## Establishment hacks

This is the last thing Swarbrick posted himself:

> [https://t.co/OGYJBjfpQ9][16] [pic.twitter.com/VS9iyVwpbx][17]
>
> — Tom Swarbrick (@TomSwarbrick1) [February 28, 2026][18]

The image is from when the US announced the capture of Saddam Hussein in 2003. This was treated like a the final victory at the time, but of course the disastrous Invasion of Iraq raged on for another eight years, and still impact the country until today. This is fitting, given that the disastrous attack on Iran has gone very poorly for the Yanks since they assassinated the Supreme Leader.

Potentially this was the point Swarbrick was making—that history repeats itself in increasingly farcical ways—but given his other posts, it’s more likely he’s just another media ghoul with zero memory for how badly these things turn out.

*Featured image via LBC*

By [Willem Moore][19]

[1]: https://t.co/AV7mkJFe1d
[2]: https://twitter.com/I_amMukhtar/status/2036811637030547547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/2018/10/01/leaked-text-messages-show-lbc-colluding-with-a-tory-cabinet-minister-to-make-him-look-good-2/
[4]: https://mediabiasfactcheck.com/london-broadcasting-company-lbc/
[5]: https://t.co/eLZBMZs3LQ
[6]: https://twitter.com/Lowkey0nline/status/2036863616658309343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[7]: https://t.co/O06W22fPcm
[8]: https://twitter.com/karl_fh/status/2036830259547414673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/11/23/twitter-location-data/
[10]: https://twitter.com/NiohBerg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://t.co/cSTy8ZeiDM
[12]: https://twitter.com/EwanMacKenna/status/2028136859142922727?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[13]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/12/trump-iran-murder/
[14]: https://t.co/MNBdIcmvkG
[15]: https://twitter.com/NiohBerg/status/2028119242952921107?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[16]: https://t.co/OGYJBjfpQ9
[17]: https://t.co/VS9iyVwpbx
[18]: https://twitter.com/TomSwarbrick1/status/2027862723694858511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[19]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/26/lbc-host-shares-grim-islamophobic-post/

Green Left surges to second place in Danish elections [Green Left ...

2026-03-26T13:58:19Z

Green Left surges to second place in Danish elections

[Green Left chair Pia Olsen Dyhr]

On 24 March, the Green Left consolidated its role as a key force in Danish politics. It has [grown from 15 to 20 seats in the Folketing][1]. And this is a clear signal of rising support for green and progressive policies, another in a series of recent Green Party breakthroughs across Europe.

In November 2025, the Green Left won the local elections in Copenhagen, with [Sisse Marie Welling becoming the Lord Mayor][2] of Denmark’s capital. In late February in the UK, the [Green Party resoundingly won the Gorton and Denton by-election][3] in Greater Manchester. While in early March, the [German Greens achieved a major regional victory in Baden-Württemberg][4], and won the Mayorship of Munich for the first time.

Green Left has been the official English name since 2022 of the Socialistisk Folkeparti, or SF. That translates directly to Socialist People’s Party. It campaigns on a range of issues, prioritising [economic justice][5] and [care for the environment][6]. It has been a full member of the European Green Party since 2014.

Ciarán Cuffe, co-chair of the European Green Party, said:

> Our member Green Left becoming for the first time the second-biggest force in the Danish parliament shows that voters across Europe are turning to Greens for credible solutions on the issues that matter most: protection of nature, a society with less stress, and affordable energy from renewable sources that are not exposed to geopolitical shocks.
>
> The Danish success confirms strong recent results for Green parties in the UK, Germany and the Netherlands.

Vula Tsetsi, co-chair of the European Green Party, added:

> The series of successes starts to show a pattern of people voting for a green future across Europe. There is again a clear appetite among voters to put social welfare, climate and environmental action at the top of the political agenda.
>
> Europeans support the strategy to invest in renewables to secure European energy independence. From Copenhagen to Lyon, from Manchester to Amsterdam, people are choosing a future that protects their health, their environment, and their bills.

*Featured image via Green Left*

By [The Canary][7]

[1]: https://www.dr.dk/nyheder/politik/folketingsvalg/resultater
[2]: https://europeangreens.eu/news/copenhagen-is-now-the-fifth-eu-capital-city-to-have-a-green-mayor/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/02/27/gorton-and-denton-win/
[4]: https://europeangreens.eu/news/green-victory-in-badenwurttemberg-signals-european-momentum/
[5]: https://sf.dk/en-ny-retning-for-danmark-sf-gaar-til-valg-paa-velfaerd-foer-skattelettelser/
[6]: https://sf.dk/derfor-er-sf-danmarks-groenne-parti/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-news/2026/03/26/green-left-surges-to-second-place-in-danish-elections/

Israel says it will take over southern Lebanon in nakedly ...

2026-03-26T13:14:26Z

Israel says it will take over southern Lebanon in nakedly colonial ambition

[israel]

Israel says it will [invade Lebanon and enforce a ‘defensive buffer’ zone up to the Litani river][1]. Or, in plain English, the settler-colonial state means to colonise Lebanon’s south – probably permanently.

In theory, Hezbollah breached a US-brokered ‘ceasefire’ with Israel in early March which had held up since their last war in 2024. In practice, the US gave Israel carte blanche to strike Lebanon, which it has done constantly since the deal was struck. During the intervening period, Israel attacked southern Lebanon about 15,400 times.

Now senior Israeli officials say they have destroyed many of the bridges on the Litani river, largely cutting off the south from the rest of the country.

The *Guardian* [reported][2] on 25 March:

> During a meeting with the military chief of staff, Israel defence minister Israel Katz said Israeli forces would “control the remaining bridges and the security zone up to the Litani”, a river in Lebanon that meets the Mediterranean about 30km (20 miles) north of Israel’s border.

Adding:

> Katz added all bridges over the Litani river, which he said had been used by Hezbollah to move operatives and weapons into southern Lebanon, “have been blown up and the IDF will control the remaining bridges”.

Far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich [said][3] on 23 March that the war:

> needs to end with a different reality entirely, both with the Hezbollah decision but also with the change of Israel’s borders.
>
> I say here definitively…in every room and in every discussion, too: the new Israeli border must be the Litani.

The *Canary* [reported][4] on Israel’s bombing of the Qasmiyeh bridge over the Litani on 23 March. As we argued then, Smotrich is one figure figure in a small far-right party in a coalition government.
However:

> He nevertheless represents [a widely and deeply-held expansionist desire][5] at the heart of Israel’s settler colonial polity. In Zionism’s ethno-nationalist fever-dream, Lebanon—and even lands far beyond it—are already part of Israel.

## Israel aggression gathers steam

Israel attacked 92 villages in the south in 24 March:

> The Israeli military attacked 92 villages and towns across Lebanon on Tuesday. A journalist on the ground recorded a new strike today while reporting from the town of Al-Burghuliyah, a coastal municipality in the Tyre district of southern Lebanon, near the Mediterranean. [https://t.co/9Uun7KDNwG][6]
>
> — Drop Site (@DropSiteNews) [March 25, 2026][7]

*Channel 4 News* attended the funeral of another two paramedics killed by Israeli strikes on 25 March. the youngest was 16 years old:

> Awful, heartbreaking, unacceptable
>
> We’ve just been at the funeral of two young volunteer paramedics in southern Lebanon – killed in a direct Israeli strike… one was only 16 years old
>
> They were killed whilst wearing their full kit according to witnesses – returning from the… [pic.twitter.com/K5rtw0WwHO][8]
>
> — Secunder Kermani (@SecKermani) [March 25, 2026][9]

The Israeli assault has displaced [one in five Lebanese people][10]. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that massive surges of displacement were placing pressure on hospitals:

> A [#WHO][11] team visited Siblin Governmental Hospital to assess capacity amid a surge in displacement. Over 130,000 people in the area are placing growing pressure on health services. [pic.twitter.com/CeuYpAKKOa][12]
>
> — WHO Lebanon (@WHOLebanon) [March 25, 2026][13]

*Al Jazeera* reported that the war had caused food prices to [inflate][14]. While Hezbollah – a Shia political party and paramilitary force in the south – [called for unity][15].

Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem said:

> Negotiating with the Israeli enemy under fire amounts to imposing surrender and stripping Lebanon of its capabilities, especially since negotiations are fundamentally rejected with an enemy that occupies land and continues daily aggression.
>
> We call for national unity against the Israeli-American enemy under one title at this stage: stopping the aggression to liberate the land and the people. All other issues can be discussed afterward.

Israel has had its sights on southern Lebanon for years. It’s desire to drive all the way through to the Litani has nothing to do with ‘defence’ or establishing ‘buffers’. This new outrage is driven by the same nakedly colonialist ambition which has driven Israel’s genocide against Palestinians, its attack on Iran, and its sundry other atrocities in the region.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Joe Glenton][16]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/03/09/lebanon-puts-resistance/
[2]: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/mar/24/netanyahu-vows-further-strikes-iran-lebanon-missile-hits-tel-aviv-middle-east-crisis
[3]: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/israeli-minister-calls-annexation-southern-lebanon-2026-03-23/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/18/lebanon-people-displaced/
[5]: https://www.middleeasteye.net/explainers/what-greater-israel
[6]: https://t.co/9Uun7KDNwG
[7]: https://twitter.com/DropSiteNews/status/2036817842998272463?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[8]: https://t.co/K5rtw0WwHO
[9]: https://twitter.com/SecKermani/status/2036759265814151421?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/18/lebanon-people-displaced/
[11]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/WHO?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[12]: https://t.co/CeuYpAKKOa
[13]: https://twitter.com/WHOLebanon/status/2036826828141146120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[14]: https://aje.news/ve6pos?update=4433182
[15]: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/3/25/hezbollah-chief-urges-unity-no-talks-with-israel-amid-lebanon-attacks
[16]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/joeglenton/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/26/israel-colonise/

Netpol protest policing report reveals ‘How Repression Became ...

2026-03-26T13:13:16Z

Netpol protest policing report reveals ‘How Repression Became Routine’

[Netpol report: how repression became reoutine]

On 25 March, police monitoring group Netpol released its annual protest report. Building on the foundation of the 2024 report ‘This is Repression’ — the latest version is entitled ‘How Repression Became Routine’ (2025). What’s more, it makes for chilling, but sadly familiar, reading.

The *Canary *sent *Skwawkbox *out to report on the launch event itself. [You can read his article here][1], which also serves to introduce the report. Likewise, [you can read the full report here. ][2]

In this article, we’ll take a bit of a closer look at the report itself, along with its main findings.

## Core findings

With the 2024 report already having concluded that Britain exists in a state of repression, Netpol stated that:

> Between July 2025 and February 2026, Netpol conducted in-depth qualitative research within protest movements, drawing on interviews, testimonies, legal observer notes, court records, police and government data, media coverage and 21 Freedom of Information requests.
>
> Our findings show that repression has become routine in British protest policing: new and overlapping laws, combined with a growing tendency to treat protest as a security issue, have normalised surveillance, heavy-handed policing, and punishment, with harm concentrated on marginalised groups. Protest is increasingly policed as a matter of threat management rather than democratic expression.

Netpol produced the 2025 report with the help of the Article 11 Trust. Back in 2020, the charity was set up with the aim of defending the rights to freedom of assembly, as set out under Article 11 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

The 2025 report broke its core findings down into five overarching points:

1. Officers are exercising powers beyond and ahead of gaining the lawful authority to do so.
2. The police are using layered legislation to confuse and control protestors.
3. Security logics now dominate protest policing.
4. The restriction of protests has spread out over a wider geographical area.
5. The gap in police accountability is widening.

## Power beyond authority

The new report highlighted the fact that police forces, and especially the Met, have made unlawful use of their powers. More specifically, they’re exercising powers like ‘cumulative disruption’ conditions before they’ve even passed through parliament.

Police already have powers to impose conditions on protests that cause “serious disruption to the life of the community”. These were put in place by the Public Order Act 1986.

However, the forthcoming Crime and Policing Bill proposes to amend this to allow police to consider ‘cumulative disruption’, ie. the effect of repeated protests. This would effectively allow officers to treat multiple minor protests in the same manner as larger ‘disruptive’ protests.

Netpol stated that it had seen evidence suggesting that:

> these trailed powers are already being used, despite provisions not yet having been passed into law. In May, for example, the Met used Public Order powers to block International Jewish Anti-Zionist Network (IJAN) protests, citing the ‘cumulative impact’ of weekly protests. Similarly, in
> November, the Met forced Palestine Solidarity Coalition (PSC) to change the route of its planned march, citing the “cumulative effect of [PSC] protests”.

Likewise, the report also found that police continued to use powers even after they’d been appealed. In particular, the monitoring group cited police use of the repealed ‘more than minor’ threshold for serious disruption.

## Layered legislation

Next up, the police abuse of layered legislation. Forces across the country have access to a wide array of powers granted by multiple pieces of legislation. Officers are using these layered powers to confuse and control protesters – and also to maximise their intelligence gathering and data capture.

The report explained that:

> Because these powers overlap, it is often unclear which rules apply and why, even before any enforcement action takes place.

As a case study, Netpol cited what it called the “34-60aa-50-35 dance”. This was a specific and targeted weaponisation of layered legislation noted by legal observers in Bristol. In sequence, it goes:

* > Section 60aa (Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994) requires the removal of face coverings and creates a pretext for stopping people without reasonable suspicion
* > Section 34 (Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014) provides authorisation for police to disperse protesters for up to 48 hours, effectively criminalising protesters for assembling once deemed as ‘likely’ to cause disorder. This, in turn, sets the precedent for the steps that follow.
* > Section 50 follows, criminalising non-compliance and providing an easy arrest mechanism while also acting as an intelligence-gathering model which allows police to identify movement actors.
* > Section 35 (Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014) is then evoked, allowing the police to clear out protesters once data collection has been completed.

## Security logics

Chillingly, the report also found that national security and counterterrorism logics are now embedded in routine protest policing. This means that authorities are framing dissent is framed as an existential security threat. These ‘exceptional’ concerns allow them to ‘justify’ the use of repressive tactics.

Netpol stated that:

> We have seen the unprecedented application of counter-terrorism legislation – in particular, the Terrorism Act 2000 – largely in response to Palestine solidarity protest, including to proscribe direct action group Palestine Action.

This legislation was ostensibly drafted to tackle extreme threats to national security. However, we’re now regularly seeing it weaponised against demonstrators going about what was once ordinary protest activity.

Even the National Security Act 2023 is now being used against protesters and journalists, marking the even greater application of national security powers against political dissent.

## Geographical spread

Across Britain, the use of powers to restrict assemblies shot up by 230% over 2024 – 2025. What’s more, where this repression was once largely limited to London (and the Met), it’s now spreading.

In part, this is a reflection of the fact that the protest landscape itself is seeing a lower proportion of large-scale national marches. Instead, “sustained, local and site-based assemblies” are dominating the scene.

Until March 2025, the Met was the only force to impose wholesale restrictions on marches. However, this year’s restrictions on assemblies were far less localised. The report explained that:

> This pattern indicates the widening geographical spread of public order policing through restrictions placed on static and sustained protests outside weapons factories, local government buildings and hotels homing refugees.

## Widening accountability gap

Finally, whilst police powers have grown in number and scope, there’s been no corresponding growth in accountability. Instead, the public’s powers to scrutinise and restrain the police have grown weaker. Legislative and policy changes are also undermining accountability and routes to redress policy repression.

Meanwhile, pre-emptive approaches to policing are on the rise, enabled by vast surveillance networks. By its nature, these pre-crime tactics are opaque and difficult for the public to scrutinise.

Likewise, the danger for journalists and legal observers – the people documenting police repression – is increasing. This reduces accountability by eroding methods of evidence collection. The report stated that:

> We spoke to one legal observer who had been stopped by the police on fabricated charges, noting that
> police harassment had forced them to take a step back in 2025, while another was arrested at the national PSC demonstration in January 2025.
>
> We have also received a number of reports of police violence against legal observers, ranging from being caught in kettles, to being pepper sprayed, to being shoved into objects and vehicles. One legal observer told us that they no longer give too much thought to being pushed by police due to experiencing this kind of force as a regular occurrence over the summer of 2025.

## Conclusion

Whilst the findings of the report detailed a chilling escalation of repressive policing, Netpol took care not to end on a hopeless note. Rather, they emphasised the fact that the public is resisting, and we have not yet given up—[and the movement is growing][3]:

> Despite the trends identified in this report, repression has not yet silenced dissent. Instead, solidarity with protest movements throughout 2025 strengthened, with steadfast resilience shown by those protesting for Palestine and communities defending themselves against far-right and anti-migrant demonstrations.
>
> Crucially, the ability to protest has been upheld by those who build and sustain the infrastructures of resistance, amid depleted resources and increasingly complex legal and political environments. However, with the passing of another year, the stakes of exercising the right to protest have once again increased. It is vital that we reject the idea that repression is inevitable before the dwindling space to dissent disappears.

The UK government, and the police along with them, have built a state in which repression has become routine. However, the public has—time and time again—met them head-on. The state is witnessing first-hand that we cannot be legislated into submission, and that we will not let go of our rights and freedoms without a fight.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Alex/Rose Cocker][4]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/26/protest-police-repression-netpol/
[2]: https://netpol.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/WEB_HowRepressionBecameRoutine.pdf
[3]: https://netpol.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/WEB_ExecSumm_HowRepressionBecameRoutine.pdf
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/alexrosecocker/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/2026/03/26/netpol-report-policing/

Starmer offers pathetic excuse when accused of McSweeney ...

2026-03-26T12:12:03Z

Starmer offers pathetic excuse when accused of McSweeney ‘cover-up’

[Keir Starmer with Peter Mandelson and Morgan McSweeney in the background]

Keir Starmer is busy trotting out another set of excuses for yet another political scandal. Morgan McSweeney is the ex-Downing Street chief of staff who [resigned in disgrace in February this year][1]. McSweeney resigned to take the fall for the hiring of Peter Mandelson – a man that Starmer [knew was a close associate of the international paedophile Jeffrey Epstein][2]. Now, it’s emerged that McSweeney conveniently had his phone stolen not long after Mandelson got the boot.

Given the timeline, many have accused McSweeney of faking the incident to destroy any messages between himself and Mandelson. Given what we know about the ‘theft’, this is arguably more plausible than the official narrative, and yet Starmer has responded as follows:

> Q: Critics say the theft and botched investigation of Morgan McSweeney’s phone stinks of a cover-up. Can you understand why people are suspicious about this phone being stolen just as the Mandelson scandal was unfolding? [https://t.co/nDvTL34qZj][3]
>
> — Beth Rigby (@BethRigby) [March 26, 2026][4]

Is it really any more “far fetched” than what we know for certain – i.e. that Starmer[ hired Mandelson in the first place despite everything he knew about the man?][5]

## Starmer losing control

At this point, we know McSweeney reported his phone stolen in October 2025 – [the month after Mandelson got shitcanned from his position as ambassador to the US][6]. In what the [*BBC* described as an “unusual step”][7], the police have released a full transcript of the call between [McSweeney and the police][8]:

> Call handler: Police, what’s your emergency?
>
> Caller: Oh, hello, someone just robbed my phone.
>
> Call handler: Did they actually take it from you just now?
>
> Caller: Yeah
>
> Call handler: How did they get away?
>
> Caller: So he’s on a bike. He’s come onto the pavement to grab my phone and cycled off on a bike.
>
> Call handler: And where did this happen?
>
> Caller: It happened in Belgrave Street* in Westminster.
>
> *We now know that the incident took place in Belgrave Road, Westminster. The call handler inputs Belgrave Street and it provides a matching road name in Tower Hamlets, which is what is recorded in error. There are further references to locations near to Belgrave Street in Tower Hamlets later in the call, which compounds the issue.
>
> Call handler: And whose phone are you using now?
>
> Caller: I’ve got two phones. I’m using my personal one. That was my work one.
>
> Call handler: Can I take the phone number for this phone you’re calling on?
>
> Caller: Yeah, 07XXXXXXXXX.
>
> Call handler: Thank you. And you said Belgrave Street, yeah?
>
> Caller: Yeah, just kind of going back to the location.
>
> Call handler: Don’t put yourself at any risk. It’s not worth it over a phone. I appreciate it’s frustrating.
>
> Call handler: And which way did they go towards, this suspect on a bike?
>
> Caller: He went. He travels north. I saw him for a few blocks.
>
> Call handler: So where were you when you last saw him? Have you got any idea?
>
> Caller: Yeah, so.
>
> Call handler: Did you get up to Stepney?
>
> Caller: Let me tell you where I got to. I’m just going back to where I can.
>
> Caller: So he turned right. Sorry, he turned left. There’s a park on top of the road and he turned left there.
>
> Call handler: Stepney Green Park, ok.
>
> Caller: Yeah. He turned left there.
>
> Call handler: Can you remember anything about his appearance?
>
> Caller: Yeah, he was young. He was a black guy. He was on a bike.
>
> Call handler: About how young?
>
> Call handler: Just a guess.
>
> Caller: Teens. Late teens.
>
> Call handler: Was he skinny, tall, any idea?
>
> Caller: Yeah. He was slim. He was about average height.
>
> Call handler: Was it an e bike or pedal bike?
>
> Caller: Pedal bike.
>
> Call handler: Have you got a tracker on the phone at all?
>
> Caller: I do. It’s a government phone.
>
> Call handler: And it’s your work phone. What kind of phone is it?
>
> Caller: It’s an iPhone.
>
> Call handler: Do you know what model?
>
> Caller: I don’t.
>
> [PAUSE]
>
> Call handler: Right, just bear with me a second.
>
> Call handler: We would normally deploy to see you but at the moment, we are having extreme demand on police officers. So, I don’t know if you would prefer to make your way home and make a crime report over the phone or online tomorrow. I mean, I can complete one with you now. I can pass this down, you can wait, but I honestly do not know how long you’ll be waiting,
>
> Caller: If I could complete it now that would be good.
>
> Call handler: Ok.
>
> Call handler: What’s your name, please?
>
> Caller: My name is XXXXXXXXXX.
>
> Call handler: XXXXXXXXXX? (repeats name back)
>
> Caller: Yeah.
>
> Call handler: And your date of birth, please?
>
> Caller: It’s XXXXXX
>
> Call handler: Is XXXXXXXXX (surname) all one word?
>
> Caller: Yeah, (spells surname).
>
> Call handler: And what’s your home address?
>
> Caller: (Provides non-London address)
>
> Call handler: So you live in XXXXXX?
>
> Caller: Yeah.
>
> Call handler: Are you staying anywhere while you’re in London?
>
> Caller: Yeah.
>
> Call handler: Sorry, it just takes a little bit longer to deal with an address outside of the Met. I do apologise.
>
> Caller: It’s ok.
>
> Call handler: And may I take an email for you please (name)?
>
> Caller: Yeah, it’s XXXXXXXXXXX@XXXXXXXXXX.com (personal email address)
>
> Call handler: You’ll get a copy of the preliminary crime report through to that email.
>
> Call handler: How would you like to be contacted by an investigating officer? By email or phone?
>
> Caller: Phone, please. Or either, I’m not fussed.
>
> Call handler: Have you got any finance apps on the phone?
>
> Caller: No.
>
> Call handler: You’ll need to change any passwords for any logins you do have on the phone.
>
> Caller: Yeah, okay.
>
> Call handler: You’re not vulnerable in any way. Are you?
>
> Caller: No I’m not.
>
> Call handler: Do you believe there was any CCTV near where the incident happened?
>
> Caller: Might be. [Inaudible] away from location.
>
> Call handler: Don’t worry. Don’t return. No, I’ll just put at the moment unknown. And obviously, if we find out more, we find out more.
>
> Call handler: Are you willing to make a statement to support the investigation?
>
> Caller: Definitely.
>
> Call handler: So what time did he actually snatch the phone?
>
> Caller: About two minutes before I rung you and I chased, and then I rang my office to get the phone tracked and then I rang you.
>
> Call handler: Okay, cool. It would have been about 25 past that you were robbed.
>
> Caller: A little before, about 23 minutes past, I think.
>
> Call handler: 23? Little bit before? Okay.
>
> [PAUSE]
>
> Call handler: Just bear with me, I’m just trying to get this system to accept the address. Sorry about this. I won’t keep you much longer.
>
> Call handler: If you do get any tracking updates, what you do is you give us call back if the phone is stationary.
>
> Caller: Yeah.
>
> Call handler: And we can review attending then. We can’t guarantee attending a moving phone at all, but if it’s been stationary for a few…
>
> Call handler: It’s not accepting your address.
>
> Caller: I can give you my London address?
>
> Call handler: It’s alright. I’ve nearly got this to work.
>
> Caller: Okay
>
> Call handler: How long you staying in London?
>
> Caller: So I come to London every week. I work in London.
>
> Call handler: Oh, I see. Okay, that makes sense.
>
> Caller: So I’ll be here till Thursday.
>
> Call handler: Okay.
>
> [PAUSE]
>
> Call handler: As I was trying to say, I’ve got this sorted now, so I’ll be texting you a crime reference number in the next few moments. Along with the crime reference number will be a CHS reference number. If you need to give us a call back, you can call back giving that reference number from any device, and then we’ll be able to link it straight away to your crime report and review deploying. We will need to know a bit more details about the phone itself, so when you’re contacted by the investigating officer, or if you do get tracking details, you can call us back with the IMEI number, and the type of phone that it is that would be super helpful.
>
> Caller: All right, thank you.
>
> Call handler: All right, I’m just about to text you through the crime reference number now.
>
> Caller: Thank you so much. You’ve been really helpful.
>
> Call handler: No worries. All right, (name). You take care now, okay? Bye.
>
> Caller: Bye bye.

If you’re confused as to why the Downing Street chief of staff called the police and not MI6, you’re far from alone. [As *Sky News* reported][9], McSweeney:

> was the prime minister’s chief of staff, so the PM’s most senior political advisor. His phone contained the contact details for and messages with Sir Keir Starmer, the cabinet, and the most senior British officials.
>
> This is information that the foreign intelligence services of adversaries like Russia, China and Iran would be very interested in obtaining.

Why are we keeping James Bond on the payroll if not for instances like this?

It gets worse, too, because McSweeney also left out crucial information in his call to the police.

## Starmer steps in

In the video above, Starmer [says][10]:

> The phone was stolen. It was reported to the police. There’s a transcript of the call in which Morgan McSweeney gives his name, his date of birth, the details of the phone and the police confirm that it was reported.
>
> Unfortunately, there are thefts like this. It was stolen. It was reported at the time, the police have acknowledged and confirmed that … and the idea that somehow everybody could have seen that some time in the future there’d be a request over the phone is, to my mind, a little bit far-fetched.

Starmer leaves out key details here, though:

> Labour’s then Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney gave the police the wrong road – an address in Stepney – and then encouraged them to believe he was indeed in Stepney. And this was a legendarily tech-savvy man who knew his duties to preserve all data on the Government phone? [https://t.co/o9FGwtJ8NA][11]
>
> — Joe Rich (@joerichlaw) [March 25, 2026][12]

McSweeney also failed to inform the police that he was one of the most important people in the country from a security perspective, and that the loss of his phone could result in an international incident. But yes, as Starmer said, he did at least give his date of birth – so well done for getting that right, Mr McSweeney.

This wasn’t the only way in which shifty Starmer gave a false impression:

> And again, Keir Starmer is deliberately trying to misled people. The whole point is that the phone was 'stolen' a week AFTER No.10 officials had discussed the possibility of parliament demanding to see the messages. [https://t.co/EzQ7hSfjdu][13]
>
> — (((Dan Hodges))) (@DPJHodges) [March 26, 2026][14]

As Saul Staniforth highlighted, it’s hard to fathom that McSweeney should have left this to the Metropolitan Police:

> Councils have strict protocols around this, so you would think that the government would be the same if not stricter. Unbelievable !
>
> — Bee (@h_bee28788884) [March 26, 2026][15]

Others have noted that protocols around this sort of thing are much higher than the government is expecting us to believe:

> I've now spoken to two former Government Spads. Both were senior, both lost their Government phones. In both cases their first approach was to the Government internal security services, who then brokered a liaison with the Met to ensure the issue was dealt with properly.
>
> — (((Dan Hodges))) (@DPJHodges) [March 25, 2026][16]

> Crazy! When my laptop was stolen in Oxford Circus while working for UN, police came asap, went through CCTV, identified professional thieves (2 of them) & took me to the police station to file the report. But McSweeney didn’t tell police he advised PM Starmer on his phone.[👇] [https://t.co/Qcl2yi4qVv][17]
>
> — Jane Samuels (@Jane_Samuels) [March 25, 2026][18]

It’s looking so bad for the government that even Labour MPs are calling bullshit:

> I don’t believe McSwindle had his iPhone stolen. [🤷🏼‍♂️]
>
> — Karl Turner MP (@KarlTurnerMP) [March 25, 2026][19]

## Defending the indefensible

Some are defending the government’s limp defence; among them is *Huff Post* editor Kevin Schofield. Schofield’s defence was so bad that it was quickly torn apart by *GB News* founder and human whoopee cushion Andrew Neil:

> He wasn’t mugged. Even he doesn’t claim that. Making things up to bolster an untenable position is not a good look. Try and come up with something better. [https://t.co/jlvuBCrOtb][20]
>
> — Andrew Neil (@afneil) [March 25, 2026][21]

Others have highlighted there may be other ways to access the WhatsApp messages between McSweeney and Mandelson, meaning there was no reason for the ex chief of staff to destroy his phone:

> Peter Mandelson handed back his government iPhone when he was sacked as US ambassador last September. So presumably some of his WhatsApp conversations with Morgan McSweeney will be available to the government because they will be on an iPhone in their possession [https://t.co/I4Xs2lwvWF][22]
>
> — Robert Peston (@Peston) [March 25, 2026][23]

> Government have already confirmed they have handed all the messages on it to the police.
>
> The medias latest conspiracy theory that Mcsweeney faked a mugging , 6 months previously, and despite police releasing reported theft details, is looking more stupid by the hour. [https://t.co/bqjHPBvxOb][24]
>
> — Lou D[🌹] [🇬🇧] [🇺🇦] (@louderry) [March 25, 2026][25]

There is a logic to this if all the WhatsApps materialise, but there’s something else to consider; who else was McSweeney communicating with, and what apps did he use to contact them?

Because his phone was ‘stolen’, we may never know.

And let’s be real; this whole affair stinks to high heaven.

*Featured image via [Sky News][26]*

By [Willem Moore][27]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/02/08/starmer-mcsweeney-quits/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/02/03/mandelson-interview-epstein/
[3]: https://t.co/nDvTL34qZj
[4]: https://twitter.com/BethRigby/status/2037074905263415778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/03/15/starmer-mandelson-resign/
[6]: https://news.sky.com/story/what-is-the-controversy-over-morgan-mcsweeneys-stolen-phone-13524327
[7]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvg09w1wvjqo
[8]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0legj9e7nxo
[9]: https://news.sky.com/story/what-is-the-controversy-over-morgan-mcsweeneys-stolen-phone-13524327
[10]: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/mandelson-files-mcsweeney-phone-theft-starmer-b2945926.html
[11]: https://t.co/o9FGwtJ8NA
[12]: https://twitter.com/joerichlaw/status/2036851882019127568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[13]: https://t.co/EzQ7hSfjdu
[14]: https://twitter.com/DPJHodges/status/2037074191376134603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[15]: https://twitter.com/h_bee28788884/status/2037091110724468872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[16]: https://twitter.com/DPJHodges/status/2036774824790339916?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[17]: https://t.co/Qcl2yi4qVv
[18]: https://twitter.com/Jane_Samuels/status/2036802882679296083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[19]: https://twitter.com/KarlTurnerMP/status/2036883121392517252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[20]: https://t.co/jlvuBCrOtb
[21]: https://twitter.com/afneil/status/2036874785410457667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[22]: https://t.co/I4Xs2lwvWF
[23]: https://twitter.com/Peston/status/2036865176951980431?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[24]: https://t.co/bqjHPBvxOb
[25]: https://twitter.com/louderry/status/2036872203778539576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[26]: https://x.com/SkyNews/status/2037064881040486482?s=20
[27]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/willem-moore/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/26/starmer-pathetic/

Police repression of UK protests is now “routine” — new ...

2026-03-26T10:50:31Z

Police repression of UK protests is now “routine” — new report finds

[Protest — DOJ Birmingham November 2025]

An annual ‘State of Protest’ report on the policing of demonstrations says the repression of dissent in Britain in 2025 has not only become worse. In fact, it is now increasingly routine. This is not just in London. It applies more widely across England, Wales, and Scotland.

## Policing protests

The report, “How Repression Became Routine” by the Network for Police Monitoring (Netpol), says that protests are increasingly policed as threats rather than an exercise of fundamental democratic freedom and expression.

[Netpol][1] was set up in the aftermath of G20 protests in London in 2009. Its work challenges police tactics, intrusive police surveillance and the expansion of public order powers.

The report concludes that new and overlapping laws have contributed to the normalisation of surveillance and confrontational policing. There is also a growing tendency to treat protest as a security issue. As a result, the report states that punishment has also been normalised. The impacts are disproportionately felt by marginalised groups.

Speakers at the report’s launch included Palestine Action co-founder Huda Ammori, and NHS doctor and campaigner Ayo Khalil. He was [racially profiled and arrested][2] at a prisoner solidarity protest outside HMP Bronzefield in December 2025.

## Police impunity

Netpol also reported that the public’s ability to scrutinise police powers has been weakened. Their reporting suggests that journalists and legal observers documenting police violence and repression are operating in an increasingly unsafe environment.

This aligns with the appalling but entirely unsurprising [claim][3] that human rights legislation makes policing “untenable,” Met Police commissioner Mark Rowley has claimed.

He laid out his position in a recent LRB interview:

> There will always be a bit of grey at the margins of legislation[…]but the current public order legislation has far, far too much grey.
>
> It was designed in the 1980s in a different time and has had the Human Rights Act overlaid over the top of it, which creates such complexity for the decision making of police officers and the Crown Prosecution Service.

Commenting on the police’s remit, Rowley said:

> It’s not for me to say how permissive or restrictive they should be, but as a police officer, me and my colleagues just want clarity.

## Repressive policing, Britain’s new norm

The report’s finding imply that repressive policing—far from being ‘drift’ or isolated to some police forces—is recognised as a standard “routine” practise. “Layered legislation,” as Rowley alludes, create a legal situation that is not just open to interpretation but is also confusing and open to abuse. Consequently, this makes it equally difficult for protest groups to predict how demonstrations will be policed.

Typically, the Met force determines the application of the law. Other forces then adopt this into their practices. These are widely perceived by activists and excessive and draconian.

Powers initially applied to marches have been expanded to static protests including those held outside of weapons factories. Both are treated as a security threat rather than a human and civic right.

Additionally, politicians who talk about disloyalty or British values render racialised people at protests as ‘Other.’ This dog-whistling places minorities at greater risk of aggressive policing. For example, this was [seen at the recent Quds Day demo][4]. Legal observers and “journalists” specialising in civic protest movements are also at greater risk.

The report’s findings are based on deep-dive qualitative research on protest movements. It features interviews, testimonies, legal observer notes, court records, police and government data, media coverage, and twenty-one freedom of information requests.

The report went live on 25 March. In-person events will be taking place in April across Manchester, Brighton, and London to discuss its findings.

Kevin Blowe of Netpol said:

> Last year we raised the alarm about state-supported measures designed to impose social control on protests on a scale reminiscent of the ‘war on terror’ two decades ago. A year on, we have now documented how these practices have become the norm.
>
> Repression does not happen overnight: it creeps up on us gradually. Frontline campaigners and human rights are all now saying that attacks on protest rights are repressive. Yet the government plans even more new laws in 2026.
>
> As well as new legislation, we are seeing a growth in police powers used as tools of surveillance, particularly against anti-racist and anti-fascist opponents of the increasing number of far right demonstrations across Britain against migrants.
>
> Britain’s most senior police officer, Sir Mark Rowley, is now also seeking to further undermine human rights laws and crack down on protests even more in the name of ‘clarity’. Our research, however, found it is the excessive and arbitrary use of police powers, not the Human Rights Act, that appears intended to confuse and intimidate protesters and discourage them from exercising their rights.

## The human cost

At the report launch, psychiatrist and medic Ayo Khalil spoke of the impact of these policing tactics, stating that given:

> the state of our country, [the roots of depression, anxiety and other mental health problems] are in the seats of power and institutions [and] the state’s efforts to pathologise people who care. We are told we are the problem … The system does not value human life.

Khalil also pointed to the attempt by Starmer and the General Medical Council to treat doctors who oppose genocide as antisemitic.

> It’s this constant push to treat opposition to genocide as a threat of violence or putting patients at risk. [Doctors] at protests outside hunger strikers’ prisons have even been choked unconscious… [yet] there is no accountability for the police officers.

Khalil noted a pattern in the violence used against protesters, particularly targeting their back, neck, and other areas during arrests. This elevates the risk of lasting injuries or even permanent disability. Families of people that have been injured or arrested also suffer from crippling anxiety and fear, which may pressure dissenters and dissuade them from future protests.

That said, Khalik told the Canary that the protest movement has been galvanised and redoubled its efforts in response to hostile policing. In response, the government has been trying to neutralise protest and its impact. Khalil also highlighted that prisons—in many cases—are run by private companies, holding hunger strikers use “systematic” violence, abuse and the withholding of rights as a further form of punishment.

> What is protest if you can’t disrupt? The point of protest is to shake things up. If we allow ourselves to be reduced to a bit of noise in the corner, we will lose our potency and we can’t allow that … The British government is directly responsible for so many of these [wrongs] around the world.

## Starmer’s protest U-turn

Ammori, whose legal success in obtaining a judicial review that reversed the ‘terror’ ban on Palestine Action (currently being [appealed by the Starmer regime)][5] said that direct action is essential to ending genocide. However, it inevitably triggered a backlash:

> Even one day of a weapons factory being shut down is a victory … The proof is in the pudding and in the process we annoyed a lot of powerful people [especially those] sponsored and paid for by the Israel lobby. All that lobbying pressure built up and…it was very clear that the government had decided to prioritise the needs and interests of a foreign weapons manufacturer over the rights of its own citizens.

She added that the government had redefined actions as terrorism, even though they had already been convicted as breaches of the peace or criminal damage.

> What is becoming more and more apparent was that the reason they arrested those people [the Filton 24] was because they needed those arrests to justify the ban on Palestine Action and their claims of terrorism. [But] when the cases went to trial, not a single one of them was convicted of a single offence. Those people were held without being convicted of a single offence [and] Sam continues to be held.
>
> They tried to put these ridiculous charges against them and they [couldn’t land a single conviction][6]. And [The ban on protest supporting Palestine Action] made Palestine Action a household name.

Ammori said that because of this, if the government’s appeal fails and Palestine Action comes back, then:

> It will come back stronger than ever before.

She condemned the government’s violence and denial of human rights, especially against hunger strikers. Additionally, she said that it’s “only a matter of time” before Palestine Action is back. She believes it will be more of a thorn in the side of the apartheid lobby than ever.

*Feature image via Barold/the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][7]

[1]: https://netpol.org/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2025/12/22/police-strangle-doctor/
[3]: https://www.lbc.co.uk/article/too-much-grey-area-met-boss-human-rights-law-making-it-untenable-for-police-5HjdWQK_2/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/11/mahmood-caves/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/02/25/palestine-action-unbanning/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/02/19/palestine-action-lies/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/26/protest-police-repression-netpol/

Activists disrupt BAE Systems at careers fair in Lancashire ...

2026-03-26T10:30:35Z

Activists disrupt BAE Systems at careers fair in Lancashire

[Activists disrupt BAE Systems at careers fair in Lancashire]

Palestine activists disrupted the North West Apprenticeship and Careers Expo on 25 March, which was held at the University of Central Lancashire (Uclan). They were targeting the presence of [BAE Systems][1], the largest arms manufacturer in Europe.

## Close ties to BAE

Activists disrupted the event to challenge the university’s close ties with BAE, which has a major production facility in Samlesbury, Lancashire. The factory manufactures the rear fuselage for every F-35 warplane, including those supplied to and used by Israel and the US. F-35 pilots have massacred hundreds of thousands of civilians in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, Yemen and many more countries.

UCLan has [strengthened][2] its partnership with BAE Systems through a memorandum of understanding. Their aim is to create career pathways for graduates and apprentices, further integrating the university into the defence sector and facilitating student access to roles within the company.

A spokesperson from the BAE Out Campaign said:

> We call on UClan to immediately cut all ties with the death merchants BAE Systems, who continue to profit and delight from the suffering of innocent people.
>
> Until then, we will continue to take action and hold those responsible to account.

## Components used in Iran

London-based research charity Action on Armed Violence has [confirmed][3] that two UK defence companies – BAE Systems and [Raytheon UK][4] – produce components used in Tomahawk cruise missiles. This is the same type of missile that [struck a girls’ school][5] in Iran, killing over 160 children.

By [The Canary][6]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/02/18/bae-systems-blood-money/
[2]: https://www.lancashire.ac.uk/news/memorandum-of-understanding-bae
[3]: https://aoav.org.uk/2026/uk-linked-components-identified-in-us-tomahawk-missile-used-in-iranian-school-strike-that-killed-multiple-children/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/01/14/elbit-systems-loses/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/21/uk-parts-in-missile/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/26/protest-bae-systems/

‘You’re negotiating with yourself’: Iranian colonel mocks ...

2026-03-26T00:03:28Z

‘You’re negotiating with yourself’: Iranian colonel mocks Trump over peace talk claims

[Iran]

Iran’s military spokesperson has openly mocked US president [Donald Trump][1] over supposed peace talks. Lt. Col. Ebrahim Zolfaghari [said][2] Trump was negotiating with himself in a video statement published on 25 March:

> The one claiming to be a global superpower would have already gotten out of this mess if it could. Don’t dress up your defeat as an agreement. Your era of empty promises has come to an end.
>
> Have your internal conflicts reached the point where you are negotiating with yourselves?

Zolfaghari’s burn came as Iran [rejected][3] a US peace plan and published their own list of demands for any negotiations:

> Per a report from the Wall Street Journal, Iran has responded to the Trump administration’s proposal for a ceasefire with demands that far surpass the characterization of maximalist. Iran has demanded the closure of all U.S. bases in the Gulf region, a new Strait of Hormuz… [pic.twitter.com/XAQAzkUTsD][4]
>
> — OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) [March 25, 2026][5]

An Iranian official [said][6] the US proposals were “extremely maximalist and unreasonable”. The country also said the fact the US was still deploying troops to the region despite making a lot of noise about diplomacy was suspicious.

Abas Aslani, a fellow at the Centre for Middle East Strategic Studies in Tehran, [told][7] Al Jazeera:

> Washington’s decision to deploy additional forces to the region sends a signal that the strategy they are pursuing militarily does not align with the tone of their positions in terms of the negotiations.

The leadership of the US 82nd Airborne division have been ordered to the Middle East. The *Intercept* [reported][8] on 25 March:

> The deployment includes the division’s “headquarters element,” support staff, and some personnel who manage logistics, planning, and command operations.

The outlet [added][9]:

> Open source reporting suggests dozens of transport aircraft used to ferry troops and cargo have been flying out of airfields used by America’s most elite commandos, including the Army’s Delta Force and the Navy’s SEAL Team 6.

> A flight-tracking account notes 35 C-17s flying out of airfields including those used by Delta Force (Bragg), SEAL Team 6 (Oceana), two of the three Ranger battalions (HAAF and JBLM), and the 160th SOAR.Looks a lot like staging JSOC in case it’s ordered to do the uranium recovery mission in Iran.
>
> — [Wesley Morgan (@wesleymorgan.bsky.social)][10] [2026-03-23T22:58:55.943Z][11]

## Mocked by Iran

*Al Jazeera* [reported][12] that up to 50,000 US troops are in the Middle East already:

> That includes 200 combat aircraft, as well as two aircraft carriers. In addition to that, we know the 82nd Airborne, composed of 1,000 additional troops, is the latest to supplement that.
>
> As well, two Marine Expeditionary Units, consisting of 5,000 Marines and sailors, are also heading to the region. So again, what we see is the US speaking out of both sides of its mouth, for lack of a better comparison.

Iran’s parliamentary speaker posted on X that Iran was well aware of US plans to occupy coastal islands militarily:

> Based on some data, Iran’s enemies, with the support of one of the regional countries, are preparing to occupy one of the Iranian islands. All enemy movements are under the full surveillance of our armed forces. If they step out of line, all the vital infrastructure of that regional country will, without restriction, become the target of relentless attacks.

> براساس برخی داده‌ها، دشمنان ایران با پشتیبانی یکی از کشورهای منطقه، در حال تدارک عملیات اشغال یکی از جزایر ایرانی هستند.
> تمام تحرکات دشمن تحت اشراف نیروهای مسلح ماست. اگر قدم از قدم بردارند، تمام زیرساخت‌های حیاتی آن کشور منطقه‌ای بدون محدودیت، هدف حملات بی‌امان قرار خواهد گرفت.
>
> — محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) [March 25, 2026][13]

Trump has been mocked by Iranian-linked X accounts in recent days:

> The Strait of Hormuz will be controlled by me and the Ayatollah[😎][😁] [pic.twitter.com/IxIgo1Pn6S][14]
>
> — Iran Embassy SA (@IraninSA) [March 23, 2026][15]

The X posts have portrayed Trump as childish and inept:

> Iran owns Trump with the latest Ai meme mocking his efforts at war [@realDonaldTrump][16] [@WhiteHouse][17][pic.twitter.com/Qr5ovPSf7j][18]
>
> — KT "Special MI6 Operation" (@KremlinTrolls) [March 23, 2026][19]

One even portrayed America’s stalling war through the medium of Lego:

> Iran propaganda slaps [pic.twitter.com/qZxikP94nU][20]
>
> — Darth Powell (@VladTheInflator) [March 24, 2026][21]

The US-Israel attacked Iran first on 28 February without provocation. The country was offering [unprecedented concessions][22] in negotiations at the time. The Pentagon has since [stated][23] there was no imminent threat from Iran. And the UN’s atomic watchdog, the IAEA, has said there is [no evidence][24] Iran was developing a nuclear weapon.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Joe Glenton][25]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/02/01/maga-trump-epstein/
[2]: https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2026/mar/25/middle-east-crisis-live-iran-war-oil-prices-more-us-troops-reportedly-deployed-donald-trump-attacks-on-lebanon?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-69c3668b8f087a808ec0c4ea#block-69c3668b8f087a808ec0c4ea
[3]: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/mar/25/iran-gives-negative-response-to-us-ceasefire-plan-amid-push-for-talks
[4]: https://t.co/XAQAzkUTsD
[5]: https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/2036623933244350602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://aje.news/ve6pos
[7]: https://aje.news/ve6pos?update=4433928
[8]: https://theintercept.com/2026/03/24/82nd-airborne-leadership-ordered-to-middle-east-as-trump-iran-war/
[9]: https://theintercept.com/2026/03/24/82nd-airborne-leadership-ordered-to-middle-east-as-trump-iran-war/
[10]: https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:keg556wyu4ly47xqratgwfi6?ref_src=embed
[11]: https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:keg556wyu4ly47xqratgwfi6/post/3mhr5xfk2b222?ref_src=embed
[12]: https://aje.news/ve6pos?update=4433839
[13]: https://twitter.com/mb_ghalibaf/status/2036864286870691934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[14]: https://t.co/IxIgo1Pn6S
[15]: https://twitter.com/IraninSA/status/2036136193339933177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[16]: https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[17]: https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[18]: https://t.co/Qr5ovPSf7j
[19]: https://twitter.com/KremlinTrolls/status/2036135322212237362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[20]: https://t.co/qZxikP94nU
[21]: https://twitter.com/VladTheInflator/status/2036578893227077973?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[22]: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/full-transcript-omani-foreign-minister-badr-albusaidi/
[23]: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/pentagon-tells-congress-no-sign-that-iran-was-going-attack-us-first-sources-say-2026-03-02/
[24]: https://aje.news/xgc2gx?update=4359748
[25]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/joeglenton/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/26/iran-colonel-mocks-trump/

Reform in trouble amid crackdown on crypto and foreign donors ...

2026-03-25T23:36:32Z

Reform in trouble amid crackdown on crypto and foreign donors

[Reform]

Civil servant [Philip Rycroft][1] has put together a report “ringing the alarm bell” about “[covert foreign influence campaigns][2]” in UK politics. And the government has responded with an immediate crackdown on all cryptocurrency transactions in particular, which could cause big problems for Reform UK.

This increasing scrutiny of Reform’s dodgy finances comes just as the party has let its mask slip again by [dropping its promise to part-nationalise energy and water companies][3].

## A crackdown on Reform’s crypto shadiness

In 2025, Reform leader Nigel Farage promised a “[crypto revolution][4]”, saying the party would start to accept crypto donations. Reform has already received at least [£12m from cryptocurrency investor Christopher Harborne][5] alone. Harborne, who lives in Thailand, has long backed the British right, from the Tories to the Brexit Party.

Already [in the pockets of shady big business interests][6], Farage has also been acting like a [crypto lobbyist][7] and [fanatic][8] in recent months. And as the *Canary* has reported, a recent investigation showed just [how dangerous it was to allow Reform to keep][9]:

> exploiting a very obvious and gaping loophole in the political finance system

That’s because this situation has allowed Farage to:

> hide who and where he is getting his dirty money from

Responding to Rycroft’s report, Housing, Communities and Local Government secretary Steve Reed [said][10]:

> we will introduce an amendment to the representation of the people bill to place a moratorium on all political donations made through cryptocurrency… This moratorium will remain in place until the Electoral Commission and this parliament are satisfied there is sufficient regulation in place to ensure full confidence and transparency in donations being made in this way.

He also announced that [overseas electors will no longer be able to donate more than £100,000 a year][11].

Reform deputy leader Richard Tice has predictably said his party [will seek to repeal this law if it gets into government][12].

## ALL dodgy funding in politics must stop

While the government’s decision is welcome, we all know that Keir Starmer’s Labour is also swimming in donations from [lobbyists for foreign powers][13] and [shady corporate interests][14]. Indeed, [pro-Israel lobby figures][15] even gained leading roles in the government’s ‘foreign interference’ probe in late 2025.

An important point in Rycroft’s report was that it’s not just traditional global foes pushing for influence, but also traditional “[allies like the United States][16]“.

In this context, Electoral Reform Society director Jess Garland has encouraged the government to take even stronger action by [introducing][17]:

> a cap on how much all donors can give to a party, not just those based abroad

The public strongly supports this, she said, and it:

> would help prevent our politics from being swamped with massive donations, which now frequently reach into the multiple millions.

This is true for Reform, Labour, the Tories, and the Liberal Democrats. Indeed, [Labour Together][18] — which Reed himself once directed — has itself received [millions of pounds][19] to exert massive influence over the Labour Party and its current cabinet.

As Unlock Democracy chief executive Tom Brake [said][20]:

> Big money distorts politics regardless of its origin. A fixed cap is needed across the board to prevent large donations, whether from overseas voters or domestic sources, from buying influence.

Transparency International UK’s policy director Duncan Hames, meanwhile, [stressed that][21]:

> A meaningful annual cap on donations is the most robust safeguard against both foreign interference and the outsized influence of big money in our politics.

We agree. And while we doubt Keir Starmer’s Labour will risk cutting its own funding stream off by doing so, it’s something we absolutely should be pushing for.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Ed Sykes][22]

[1]: https://www.gov.uk/government/people/philip-rycroft
[2]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2026/mar/25/rycroft-review-foreign-financial-interference-keir-starmer-kemi-badenoch-pmqs-latest-news-updates?filterKeyEvents=false&page=with%3Ablock-69c3dfa78f089e6ac8d30588#block-69c3dfa78f089e6ac8d30588
[3]: https://www.ft.com/content/be4b6cf0-21c8-466b-9458-dac864ab51b1?syn-25a6b1a6=1
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/06/reform-foreign-donors/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/06/reform-foreign-donors/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/11/11/brits-largely-oppose-reforms-anti-climate-agenda/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/06/reform-foreign-donors/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/09/farage-bitcoin/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/19/nigel-farage-corrupt-crypto/
[10]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2026/mar/25/rycroft-review-foreign-financial-interference-keir-starmer-kemi-badenoch-pmqs-latest-news-updates?filterKeyEvents=false&page=with%3Ablock-69c3ddc38f08643366b171db#block-69c3ddc38f08643366b171db
[11]: https://news.sky.com/story/major-curbs-to-party-donations-from-overseas-proposed-in-blow-for-reform-13524214
[12]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2026/mar/25/rycroft-review-foreign-financial-interference-keir-starmer-kemi-badenoch-pmqs-latest-news-updates?filterKeyEvents=false&page=with%3Ablock-69c3eeb68f089e6ac8d3064e#block-69c3eeb68f089e6ac8d3064e
[13]: https://www.declassifieduk.org/israel-lobby-funded-half-of-keir-starmers-cabinet/
[14]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2024/10/16/labour-donation-quadrature-israel/
[15]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/12/19/israel-lobby-figures-to-police/
[16]: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/69c29f84b920af63be1c7777/The_Rycroft_Review_Report_standard_version.pdf
[17]: https://news.sky.com/story/major-curbs-to-party-donations-from-overseas-proposed-in-blow-for-reform-13524214
[18]: https://www.thecanary.co/?s=Labour+Together
[19]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/24/labour-together-funders/
[20]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2026/mar/25/rycroft-review-foreign-financial-interference-keir-starmer-kemi-badenoch-pmqs-latest-news-updates?filterKeyEvents=false&page=with%3Ablock-69c3ddc38f08643366b171db#top-of-blog
[21]: https://www.theguardian.com/politics/live/2026/mar/25/rycroft-review-foreign-financial-interference-keir-starmer-kemi-badenoch-pmqs-latest-news-updates?filterKeyEvents=false&page=with%3Ablock-69c3ddc38f08643366b171db#top-of-blog
[22]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/oso/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/25/reform-crypto-crackdown/

Labour has no clue how many children its ‘No Recourse to Public ...

2026-03-25T23:28:55Z

Labour has no clue how many children its ‘No Recourse to Public Funds’ expansion will plunge into poverty

[Labour]

As part of Labour’s nakedly discriminatory immigration ‘reforms’, the government is planning to expand ‘no recourse to public funds’ (NRPF) to settled migrants. Worse still, they have no real idea of how many children this ruinous policy will plunge into poverty.

In November 2025, the UK government published “[A Fairer Pathway to Settlement][1]: A statement on earned settlement”. It lays out changes that will make the UK immigration system yet-more hostile, with[ proposals including:][2]

* Making permanent residency less available to people.
* Increasing the amount of time most people spend in the immigration system before they may apply for permanent residence.
* Reducing that wait if they have a higher level of English proficiency, if they are high earners, if they hold senior positions in a public service, or if they have undertaken ‘extensive’ volunteering.
* Increasing that time for people who arrive on a visitor visa, breach immigration rules, or have ever received public funds.
* Completely removing the option of permanent residency for anyone who has ever received a criminal conviction, has outstanding litigation, or has NHS, tax, or other government debts.

It’s currently the case that most migrants who are in the UK on a limited visa are subject to a ‘no recourse to public funds’ (NRPF) condition. However, as the government revealed in the ‘Fairer Pathway’ document, [it’s now looking to expand][3] NRPF to settled migrants, too:

> The government believes that the development of an earned settlement system should include a reassessment of the benefits accruing to settlement and where the accrual of those benefits might in future sit in the journey to settlement and citizenship respectively. Under this option, new migrants granted settlement would continue to be unable to access specified benefits in line with existing visa conditions. This would have the effect of shifting the default position on access to benefits to citizenship rather than settlement.

## ‘Earned Settlement’ consultation

On 13 March, the Home Affairs committee [published a report][4] on its[ ludicrously short stitch-up of a consultation][5] into the immigration reform proposals.

The inquiry highlighted that migrants can apply for fee waivers under certain conditions, including:

* being destitute, or at imminent risk thereof,

* reasons relating to a child’s welfare, or

* if they’re facing exceptional circumstances affecting their income.

It also included summaries of some relevant responses, including Anna Skehan, a solicitor at Islington Law Centre, who:

> told [the government] that circumstances that might lead to an application to access public funds might include an injury or illness, a mental health crisis, or a relationship breaking down due to domestic abuse.

That is to say, the Home Office plans to penalise migrants for needing state support for disability, poverty, domestic abuse.

Likewise, the NRPF Network — an organisation that provides advice to local authorities on NRPF – highlighted to the committee that:

> applying for access to benefits through a change of conditions is typically “a last resort”. The NRPF Network argued that penalising people for accessing public funds would increase risks of poverty, abuse and exploitation.

## Labour — no idea of the impact

Now, a DWP minister [has essentially][6] admitted that the government has no real clue about the number/proportion of children in poverty living in households subject to NRPF.

Crossbench peer John Bird wrote in asking the government:

> what estimate they have made of the number and proportion of children in (1) poverty, and (2) deep poverty, living in households subject to no recourse to public funds; and what assessment they have made of the impact of the Child Poverty Strategy on those numbers.

In response, DWP Minister of State Maeve Sherlock listed resources available for children from NRPF families. However, she notably failed to give any figures at all. Rather, she stated that:

> We are continuing our work to develop our understanding of NRPF and its impacts. This includes work with the Home Office to develop questions on NRPF for inclusion in the Family Resources survey 2026/2027, a household survey undertaken annually to explore living standards in the UK. This will provide greater insight into how families with the NRPF condition are living in the UK and will help to inform future policy-making.

Sherlock’s statement here almost directly echoed Labour’s [recent policy paper][7] ‘Our Children, Our Future: Tackling Child Poverty’, published 13 March. It stated that NRPF families could access free school meals, and some free childcare schemes. Likewise, it also mentioned developing questions — and gave no figures whatsoever.

So, not only is the government planning to expand NRPF, it made its proposals and ran the consultation before gathering any formal data to understand the impact of NRPF on child poverty. Worse still, it hasn’t yet worked out how to even assess this consequence of NRPF.

## Immigrant kids don’t count

In the foreword to the ‘Our Children’ policy paper, Keir Starmer boasts that:

> The recent story of child poverty in Britain is simple. The last Labour Government reduced it by around 600,000 children. Yet since 2010 it has risen by 900,000 and now around 4.5 million children are in poverty. That is a staggering indictment of the previous Government’s policies. The statistics alone are shocking enough but think about the individual human cost. […]
>
> The answer, in both first principles and evidence, is a resounding no. And so this child poverty strategy sets out a different path for Britain.

Starmer and his Labour Party talk a big game about tackling child poverty. However, they’re currently barreling towards an expansion of NRPF which will inevitably entrench poverty for the children of marginalised migrant and refugee families.

They haven’t studied the impact this will have, because they simply don’t care. Starmer’s Labour considers immigrants as collateral damage in their doomed bid to appeal to the far right. All child poverty is abhorrent, but for Labour, immigrant children clearly don’t count.

*Featured image via [World Vision UK][8]*

By [Alex/Rose Cocker][9]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/01/30/earned-settlement-activists/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/02/12/amnesty-slams-uk-immigration-reform/
[3]: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/earned-settlement/a-fairer-pathway-to-settlement-statement-and-accompanying-consultation-on-earned-settlement-accessible
[4]: https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5901/cmselect/cmhaff/1409/report.html?__cf_chl_f_tk=0_un4Yz32euQGDWRIw5OkbP3cgMqRf_aeQTHh3QpBlU-1774181796-1.0.1.1-Vw30tnaXS2_8EV8oa28XTfJpJbPSng838kmupeUqfFY
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/01/30/earned-settlement-activists/
[6]: https://questions-statements.parliament.uk/written-questions/detail/2026-03-09/hl15314
[7]: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/our-children-our-future-tackling-child-poverty/our-children-our-future-tackling-child-poverty
[8]: https://www.worldvision.org.uk/about/blogs/child-poverty-inequality/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/alexrosecocker/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/2026/03/25/labour-has-no-clue/

German bank says petroyuan may be born from war on Iran [Iran] ...

2026-03-25T23:12:42Z

German bank says petroyuan may be born from war on Iran

[Iran]

Deutsche Bank has warned in a [new report][1] that the rise of the petroyuan poses a clear challenge to the U.S. currency. The[ petrodollar system][2], built on a 1974 agreement between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, faces a “perfect storm” from the ongoing war on Iran initiated by the US/UK/Israel, the bank said.

The bank said that the foundations of the “security-for-oil-pricing arrangement” between the US and the GCC states have been shaken.

> The current conflict has arguably shaken some core foundations of the petrodollar regime: the security-for-oil-pricing arrangement. US military assets and bases in the Gulf have come under attack in the war.
>
> Oil infrastructure in the Gulf has also been hit. And the US ability to provide the maritime security to ensure the global flow of oil has been challenged with the closure of Hormuz. The US security umbrella has been fundamentally tested.
>
> The legacy of this conflict for the dollar could be the ways in which it tests the foundations of the petrodollar regime.

The dollar has not strengthened much in this crisis because of rising US fiscal risk from military spending and the sell-off of US Treasuries by Asia and the Middle East to defend their currencies, the report said.

“The conflict could be the catalyst for erosion in petrodollar dominance and the beginnings of the petroyuan,” the bank said, pointing out [reports][3] that Iran is allowing the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz if oil payments are made in yuan. China, a long-time partner of Iran, is also the nation’s biggest oil customer.

Just as the 1973 oil embargo led to diversification away from Gulf oil and reserve-building in places like Canada and the North Sea, a similar effect may happen this time. Europe, Asia, and many parts of the Global South will be the ones this time, looking at ways to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Reduced global oil trade would also create more room for the pricing of goods and services to shift away from the dollar, the report said.

*Featured image via [OMFIF][4]*

By [The Canary][5]

[1]: https://www.dbresearch.com/PROD/IE-PROD/PDFVIEWER.calias?pdfViewerPdfUrl=PROD0000000000622186&rwnode=REPORT
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/opinion/2026/03/18/petrodollar-gulf-states/
[3]: https://www.scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3346617/does-iran-have-yuan-hormuz-oil-trade-plan-why-analysts-china-are-urging-caution
[4]: https://www.omfif.org/2024/09/brics-considering-petroyuan-in-next-de-dollarisation-attempt/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/25/iran-german-bank-petroyuan/

Tory former prisons minister Blunt pleads guilty to possessing ...

2026-03-25T22:51:02Z

Tory former prisons minister Blunt pleads guilty to possessing meth, other drugs

[Tory]

Former Tory prisons minister Crispin Blunt has pleaded guilty to possessing [recreational quantities][1] of crystal meth, cannabis and the sedative GBL. The plea was entered at Westminster magistrates’ court this morning, 25 March 2026. The drugs were found during a police investigation into rape allegations in 2023, but that investigation was dropped for lack of evidence.

During a raid on his Surrey home in October 2023, Blunt pointed out the drugs to police. Meth was valued at £200-250 was on a cabinet next to his bed, a separate mix of b while £200 worth of GBL was in a laptop bag. A small amount of cannabis valued at £10 or less was also listed.

The irony of a prisons minister convicted of drugs is obvious. However, Blunt is one of the more ‘mixed bag’ Tories. Under Boris Johnson in October 2020, Blunt [voted][2] to keep poor UK children hungry by rejecting footballer Marcus Rashford’s call to extend free school meals through school holidays. But in 2019 he [rebelled][3] to help Jeremy Corbyn’s Labour humiliate Theresa May. He has also [condemned Israeli interference][4] in UK politics and [serves][5] as a director of the International Centre for Justice for Palestinians.

In 2016, Blunt [admitted][6] in a Commons speech to using amyl nitrate ‘poppers’ and opposed the government’s plan to ban them.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][7]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/01/08/yannis-varoufakis-drugs/
[2]: https://skwawkbox.org/2020/10/21/sky-news-forgets-to-mention-mps-who-voted-to-keep-poor-children-hungry-were-tories-here-is-a-list-of-them-all/
[3]: https://skwawkbox.org/2019/01/15/the-118-tories-who-helped-labour-humiliate-theresa-may/
[4]: https://skwawkbox.org/2020/09/17/exclusive-suspended-left-wing-london-councillor-stitched-up-using-edited-social-media-posts/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/2023/10/16/israel-propaganda-war-crimes-uk-tv/
[6]: https://www.buzzfeed.com/jimwaterson/poppersplaining
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/25/tory-former-prisons-minister/

The think tank behind the DWP Universal Credit cuts is now saying ...

2026-03-25T22:18:30Z

The think tank behind the DWP Universal Credit cuts is now saying the benefits system is too generous for young people

[DWP]

DWP — The Resolution Foundation is the latest to jump on the [disabled young people][1]-bashing bandwagon. On Tuesday 24 March, the think tank posted a video on its X account laying into so-called NEETs (young people not in education, employment, or training).

Naturally, the fact that disabled young people are not in jobs had nothing to do with exploitative employers or the dire lack of accessible jobs. Or you know, there’s evidently no significance to the simple fact that ‘inactive’ claimants on the health element of Universal Credit have gone through a rigorous assessment and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has quite literally found them too sick to work.

Nope, the oh-so generous benefits system is to blame for ‘incentivising’ them not to enter employment. That’s according to the actually generously paid non-disabled talking heads at the Resolution Foundation. Now where have we heard that before?

The ostensible Labour government mouthpiece was spouting this bile all as the DWP [is just under two weeks away from][2] slashing Universal Credit’s health element in fucking half for new claimants.

Of course, disabled people haven’t soon forgotten that it was the [Resolution Foundation that was behind][3] the callous idea in the first place.

## Resolution Foundation: Universal Credit ‘incentivising’ young people not to work

The video in question was a conversation between its research director Lindsay Judge and its principal economist Nye Cominetti:

> There are nearly a million young people neither learning nor earning in the UK.
>
> To what extent is that being driven by the structure of our benefit system? Lindsay Judge explains [⤵] [https://t.co/WkcwQ7ZNfc][4] [pic.twitter.com/MAgBNNjp67][5]
>
> — Resolution Foundation (@resfoundation) [March 24, 2026][6]

Laying it on thick with the lazy scrounger insinuation from the get-go, Cominetti asked Judge:

> To what extent do we think, you know, the incentives, structures and so on in the benefits system are to blame for our NEET rates?

Judge started by at least acknowledging the pitiful rates of Universal Credit. But at the same time, she couldn’t help but lean into the myth that benefits ‘incentivise’ people to stay out of work:

> I think it’s really clear that for young people who’re unemployed who get a lower standard allowance Universal Credit rate, the incentives to be on Universal Credit are pretty dismal. So anybody who thinks that they’re languishing on kind of lavish benefits doesn’t know anything about the standard allowance.

Judge **almost** gets it, *almost*. She seemed to attempt to dispel the nonsense idea people are “languishing” on benefits. However, she then basically went on to imply disabled people claiming the health element are doing just that:

> I think it’s a bit different for young people who are in the inactive category and who are on Universal Credit health element. Because that’s a significant amount more money than the UC standard allowance. And not only do they get more money if they’re in that group, but they also aren’t subject to conditionalities, so they’re not sanctioned…So I think there are financial reasons why the benefits system is pushing young people perhaps to be in that inactive category.

## DWP Universal Credit cuts: brainchild of the Resolution Foundation

Judge’s spiel wasn’t all that surprising. The *Canary* [previously uncovered][7] that the Resolution Foundation pushed the idea that the DWP should slash the health element. It proposed that the government could use this to cover increases to the standard allowance.

So of course, now it has to save face with this preposterous narrative. And right now, maligning young benefit claimants is all the right-wing rag, privileged politician rage.

Anyone actually trying to survive on woefully inadequate state support will know it’s horrendous. The billionaire-owned press is constantly demonising disabled claimants. Vilifying rhetoric [that recipients are faking][8] their conditions is rife at Westminster.

When the bloody chancellor of the exchequer [is going around saying][9] young people on benefits are “stain on this country” and the DWP boss [calling][10] the growing number of young disabled people not in work or education a “disease”, how are young disabled claimants meant to feel like anything other than a burden?

But that’s how this Labour government wants it. Because then, it [can shunt them][11] into [low-paying apprenticeships][12] with its [arms manufacturer mates][13].

## Doing the DWP’s dirty work for it

So the Resolution Foundation is doing the government’s dirty work designing and manufacturing consent for cuts for it. Of course, it’s the kind of shameless scapegoating you might expect from the think tank formerly headed by [current][14] DWP ghoul [Torsten Bell-end][15].

The very same day it posted its bullshit video, an *Independent* article [was circulating][16] on X. Southampton City Council [turned down][17] a young disabled man for a paid bin worker job. He’d been doing the job for nine month – free. Slave-Labour-Soton CC [is a ‘disability confident’][18] employer by the way – for the little [that’s clearly worth][19].

Tell us again how the government’s flashy solution to pay employers to hire young disabled claimants is going to help. So far, it [hasn’t provided any evidence][20] its suite of new corporate bungs is going to lead to employers taking on staff they wouldn’t have already.

## Rich policy wonks advising on youth unemployment

Judge and Cominetti are likely among the 12/30 Resolution Foundation employees [raking in][21] over £60k. And even if they’re not, the remaining 18 employees took home over £1m between them anyway. So it’s all but certain they have a tidy salary.

Thanks to the Resolution Foundation’s bright idea, a single disabled young person under the age of 25 will now get a whopping… £6,670 a year in Universal Credit (£4,063 standard allowance, £2,607 health element). To put that in context, that’s little over a quarter of a full-time annual salary on minimum wage. The DWP has assessed these disabled people as too ill to work.

So, social security like Universal Credit, disability benefits, if they’ve undergone the gruelling application for them, and sometimes housing benefits, will likely be their sole income.

The point being, these paltry benefits aren’t even enough for young disabled people to live on. If they’re ‘languishing’ in anything, it’s state-sanctioned and gratuitously-celebrated destitution. Perhaps these well-paid policy wonks far-removed from the realities of this shamble of a welfare system would like to answer where the fucking incentive is in that?

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Hannah Sharland][22]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/11/17/dwp-young-disabled-people/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/02/10/dwp-screwing-uc/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/03/17/dwp-universal-credit-cuts-when/
[4]: https://t.co/WkcwQ7ZNfc
[5]: https://t.co/MAgBNNjp67
[6]: https://twitter.com/resfoundation/status/2036427984844828758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/03/17/dwp-universal-credit-cuts-when/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/11/17/dwp-young-disabled-people/
[9]: https://bmmagazine.co.uk/news/reeves-condemns-rise-in-neet-youth-as-a-stain-on-our-country/
[10]: https://www.thetimes.com/comment/the-times-view/article/welfare-diagnosis-is-correct-but-the-cure-needs-to-be-swifter-dvfhs80j0?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqe8V8c2Aedcf-iQfV5bjEGgAnAlECzQsUKWUdptpd9n7oyIIEhzL4Zo6J9bj0g%3D&gaa_ts=69c3902b&gaa_sig=WyFaJ0FcZK2f824HRKjBLVtvcsv9nLN9gBaQdHtvqUl1mTmfwoAzayS5LdtO8h3t8TKc5o_4u27jU9NdyWEV5Q%3D%3D
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/10/dwp-defence/
[12]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/16/dwp-underpaid-jobs/
[13]: https://www.thetimes.com/business/companies-markets/article/david-lammy-shell-bae-systems-exchange-programme-rsxxzk090?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqcBrOHfxyi0e2Yu-bVx5I96B7hoivNSSpf4ElbsrLgG4s_qZunEpweWZ_HxSsI%3D&gaa_ts=69c31fc1&gaa_sig=1nLzntNkC5ItcnNKStENRcWJ8-m_qWety3hOqRqsDQF0rhs61q2MgP5W7BVk7MEW-PFyRVMgQ4RhAelnJb4Rzw%3D%3D
[14]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/03/20/torsten-bell-labour/
[15]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/03/20/dwp-changes-young-people/
[16]: https://x.com/FHawksworth/status/2036195443424592047
[17]: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/bryan-rowe-southampton-bin-man-b2944007.html?test_group=lighteradlayout
[18]: https://www.southampton.gov.uk/jobs/our-people-matter/equal-opportunities/
[19]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/08/17/dwp-stephen-timms-minister/
[20]: https://ifs.org.uk/articles/assessing-governments-youth-employment-package
[21]: https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/05588883/filing-history/MzQ3MjM2NTQwMmFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0
[22]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/hannah-sharland/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/25/dwp-universal-credit-cuts/

Labour’s answer to the energy crisis? Corporate welfare ...

2026-03-25T20:54:47Z

Labour’s answer to the energy crisis? Corporate welfare

[Labour]

Labour’s answer to the energy crisis, spurred on by the [war on Iran][1], is to subsidise the profits of fossil fuel companies. According to the [*Times*][2], only households on benefits will receive the money that helps prop up energy companies.

Instead, Labour should bring energy into public ownership, while transitioning to a Green New Deal to address not only the climate crisis, but volatile international markets and sky high costs, in one fell swoop.

## Corporate stranglehold

While energy is privatised, companies have a stranglehold on individuals in our society. The free market is supposed to be about an individual choice, but everyone needs energy so there is no choice but to purchase it from a provider. Households and businesses’ costs may deviate across companies, but publicly owned energy could provide the absolute cheapest through wholesaling renewables for the entire country.

Labour has so far [announced][3] a £53 million support package for “vulnerable” households who use heated oil.

## Labour — welfare for large companies

Again, the market is supposed to be ‘free’, yet corporations receive huge benefits from the government. 22% of The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers [receive][4] universal credit (UC). That means the public purse is significantly subsidising the profits of companies like Tesco, which [makes][5] £6,150 of profit per employee.

Direct subsidies is another way the public purse delivers corporate welfare. The government is [providing][6] £2.5bn to the steel industry this parliament, without taking a stake in steel companies that would provide public monetary benefit.

This is a continuation of the Conservative agenda. In the 2023/24 year, some of the government’s subsidies to corporations [amounted][7] to a whopping £32bn. The year before, they were £53bn because gas inflation not only increased bills but also the government increased corporate handouts to profiteering fossil fuel companies. And now Starmer has[ announced][8] a further £22bn bung to the fossil fuel sector for carbon capture projects that don’t work.

Government intervention appears to be focused on benefiting corporations, rather than the whole of society.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [James Wright][9]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/23/iran-iraq/
[2]: https://www.thetimes.com/uk/politics/article/energy-bailout-benefits-claimants-vsccsw3tn?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqd0CYtmSuzlRb3MPvlADuP9qhq73N4B68MZhhxBHZRsMu1a7zfOe9lO3h-XiBc%3D&gaa_ts=69c3c9f1&gaa_sig=QAS6Ij_BUCoBP_1BdJrRv11H14MRwpNlDzoHw_OB8n7QT3r8dWmvq6Oru9GOaK8PukocqPUegy1WrBvZGXfStg%3D%3D
[3]: https://www.thetimes.com/uk/politics/article/energy-bailout-benefits-claimants-vsccsw3tn?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqd0CYtmSuzlRb3MPvlADuP9qhq73N4B68MZhhxBHZRsMu1a7zfOe9lO3h-XiBc%3D&gaa_ts=69c3c9f1&gaa_sig=QAS6Ij_BUCoBP_1BdJrRv11H14MRwpNlDzoHw_OB8n7QT3r8dWmvq6Oru9GOaK8PukocqPUegy1WrBvZGXfStg%3D%3D
[4]: https://www.reuters.com/fact-check/no-evidence-that-half-tescos-workforce-receives-universal-credit-2025-08-18/
[5]: https://merchantmachine.co.uk/profit-per-employee/
[6]: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-steel-industry-backed-by-major-new-trade-measure-and-strategy
[7]: https://www.ons.gov.uk/economy/governmentpublicsectorandtaxes/publicsectorfinance/bulletins/publicsectorfinances/march2024
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2024/10/09/pmqs-starmer-carbon-capture/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/james/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/2026/03/25/labours-answer-to/

Protestors gather outside property developer to save Bristol Zoo ...

2026-03-25T18:57:50Z

Protestors gather outside property developer to save Bristol Zoo heritage site

[Save Bristol Gardens Alliance protest]

The [Save Bristol Gardens Alliance][1] gathered to protest outside Acorn Property Group’s offices in Clifton on 25 March.

Ever since the [closure][2] of Bristol Zoo in September 2022, campaigners have been [opposing][3] the site’s planned redevelopment.

The Alliance [wants][4] see the gardens preserved as “a site of huge cultural, historical and environmental importance with many listed buildings.”

## Acorn Property Group

Although the sale of the former Bristol Zoo has not yet gone through, Acorn have nonetheless started clearing bushes and felling trees.

Campaigners are concerned about Acorn’s track record, and have written to the Bristol Zoological Society (BZS) repeatedly to raise their objections.

A spokesperson for Save Bristol Gardens Alliance said:

> Acorn Property Group is a wholly unsuitable developer for the Zoo Gardens site, and it seems clear that BZS Trustees have failed to complete independent due diligence on Acorn.
>
> Our concerns relate directly to the reputation, financial resilience, track record, and funding model of Acorn, as well as to the likelihood of Acorn not delivering on its agreement with BZS, the development itself or indeed any of the so-called ‘public benefits’.

Given the site’s importance to the local area, campaigners are also disappointed in the lack of transparency surrounding the planned redevelopment. The spokesperson continued:

> Trustees are required to demonstrate that they have properly scrutinised risk, applied independent judgement and operated transparently *–* particularly in relation to decisions of this scale and sensitivity.
>
> Given the significance of the decision and the level of public interest the people of Bristol are entitled to expect transparent decision making. It is not enough just to delegate due diligence to Savills, who of course act for Acorn in respect of a number of other developments.

So far, the Society “have declined to answer a single point” the Alliance has raised. They are now urging the BZS “to address these concerns fully and transparently before any contractual commitment is completed.”

They argue that the BZS “risks making a reckless decision, which could be catastrophic for trustee reputations, BZS’s reputation and, of course, for a treasured part of Bristol’s heritage.”

## More protests to come

The protest on 25 March was the third – and largest – protest to take place outside Acorn’s offices in recent weeks. 50 members of the Save Bristol Gardens Alliance [first gathered][5] there on 11 March.

The Alliance plans to keep demonstrating outside Acorn’s offices, meeting every Wednesday at 12:30.

By [The Canary][6]

[1]: https://www.savebristolgardensalliance.org/
[2]: https://www.itv.com/news/westcountry/2022-09-04/thank-you-for-the-memories-bristol-zoo-shuts-its-doors-for-final-time
[3]: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2023/mar/12/its-an-act-of-greed-hundreds-protest-over-bristol-zoo-closure
[4]: https://www.savebristolgardensalliance.org/_files/ugd/9b7eee_bd1c17cb9dda4e52af0aa476a1129a88.pdf
[5]: https://www.bristol247.com/news-and-features/news/activists-rally-over-bristol-zoo-gardens-sale/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/25/save-bristol-gardens-protest/

School staff to strike in support of victimised union rep Tom ...

2026-03-25T18:34:11Z

School staff to strike in support of victimised union rep Tom Barker

[Entrance at Ash Field Academy in Leicester, where staff are willing to strike over suspended union rep Tom Barker]

UNISON members at [Ash Field Academy, a SEND school in Evington, Leicester][1], have voted overwhelmingly to take strike action to demand the reinstatement of their elected representative, Tom Barker.

In a formal industrial action ballot which closed on 18 March, 87% of voting members supported strike action. This is due to [the suspension of Barker, their workplace steward][2], who has been suspended since October 2025, and the attack this represents on their trade union rights. The turnout easily cleared the legal 50% participation threshold.

For more than four months, [UNISON’s Leicester City branch][3] has been campaigning for Barker’s reinstatement. Discovery Schools Academy Trust (DSAT), the multi-academy trust which runs the school, claims it’s still investigating his case. Although DSAT has changed the allegations it claims to be investigating since the initial suspension.

More than 400 trade unionists, including UNISON’s new general secretary Andrea Egan and MP Zarah Sultana, have signed [an open letter demanding Barker’s reinstatement][4].

## Background to Barker’s suspension

During the 2024/25 academic year, UNISON, which represents the vast majority of Ash Field’s support staff, repeatedly raised concerns relating to health and safety. This situation worsened when DSAT, despite UNISON’s strenuous objections, cut several further staff via a hugely rushed redundancy process. UNISON members voted for strike action over the staffing situation, with that ballot closing on 20 October 2025.

On 30 October, DSAT leaders suspended Barker from his duties, citing allegations against him. Originally they said that the suspension was due to an incident that allegedly took place on 29 October. However, Barker obtained emails via a Subject Access Request. And these showed that, as far back as December, the independent investigating officer had reported that there was no case to answer and recommended lifting the suspension. But DSAT failed to act on this.

Many UNISON members at Ash Field signed a statement describing his suspension as “a bad-faith attack on…. UNISON members” and a “reprisal for [members] voting for industrial action”.

On 12 January 2026, DSAT leaders asserted that Barker’s suspension was to protect the integrity of an investigation into a grievance. This investigation concluded in February, yet DSAT didn’t reinstate Barker.

The external investigators into the two previous allegations found no case to answer. But the trust has since appointed a new investigator from a separate organisation to investigate again. And Barker, after 4 months out of work, has been resuspended.

UNISON Leicester City continues to call for Barker’s reinstatement, and for DSAT to cease this union-busting activity. Sam Randfield, UNISON Leicester City’s branch secretary, stated at a public meeting in February:

> It was clear at the time of the suspension, and it is even clearer today, that this was an act of bad faith towards UNISON and Tom himself. The case against Tom is practically non-existent. There is no reason to keep him suspended for this long.
>
> What has happened to Tom is appalling, and is as clear a case of trade union victimisation as I have ever seen. In voting for strike action so overwhelmingly, our members have made a clear statement that they will not tolerate union-busting in their workplace.
>
> There is a quick and easy way for DSAT to end this dispute and avoid strike action. They simply need to lift Tom’s suspension and reinstate him to duty. That is the one and only demand our members are making.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [The Canary][5]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/01/13/staff-at-special-school-willing-to-strike-over-suspended-union-rep/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2025/12/03/union-busting-scandal-at-leicester/
[3]: https://leicestercity.unison.site/
[4]: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1624gc8VOWnWKgWFFV47vGmnx3lWEdLE2Q6rcGF91vYI/viewform?edit_requested=true
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/25/school-staff-to-strike-in-support-of-victimised-union-rep-tom-barker/

Football Supporters Association files official complaint against ...

2026-03-25T17:43:42Z

Football Supporters Association files official complaint against FIFA over World Cup tickets

[FIFA world cup]

The 2026 World Cup ticket dispute has escalated into legal action after the Football Supporters’ Association of Europe (FSE), in collaboration with Euroconsumers,[ filed an official complaint with the European Commission against][1] FIFA, accusing it of abusing its monopoly position in ticket sales.

According to the official statement issued by the two organizations, the complaint was filed on March 24, 2026, in Brussels, Belgium, marking the first time such a large-scale action has been taken against FIFA at the level of the European Union institutions. The group said:

> The cheapest openly available final tickets now start at $4,185 – more than seven times the cost of the cheapest 2022 World Cup final ticket. Last month FIFA president Gianni Infantino also defended the use of [surge pricing at the tournament.][2]

## FIFA dabble in ‘dynamic pricing’

The complaint also focused on the adoption of a “[dynamic pricing][3]” system, which allows prices to change according to demand. The organisations concerned considered this a violation of the principle of transparency and an infringement on consumer rights.

The complaint also included sharp criticism of the ticketing mechanisms, pointing to ambiguity in essential details such as seat locations and team identities, as well as accusations of using pressured sales tactics and imposing fees of up to 15% on resale tickets.

Both parties also raised the issue of promoting low-priced tickets ($60) for group stage matches, asserting that these tickets were not actually available to the public when sales opened.

The crisis began in December 2025 when a supporters’ association criticized FIFA’s pricing policies in statements reported by European media outlets. The issue later escalated into formal legal action supported by consumer protection organizations.

## Clear demands for European Commission

The complaint called on the European Commission to intervene and compel FIFA to:

* Halt the dynamic pricing system
* Fix prices at previously announced levels
* Publish the number of remaining tickets for each category before the next sales phases

This move presents FIFA with a new legal test in Europe, at a time of increasing public and media pressure, which could pave the way for fundamental changes in the ticketing mechanism for the world’s biggest football event.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Alaa Shamali][4]

[1]: https://thefsa.org.uk/news/fans-report-fifa-to-european-commission-over-world-cup-ticketing/
[2]: https://thefsa.org.uk/news/fifa-boss-defends-world-cup-surge-pricing/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/02/fifa-hypocrisy/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/alaa-shamali/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/25/fifa-tickets/

UEFA rejects English clubs’ request for Champions League next ...

2026-03-25T17:37:01Z

UEFA rejects English clubs’ request for Champions League next season

[uefa]

UEFA has made its [decision on the lists of teams participating in the Champions League][1]. It [rejected a proposal submitted by English clubs to increase the number of players][2] to 28 players starting next season. Instead, UEFA preferred to maintain the current system that limits the list to 25 players.

[According to the Guardian, the decision came after discussions witnessed by the Club Competitions Committee.][3] However, these discussions did not succeed in reaching a consensus. This lack of agreement led to the proposal being excluded from the agenda of the next Executive Committee. This meeting is scheduled before the European League final in Istanbul on May 20.

## UEFA tackle English demands and Spanish concerns

English Premier League clubs have pushed to expand the rosters, in light of the increasing number of matches as a result of the new tournament system. They consider that increasing the number of players is necessary. The main goal is to protect teams from injuries and increasing fatigue.

In contrast, prominent Spanish clubs, led by Atletico Madrid, Sevilla, and Real Sociedad, led the rejection front. They were motivated by concerns about devoting financial superiority to English clubs. Furthermore, they feared giving them an additional advantage by having deeper and more powerful rosters.

These concerns were clearly reflected this season, after all six English clubs succeeded in reaching the round of 16. However, only Arsenal and Liverpool continued their journey to the quarter-finals.

## New system increases stress

This controversy comes amid changes to the Champions League system. There is now the adoption of a new format comprising 36 teams in the league stage, which has led to an increase in the number of matches.

Teams are now required to play at least two additional matches. There is also the possibility of playing two additional matches in the January playoff for teams that do not occupy the top eight places. As a result, this has doubled the physical pressure on the players.

## The file was postponed and not closed

Although the proposal is currently rejected, the *Guardian* reported that the [file has not been closed permanently.][4] Available data indicates the possibility of re-offering it before the 2027-2028 season. This would coincide with the launch of a new cycle for television broadcasting rights.

Between English demands driven by the pressure of matches, and European reservations that fear an imbalance, UEFA remains committed to the status quo. For now, it is awaiting a moment of consensus that may reopen the discussion again.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Alaa Shamali][5]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/22/champions-league-next-season/
[2]: https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/uefa-shuts-down-premier-league-clubs-appeal-increase-champions-league-squad-sizes-resistance-la-liga-sides/blt6bdff60046f60aca
[3]: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/mar/23/english-clubs-plea-for-bigger-champions-league-squads-rejected-uefa-after-spanish-backlash
[4]: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/mar/23/english-clubs-plea-for-bigger-champions-league-squads-rejected-uefa-after-spanish-backlash
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/alaa-shamali/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/25/uefa-english/

FIFA refusal to act over Israeli clubs based in illegal ...

2026-03-25T11:24:51Z

FIFA refusal to act over Israeli clubs based in illegal settlements flouts international law

[FIFA fails to show Israeli clubs the red card]

FIFA has [announced][1] that no action will be taken against the Israeli Football Association (IFA) over the participation of clubs based in illegal settlements in Israel’s leagues.

In March 2024, the Palestinian Football Association (PFA) called for the exclusion of settlement clubs. There are at least six clubs based in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) currently playing in Israeli leagues.

However, in its response on 19 March 2026, the football governing body said FIFA would not take action, declaring that the “legal status of the West Bank remains an unresolved and highly complex matter under public international law”.

This is in contradiction with Article 64.2 of FIFA’s statutes, which states that:

> Member associations and their clubs may not play on the territory of another member association without the latter’s approval.

## FIFA’s pattern of hypocrisy

Steve Cockburn, Head of Economic and Social Justice at Amnesty International, [said][2]:

> By refusing to take action against clubs based in Israeli settlements, FIFA has failed to enforce its own rules and is blatantly flouting international law. FIFA had a clear opportunity to stand up for Palestinians’ rights and international law – with this decision it has shamefully chosen to abandon both.
>
> The International Court of Justice has unambiguously declared that Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territory is unlawful, that settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) are illegal and that Israel’s presence in the OPT must rapidly end. FIFA’s own statutes are clear that its members cannot play games in the territory of another association without permission.
>
> By continuing to condone the presence of clubs based in illegal settlements in the OPT in Israel’s league, the Israeli Football Association is indirectly legitimizing Israel’s unlawful occupation and its severe human rights violations against Palestinians, including the crime against humanity of apartheid. FIFA must not continue to ignore the International Court of Justice’s 2024 Advisory Opinion. FIFA has an unequivocal responsibility to act. It must also ensure full transparency and publish the legal advice FIFA received on this matter and provide the full rationale for its unjust decision.

Other human rights organisations [have previously][3] put pressure on FIFA to act in accordance with its own statutes.

The governing body has been [swift to act][4] in suspending the participation of other nations, like Russia, from international sporting events. Israel remains an exception to the rule.

## Fines without Exclusions

In the same complaint submitted in March 2024, the PFA called for sanctions against the IFA over anti-Palestinian racism in Israeli football.

FIFA’s disciplinary committee have now fined the IFA 150,000 Swiss francs ($190,700) for “multiple breaches” of its anti-discrimination obligations. The *Canary’s* Alaa Shamali [called][5] the penalties “shockingly light.”

FIFA and UEFA have both provided funding for the IFA, meaning they may also be contributing to the expansion of illegal settlements, and therefore Israel’s human rights violations.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [The Canary][6]

[1]: https://inside.fifa.com/organisation/fifa-council/media-releases/council-power-of-football-world-cup-build-bridges-promote-peace
[2]: https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2026/03/fifa-refusal-to-act-over-israeli-clubs-based-in-illegal-settlements-flouts-international-law/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-news/2024/03/12/fifa-israel/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2025/11/23/fifa-russia-israel/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/24/fifa-double-standard-israeli-racism/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-news/2026/03/25/fifa-israel-2/

North of Ireland housing body reveals failure to combat racist ...

2026-03-25T09:46:20Z

North of Ireland housing body reveals failure to combat racist intimidation

[housing]

The main public body responsible for housing in the North of Ireland has revealed it is failing to properly monitor the effect of racist intimidation on housing security. When asked about the effect “public hate incidents” like the [2025 Ballymena riots][1] had on housing pressure, the [Northern Ireland Housing Executive][2] (NIHE) responded simply:

> The above information is not held.

The organisation was replying to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted by a local migrant rights advocacy group. The NIHE was able to provide information detailing cases where the primary reason for being rendered homeless was filed under “Intimidation – Racial”. It stated there were 21 of these for the period 2024/25.

However, they acknowledged they have no readily available data on cases where:

> …an individual cited racist/ xenophobic threats, attacks or harassment as a contributing factor in their application or their request for temporary accommodation and/ or storage of their belongings, beyond it being their primary reason for homelessness.

## Housing stats gap hides scale of problem

The NIHE response said looking into this would necessitate a “manual review of case records”. This would require a level of work that would go beyond that [permitted for fulfilling an FOI submission][3]. The NIHE is only allowed to spend £450 fulfilling such requests.

Therefore, as a result of this information not being properly compiled into readily available statistics, we are denied proper insight into the true scale of the issue. That’s if the info’s there at all – the NIHE was only able to say they “may” hold some of the details requested.

The group submitting the FoI was seeking further info on the effect [rising racist violence][4] is having on the ability for racialised groups to secure safe and stable housing. They requested:

> Records or statistics on individuals citing racist or xenophobic threats, attacks,
> harassment, intimidation or similar as a factor in their application for:
> – Emergency housing
> – Homelessness support
> – Transfers or removals

They also asked for:

> Volume of contacts or referrals received that mention:
> – Being “burnt out”, “bricked out” or intimidated out of their homes
> – Hate crimes
> – Race-related or politically motivated intimidation

The request also asked if these could be broken down by year and location.

## Racist attacks likely to be driving 100s out of their homes

Recent large scale attacks by racist mobs have driven large numbers of people from their homes. Following a wave of violent pogroms in Ballymena in June 2025, [The *Guardian *reported][5]:

> …houses that were torched remain gutted and boarded up. Of the Roma families who inhabited them there is no sign. There are no official figures but one informed source with ties to the community estimated that of the approximate pre-riot population of 1,200, two-thirds are gone – or, to use a loaded term, ethnically cleansed.

[Reports][6] of [racist attacks][7] on [homes][8] in the Six Counties (a decolonial term for the north of Ireland) are [commonly found][9] in the press, and those are just the ones that end up reported on. All in all, the evidence suggests a problem that goes beyond the NIHE-recorded number of 21 cases of homelessness resulting from racial intimidation.

The FOI also asked whether staff “workload [and] morale” had been affected by race-related intimidation. Once again the Housing Executive stated that this information is not collected. The NIHE response was shared with the *Canary, *and the activist we spoke to explained that failure to fulfil FOIs around housing issues has become increasingly common. They said complaints from asylum seekers around [housing quality and safety][10] provided by the [company Mears][11] have been frequent. However, their attempts to find out more via Freedom of Information submissions have been unsuccessful.

Our source said that when activists and even local politicians send requests for information to the likes of NIHE or the Northern Ireland Office (the British government’s outpost in the Six Counties), they are typically rejected on costs or security grounds. The claim on the latter excuse is that revealing further info on housing matters might jeopardise the safety of vulnerable migrants. However, the actions of various government bodies indicate little desire to protect those potentially in danger.

## Lacklustre response across government agencies

The activist the *Canary *spoke to offered to help set up a project with NIHE to better monitor the sort of incidents which they are currently failing to track. The housing body initially seemed interested and suggested the matter be taken up with their business development section. However, attempts to pursue the matter resulted in radio silence from the Housing Executive.

Our contact also criticised the [Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI)][12] for failure to make use of modern threat monitoring techniques that may predict racist attacks. This includes tracking of social media activity on far-right social media accounts. The PSNI still largely relies on traditional methods such as tip-offs for gauging potential risks to vulnerable individuals and groups.

They said that, in the vacuum left by this failure, NGOs have attempted to do their own prediction. One organisation says it was able to establish that a spike in unpunished racist violence in primary schools could predict racist riots breaking out. It seems this will remain necessary while government bodies fail to do the absolute basics in protecting vulnerable groups amidst a rising tide of unchecked racist hostility.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Robert Freeman][13]

[1]: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/12/n-ireland-hit-by-third-night-of-racist-violence-main-flashpoint-calmer
[2]: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/home
[3]: https://www.local.gov.uk/about/who-we-are-and-what-we-do/freedom-information
[4]: https://www.amnesty.org.uk/latest/northern-ireland-executives-racial-equality-strategy-fails-amid-rising-racist/
[5]: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2025/jul/19/ballymena-impact-anti-migrant-riots-northern-ireland
[6]: https://www.irishnews.com/news/northern-ireland/terrifying-racist-attack-on-co-antrim-home-leaves-young-men-isolated-QMYKPBHVOZG4NPTOCERJNU3GFI/
[7]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2xw78970no
[8]: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/article/2024/jul/04/catholic-and-african-residents-targeted-by-paint-bombs-in-county-antrim
[9]: https://belfastmedia.com/fourth-racist-attack-in-four-years-on-north-belfast-home
[10]: https://www.ein.org.uk/news/new-research-highlights-challenges-asylum-accommodation-uk.
[11]: https://www.livingrent.org/mears_dont_evict_our_neighbours
[12]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/02/03/psni-face-scanner/
[13]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/robert-freeman/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/25/housing-racism/

No day of rest under capitalism – push to extend Belfast shop ...

2026-03-25T09:28:50Z

No day of rest under capitalism – push to extend Belfast shop opening hours

[belfast]

Belfast City Council is continuing to pursue its aim of ceaseless consumerism by extending shop opening hours within its area of influence. The move began [last year in July 2025][1], when a majority of councillors (32 to 21) backed holding a public consultation on the proposed scheme. [That consultation has now arrived with the council seeking][2]:

> …feedback from residents, visitors and business representatives on extending Sunday trading hours across the city during periods of high tourist and visitor numbers.

The[ North of Ireland has the most restrictive Sunday opening hours][3] rules across Britain and Ireland, with shops over 280 square metres only permitted to open from 13:00 to 18:00. There are some exceptions, such as shops at transport hubs like railways and airports, or areas designated ‘holiday resorts’. England and Wales permit large shops to open for six hours, usually from 10:00 to 16:00, or 11:00 to 17:00. In the Republic of Ireland, no restrictions apply.

The new law will seek to designate the Belfast City Council area as a holiday resort, and allow large shops to:

> …open at any time on up to 18 Sundays between 1 March and 30 September each year (excluding Easter Sunday).

## Belfast and the neoliberal agenda

Sinn Féin councillor Natasha Brennan, whose party u-turned to back the proposed change, said the plan would:

> …extend and enhance Belfast’s retail and hospitality experience on Sunday mornings to benefit residents, businesses and the increasing numbers of visitors to our city.

She also harped on about the need to “compete with other cities”, “boost visitor and tourism spending” and enable “additional trading opportunities for retailers.” Essentially a series of market-centric rather than human-centric arguments. The latter were provided in the earlier July 2025 debate around the plan, which was opposed by the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), the Green Party, the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) and People Before Profit (PBP).

[Séamas de Faoite of the SDLP said][4]:

> It is ironic we are being told this is what the people of Belfast want, when in fact the trade unions who represent the store workers of Belfast have made it very clear they don’t want it, and Retail NI who represent the small businesses of Belfast have made it very clear they don’t want it.
> And we’ve had feedback from arts and community organisations to say they want to be involved in an animation programme that holds up the work they are doing in the city, that isn’t distracted by the opening of large retail.

He added:

> Countless European cities operate on a model of having Sunday reserved for something different – for family time, for free time, for time when people can enjoy culture and the arts, where people who have a faith can have an opportunity to practice that faith. Why is it that Belfast continuously has this discussion?

## Germany’s “shopping hell” – the way to go

The plan even managed to turn the DUP into budding Marxists, with Alderman Dean McCullough saying:

> What can you say to the Alliance Party and Sinn Féin, who make even myself look left wing on this. I am a capitalist, because I have common sense, but I have a social conscience, and that means I want workers to have a day off on a Sunday. They work hard and tirelessly throughout the week, and throughout the year. They deserve a break.

The *Canary *can non-exclusively report that McCullough does in fact not typically possess common sense, but on this issue he is correct.

Meanwhile, Germany is the sort of European example de Faoite was alluding to. [Described as “shopping hell” by *TIME *magazine][5], Germany forbids virtually all shops from opening on Sunday, under its catchily titled [*Ladenschlussgesetz* law][6]. Given *Time *magazine represents neoliberal hell, we’ll take their view as a ringing endorsement of the policy.

It was brought in during 1956 under the initiative of trade unions who argued Sunday should be used to give workers a break from ceaseless grind. [A majority of Germans are still in favour of the law][7], which enables people to engage in more civilised pursuits like resting, leisure, and spending time with friends and family.

As mentioned by de Faoite, trade unions in the Six Counties (a decolonial term for the north of Ireland) still don’t want an extension of their potential working hours. [The Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW) said][8]:

> USDAW opposes this. Members have told us that they already feel pressure to work on a Sunday, and that increasing trading hours will add to this. As well as retail workers themselves having concerns, smaller retailers have stated that they worry their trade will be taken by the bigger stores which could have a longer term detrimental impact.

Indeed, as it’s a lot harder for a family owned shop run by a couple to keep running seven days a week than it is for Tesco.

You don’t have to be religious to oppose Sunday opening hours. You just have to reject the inhumane demand of capitalist logic – that of being forced into an endless rat race only billionaires can win.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Robert Freeman][9]

[1]: https://archive.ph/c4nYP
[2]: https://www.belfastcity.gov.uk/News/Council-seeks-public-s-views-on-extending-Sunday-t
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/12/politicians-in-north-of-ireland-press-starmer-on-fuel-costs/
[4]: https://archive.ph/c4nYP#selection-2279.0-2279.332:~:text=%E2%80%8C-,SDLP,it,-%2E
[5]: https://time.com/archive/6715346/germany-shopping-hell/
[6]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ladenschlussgesetz
[7]: https://www.iamexpat.de/expat-info/germany-news/majority-germany-against-relaxing-sunday-opening-hours
[8]: https://www.usdaw.org.uk/campaigns/keep-sunday-special/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/robert-freeman/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/25/belfast-capitalism/

Senegal players slam the withdrawal of their AFCON title [afcon] ...

2026-03-18T18:00:24Z

Senegal players slam the withdrawal of their AFCON title

[afcon]

The Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) recent decision to declare Morocco the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions, despite Senegal’s victory in the final on the pitch, has sparked widespread anger in Senegal.

The decision, issued by CAF’s Appeals Committee, came after accepting the Moroccan Football Federation’s appeal and declaring Senegal the loser due to withdrawal, based on [Article 84 of the tournament regulations][1]. This has caused a major shock in both the sporting and public spheres within the country.

## AFCON: Senegal reaction

The players expressed their categorical rejection of the decision, emphasizing that championships are decided on the field, not through administrative paperwork.

Pape Demba Diop, a Toulouse player, wrote on his Instagram story:

> I think we’re living in a crazy world.

Defender Moussa Niakhaté reposted photos of the team receiving their medals, commenting:

> Come and take them! They’re crazy! This isn’t artificial intelligence, it’s reality.

El Hadji Malick Diouf delivered a sharp message:

> Prove yourselves, champions… This title is decided on the pitch, not by email.

[Idrissa Gueye opted for a more measured approach, stating][2]:

> Titles and trophies are fleeting… The most important thing is that every fan returns home with their dignity intact. The Senegalese people have shown their worth, and no one can take away the pride we have experienced.

## Anger spreads

Various media outlets quoted [Claude Le Roy, the former Senegal coach, who described the decision as “absurd,” saying][3]:

> I had never imagined, even for a single second, that the Confederation of African Football could go this far into such ridiculous absurdity,” he said.
>
> When we see how CAF is being run under Motsepe, who is considered a follower of Gianni Infantino, who from the beginning wanted to give this trophy to Morocco at any cost.

He added:

> There are a lot of manipulations and suspicious deals within CAF. I believe this matter is not over yet, and that Senegal will eventually regain its rights, but it is unfortunate that CAF’s image has reached this level.

And:

> This decision will make the whole world laugh at the African continent, which I love very much.

In the political arena, MP Guy Marius Sagna expressed his anger, saying:

> Shame on the corrupt CAF. Thank you to the Lions of Senegal, you are the true champions.

Minister of Water and Sanitation Cheikh Tidiane Dièye wrote:

> We have the cup, the honor, and the smile. Proud of the Lions of Teranga. You keep the court and the shame.

## Press reacts

According to the Middle East News Agency, the newspaper “Le Dakar” described the decision as a “scandal in the final,” while “Le Soleil” headlined its front page “The Joke of the Century,” referring to the ridicule of the administrative decision that overturned the results of a match decided on the field.

Amid continued public and player anger, [Senegal is preparing to file a formal appeal][4] with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), in what is expected to be one of the most controversial cases in the history of African football.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Alaa Shamali][5]

[1]: https://www.cafonline.com/news/caf-appeal-board-media-statement/
[2]: https://www.sportbible.com/football/idrissa-gueye-statement-senegal-morocco-afcon-769913-20260318
[3]: https://www.panafricafootball.com/post/claude-le-roy-slams-caf-decision/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/18/afcon-mess/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/alaa-shamali/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/18/afcon-senegal/

Equity welcomes government backpedalling on AI training [Image of ...

2026-03-18T16:04:55Z

Equity welcomes government backpedalling on AI training

[Image of actors and crew in a film studio AI training]

[Equity, the performing arts and entertainment trade union][1], has welcomed the announcement that the government is to row back on the ‘opt-out’ exception to copyright for AI training. The union says it’s:

> recognition that selling out the UK’s creative industries to benefit US tech companies would’ve been an act of national self-sabotage.

The [report and impact assessment on Copyright and Artificial Intelligence][2], published jointly today by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, Department for Culture, Media and Sport, and the Intellectual Property Office, says the government:

> will not introduce reforms to copyright law until we are confident that they will meet our objectives for the economy and UK citizens.

The report continues:

> In view of the concerns raised by stakeholders, and the continued uncertainty about the likely effects of an exception with opt-out, a broad copyright exception with opt-out is no longer the government’s preferred way forward.

And it also mentions personality rights – something Equity raised – saying:

> We propose to explore options that address these risks, while promoting growth and innovation. This will include considering whether a new personality right may be appropriate.

An ‘opt-out’ exception was the government’s preferred option this time last year. This would have allowed developers to scrape creators’ work online to train AI models without active consent from, or pay for, the creators. Equity opposed this position, describing it as ‘legalising theft’ of creators’ work.

Commenting on the report on AI and Copyright, Equity’s general secretary, Paul W Fleming, said:

> The government has taken a welcome and marked change of approach, which has included engaging with Equity at the highest level in detail, and in advance of this announcement.
>
> The pause announced today is recognition that selling out the UK’s creative industries to benefit US tech companies would’ve been an act of national self-sabotage. The UK should be the best place on the planet to create, supporting the government’s growth agenda through a strong copyright regime and respect for creative workers.
>
> We welcome the government’s intention to introduce measures on digital replicas and we look forward to working with them to develop new protections against unauthorised and unpaid use of a performer’s voice and likeness, the bedrock of our members’ careers.
>
> What creators need after this pause is a firm commitment to copyright and neighbouring rights and support for collective licensing for AI uses, including via existing trade union collective bargaining mechanisms. We look forward to working with the Labour government on how best to secure these reasonable aspirations.

Equity believes that licensing frameworks for AI training are entirely capable of facilitating fair and remunerated use of creators’ work, and are already emerging in various sectors. [Collective bargaining][3] mechanisms, including Equity’s, which cover 90% of UK film and TV production, already exist for this purpose.

Rather than pave the way for a transfer of wealth from UK creative industries to US tech companies, today’s statement gives needed reassurance to UK creators that AI developers must pay to use their work, just as in any other context.

[Recent analysis of three studies commissioned by the tech industry][4] shows that none of the studies demonstrates that a copyright exception for AI would deliver a net benefit to the UK economy, even while the studies mostly failed to account for the impact on creative industries.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [The Canary][5]

[1]: https://www.equity.org.uk/
[2]: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/report-and-impact-assessment-on-copyright-and-artificial-intelligence
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/topics/trade-unions/
[4]: https://newsmediauk.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/OO-Review.pdf
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/18/equity-welcomes-government-backpedalling-on-ai-training/

The PM’s cost of living policies aren’t just piecemeal – ...

2026-03-18T10:48:02Z

The PM’s cost of living policies aren’t just piecemeal – they’re dire

[Cost of living - Keir Starmer pushing back some of the hair from his forehead and looking casual in a suit without a tie and top button of his shirt undone]

In a speech outside Downing Street this week, [Keir Starmer][1] spoke about his cost of living policies. The thing is, his remarks take the phrase a ‘band aid for a bullet wound’ to new heights.

Nearly all of [these policies][2] are reheated. They had already been announced.

## Cost of living policies explained

The energy price cap until June — an attempt to shield Britons from volatile international energy prices — was announced in February. However, energy bills still rose on average by 68% (£713) between the winter of 2020 and 2025. This policy does next to nothing to address the overall and spiralling cost of living.

If Labour was serious about homegrown energy, the Prime Minister would deliver a [Green New Deal,][3] like he pledged to while [campaigning to become Labour leader][4]. This would mean Iran’s retaliatory blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route, would have no impact on UK energy prices. It would also bring energy into public ownership — another way to make bills significantly cheaper.

Instead, Starmer said in his speech on Monday:

> we have to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to ensure stability in the market.

Labour’s cut in fuel duty is also not a new policy. It’s a Conservative one from 2022 that Labour is actually removing in September rather than “extending” as Starmer presented in the speech. Labour is in fact bringing the [first increase to fuel duty since 2011][5].

Rather than investing in modern development, Starmer also said he will make provisions for petrol stations to publish prices. The climate crisis means we need to swiftly move away from oil powered vehicles, not encourage them.

The 1945 Clement Attlee government delivered huge change, such as nationalising 20% of the economy. This brought down inflation for decades through a price drop in the essentials that every business and person relies on. It shows the government taking an active and strategic hand in the economy is entirely possible.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [James Wright][6]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/03/27/cost-of-living-payments-claim/
[2]: https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/pm-remarks-16-march-2026
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/02/green-deal-needed-to-mitigate-gas-prices/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/editorial/2024/03/28/starmer-wistfully-says-he-wants-promises-to-matter-again-after-lying-his-way-to-the-leadership/
[5]: https://fullfact.org/politics/fuel-duty-plans-2026/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/james/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/18/cost-of-living-starmer/

Senegal launch legal challenge after AFCON title revoked [AFCON] ...

2026-03-18T10:16:41Z

Senegal launch legal challenge after AFCON title revoked

[AFCON]

Hours after the [shock caused by the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) decision to award Morocco][1] the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and declare Senegal the loser with a 3-0 scoreline, the Senegalese Football Federation announced it would launch a new legal battle to defend the rights of its national team and fans.

The federation will officially appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to overturn the decision, considering what happened a serious deviation from legal and administrative procedures.

The federation’s general secretary, Abdoulaye Sow has called the decision a “travesty.” [Sow said:][2]

> This is a travesty; this decision is based on absolutely nothing. It has no legal foundation … The president of the federation will get in touch with the lawyers; we will engage with the appropriate authorities, and then we will go to the court of arbitration for sport, which will issue the final decision.

He added:

> We will not back down. Senegalese people should have no doubt. The truth is on Senegal’s side, the law is on Senegal’s side.

## AFCON debacle

The Senegalese Football Federation described the procedures preceding the decision as arbitrary and without any legal basis, anticipating that the case will turn into a lengthy legal battle that could affect the fate of the tournament and reopen one of the most controversial Africa Cup of Nations finals.

In concluding his remarks, Sow reassured the fans, affirming that the fight is not over and that the federation is striving to restore justice and the title that the national team won on the field. He confirmed that communication is ongoing with all relevant parties to guarantee Senegal’s rights.

With the case now before the Court of Arbitration for Sport, the world awaits the outcome of this legal battle, in a new chapter of African football’s history, already full of controversy and drama.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Alaa Shamali][3]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/17/afcon-title-morocco-wins-appeal/
[2]: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/mar/18/senegal-appeal-africa-cup-of-nations-title-stripped-morocco
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/alaa-shamali/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/18/afcon-revoke/

Bob Vylan rapper mocks Met police for another bullshit ...

2026-03-17T10:03:27Z

Bob Vylan rapper mocks Met police for another bullshit investigation into ‘death to IDF’ chant

[bob vylan]

Duo Bob Vylan have mocked Metropolitan police chief Mark Rowley for the force’s decision to ‘investigate’ them – again – for [repeating][1] the now infamous death, death to the IDF” chant at the Al Quds Day 2026 protest.

Rowley and co already looked at the chant by Vylan rapper, real name Pascal Robinson-Foster – in 2025 when it was first made. It [decided no further action][2] was appropriate. [So did the Avon and Somerset force][3], which has jurisdiction in Glastonbury, where the rap duo first used the chant.

In a widely liked and shared X post that drew hundreds of supportive comments, Bob Vylan took to social media to say:

> They’re a disgrace, the harassment to British nationals for calling out genocide is ridiculous….Will the met investigate [@lfi][4] or the 2000 soldiers that killed kids in gaza returning to Britain?
>
> — Paul (@giggsy69) [March 16, 2026][5]

But the ‘investigation’ will not be binned with the contempt it deserves, at least not yet. No self-humiliation or spinelessness is too great for the UK state apparatus when Israel demands action to intensify the ‘lawfare’ war against anti-genocide speech.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][6]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/16/met-police-announced/
[2]: https://news.sky.com/story/police-take-no-further-action-over-bob-vylans-london-performance-13469052
[3]: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/12/23/uk-police-drop-probe-into-bob-vylans-chants-about-israeli-military
[4]: https://twitter.com/lfi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[5]: https://twitter.com/giggsy69/status/2033577812670452210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/17/bob-vylan-met/

Water company says it can’t provide water for new homes after ...

2026-03-16T18:10:19Z

Water company says it can’t provide water for new homes after wasting 100 million litres every single day

[south east water]

South East Water has [said][1] it cannot provide water for new homes planned in the area it’s supposed to provide for. Yet in 2024 it [wasted][2] more than 100 million litres of water every day through its creaking pipes.

## South East Water put profit over infrastructure

The water company has spent [significantly more][3] servicing its debt and paying shareholder dividends than it has on upgrading infrastructure. In the two years to March 2022, South East Water paid £156 million in dividends and £72.8 million in interest. Yet it spent just £179.8 million on infrastructure improvements.

This highlights that water privatisation is the key issue preventing new homes from having water in the area.

If the water company were nationalised, it could be funded by government issued, debt-free flat currency with increased taxes on extreme wealth to control any inflation from the central money creation. Even if the infrastructure were funded by the current system of government borrowing, that has a lower interest rate than the private sector takes on. So debt would be zero or lower under public ownership – offering tens of millions in funding for infrastructure improvements in those two years. And the £156 million in dividends could also have gone on infrastructure improvements.

## “Cannot accommodate” housing

A spokesperson for South East Water [said][4]:

> From our review of the latest housing forecast figures, we have identified that we cannot accommodate additional growth beyond what was assumed in our Water Resources Management Plan 2024 in areas where we do not have a supply-demand surplus… Specifically, in the Tonbridge and Malling area, where we currently lack available headroom in our supplies, we would be unable to accommodate any growth exceeding our 2024 forecast assumptions throughout the entire planning period.

Perhaps there would be enough water supply if the company had invested in infrastructure such as pipe maintenance and reservoirs.

## Shambles

On top of being unable to provide new homes with water, the company [left][5] 30,000 homes without water in Kent and Sussex in January. And that’s not the first time. In 2023, South East Water [left][6] thousands of homes without running water.

It’s clear the profit motive is incompatible with the essential of water.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [James Wright][7]

[1]: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/south-east-water-tonbridge-malling-b2937782.html
[2]: https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/news/people/south-east-water-hosepipe-ban-is-shambolic-union-says-5231671?fbclid=IwY2xjawQkRB1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBEdHJmQUwzZmpjSUpsa0Nwc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHoyGlCvHa81HKv6vkCRFOvTSZTf3bERYR3TrOQ3mxBp6hhV7RARa7f7YPxH1_aem_s3KkYoV7puvICdhrZXuRZQ
[3]: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/jul/07/south-east-water-debt-infrastructure
[4]: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/south-east-water-tonbridge-malling-b2937782.html
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/01/13/labour-water/
[6]: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2023/jul/07/south-east-water-debt-infrastructure
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/james/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/16/south-east-water-greed/

‘Unconscious bias’ is mask enabling racism-touting says Keon ...

2026-03-16T16:52:56Z

‘Unconscious bias’ is mask enabling racism-touting says Keon West on Polanski pod

[polanski speaks to professor west]

Academic and author Professor Keon West is a social scientist and [expert][1] in the psychology of racism – and, he appeared on Green party leader Zack Polanski’s *Bold Politics* [podcast][2] to discuss the UK’s burgeoning racism problem.

Professor West was asked why the phrase “[unconscious bias][3]” has become so common.

West’s answer will challenge many. West told Polanski that the phrase is a way of spreading and universalising guilt and responsibility as a way of avoiding taking responsibility ourselves for our own attitudes. And he said that it is helping racists excuse their[ racism while simultaneously spouting and touting it][4]:

> It’s incredibly comfortable. In the UK it’s so hard to have a conversation about racism or sexism.
>
> You won’t hear people say: I did that and that was a racist thing to do. You can go on TV and say you hate seeing a bunch of black and brown faces – like Reform UK’s Sarah Pochin – and say you cannot be racist, it must be a misunderstanding.
>
> Similarly men will say all sorts of things but not say that was sexist.

Instead, West explained how added buffers make those making racist or sexist statements feel better:

> I think that it is considered so impolite and so hurtful, to own up to that bias, that we sneak in a word in front of that, ‘unconscious’, and suddenly we don’t have to feel quite so bad. And everybody has it.That focus that makes us calmer about the bias, that’s really for the benefit of the people being biased. It’s not at all for the benefit of the people on the receiving end of the bias.

*Featured image via [X][5]*

By [Skwawkbox][6]

[1]: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2025/jan/15/the-science-of-racism-by-keon-west-review-evidence-that-speaks-for-itself
[2]: https://www.youtube.com/@BoldPoliticswithZack
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/09/mothin-ali-islamophobia/
[4]: https://x.com/implausibleblog/status/2033266548883042582
[5]: https://x.com/implausibleblog/status/2033266548883042582
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/16/polanski-west/

Hypocritical DWP screens disabled people out of its recruitment ...

2026-03-16T16:36:28Z

Hypocritical DWP screens disabled people out of its recruitment process

[Woman uses her laptop which is rested on her outstretched legs - DWP]

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has been accused of using a screening process which filters out applicants with any [health problems][1].

[*The Disability News Service*][2] (DNS) reported that the DWP is using a private sector employment health screening service once they’ve offered someone a job.

The service consists of a seven-page long questionnaire, called Fit4Jobs, which provides the DWP with a comprehensive picture of an applicant’s health.

If an applicant doesn’t score enough points for the ‘health qualifying rate’, their job offer can be withdrawn, meaning the DWP is finding a way not to hire disabled people whilst simultaneously pushing disabled people into work.

The DWP didn’t even try to deny the questionnaire is being used to weed out disabled employees. A spokesperson told the *DNS*:

> The Fit4Jobs questionnaire is a standard pre-employment health declaration, completed by successful external candidates to ensure any workplace adjustments are in place from day one.

However, the department also hypocritically said:

> We are committed to ensuring disabled people and those with long-term health conditions get the right support at work.

This is a ridiculous statement to make when they clearly don’t want disabled people in their own department. The DWP didn’t even try to deny the questionnaire is being used to weed out disabled employees.

## It’s the DWP, not the secret service

The questionnaire probes into all aspects of someone’s medical history from past medications to whether they’ve ever broke a bone or have other health conditions. This includes whether someone has “ever suffered from any mental health conditions or if they have any issues with their stomach, kidneys or skin”.

It’s ridiculously thorough for a DWP job, to be honest. You have to tell them about allergies, whether you’ve had Covid, smoke, drink, or take drugs and even about your diet and exercise. It also drills into immune conditions and whether an applicant has ever had two or more weeks off work due to their health.

The service is provided by the People Asset Management (PAM) group, who then use an algorithm to score the answers. Applicants must score over 80% to achieve the ‘health qualifying rate’ and be regarded as suitable for the role.

The questionnaire is apparently to help employers “identify any risks that could prevent an employee from undertaking their new role” and ensure reasonable adjustments are provided.

However, a DWP work coach told John Pring at *DNS* that applicants would need to answer ‘no’ to most questions to pass the screening process.

They added that the scoring system “appears to reject candidates on the basis of health, disability and age”.

Referring to what the work coach said, Pring wrote:

> They said that it was hypocritical of DWP ministers to call endlessly for more people with health conditions to seek employment, while using a service that prevents many of them working for the department.

## As hypocritical as ever

It’s beyond fucking hypocritical of the DWP to exclude disabled applicants whilst it’s pushing the ‘economically active’ narrative of disabled people not wanting to work.

At a time when the DWP wants to [force disabled people into work][3] by any means, it’s showing how little they value disabled employees. But this is no surprise from a department that has [lost more employment tribunals for disability discrimination in the past five years][4] than any other UK employer.

The DWP is also quietly [scrapping Access to Work][5] which aims to support disabled people in the workplace. How are disabled people supposed to believe the department actually wants to support them into work when they don’t even want to employ disabled people themselves?

This just proves once again how little the government actually wants to help disabled people into employment. What the DWP really cares about is saving money and it would rather continue to demonise disabled people than [fix its crooked department][6].

*Featured image: Pexels/ [cottonbro studio][7]*

By [Rachel Charlton-Dailey][8]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/02/02/dwp-assessors/
[2]: https://www.disabilitynewsservice.com/concern-over-fit4jobs-questionnaire-that-filters-out-dwp-recruits-with-health-conditions/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/01/23/dwp-work-well/
[4]: https://goodjobsfirst.org/revealed-dwp-has-lost-more-employment-tribunals-for-disability-discrimination-than-any-other-uk-employer/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/10/dwp-admits-abandoning-access-to-work-claimants/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/02/13/dwp-pac-fraud/
[7]: https://www.pexels.com/@cottonbro/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/rachel-charlton-dailey/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/16/dwp-job-seekers/

Concern over safety of the Scottish Assisted Dying Bill for ...

2026-03-16T15:23:20Z

Concern over safety of the Scottish Assisted Dying Bill for disabled people

[Members of Glasgow Disability Alliance protest against the Assisted Dying (Scotland) Bill]

The final Holyrood vote on [Liam McArthur’s Assisted Dying Bill][1] takes place on Tuesday 17 March. Ahead of the vote, research shows significant concern in Scotland about its potential impact on disabled people.

Campaign group Not Dead Yet UK commissioned the poll. It also indicates that concern is stronger still among disabled people.

## Public concern over assisted dying

The polling shows nearly 7 in 10 (69%) of Scots agree that the Scottish Parliament should prioritise improving access to care for disabled people before considering whether to introduce assisted dying.

Over 6 in 10 (62%) Scots agree that disabled people who struggle to access the health, social care and other support they need, given the current state of the NHS and social care funding, may be more likely to seek assisted dying.

[Disability groups have made it clear that Holyrood should not introduce assisted dying to Scotland][2]. But MSPs, who appear to be intent on changing the law, are ignoring them. Almost 9 in 10 (86%) of Scots agree that the views of disabled people and the groups representing their interests should be properly taken into account in the debate surrounding whether to introduce assisted suicide.

In fact, a polling comparison between [results in 2025][3] and 2026 shows that public concerns are growing, not reducing, when it comes to protecting [the rights and dignity of disabled people in the context of ‘assisted dying’][4]. And this is despite a year of debate in parliament for the issue.

## Key findings

* 69% of Scots agree that the Scottish parliament should prioritise improving access to care for disabled people before introducing assisted dying. This compares to only 18% who disagree.

This rises to three-quarters (72%) for people polled who had a disability.

It has increased since May 2025 when 66% agreed.

* Almost two-thirds (66%) of Scots agree that disabled people who feel they are a burden on family, friends or society may feel a sense of responsibility to access an assisted death if assisted dying becomes legal. Only 18% disagree.

This rises to over seven in ten (72%) for people polled who have a disability.

It has increased significantly since May 2025 when 59% agreed.

* Almost 9 in 10 (86%) of Scots agree that the views of disabled people and the groups representing their interests should be properly taken into account in the debate surrounding whether to introduce assisted dying. Only 5% disagreed.

It has increased significantly since May 2025 when 75% agreed.

* Almost two-thirds (66%) of Scots agree that some disabled people may be coerced into assisted suicide by others who do not have their best interests at heart. Only 17% disagreed.

* Over 6 in 10 (62%) Scots agree that disabled people who struggle to access the health, social care and other support they need, given the current state of the NHS and social care funding, may be more likely to seek assisted suicide. Only 19% disagreed.

This rises to nearly two-thirds (65%) for people polled who have a disability.

* 60% of Scots agree that if disabled people are living in poverty, and facing cuts to benefits, they may be likely to seek assisted dying instead of struggling financially. Only one in five (21%) disagrees.

This rises to 70% for people polled who have a disability.

## Community leaders comment

Tanni Grey-Thompson, Paralympian and crossbench peer in the House of Lords said:

> The lives of disabled people are under threat from McArthur’s assisted suicide Bill and this polling shows the majority of the public know that.
>
> Making assisted suicide legal in Scotland will have a psychological and practical effect on the lives of disabled people, posing a very real risk to the quality of life of Scotland’s disabled population.
>
> The difference between people who are thought to be terminally ill and people with different disabilities is often blurred, especially if those disabilities require regular management or treatment.
>
> In some cases, failing to manage a disability could make some ‘terminally ill’ in the relevant sense and eligible for assisted suicide under the proposed Scottish Bill.
>
> It is possible that, in the face of difficult circumstances, there will be some disabled people who deliberately stop treatment so that they become eligible for assisted suicide.
>
> The state should be offering support for such people and those who feel they cannot cope with their circumstances, not offering them assistance in ending their lives.

Tressa Burke, CEO of Glasgow Disability Alliance, said:

> This research evidences that the public in Scotland recognises the acute threat of the Assisted Dying Bill to disabled people. Whilst respecting the strongly held beliefs of MSPs who support the Bill, Glasgow Disability Alliance wants to make all those who will vote aware of the depth and levels of fear and concern which currently exist about coercion – either directly or indirectly.
>
> Disabled women are 3 times as likely to experience violence and abuse as non-disabled women and disabled people generally are more reliant on services such as our NHS and social care systems which are under unprecedented pressures at this time.
>
> Social care, in particular, has been cut to the bone, leaving people reliant on family and friends and feeling dehumanised and under targeted attacks from finance directors.
>
> Consequently, many disabled people feel like a burden, internalising the problems we face. Some are at the very real risk of believing Assisted Dying to be their only option.

Heather Fisken, CEO of Inclusion Scotland, said:

> Inclusion Scotland implores MSPs to carefully consider all the evidence on this issue. We know ourselves that whilst some disabled people support a change in the law to make assisted dying easier, Inclusion Scotland like many other disabled people and our organisations, takes the view that until all disabled people’s rights are met and we have equality in health, education, employment, housing, social care support as well as in end of life care, we cannot support a bill that would make coercion to choose assisted dying easier.

Mike Smith is a spokesperson for Not Dead Yet UK. He’s a former commissioner at the Equality and Human Rights Commission, and chair of its Disability Committee. He commented:

> It’s clear from this polling that a significant majority of Scots agree that disabled people’s lives will be threatened if this legislation is passed.
>
> Coercion comes in many forms, whether it’s intentional or more subtle. Most Scots agree some disabled people could feel encouraged to end their lives even if they don’t want to.
>
> The very existence of McArthur’s wide-reaching legislation risks sending a message from the state that it would be better for disabled people to opt for assisted suicide.
>
> In an environment where people struggle to access the health and social care they need to live a life with dignity, this is not the right time to be risking people’s lives.
>
> The mantra of the disability rights movement is ‘nothing about us without us’. Nearly 9 in 10 Scots agree, yet many organisations representing disabled people report feeling their voices have been ignored in this debate.
>
> Disabled people know the reality of their lives and how hard they can be. Their voices must be heard and their fears not ignored.
>
> Given almost 70% of Scots agree that improved access to care has to come before assisted suicide is considered, we urge all MSPs to vote against this bill at Stage 3. It is dangerous and will imperil people’s lives. MSPs should be protecting the right to life for the many whose voices are not as loud as the well-funded campaign to change the law.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [The Canary][5]

[1]: https://www.parliament.scot/bills-and-laws/bills/s6/assisted-dying-for-terminally-ill-adults-scotland-bill
[2]: https://inclusionscotland.org/news/assisted-dying-bill-brief
[3]: https://www.notdeadyetuk.org/post/new-polling-reveals-strong-public-concern-over-assisted-dying-bill-in-scotland
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/topics/assisted-dying/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/16/concern-over-safety-of-the-scottish-assisted-dying-bill-for-disabled-people/

Abulhawa to Mamdani: Zionists “will siphon your soul before you ...

2026-03-16T13:10:14Z

Abulhawa to Mamdani: Zionists “will siphon your soul before you even realize it”

[Mamdani]

Zohran Mamdani’s [condemnation of Susan Abulhawa][1] is a capitulation to the Epstein class, Abulhawa [said][2] in a [searing but graceful][3] response to the New York City mayor.

Abulhawa views on Israel and Zionism were condemned by Mamdani in a recent press conferece.

Abulhawa has a new book called “[Every Moment is a life][4].” It is an anthology she compiled featuring the writings of young Palestinians experiencing the UK/US/Israeli genocide of Gaza. Mamdani’s wife, Rama Duwaji, illustrated a piece within the collection called “A Trail of Soap.”

## Susan Abulhawa’s warning

Susan Abulhawa warned Mamdani in a post on [X][5]:

> You succumbed to forces that seek to pick away at you, at your talented, beautiful wife, and at your work, they will claw harder with each apology or concession you make. If you are not careful, they will siphon your soul before you even realize it.

> View this post on Instagram
>
>
> [A post shared by Slow Factory [🌍] (@theslowfactory)][6]

As the Zionist press in the USA got wind of Duwaji’s contribution — Mamdani felt compelled to publicly condemn Abulhawa. He said Duwaji never met Abulhawa and was commissied through a third party, Abulhawa confirmed this.

> Mayor Mamdani says his wife, Rama Duwaji, was not aware of anti-Israel posts (like calling some Israeli citizens “parasites”) from an author she illustrated an essay for.
>
> Mamdani calls that rhetoric “reprehensible” and says his wife booked the gig thru a 3rd party [pic.twitter.com/HQqJvRYC53][7]
>
> — Josie Stratman (@JosieStratman) [March 13, 2026][8]

The fact that Mamdani publicly condemned a Palestinian American author whose work is crucial amid the silencing of voices witnessing the Gaza genocide has disappointed many of his supporters.

The poignancy of the story that Duwaji illustrated, a young Gazan called Deema’s first encounter with the indignity of a public toilet after her home was destroyed, was lost entirely in Mamdani’s condemnation. In his rush to distance himself from a Palestinian voice, he buried the very humanity his wife’s art sought to illuminate.

In her response to Mamdani, Abulhawa reserved her deepest sorrow not for herself but for the young writers she mentored in Gaza —children who risked their lives walking through bombed streets just to reach writing workshops she held in Gaza in 2024, in the middle of the violent, bloody genocide.

During two trips to Gaza in 2024, Abulhawa conducted eight writing workshops for young Palestinians. The workshops took place amid Israel’s relentless bombing campaigns. She said in her video reply to Mamdani:

> No words can adequately capture the evil I have witnessed or experienced at their hands. I do not have sufficient language to describe what they have done to us, what Gaza smells like, feels or looks like up close now. But it is the kind of knowledge that alters one’s life.

She said it was extraordinarily difficult for the young writers to attend the workshops. They traveled for hours on foot, by bicycle, or on donkey carts just to reach the meeting places. Sometimes the journey itself put their lives at risk.

## Palestinian-Americans condemn Mamdani

Other Palestinian Americans also condemned Mamdani’s capitulation.

Anas Saleh’s take down on Mamdani’s zionist position during his mayoral campaign was reshared by him.

> After I heckled Mamdani, I got flooded with hate from the left for attacking “my allies.”[@NerdeenKiswani][9] reached out and told me that in a few months or a year that Zohran will expose himself to the people and they’ll realize you were right. Well… here we are. Nerdeen was right. [https://t.co/ULqGUTe3ts][10]
>
> — Anas Saleh انس صالح (@AnasSaleh_NYC) [March 14, 2026][11]

Nerdeen Kiswani said that Palestine movement was expendable to Mamdani. She said:

> He knows he’ll anger us. He just believes that when the time comes, we’ll vote for him anyway.

> Zohran Mamdani throwing his own wife under the bus for not “vetting” who she made artwork for was never going to appease Zionists. They were always going to attack him anyway.
>
> So why do it?
>
> Because in his political calculus, Zionists are a constituency to appease. The Palestine…
>
> — Nerdeen Kiswani (@NerdeenKiswani) [March 14, 2026][12]

Mohammed El-Kurd, a Palestinian writer recalled a conversation with Mamdani in which the mayor once warned him that criticism of politicians ‘gives people permission to go after his wife.’

> Once in a meeting w Mr Mayor he told me that when I criticize him I “give people permission to go after his wife.” Very funny remark in retrospect.
>
> — Mohammed El-Kurd (@m7mdkurd) [March 14, 2026][13]

Yet in condemning Abulhawa, Mamdani himself had now handed his wife’s critics that very permission — sacrificing on the altar of political ambition the very principle he had once invoked to protect his family.

## Zionist journalists circling Mamdani

The pressure on Mamdani has been relentless.

Since Duwaji’s illustration was discovered, Zionist journalists have targeted both him and his wife.

For instance, New York Post [published][14] a column attacking Duwaji. It accused her of holding “abhorrent, disgusting opinions” and celebrating “mass murder” based on her social media activity. The piece questioned whether Jewish New Yorkers could trust a mayor “who sleeps next to a woman” with such views!

The journalist who asked the question about Duwaji’s links to Abulhawa at the press conference mentioned above — is called [Jon Levine][15] of the Washington Free Beacon.

He is a Gaza Holocaust denier.

> Israel’s response in Gaza was in fact far too lenient [https://t.co/VBhh4BgpOb][16]
>
> — Jon Levine (@LevineJonathan) [February 12, 2026][17]

Why Mamdani would condemn Abulhawa to a genocide denier shows the limitations of liberal politics.

*Featured image via [WikimediaCommons][18]*

By [The Canary][19]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/01/10/zohran-mamdani-achieves/
[2]: https://x.com/susanabulhawa/status/2032945406603121074?s=20
[3]: https://x.com/aaronjmate/status/2032954142516269249?s=20
[4]: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Every-Moment-Is-a-Life/Susan-Abulhawa/9781668222362
[5]: https://x.com/susanabulhawa/status/2032945406603121074?s=20
[6]: https://www.instagram.com/p/DU3AbUWjOay/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading
[7]: https://t.co/HQqJvRYC53
[8]: https://twitter.com/JosieStratman/status/2032571993808138733?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]: https://twitter.com/NerdeenKiswani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[10]: https://t.co/ULqGUTe3ts
[11]: https://twitter.com/AnasSaleh_NYC/status/2032922341374599590?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[12]: https://twitter.com/NerdeenKiswani/status/2032746417651863669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[13]: https://twitter.com/m7mdkurd/status/2032678951655534692?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[14]: https://nypost.com/2026/03/14/opinion/as-first-lady-of-nyc-rama-duwaji-needs-to-pay-attention-to-her-social-media/
[15]: https://x.com/LevineJonathan/status/2031363074498720240
[16]: https://t.co/VBhh4BgpOb
[17]: https://twitter.com/LevineJonathan/status/2021785237072785533?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[18]:
[19]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/16/mamdani-zionists-will-siphon/

UK hospitals urged to scrap Palantir over health and human rights ...

2026-03-15T17:44:17Z

UK hospitals urged to scrap Palantir over health and human rights risks

[Composite image of NHS logo within a Palantir image]

A coalition of leading human rights, health groups and trade unions has urged NHS England to cancel its contract with Palantir based on serious risks to the NHS. Medact has sent its new briefing document, [*Concerns Regarding Palantir Technologies in NHS Data Systems*][1], to all NHS trust and Integrated Care Board CEOs.

It urges them to exercise their local autonomy and not comply with NHS England’s instruction to adopt Palantir’s Federated Data Platform.

## Palantir embedded across the NHS

Assessing the risks posed by the company’s technology to patients and the NHS, the briefing raises alarm over data protection, governance, procurement practices, state surveillance and the wider human rights implications of embedding Palantir’s systems across the health service.

The briefing warns that adopting Palantir’s Foundry platform under the NHS Federated Data Platform could cause irreparable reputational damage to NHS bodies and permanently undermine public trust.

It argues that Palantir’s links to alleged human rights abuses, the US and Israeli militaries, controversial policing practices, deportations and surveillance operations should have excluded it from NHS procurement entirely.

The Good Law Project’s Duncan McCann said:

> Palantir is a direct threat to our health service that could see millions of people refuse to share their records – fatally undermining the very system it claims to improve.

At the heart of the warning is the interoperability of Palantir’s platforms. Its civil software Foundry and military software Gotham share underlying architecture. Because of this, the NHS’s adoption of the technology could indirectly contribute to the advancement of militarised tools that have been linked to alleged human rights abuses.

## Defence and policing as well

With Palantir’s expansion into the Ministry of Defence and police forces across the country, groups warn of the risk of data-sharing across government departments.

Foundry software is currently enabling US Immigrations, Customs and Enforcement (ICE) to track migrants using the Department of Health and Human Services. This highlights the power of Palantir technology to drive data-driven abuses of state power.

The groups also raise concerns about procurement processes. They point to overlapping relationships between political figures, contractors and NHS leadership. [This includes Peter Mandelson][2] and his lobbying firm Global Counsel.

The Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has acted as a showcase site for Palantir technology. Its chair Matthew Swindells also simultaneously advised Palantir and Global Counsel.

Anna Peiris of Medact said:

> For health workers, patient safety – and the security of their data – is non-negotiable. The [launch of this briefing][3] will help them to continue resisting Palantir, a company known for supporting the genocide in Gaza and mass deportations in the US, and ensure the rollout of Palantir’s data platform is stopped for good.

## Cuts are driving Palantir dependence

The briefing also highlights new data privacy concerns. This is an issue which NHS leadership has repeatedly dismissed. The report reveals that, as part of the Federated Data Platform rollout, NHS data teams are reportedly receiving multiple requests each week from Palantir staff seeking access to stored patient-identifiable information.

Amid widespread staffing cuts across the NHS, analysts are increasingly reliant on Palantir personnel for implementation and system management. The groups warn this risks ‘vendor lock-in’, with Palantir retaining intellectual property and becoming entrenched as the dominant NHS data supplier.

The document also points out that, in a 2025 meeting, the health secretary Wes Streeting promised to review the governance of confidential patient information. He described this to Palantir as presenting “opportunities”.

The political context is shifting rapidly. The British Medical Association has announced its intention to explore how doctors can refuse to use Palantir’s software. Meanwhile, [the Green Party][4] has pledged to mobilise its members and councillors to oppose the rollout.

The briefing predicts further resistance from both NHS staff and patients if implementation continues, and urges local NHS bodies not to implement the technology.

A spokesperson for the United Tech and Allied Workers Union said:

> Palantir’s encroachment into public services should be of utmost concern to the public and the government. The question of control is critical to maintaining both infrastructure and healthcare delivery.
>
> Our members in the tech sector understand the importance of trust and oversight in tech, and this company has repeatedly proven itself to be untrustworthy and scruple-less.
>
> Our NHS systems should be built and owned with public oversight and accountability. We should be leveraging and building in-house NHS technology expertise to deliver the data system we rely on, rather than giving Palantir profit and control of our private health data.

Hope Worsdale of Just Treatment said:

> The trust between a patient and their doctor is paramount: it is the bedrock of the health service. Placing Palantir at the heart of our NHS – despite its immoral business practices, deadly products, anti-democratic leadership, and ineffective services – will have an irreparable, corrosive effect on that trust.
>
> It begs the question: why have the lines of lobbyists mattered more to this government than the lives of patients?
>
> We call on everyone with power within the NHS to heed this report’s warning, and resist at every possible point the imposition of Palantir’s control over patient data.
>
> We call on parliamentarians to demand the government rips up its contract with Palantir, and develops a data processing system owned and controlled by our health service focused solely on the interests, needs, and rights of NHS patients.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [The Canary][5]

[1]: https://www.medact.org/2026/resources/briefings/briefing-palantir-fdp/
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/02/12/pollard-left-squirming-on-palantir-mandelson-links/
[3]: https://www.medact.org/event/briefing-launch-the-risks-of-palantir-in-the-nhs/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/01/22/zack-polanski-to-hand-in-nhs-contract-termination-notice-to-palantir/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/thecanary/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/03/15/uk-hospitals-urged-to-scrap-palantir-over-health-and-human-rights-risks/

US sends USS Tripoli and thousands of troops to Middle East [US] ...

2026-03-14T18:49:02Z

US sends USS Tripoli and thousands of troops to Middle East

[US]

The US is sending USS Tripoli, along with its Marine expeditionary unit, which can conduct ground operations, to the Middle East.

This comes only one day after the IRGC [announced][1] that it had successfully struck USS Abraham Lincoln. Of course, the US denied this claim, but then immediately called up the USS Tripoli.

> أهم ما جرى في الساعات الأخيرة!
>
> أحداث حاسمة.
>
> بالنسبة لحاملة الطائرات أبراهام لينكولن هناك إعلان رسمي من حرس الثورة بأنها أصيب وتغادر إلى الولايات المتحدة. سنتكوم نفت وقالت إنها لاتزال في العمليات، في الوقت نفسه استدعيت حاملتا الطائرات تريبولي وبوش إلى الحرب، وهذا يؤشر إلى صحة…
>
> — Mohamad Seifeddine (@mseiif) [March 13, 2026][2]

According to [Mohamad Seifeddine][3]:

> Regarding the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, there is an official announcement from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stating that it has been hit and is withdrawing to the United States. CENTCOM denied this and said it remains in operations. At the same time, the aircraft carriers Tripoli and Bush have been called into the fight, which points to the validity of Lincoln’s exit from the theater.
>
> As for the Gerald R. Ford, the buzz is around a fire breaking out on it. The Americans said it was an electrical malfunction, while Iran said it was deliberately set by the carrier’s crew to avoid combat. This might mean it was also struck, with a “conspiracy of silence” from both sides to prevent the cost that could arise from two aircraft carriers being hit in a single day.
>
> The incident with the two pilots is confirmed, and there’s chatter about it—the Iranians say it went down under fire, while the Americans say it was an accident and not from enemy fire or friendly fire. In the end, yes, there is a qualitative leap in the quality and level of the hits. And now a signal from the Houthis of imminent entry. This means we’ve entered the final level of means, or the last hundred meters of the war. Because Houthi involvement means maximum pressure on energy markets. And this assumes it would shatter the markets if it continues for long, in parallel with the closure of the Bab al-Mandab. The next five days are decisive!

This will add thousands of Marines, several warships, and F-35 fighter jets to the region.

The ships are sailing from Japan and will reach the region in around two weeks.

## Strait of Hormuz

On March 2, Iran announced it was closing the Strait of Hormuz

Iran has been blocking the Strait of Hormuz in response to the US and Israel’s illegal and unprovoked attacks.

So far, the disruption has caused the US $11bn.

On Thursday, March 12, Scott Bessent, the Treasurer Secretary, [said][4] that US Navy escorts for commercial ships could start soon.

On March 4, a US submarine sank the [Iranian frigate IRIS Dena][5] off the coast of Sri Lanka. So far, at least 18 vessels have been hit in Gulf waters.

According to *Axios*, the United States military is planning:

> potential operations for taking out land-based anti-ship missiles that the Iranians have deployed in the Strait area.

Pete Hegseth, Defense Secretary, said that:

> But it’s not just that Iran doesn’t have a functioning Air Force, or that their entire Navy is at the bottom of the Persian Gulf, or their missile force is shrinking daily.
> They also don’t have the ability to build more. That’s the most important component I’d like to emphasize today

But why are the US and Israel allowed to rebuild their armies when Iran shoots down their planes or sinks their ships?

And why do they not want brown Middle Eastern countries to be able to defend themselves?

## USS Tripoli

The [USS Tripoli][6] is an amphibious assault ship — not an aircraft carrier. However, it functions almost like a small aircraft carrier.

This means that the United States will soon have four aircraft carriers, if we include the USS Tripoli, active in the West Asia.

The US has 11 nuclear-powered aircraft carriers in active service, but it can only [deploy ][7]about half at any given time.

Aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford, an aircraft carrier currently operating in the Red Sea, a fire [broke out,][8] which was ‘unrelated to combat’. Two sailors were injured and received medical treatment.

The Ford has more than 5,000 sailors on board and carries more than 75 military aircraft.

## US casualties

On Thursday, March 12, [six crew members were killed][9] when a [US KC-135 refuelling aircraft crashed][10] in Iraq.

The US claimed it was due to an incident with another aircraft, but the Islamic Resistance in Iraq [claimed][11] responsibility for downing the aircraft.

Then, on March 13, Iranian missiles also damaged 5 US Air Force refuelling aircraft at Prince Sultan Airbase in Saudi Arabia.

So far, Iranian strikes have damaged seven US refuelling planes and killed six crew members.

Since the US and Israel launched their illegal attacks on Iran, a total of 13 US personnel have died in the Middle East.

What happened to being the president of peace? Trump spent four years promising the American people that there would be no new wars. Yet as soon as he’s back in office, the US is blowing up civilians in Iran.

But the US must already be struggling. It announced it was [deploying ][12]2,500 marines, then quickly changed the figure to 5,000. US colonialism is in full swing — and Trump does not care how many black and brown people he murders — as long as he’s distracting us from the Epstein files.

It’s amazing what lengths powerful men will go to, just to cover up the evidence of them raping children.

*Feature image via [Armory Unveiled/ YouTube][13]*

By [HG][14]

[1]: https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/900146
[2]: https://twitter.com/mseiif/status/2032588585656865086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://twitter.com/mseiif?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2032588585656865086%7Ctwgr%5Eff6643122ee7bd8b208c0d51f73985c87dbb5836%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecanary.co%2F%3Fp%3D1762400
[4]: https://www.axios.com/2026/03/13/iran-war-trump-officials-ship-escorts-hormuz-strait
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/04/iran-submarine/
[6]: https://www.surfpac.navy.mil/lha7/
[7]: https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/where-are-americas-aircraft-carriers-now-ps010126
[8]: https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/fire-breaks-out-aboard-amercian-carrier-in-red-sea/
[9]: https://fortune.com/2026/03/13/crew-members-kc-135-refueling-plane-crash-iraq-us-death-toll-operation-epic-fury/
[10]: https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PRESS-RELEASES/Press-Release-View/Article/4432850/loss-of-us-kc-135-over-iraq/
[11]: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/us-military-plane-crash-iraq-rescue-mission-b2937701.html
[12]: https://news.sky.com/video/2-500-marines-and-us-warship-to-deploy-to-the-middle-east-13519367
[13]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BcauGD9QZJ8
[14]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/hg/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/14/us-sends-uss-tripoli/

Despite Starmers lies, the UK is at war with Iran [Starmer] Keir ...

2026-03-13T20:34:31Z

Despite Starmers lies, the UK is at war with Iran

[Starmer]

Keir Starmer’s government is playing an ever-increasing role in the destruction of Iran, despite his claims that the UK was “playing no role”.

The government’s lines about “regional defensive operations” are becoming harder to believe, as the UK’s actions appear to be contributing to the deaths of thousands of innocent Iranians.

## British involvement under Starmer

Britain’s involvement began in January, when the UK and the US began moving weaponry to the Middle East.

According to [*Declassified UK*][1]:

> Britain moved “defensive assets” to Cyprus and Qatar in January and February “to ensure we were in a heightened state of readiness of any conflict beginning”, Starmer said last week.
>
> The assets included fighter jets, air defence missiles, advanced radar and systems to take down drones.

Since then, the UK has allowed the US to use several of its air bases. The US has stationed one fleet of military planes at RAF Fairford in Gloucester.

But importantly, Starmer has only approved “defensive” US action from UK bases.

Despite this, the US military has been [loading][2] large explosives into B-1 Lancer bombers at the base.

> American [🇺🇸] B-1 bombers being loaded at UK [🇬🇧] air bases, with 2000lb ‘bunker busters’
>
> Forget ‘defensive’ action
>
> Starmer has taken the UK [🇬🇧] to war without so much as a debate.[pic.twitter.com/zVn3ShUWxO][3]
>
> — Howard Beckett (@BeckettUnite) [March 12, 2026][4]

According to *Declassified UK*, US Planes have been [passing][5] through RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall, both in Suffolk, as well as Prestwick civilian airport in Scotland.

In total, over 100 fighter jets have left RAF Lakenheath for the Middle East since January.

At least one of the jets from Lakenheath was among those which [crashed][6] in Kuwait.

## ‘Reality of war’

British MP Sarah Sackman also claimed that the US strike, which murdered 165 little girls, was just a “[reality of war][7]“. The reality is actually more like an illegal and unprovoked attack, which violates international law.

Ultimately, this plays into the hands of the US and Israel. Instead of condemning their actions, Sackman has practically given the genocidal maniacs permission to continue.

> NEW: British minister Sarah Sackman has refused to declare the Iran school massacre – which killed 165 people, including many children – a war crime.
>
> She said it was the “realities of war”[https://t.co/bFvoYWXpy6][8] [pic.twitter.com/4ZutHzKBes][9]
>
> — Imran Mulla (@Imran_posts) [March 10, 2026][10]

## Starmer — Diego Garcia

The UK has a military base on Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. Importantly, the UK is [illegally occupying][11] the island.

In true British and US colonial fashion, both countries evicted the entire population to establish a joint UK — US military base which has operated since the 1970s.

The US used it for [strikes on Afghanistan][12] from 2001, and both countries used it to bomb Iraq from 2003.

Now it appears that a US submarine, operating from the base, was used to fire two torpedoes at the [unarmed][13] Iranian frigate. It then sank off the coast of Sri Lanka.

Clearly, that is not a defensive operation.

> A US submarine operating from UK base Diego Garcia, firing two torpedoes at an Iranian Frigate, destroying it and killing most on board – the first operation of its kind since WW2 – is not a defensive operation.
>
> The British government is at war with Iran and lying to its people.
>
> — Joshua Virasami [🇲🇺][🇵🇸] (@JoshuaVirasami) [March 4, 2026][14]

The UK is also allowing the US to use its [military base on Cyprus][15] – another country the UK previously colonised illegally.

The *BBC *reported that the UK was not allowing the US to use its bases in Cyprus for “defensive” strikes on Iranian missile sites. However, American U-2 spy planes are reportedly using the site.

The UK has also now sent HMS Dragon and two Wildcat helicopters to the eastern Mediterranean — supposedly to ‘protect’ RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus.

However, as the *Canary* previously [reported][16]:

> The HMS Dragon is fitted with a Sea Viper missile system. It can launch eight missiles in under 10 seconds and guide up to 16 missiles simultaneously. Wildcat helicopters from the 815 Naval Air Squadron, equipped with Martlet missiles capable of taking out drones, will assist it.

On March 6, a British pilot flying from RAF Akrotiri [shot down][17] Iranian drones over Jordan, Qatar and Iraq.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence told the *BBC*:

> Just this week, we have flown Typhoon and F-35 fighter jets on sorties around the region, shooting down Iranian drones and defending innocent civilians from Iran’s indiscriminate attacks.

Why aren’t we letting the US and Israel fight their own battles?

## Weapons

Additionally, the UK is still [selling][18] millions of pounds’ worth of weapons to Israel.

It provides around 15% of the components in the F-35 fighter jets, which Israel uses in airstrikes across Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Iran.

According to [Oxfam][19]:

> This includes the rear fuselage and active interceptor system, ejector seats, aircraft tyres, refuelling probe, laser targeting system, and the fan propulsion system.

The UK government supplies these parts to Israel via a global programme led by the US company Lockheed Martin.

To make matters worse, the UK produces components for Israeli armed and surveillance drones. Factories in the UK make them and then send them to Israel for assembly. The drones are used for both spying missions and to attack civilians.

We can presume that the drones are also now being used to attack civilians in Lebanon and Iran.

From letting the US use British air bases to sending parts for fighter jets and drones to Israel, the UK is involved in Israel and the US’s illegal war against Iran, whether Starmer admits it or not.

Was it not bad enough that the UK was complicit in the murder of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza? Now, it’s also complicit in the murders of Iranians and Lebanese people.

Starmer has even more blood on his hands.

*Feature image via [BFBS Forces News/YouTube][20]*

By [HG][21]

[1]: https://www.declassifieduk.org/how-britain-is-involved-in-trumps-iran-war/
[2]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cn87kmlnzdyo
[3]: https://t.co/zVn3ShUWxO
[4]: https://twitter.com/BeckettUnite/status/2032023696085225958?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[5]: https://www.declassifieduk.org/how-britain-is-involved-in-trumps-iran-war/
[6]: https://www.declassifieduk.org/how-britain-is-involved-in-trumps-iran-war/
[7]: https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/uk-minister-wont-call-iran-school-massacre-war-crime-labels-it-realities-war
[8]: https://t.co/bFvoYWXpy6
[9]: https://t.co/4ZutHzKBes
[10]: https://twitter.com/Imran_posts/status/2031379902612623782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/feb/25/un-court-rejects-uk-claim-to-sovereignty-over-chagos-islands
[12]: https://www.britannica.com/place/Diego-Garcia-island-Indian-Ocean
[13]: https://www.dawn.com/news/1979440
[14]: https://twitter.com/JoshuaVirasami/status/2029196315461075138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[15]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/03/cyprus-colonial/
[16]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/11/cyprus-iran/
[17]: https://www.raf.mod.uk/news/articles/raf-f-35-conducts-first-combat-shoot-down-on-operations/#:~:text=An%20RAF%20F%E2%80%9135%20pilot,operation%20over%20Jordan%20this%20week.&text=The%20pilot%2C%20flying%20alongside%20two,them%20with%20two%20ASRAAM%20missiles.
[18]: https://www.oxfam.org.uk/get-involved/campaign-with-oxfam/gaza-israel-crisis-sign-petition-call-for-ceasefire-now/does-the-uk-sell-arms-to-israel/
[19]: https://www.oxfam.org.uk/get-involved/campaign-with-oxfam/gaza-israel-crisis-sign-petition-call-for-ceasefire-now/does-the-uk-sell-arms-to-israel/
[20]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJY8Az3BQag
[21]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/hg/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/13/starmer-lied-the-uk-is-at-war-with-iran/

US Congress steps in over extortionate 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket ...

2026-03-12T16:18:54Z

US Congress steps in over extortionate 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket prices

[fifa world cup]

The debate surrounding ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup has escalated from a purely sporting discussion to [a political issue within US Congress][1]. Dozens of American lawmakers called on FIFA to review its ticket pricing policy.

A letter from US lawmakers [warned that the tournament could become an event][2] that excludes a large segment of the fan base.

The letter, coordinated by Representative Sydney Kamlager Duff and signed by 68 other members of Congress, was addressed to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. It urged him to make tickets affordable for American fans as well as international fans attending the tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

## FIFA World Cup: rising costs

A global event that impacts the local economy. The primary reason for this intervention relates to the sheer scale of the event itself. Because the World Cup is not just a football competition, but [a massive economic project][3] involving cities and public institutions in the host countries.

The American cities hosting the tournament have already spent billions of dollars on infrastructure, security, transportation, and services related to the World Cup. This means that a portion of these costs is covered by public funds and taxpayers, which gives lawmakers the right to question organizers when they feel that local fans might be excluded due to high prices.

## Variable pricing

Lawmakers criticized FIFA’s decision to use a variable pricing system for the first time in the tournament’s history, a system that allows ticket prices to change according to factors such as real-time demand and the popularity of a match.

Critics of this policy argue that this model opens the door to significant price increases, especially for matches involving major national teams or crucial stages, potentially turning the tournament into an event exclusively for the wealthy.

In their letter to Infantino, the lawmakers said that high ticket demand “should not be a green light to raise prices at the expense of the people who make the World Cup the most-watched sporting event in the world.”

## FIFA under pressure

Although Congress does not have direct authority over FIFA, such letters represent political and media pressure on the international organization, especially when it concerns a tournament held on American soil.

Therefore, in their concluding remarks, the legislators called on FIFA to “review its policies and take immediate corrective action,” warning that continued variable pricing could transform the world’s biggest football event into a profit-driven enterprise that alienates the fans who have made the game so popular.

Amidst the political and economic debate, the issue of tickets appears to have become one of the most contentious topics in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup, a tournament that will test not only the readiness of the stadiums but also their relationship with the fans, who are the lifeblood of the game.

## Astronomical prices

According to FIFA data, nearly two million tickets were sold in the first two phases of sales, with demand exceeding supply by more than 30 times.

Some tickets for the opening match reach prices of around $900, while tickets for the final exceed $8,000, and the cheapest seats for the final start at around $2,000.

But the biggest surprise came on [FIFA’s official resale platform][4], where a third-tier seat for the tournament final scheduled to be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19 was offered for a shocking price of $143,000, more than 40 times its original price.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Alaa Shamali][5]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/11/fifa-world-cup-will-iran-participate/
[2]: https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2026/03/12/us-reps-press-fifa-on-world-cup-ticket-prices-host-city-costs/
[3]: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7106777/2026/03/11/usa-politicians-letter-fifa-world-cup-ticket-prices-funding/
[4]: https://www.trtworld.com/article/c98627f347fb
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/alaa-shamali/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/12/world-cup-interference/

Mahmood bans Al Quds Day march after Met allies with Israel lobby ...

2026-03-11T10:08:14Z

Mahmood bans Al Quds Day march after Met allies with Israel lobby

[shabana mahmood and keir starmer visit a mosque]

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has banned the planned Al Quds Day march in London for Sunday 15 March. Mahmood [no doubt needed little persuading][1], rendering the Metropolitan Police’s decision to [side with the UK Israel lobby][2] little more than a pretext.

## Mahmood caves to Israel lobby

In a statement, [the Met claimed that:][3]

> The Al Quds march is uniquely contentious having originated in Iran and in London is organised by the Islamic Human Rights Commission, an organisation supportive of the Iranian regime… The threshold to ban a protest is high and we do not take this decision lightly; this is the first time we have used this power since 2012.
>
> The Metropolitan Police routinely polices hundreds of protests which have counter protesters. Free speech and the right to protest are protected in law and we have a proven track record of upholding these values.

The Met appears to think opponents of genocide and imperialism have forgotten the traps it laid for an entirely peaceful anti-genocide march in January 2025. That entrapment, despite [abundant footage of police inviting marchers through police lines][4], was used to [charge and prosecute][5] leading peace organisers. The state continues to insist peaceful demonstrators ‘forced’ their way through.

Organisers of the march, the Islamic Human Rights Commission, have [strongly condemned the decision][6]:

> IHRC strongly condemns the desicion by the Metropolitan Police to ban the Al Quds Day March.
>
> However, a static Al Quds Day protest will still go ahead.
>
> We hope to see you on Sunday 15th March InshaAllah.
>
> We are seeking legal advice and this decision will not go unchallenged.

And they made it clear that Shabana Mahmood has made a political decision:

> If it was not clear already, the police have brazenly abandoned their sworn principle of policing without fear or favour, and have capitulated to the pressure of the Zionist lobby. The Metropolitan Police unashamedly regurgitate Zionist talking points about IHRC without a shred of evidence. They cannot present evidence because there is none – we are an independent NGO. In essence, this is a politically charged desicion; not one taken for the security of the people of London

## What right to protest?

The force’s statement also invidiously linked the march to threats and terrorism – and to claim that Iran is “attacking British allies”, rather than [retaliating after unprovoked attacks][7]:

> We must also consider that the security services have been publicly clear about the threats we are facing on UK soil from the Iranian regime. In the last year MI5 and Counter Terrorism Policing have foiled over 20 Iranian state-backed attacks on the UK. Last week counter-terrorism officers arrested four people under the National Security Act after they allegedly spied on Jewish communities for the Iranian regime and, separately, at the weekend a man was reportedly stabbed by someone who had opposing views on the Iranian regime.

No evidence has so far been provided to the public for any of these arrests or ‘foiled attacks’.

In typical Orwellian style, the Met then claimed that it protects the right to protest, while warning that those who protest this weekend will “crossover [sic] into criminality [and] will face the full force of the law” and that:

> We urge the organisers to comply with our conditions or face arrest.

Right.

The UK regime is an enabler of rogue-state terrorism and is [more than willing to subordinate the rights of its citizens to the interests of Israel and the US][8].

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][9]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2025/11/28/shabana-mahmood-blocks-ruling/
[2]: https://www.thejc.com/news/politics/ban-al-quds-day-says-sackman-f1mk5tnq
[3]: https://news.met.police.uk/news/statement-on-al-quds-march-506983
[4]: https://skwawkbox.org/2025/01/24/more-evidence-disproves-mets-claim-marchers-forced-through-police-line/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2025/01/21/chris-nineham/
[6]: https://www.ihrc.org.uk/al-quds-day-2026/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/04/qatar-iran/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/01/08/starmer-lawfares/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/11/mahmood-caves/

Canary video: round-up Starmer’s Mandelson cover-up, Palantir, ...

2026-03-10T00:33:45Z

Canary video: round-up Starmer’s Mandelson cover-up, Palantir, and oil price scam

[Starmer's continued Mandelson cover-up - the Canary]

A new video by the* Canary’s* Ranjan Balakumaran exposes the Starmer regime’s continued cover-up of [Peter Mandelson’s appointment][1] and other [paedophile-related whitewashes][2], conflicts of interest, Starmer’s [protection of US-Israeli war-crime enablers Palantir][3], the attacks on Iran and the global oil-price scam. Quite an achievement for a 5-minute video.

The ‘Epstein class’ and its supporters get more exposed by the day. Watch the latest video here and share widely:

> View this post on Instagram
>
>
> [A post shared by Canary (@thecanaryuk)][4]

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Skwawkbox][5]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/07/mandelson-released-from-bail/
[2]: https://skwawkbox.org/2025/01/11/former-chair-of-jlm-pro-israel-lobby-group-arrested-on-suspicion-of-child-sex-offences/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/04/palantir-transparency-minister/
[4]: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVqewy5iJZG/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/10/the-canary-starmer-mandelson-palantir-oil/

UK study shows extent of anti-Muslim media propaganda [Mainstream ...

2026-03-09T19:14:58Z

UK study shows extent of anti-Muslim media propaganda

[Mainstream media fails Muslims]

The Centre for Media Monitoring analysed 40,913 articles from 2025, uncovering a paper trail of anti-Muslim reporting. The independent media watchdog, reviewing content from 30 major UK-registered news organisations, predictably found that far-right outlets are the prime purveyors of anti-Muslim propaganda.

They found [that][1]:

> nearly half of all articles referencing Muslims or Islam in 2025 contained some degree of bias.

They also identified, in their words, “broader structural weakness” across Britain’s media landscape.

> A distinct cluster of right-wing outlets is responsible for the most severe and persistent harmful coverage: The Spectator, GB News, The Telegraph, Jewish Chronicle & The Daily Mail are the worst offenders across almost all categories. [#SofM2025][2] [pic.twitter.com/W8qpRvSZe7][3]
>
> — The Centre for Media Monitoring (CfMM) (@cfmmuk) [March 9, 2026][4]

It found countless examples of “systematic editorial hostility” from certain outlets with a clear an anti-Muslim agenda. It cited the *Spectator *as an example, reporting that one in four of its articles were “very biased.”

The current Spectator editor, appointed in September 2024, is the former Tory MP Michael Gove. The [proud Zionist][5] has repeatedly [denied][6] Israel’s [genocide][7] against Palestinians in Gaza, and asserts that Israeli influence in Britain should grow even further, despite the significant influence the [pro-Israel lobby][8] wields over UK politics.

Part of Israel’s [alliance][9] [and][10] [ideological overlap][11] [with][12] [Western fascists][13] is largely driven by their shared aim of attacking Muslims *and* progressives. [For Israel][14], these groups represent a threat to Israel’s impunity, particularly [for speaking out against ][15]its war crimes. As for the UK-fascist camp, these groups are an obstacle to them gaining power.

The Telegraph and the Mail – both hard-right outlets – may not have been quite as fervently anti-Muslim in 2025, proportionally speaking. In contrast, because their output was much larger, the reach of their biased content was that much greater.

> Meanwhile, in terms of sheer volume, The Telegraph published the largest number of severely biased articles about Muslims in 2025, followed by the Daily Mail. [#SofM2025][16] [pic.twitter.com/KieiNFy332][17]
>
> — The Centre for Media Monitoring (CfMM) (@cfmmuk) [March 9, 2026][18]

The study also found that* GB News*, the latest kid on the block as far as hateful far-right propaganda is concerned, was “among the worst performers.” It earned the top rank for publishing “sweeping generalisations” about Muslims at [39 percent][19].

As the centre [explains][20]:

> The Telegraph, Daily Mail, and GB News together account for 956 ‘Very Biased’ articles 46.8% of all such content. These three outlets shape nearly half of the most extreme biased discourse

## Omission of context is a problem across the mainstream media, not just on the right

The centres’ study [also underlines the absence of contextual detail][21] across the articles included in their sample:

> Contextual omission is the most widespread form of problematic coverage […] 44% of biased articles contained contextual omission, making it the most common harmful journalistic practice identified in the study. Unlike other bias categories, this issue appears across the media spectrum, suggesting a broader structural weakness in UK journalism.

> The most widespread failure across ALL outlets? Omitting context. Found in 44% of biased articles, this is not just a right-wing problem. It reflects a structural weakness in British journalism that editors across the board must urgently address. [#SofM2025][22] [pic.twitter.com/UwO1slIfgQ][23]
>
> — The Centre for Media Monitoring (CfMM) (@cfmmuk) [March 9, 2026][24]

The result, as the centres notes, amounts to a [failure to provide][25]:

> information, perspectives, or voices that would clarify or provide greater context to the issue being discussed.

And it wasn’t just outlets on the far-right failing to provide appropriate context.

One particularly problematic group of media outlets in this respect was “international wire services”. While organisations like Associated Press, Reuters, and AFP displayed only “moderate” bias, the fact that “hundreds of outlets globally” use their content has resulted in:

> moderate levels of negative framing or contextual omission in wire service reporting carry a disproportionate real-world impact, thereby embedding harmful narratives throughout the broader media ecosystem.

Rizwana Hamid, the director of Centre for Media Monitoring [asserted][26] that:

> When entire communities are repeatedly framed through lenses of suspicion or threat, it inevitably shapes public attitudes, political debate and the everyday lives of British Muslims

## The wider picture

The centre surprising found lower levels of anti-Muslim bias across *BBC* coverage. However, this doesn’t let the *BBC* off the hook, having demonstrated multiple instances of [anti-Palestinian bias][27]. And this has inevitably fed into the idea that the mass murder of a predominantly Muslim group isn’t a big deal.

This was documented in the centres’ 2025 report on *BBC* reporting bias during Israel’s genocide in Gaza. Needless to say, they found that [although Israeli occupation forces had killed at least 34 times more Palestinians, Israelis received 33 times more coverage][28].

Across the broader British media spectrum, this downplaying of Muslim deaths continues. Mainstream news organisations prioritise Israeli deaths while underplaying non-Israeli deaths:

> Lebanese die, Israelis are killed [https://t.co/nvLRuuKeUj][29]
>
> — Mehdi Hasan (@mehdirhasan) [March 9, 2026][30]

> Sky News deleted this tweet
>
> Which is a reminder why we need to log and record every example of dehumanisation on [@archivegenocide][31]
>
> The archive webpage extracts and stores all data, preserving it for the future. [pic.twitter.com/rNlFxMtgCK][32]
>
> — Philip Proudfoot (@PhilipProudfoot) [March 8, 2026][33]

> You rewrote it and still didn’t fix it. Here you go. [https://t.co/QGf74GTvWU][34] [pic.twitter.com/jUFZ9UyHHv][35]
>
> — Assal Rad (@AssalRad) [March 9, 2026][36]

> In case you can’t tell by reading this post, Israel killed almost 400 people, including 83 children, in Lebanon this week. [https://t.co/gKG6RbD4db][37]
>
> — Assal Rad (@AssalRad) [March 8, 2026][38]

The report is a welcome contribution to a growing body of literature that [paints of picture of rising hatred towards muslims. ][39]This rise mirrors the increasing Islamophobic attacks and hate crimes in recent years, and Muslim communities rightfully feel fearful of the situation.

The study confirm what the Canary has long argued – mainstream outlets, particularly those on the right, are stoking an increasingly volatile political climate with biased coverage that endangers the Muslim community.

Holding these outlets accountable is crucial in confronting this reality and ensuring that the safety of Muslims forces of hate and division do not prevail.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Ed Sykes][40]

[1]: https://cfmm.org.uk/resource/the-state-of-british-media-2025-reporting-on-muslims-and-islam/
[2]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/SofM2025?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://t.co/W8qpRvSZe7
[4]: https://twitter.com/cfmmuk/status/2030999102687752285?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[5]: https://x.com/michaelgove/status/926549068435910656
[6]: https://www.thenational.scot/news/25879712.michael-gove-denies-genocide-palestine-amid-row-zack-polanski/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/explainer/2025/08/01/genocide-accusations-israel/
[8]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/10/17/pro-israel-lobby-group/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2019/09/03/us-israeli-journalist-reveals-really-sad-truth-about-far-right-support-for-israel/
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2019/07/15/trump-uses-israel-as-his-latest-excuse-for-spewing-racist-bile/
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2020/02/04/a-tory-mp-desperately-defends-cosying-up-to-neo-fascists/
[12]: https://web.archive.org/web/20170316120236/http://www.thecanary.co/2017/01/31/netanyahu-shows-trump-like-two-peas-far-right-pod-tweets/
[13]: https://www.middleeasteye.net/opinion/israel-alliance-europe-fascists-greatest-threat-jewish-people
[14]: https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/israel-politics/2026-01-26/ty-article/.premium/netanyahu-claims-progressive-muslim-plot-to-destroy-west-at-israel-antisemitism-confab/0000019b-fbda-dee6-a1ff-ffdba37a0000
[15]: https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/mena/2025/09/24/isolated-israel-blames-muslims-for-shifting-europes-stance-on-gaza/
[16]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/SofM2025?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[17]: https://t.co/KieiNFy332
[18]: https://twitter.com/cfmmuk/status/2030999176658477362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[19]: https://cfmm.org.uk/resource/the-state-of-british-media-2025-reporting-on-muslims-and-islam/
[20]: https://cfmm.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FINAL-State-of-British-Media.pdf
[21]: https://cfmm.org.uk/resource/the-state-of-british-media-2025-reporting-on-muslims-and-islam/
[22]: https://twitter.com/hashtag/SofM2025?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[23]: https://t.co/UwO1slIfgQ
[24]: https://twitter.com/cfmmuk/status/2030999195096678619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[25]: https://cfmm.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/FINAL-State-of-British-Media.pdf
[26]: https://cfmm.org.uk/resource/the-state-of-british-media-2025-reporting-on-muslims-and-islam/
[27]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2025/11/10/pro-israel-bbc-coup-plotters-want-more/
[28]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2025/06/16/bbc-israel-bias/
[29]: https://t.co/nvLRuuKeUj
[30]: https://twitter.com/mehdirhasan/status/2030807902814880219?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[31]: https://twitter.com/archivegenocide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[32]: https://t.co/rNlFxMtgCK
[33]: https://twitter.com/PhilipProudfoot/status/2030791626092695921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[34]: https://t.co/QGf74GTvWU
[35]: https://t.co/jUFZ9UyHHv
[36]: https://twitter.com/AssalRad/status/2030796544266711191?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[37]: https://t.co/gKG6RbD4db
[38]: https://twitter.com/AssalRad/status/2030704982941663489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[39]: https://www.theiru.org.uk/763-percent-spike-in-islamophobic-incidents-in-the-uk-in-year-of-gaza-conflict/
[40]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/oso/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/09/anti-muslim-media-propaganda/

Trump wants Texas Republican primary ended after Talarico’s ...

2026-03-09T18:03:19Z

Trump wants Texas Republican primary ended after Talarico’s victory

[Trump rallies against the left over Texas primary]

A panicked Donald Trump has called for an end to the Republican Party’s Texas primary after a left-wing Christian pastor who opposes Israel won a stunning victory in the Democratic primary.

## Not in your name

James Talarico, is the honourable pastor and state senator, who [beat Israel lobby-backed Jasmine Crockett][1] in the 4 March primary. He believes strongly that Jesus would be [ tipping over tables][2] in protest against racist Christian nationalism.

The results sent Trump into a tailspin, leading him to demand that Republican candidates drop out of the primary battle so he could nominate his preferred pick to fight the ‘radical left’ opponent. The move has [infuriated][3] members of the Republican camp.

## Tanking Trump

The demand, as we can surmise, shows that Trump knows how badly he’s [tanking][4] in the polls. The Democrats [haven’t won in Texas since 1988][5], but he fears they might now. However, Trump was out of luck. The candidates rejected his demand, and two contenders are [still fighting tooth and nail][6] for the top spot.

*Featured image via the Canary *

By [Skwawkbox][7]

[1]: https://apnews.com/article/texas-election-senate-crockett-talarico-cornyn-paxton-hunt-4d2fa601c0dab451c2cbd7c6f1483547
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2025/12/29/james-talarico/
[3]: https://www.aol.com/articles/greene-fumes-over-trump-demand-035733178.html
[4]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73VSQ6AgnJM
[5]: https://time.com/7382436/texas-senate-primary-results-democratic-talarico-crockett-republican-cornyn-paxton/
[6]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eon9ArjKYMY
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/09/trump-interferes-in-texas-republican-primary/

CT and MRI Second Opinion: Why Fast Radiology Reports Matter in ...

2026-03-09T09:48:04Z

CT and MRI Second Opinion: Why Fast Radiology Reports Matter in Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis

March is internationally recognised as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of early detection and timely diagnosis of one of the most common cancers worldwide. When patients undergo imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans, they often ask an important question: How can I be sure the results have been interpreted correctly?

In many cases, patients and clinicians may seek a second opinion on MRI or CT scans to gain additional insight into imaging findings. Access to a fast MRI or CT report can also help patients receive timely clarification of results and support further medical consultations.

### Why patients sometimes seek a second opinion on CT or MRI scans

Receiving imaging results can raise many questions. Patients may want to better understand their diagnosis or confirm that the findings from a scan have been interpreted accurately.

Some of the most common reasons patients seek a second opinion on CT or MRI scans include:

• persistent symptoms despite previous examinations
• uncertainty about imaging results
• complex or unclear findings on a scan
• preparation for further treatment decisions

A second review by an experienced radiologist can provide additional reassurance and help ensure that important details visible on the scan have been carefully evaluated.

### The role of CT and MRI imaging in colorectal cancer diagnosis

Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and often begins as small growths known as polyps. Because the disease may progress slowly, early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Medical imaging plays an important role in assessing the condition. For example:

• CT scans can help evaluate the abdomen and determine whether cancer has spread beyond the colon.
• MRI scans are particularly useful in assessing rectal cancer and visualising pelvic structures in detail.

These imaging techniques provide clinicians with valuable information that supports diagnosis and treatment planning.

### Fast MRI or CT report: why timing can matter

When patients undergo diagnostic imaging, they often want to receive clear information about the results as quickly as possible. Waiting for a report can be stressful, especially when further medical decisions depend on imaging findings.

A fast MRI or CT report may help patients obtain timely clarification of scan results. Rapid access to expert interpretation can support discussions with healthcare providers and help guide the next steps in the diagnostic process.

In some cases, patients may also request a radiology second opinion to confirm findings or gain additional confidence in the interpretation of their imaging studies.

### Access to specialist radiology expertise

Medical imaging produces complex diagnostic data that requires careful analysis by experienced radiologists. The radiology report summarises the findings visible on the scan and provides clinicians with important information for further evaluation.

Advances in digital healthcare now make it possible for imaging studies to be securely shared and reviewed by specialist radiologists regardless of location. Patients may seek an independent radiology second opinion or a fast MRI or CT report through specialised services such as [Eurodiagnosis][1], where imaging studies are interpreted by experienced radiologists.

Because medical imaging contains sensitive health information, secure data handling is essential. Modern radiology platforms use encrypted systems and strict data protection standards to ensure that patient images and medical information are processed safely and confidentially.

### Improving awareness and diagnostic confidence

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month encourages greater understanding of cancer prevention, screening and early diagnosis. Access to modern diagnostic imaging and expert radiology interpretation can help patients and clinicians better understand complex medical findings.

Clear imaging reports and access to specialist expertise support more informed medical discussions and may help patients feel more confident about their diagnostic journey.

#### FAQ

What is a radiology second opinion?
A radiology second opinion means having MRI or CT scan images reviewed by another specialist radiologist to confirm or clarify the findings of the original report.

Why might someone request a fast MRI or CT report?
Patients may seek a faster radiology report when they need quicker clarification of imaging findings, particularly when further medical consultations or treatment decisions depend on the results.

Can CT or MRI scans detect colorectal cancer?
CT and MRI scans are often used to evaluate abnormalities and assess the extent of disease. However, colonoscopy remains the primary diagnostic test for detecting colorectal cancer.

How can I obtain a professional radiology second opinion or fast report?
Patients can request a radiology second opinion or a fast MRI or CT report entirely online by securely uploading their imaging studies. After submission, the images are reviewed by experienced radiologists, and the report can typically be delivered within up to 5 days. This remote process allows patients to obtain expert interpretation regardless of their location.

By [Nathan Spears][2]

[1]: https://eurodiagnosis.pl
[2]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/nathan-spears/

https://www.thecanary.co/discovery/health/2026/03/09/ct-and-mri-second-opinion-why-fast-radiology-reports-matter-in-colorectal-cancer-diagnosis/

Watch: Israeli state media — Israel’s Beirut forced ...

2026-03-06T19:54:19Z

Watch: Israeli state media — Israel’s Beirut forced displacement aims to trigger civil war

[Israel]

Israeli politicians and media have a long history of being more open in Hebrew than in English. Netanyahu and his fellow fascists deny crimes and aims in English that they boast about in Hebrew. Former defence minister Yoav Gallant [admitted Israel killed hundreds of Israelis on 7 October 2023 in repeated ‘Hannibal’ attacks. He even wished there had been more][1]. Israeli media [acknowledged the same fact within a few weeks of 7 October][2] — a fact still stubbornly ignored by their UK counterparts.

And now KAN — Israeli state media — has admitted that the aim of Israel’s [illegal forced transfer order to Lebanese residents of southern Beirut][3] is intended to trigger civil war. In a country ravaged by a US/Israel/French-driven civil war, for fifteen years from 1975–1990, that [killed 150,000 people][4] and [displaced over a million][5].

The “Zionism Observer” X account pointed to a post by the broadcaster’s correspondent of a video clip from one of its current affairs programmes on X. It commented:

> Israelis openly admit (in Hebrew) that their forced displacement orders are designed to cause sectarian clashes.
>
> Israeli state media (Kan) in Hebrew: [https://t.co/v3WwO2JBgN][6] [pic.twitter.com/0kUk6vK00b][7]
>
> — Zionism Observer (@receipts_lol) [March 5, 2026][8]

The full quoted text reads:

> From the Edition: After the mass evacuation from Dahiyeh in Beirut following the IDF warning, a political figure in Lebanon identified with the anti-Hezbollah camp tells Kan News that the most important thing from the Lebanese perspective is that Israel does not strike civilian targets of the Lebanese state and that the focus will be on Hezbollah targets. So far, Israel is managing the event wisely. Striking civilian targets would play into Hezbollah’s hands in terms of public opinion, which currently leans against it.
>
> Another point: The mass evacuation from Dahiyeh to other areas carries the potential for friction between Hezbollah supporters and members of other sects who are less enthusiastic about Hezbollah’s intervention on behalf of Iran.

The shared video clip, translated and subtitled into English is below:

[][9]

Israel is the destabiliser of West Asia and the malignant threat to all its neighbours. Western politicians and media are its enablers in their determined ignorance and silence.

*Featured image via [Egyptian Streets][10]*

By [Skwawkbox][11]

[1]: https://skwawkbox.org/2025/02/08/video-former-defence-minister-gallant-admits-israel-repeatedly-killed-its-own-people-on-7-oct-2023/
[2]: https://skwawkbox.org/2024/07/16/israel-media-admit-idf-killed-large-numbers-of-own-citizens-troops-in-multiple-mass-hannibal-events/
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/05/lebanon-thousands-flee-beirut/
[4]: https://web.archive.org/web/20070115172923/http://www.ohchr.org/english/bodies/hrcouncil/docs/specialsession/A.HRC.3.2.pdf
[5]: https://www.sciencespo.fr/mass-violence-war-massacre-resistance/fr/document/historiography-and-memory-lebanese-civil-war.html#:~:text=Nearly%20100%2C000%20were%20badly%20injured,and%20Rjeily%201994:%2020).
[6]: https://t.co/v3WwO2JBgN
[7]: https://t.co/0kUk6vK00b
[8]: https://twitter.com/receipts_lol/status/2029629600968388810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[9]:
[10]: https://egyptianstreets.com/2024/10/01/how-to-support-lebanons-displaced-population/
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/skwawkbox/

https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/06/israel-beirut-evacuation/

Trump fires Kristi Noem from Homeland Security role, appoints ...

2026-03-06T16:19:30Z

Trump fires Kristi Noem from Homeland Security role, appoints slightly different fascist

[Trump fires Kristi Noem]

On 5 March, [Trump ignominiously sacked Kristi Noem][1] from her state-level role as Homeland Security secretary. Oklahoma senator Markwayne Mullin will take up her place at the end of the month, pending confirmation from the US Senate.

Readers will, by now, no doubt be familiar with Noem as the public face of America’s far-right anti-immigration policies. In particular, Noem called both Renee Good and Alex Pretti ‘domestic terrorists’ after their murder by ICE agents last year.

Although, let’s be clear here. Trump didn’t fire Noem because she’s a lying fascist at the head of a pack of murderers. That would be hypocritical. Rather, [Trump knows that public opinion][2] has turned against his immigration policies, and he needed a sacrificial lamb.

## Fascism and fuckups

In place of her previous role, Trump is now shunting Noem off to a job as a ‘special envoy’ for the US. She’ll be joining a Western hemisphere security initiative called ‘the Shield of the Americas’.

Among the former Homeland Security chief’s laundry list of highly public fuckups, Noem [accidentally let slip][3] the identity of ICE murderer Jonathan David Ross. She also [claimed that Ross had internal bleeding][4], which was later exposed as a lie.

Other examples of Noem’s outright fabrications include the utterly [false claim that an immigrant deportee][5] was a cannibal. She also published a photo of a Black protester that was [manipulated to look like she was crying][6].

Noem’s tenure at Homeland Security saw her join ICE raids wearing a bulletproof vest, promote policies to close the Mexican border, and spend $220m of federal funds on adverts. Most of those adverts, she appeared in personally.

All horrifying, and all par for the course for the Trump regime. As such, she’s acted as something of a [Nazi-slogan-spouting figurehead][7] for the Republicans’ vicious ‘security’ policies.

## Sacrificial wolf

On 3 March, Noem attempted to defend her spending at a Capitol Hill hearing. There, she stated that Trump was aware of the cost of the ad campaign. Two days later, Trump claimed that he “never knew anything about it”, shortly before firing her.

However, this was far from the first indicator that Noem had fallen from the US dictator’s favour. During the sweeping protests against ICE in Minneapolis, Trump sent in ‘border tsar’ and former ICE director Tom Homan, rather than Noem herself.

The fact that Trump has sacked Noem is no indicator of his authoritarianism softening. Rather, the US dictator has seen that his public approval is plummeting, [particularly on the subject of immigration][8].

Turns out that using a masked secret police to murder and kidnap people to concentration camps makes you unpopular, even in America.

As such, Noem has made a convenient sacrifice to make Trump look like he’s relenting. Meanwhile, nothing will change under Markwayne Mullin, save maybe that ICE will get a little more cautious, a little more covert in their actions.

The problem was never that they’re fascists — the problem was they got caught too many times.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Alex/Rose Cocker][9]

[1]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cre02yzv807o
[2]: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/trump-administration/poll-trumps-ratings-immigration-tumble-americans-lose-confidence-top-i-rcna258159
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/01/08/david-ross-ice/
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/01/17/trump-jonathan-ross-internal-bleeding/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/02/24/homeland-security-cannibal/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/01/23/white-house-manipulates-photo-ai/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/01/13/kristi-noem/
[8]: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trumps-immigration-approval-drops-record-low-reutersipsos-poll-finds-2026-01-26/
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/alexrosecocker/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/06/trump-fires-kristi-noem-appoints-new-fascist/

Hegseth crows about ‘dumb, politically correct wars of the ...

2026-03-06T16:19:25Z

Hegseth crows about ‘dumb, politically correct wars of the past’

[hegseth]

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced in an address to US citizens that “dumb, politically correct wars of the past” are the “opposite” of the intentions of the US administration. Hegseth further stated that ‘old wars’ had set objectives that were restricted by rules of engagement, seemingly referring to a new [deteriorated international rules-based order][1].

Even more disturbingly, Hegseth and other US officials have been repeatedly invoking Christian Zionist rhetoric in their public addresses. This arguably signals a clear shift from military engagements they dismiss as “politically correct” to a war that they consider to be “religiously correct”.

> Hegseth: The dumb, politically correct wars of the past were the opposite of what we're doing here. They had vague objectives with restrictive, minimalist rules of engagement. No more. Our authorities are maxed out. Our capabilities are overwhelming and gathering still, as are… [pic.twitter.com/cGNhdBBrlg][2]
>
> — Acyn (@Acyn) [March 5, 2026][3]

## Hegseth amongst religious fanatics in the White House

Despite widespread condemnation, US-backed Zionist Israel has been conducting a genocide against occupied Palestinians since October 7th, 2023. Butcher of Gaza Benjamin Netanyahu has been known to make repeated religious references, including to ‘Amalek’. This is a biblical reference from the Old Testament, with ‘Amalek’ referring to the Persians who enslaved Jews 2,500 years ago. [Invoking that scripture once again][4] in the attacks on Iran and Lebanon, the war-criminal Israeli has called for the murder of all, including women and children.

The MAGA administration appear to be continuing along the [same fanatical vein][5], using Christian Zionism to justify its war of aggression which has murdered over 1200 in Iran so far.

This development comes as US military investigators confirm it is ‘likely’ that the US was responsible for a mass casualty attack using precision bombs. The attack appears to have targeted a girls’ elementary school in Minab, Iran. This is reported to have[ killed up to 165 civilians,][6] representing a potential war crime at the hands of the US on day one of ‘Operation Epic Fury’.

Since then, the UK has reportedly sent fighter jets to [‘defend’ against Iran.][7]

> 200+ complaints reveal US commanders are selling the Iran war as "God's divine plan."
>
> Trump declaring holy war on Iran is like Satan leading a prayer group [pic.twitter.com/PLclMVIc6D][8]
>
> — Ounka (@OunkaOnX) [March 4, 2026][9]

Our own *Skwawkbox* wrote recently about Hegseth’s insistence that the US’ widespread attacks in the Middle East will ‘speed up Jesus’ return’. He [wrote][10]:

> Commanders at more than 30 US military locations have told their troops that the US is attacking Iran to cause “armageddon” and hasten the second coming of Jesus – passing on an apparent message from deranged defence secretary Pete Hegseth.
>
> The message includes a combat unit commander telling unit non-commissioned officers – sergeants and corporals – that US president Donald Trump is:
>
> anointed by Jesus to light the signal fire in Iran to cause Armageddon and mark his return to Earth.

*Skwawkbox* also [added][11]:

> Hegseth reportedly attends, at least weekly, a White House ‘bible study’ led by a Zionist ‘pastor’ who insists the US must support Israel no matter what.
>
> The news has horrified many US Christians as well as the rest of the right-thinking world.

Last night, a crowd of (overwhelmingly white) pastors gathered around the US president. Placing their hands on Donald Trump, they [prayed together as if he were some kind of “messiah.”][12] Trump may have a messiah complex, but that is where the comparison ends.

As Krassenstein pointed out on X, before finishing “we [US] are a joke”:

> BREAKING: Moments ago at the White House this took place.
>
> A bunch of old people praying for a convicted felon, adjudicated rapist, who appears to have just blown up 100+ Iranian schoolchildren, while he hides the Epstein files, in which he appears in thousands of times.
>
> We… [pic.twitter.com/7I3feBBMzg][13]
>
> — Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) [March 5, 2026][14]

## UK has joined the US’ ‘Holy war’

The US appear more than happy to reveal far more about the UK’s involvement than our own leaders seem willing to admit. PM Keir Starmer has [denied we are joining the US-Israel war on Iran][15], insisting we are only engaging in a defensive capacity. However, Hegseth’s speech suggests we are likely fighting in the US and Israel’s apparent ‘holy war’. Given the [fighter jets already sent by the UK][16], and[ intelligence informing we are already in the war][17], I think we can believe the US leader more than our own.

At the very, very least, we are making the US’ attacks easier. In turn, making it likely far more catastrophic for Iranian civilians.

Saying that it was “unfortunate” that the UK didn’t grant the US access “from day one”, the [US Defense Secretary stated][18]:

> But we got there. We got there, and that’s now part of the way that we’re operationalising bomber runs … It’s more fighter squadrons, it’s more capabilities, it’s more defensive capabilities, and it’s more bomber pulses more frequently.
>
> The amount of firepower over Iran and over Tehran is about to surge dramatically, and part of it is that we’re gonna have even more bases. And it’s not just the UK. We’ve had other friends step up, and we’re grateful for that.

> The US waging a holy war to bring back Jesus, alongside Jewish people who don't even believe Jesus is their messiah is peak insanity.
>
> Maybe it’s just me, but if you have to bomb half the world to bring about your messiah, it’s probably not the good guy that’s coming. [pic.twitter.com/ookHu6J5sV][19]
>
> — Books Behind Borders (@MHTruthUltra) [March 5, 2026][20]

> "War is never holy! Only peace is holy, because it is willed by God!" — Pope Leo XIV [pic.twitter.com/e233Zj2bq9][21]
>
> — Christopher Hale (@ChristopherHale) [March 5, 2026][22]

[Paula White-Cain][23] is the ‘spiritual adviser’ to the US president. Like Trump, she is a very keen grifter for maximising the profits she can make from her public platform. White-Cain is just one of the Zionist fanatics surrounding the Trump administration.

“I hear the sound of Insanity” would be more fitting to this bizarre display:

> Trump appointed White House Faith Office senior advisor preaching Holy War.
>
> This is peak Western Civilization![🤡] [pic.twitter.com/JD4k8ilLwB][24]
>
> — Carl Zha (@CarlZha) [March 4, 2026][25]

## Religious fanatism is murdering thousands

Despite intervention by the International Court of Justice, Palestinians have been suffering through a genocide waged by US-backed Zionist Israel. We have already seen hundreds of thousands murdered, maimed or missing under the rubble in Gaza. Now we see that the US has adopted the religious extremism intrinsic in Israel’s colonial ambitions, by leaning heavily into Christian Zionism. As a result, the US wants westerners to believe their illegal aggression on Iran is a ‘holy war’.

The UK has also seen attempts by the far-right parties Reform and Restore to bring this religious extremism into our own communities and public discourse. However, their sinister intentions go directly against actual Christian values and teachings. For example, ‘love thy neighbour’ and ‘welcome the stranger’ are hardly being reflected through the anti-immigrant rhetoric on full display.

This war is clearly being waged by a tyrannical, religiously extremist and frankly, delusional administration.

The UK must draw a line in the sand now and refuse to be a pathetic tool in the belt of US and Israeli Zionists.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Maddison Wheeldon][26]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/05/albanese-witch-hunt-israel-lobby/
[2]: https://t.co/cGNhdBBrlg
[3]: https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/2029682394090066338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[4]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/06/netanyahu-war-criminal/
[5]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2018/05/23/a-christian-academic-calls-out-us-evangelicals-for-supporting-israel-live-on-the-bbc/
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/06/iran-school-bombing-investigations/
[7]: https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/british-jets-could-legally-strike-iran-s-missile-bases-lammy-says/ar-AA1XE6XC?ocid=BingNewsSerp
[8]: https://t.co/PLclMVIc6D
[9]: https://twitter.com/OunkaOnX/status/2029176666744885499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/04/hesgeth-jesus/
[11]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/04/hesgeth-jesus/
[12]: https://youtu.be/VxXW9tcQL4c
[13]: https://t.co/7I3feBBMzg
[14]: https://twitter.com/krassenstein/status/2029668853249151149?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[15]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/05/qatar-britain-jets/
[16]: https://www.thecanary.co/skwawkbox/2026/03/05/qatar-britain-jets/
[17]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/04/iran-uk-intelligence/
[18]: https://uk.news.yahoo.com/daily-show-torches-pete-hegseth-051133468.html
[19]: https://t.co/ookHu6J5sV
[20]: https://twitter.com/MHTruthUltra/status/2029616728636801147?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[21]: https://t.co/e233Zj2bq9
[22]: https://twitter.com/ChristopherHale/status/2029587225470476319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[23]: https://churchleaders.com/news/2214265-obedient-paula-white-cain-give-100k-conference.html
[24]: https://t.co/JD4k8ilLwB
[25]: https://twitter.com/CarlZha/status/2029058639030566949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[26]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/maddison-wheeldon/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2026/03/06/hegseth-rhetoric/

South East Water face £22m fine – but that clearly hasn’t ...

2026-03-05T17:01:52Z

South East Water face £22m fine – but that clearly hasn’t been enough to stop it

[south east water]

On 5 March, Ofwat [proposed a fine][1] of over £22m to lax water firm South East Water. The news comes on the heels of an investigation into the companies repeated failures across 2020-2023.

These supply disruptions affected upwards of 286,000 people. Often, customers were left without running water, meaning they were unable to bathe, clean dishes, or even flush the loo.

However, the fine isn’t a done deal just yet. Ofwat is running a customer consultation on the fine until 13 April. If you want to have your say,[ follow the link here][2].

## South East Water ‘failed to plan sufficiently’

The report itself was damning, [finding][3] that South East Water:

> failed to plan sufficiently, learn from incidents and conduct root cause analysis to maintain resilience within its water supply system, and was therefore unable to cope during periods of high demand or extreme weather. The company also failed to maintain key infrastructure such as service reservoirs, boreholes and major pipes.

Taken together, these issues meant that South East Water’s was more likely to fail in the face of both freeze-thaw events and long dry periods.

Ofwat accused the water firm of lacking organisation, responding slowly to key issues, and failing to learn from previous mistakes. Worse still, the water watchdog stated that:

> South East Water has not taken ownership of these issues and as a result, supply interruptions are still happening too often. Our proposed enforcement order sets out the steps we expect the company to take, including senior management responsibility to fix the problems to prevent them from happening again.

## ‘Significant failings’

Given the severity of the issues, the full fine that Ofwat is proposing is £22.46m. That’s equal to 8% of the South East Water’s annual turnover.

The maximum penalty which the regulator could impose is equal to 10% of a company’s turnover. In South East Water’s case, this would run a bill of just over £28m.

Ofwat’s [consultation for customers][4] and stakeholders is already open. After it closes on 13 April 2026, Ofwat will weigh the responses and make its final decision.

Chris Walters, Ofwat’s interim CEO, said:

> South East Water’s significant failings caused major disruption and had a huge impact on thousands of its customers. Not only did the company fail in its duty to provide a water supply to meet the demands of its customers, but it also fell short when it came to providing support for customers who lost their supply. They must do better.
>
> This investigation gets to the heart of the company’s supply resilience problems. We want to see South East Water take more responsibility and get on with fixing things for its customers.

## Legal challenge

Funding body the Utilities Trust of Australia[ currently owns a 50% share][5] of South East Water, along with a group of other pension and investment funds.

South East Water has already filed for a judicial review in response to Ofwat’s proposed fine. The water firm also requested an injunction, although the court swiftly rejected the plea.

Of course, given that the fine was issued for failures back in 2020-2023, it hasn’t taken into account any of the company’s more-recent massive fuckups. Back in December 2025, the *Canary *[reported that][6]:

> Only last week, [6,500 properties][7] were without water. Whilst the company restored the supply on Friday, January 16, it then left a further 5,500 homes without water [on Sunday evening][8]. This was due to a treatment works fault, a power outage and two burst mains – all at the same time.

And then again,[ on 19 January][9]:

> Over the last few weeks, South East Water left customers across Kent without water on several occasions.
>
> Only last week, [6,500 properties][10] were without water. Whilst the company restored the supply on Friday, January 16, it then left a further 5,500 homes without water [on Sunday evening][11]. This was due to a treatment works fault, a power outage and two burst mains – all at the same time.

Adding insult to injury, South East Water had the nerve to claim that they’ll have to [increase customers’ water bills.][12] That’s in spite of Ofwat’s ban on further price hikes, which the company have appealed against.

Meanwhile, the water supplier’s profits have continued to climb. South East Water[ reported profit before tax][13] of £18.2m for the six months up to October 2025, up from £2.6m the previous year.

To put that another way, South East Water are still failing to fix their mistakes, demanding that customers pay more, and raking in over £15m profit increases.

## Further investigation

As such, Ofwat has already launched a new investigation of the supply interruptions in November and December 2025, and January 2026. The watchdog stated that:

> This investigation will determine whether the company complied with its customer-focused licence condition, which requires companies to provide a high level of support to customers when issues arise. This licence condition was introduced in February 2024.

However, as the failures from 2020 have made abundantly clear, the threat of fines hasn’t been nearly enough to make South East Water mend its ways. This company is doing less than the bare minimum, leaving customers without water, and letting its infrastructure go to ruin.

And it’s *still* turning a massive profit.

This is privatisation in action – a system that allows companies to extract money from customers who literally have no other choice. The system is, and has always been, wide open to abuse. We can’t allow this to stand – we must call to end the failed experiment that is privatisation.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Alex/Rose Cocker][14]

[1]: https://www.ofwat.gov.uk/ofwat-proposes-22m-fine-for-south-east-water-for-repeated-supply-failures/
[2]: https://www.ofwat.gov.uk/consultation/notice-of-ofwats-proposal-to-issue-an-enforcement-order-and-impose-a-penalty-on-south-east-water-limited/
[3]: https://www.ofwat.gov.uk/ofwat-proposes-22m-fine-for-south-east-water-for-repeated-supply-failures/
[4]: https://www.ofwat.gov.uk/consultation/notice-of-ofwats-proposal-to-issue-an-enforcement-order-and-impose-a-penalty-on-south-east-water-limited/
[5]: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c3v77yzn5gxo
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2025/12/02/south-east-water/
[7]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/01/16/south-east-water-muppet/
[8]: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/jan/18/thousands-of-kent-residents-still-dealing-with-water-supply-issues
[9]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/news/2026/01/19/south-east-water-boss/
[10]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/01/16/south-east-water-muppet/
[11]: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/jan/18/thousands-of-kent-residents-still-dealing-with-water-supply-issues
[12]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/01/14/south-east-water-2/
[13]: https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/south-east-water-reports-strong-financial-growth-amid-drought-challenges-93CH-4419894
[14]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/alexrosecocker/

https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/05/south-east-water-22m/

Trump senator joins assault on US vet opposing “war for ...

2026-03-05T14:33:53Z

Trump senator joins assault on US vet opposing “war for Israel”

[Trump Senator assault US marine veteran]

During a Senate Armed Services hearing on 4 March, a Marine veteran protesting a war fought “*[for Israel][1]*” was violently assaulted by a Trump senator. This occurred while police officers rough handled the protester while trying to escort him out of the building. In the process, they apparently broke the veteran’s arm.

## No war for Israel

In reference to coordinated US-Israeli strikes on Iran, protester Brian McGinnis interrupted the hearing by [saying][2]:

> America does not want to send its sons and daughters to war for Israel.

The Trump aligned republican senator Tim Sheehy has received [massive amounts of money][3] from [big business][4] and [Israel lobbyists][5]. He has called the US-Israel terror in Iran “[righteous][6]“. Moreover, his aggressive intervention seemed to break McGinnis’s arm.

> Sen. [@TimSheehyMT][7] says he "decided to help out and deescalate" by breaking a man's arm. Let's be clear:
>
> • The man is a Marine Corps veteran.
> • He was protesting war with Iran
> • Sheehy, a sitting Senator, physically attacked him until his arm SNAPPED. You can hear the crack on… [pic.twitter.com/haTVcR2DQs][8]
>
> — AIPAC Tracker (@TrackAIPAC) [March 5, 2026][9]

McGinnis is a firefighter and Green Party senate candidate. His campaign manager said he stood up because he “[couldn’t take their lies anymore][10].”

> He just wanted to be heard [and was] speaking loud and clear… He was assaulted, actually. They broke his arm.

## The pro-Israel establishment lies

Sheehy has openly shown his excitement about the [costly][11] and [destructive, trump vetted ][12]US-Israeli offensive against Iran, which has already [killed over a thousand people][13] in the country since 28 February. Furthermore, one report says the assault has cost US taxpayers over [$5bn][14] so far. It could end up costing many billions more.

As we might expect of someone who supports a country openly committing [genocide][15], Sheehy has lied consistently to try and justify the war on Iran.

Here he is pushing this narrative:

> President Trump is putting an end to Iran’s 47-year reign of terror spent murdering and maiming Americans all over the globe. Time to finish the job. [pic.twitter.com/mBqkpEXyay][16]
>
> — Tim Sheehy (@TimSheehyMT) [March 3, 2026][17]

The truth is that, despite constant US hostility, Iran has killed far fewer US citizens in the Middle East than the US has killed Iranians.

A key question, of course, is why the hell has the US placed soldiers in the Middle East anyway, thousands of miles away from the US?

Nonetheless, Sheehy has [repeated the lie][18] that Iran is somehow a threat to US citizens, even going so far as to [call Iran the][19]:

> largest destabilizing force in the region.

This is despite Israel committing [genocide][20] in Palestine. It is also attacking numerous countries in the region [in recent years][21]. And it has learned the trade from its enabler – the US. As the *Canary* has reported previously, the US is *the* ‘[nation of terror][22]‘:

> the US has long terrorised people around the world to get what it wants, forcing countless civilians to flee to safety. It then celebrates the war criminals responsible. Time and again, Washington has gleefully trampled over international law

McGinnis is right. Millions of ordinary people in the US don’t want their country fighting wars thousands of miles away for a genocidal settler-colonial power. But until people like Donald Trump and Tim Sheehy no longer sit in the halls of power, that’s unlikely to change.

*Featured image via the Canary*

By [Ed Sykes][23]

[1]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/02/trump-israel-first-agenda/
[2]: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tim-sheehy-joins-police-in-ejecting-protester-from-capitol-hill-hearing/
[3]: https://www.opensecrets.org/members-of-congress/tim-sheehy/summary?cid=N00053174
[4]: https://www.opensecrets.org/members-of-congress/tim-sheehy/contributors?cid=N00053174&cycle=2024&recs=100&type=I
[5]: https://www.boughtbyzionism.org/tim_sheehy
[6]: https://x.com/TimSheehyMT/status/2027818489751244954
[7]: https://twitter.com/TimSheehyMT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[8]: https://t.co/haTVcR2DQs
[9]: https://twitter.com/TrackAIPAC/status/2029431477033939383?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[10]: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tim-sheehy-joins-police-in-ejecting-protester-from-capitol-hill-hearing/
[11]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOvcAJv7qXo
[12]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrdp7AzhMBQ
[13]: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/3/1/us-israel-attacks-on-iran-death-toll-and-injuries-live-tracker
[14]: https://responsiblestatecraft.org/iran-war-costs/
[15]: https://www.thecanary.co/explainer/2025/08/01/genocide-accusations-israel/
[16]: https://t.co/mBqkpEXyay
[17]: https://twitter.com/TimSheehyMT/status/2028963145927061957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[18]: https://x.com/TimSheehyMT/status/2028100006440251445
[19]: https://x.com/TimSheehyMT/status/2028484425831391261
[20]: https://www.thecanary.co/explainer/2025/08/01/genocide-accusations-israel/
[21]: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/longform/2025/12/29/all-the-countries-israel-attacked-in-2025-animated-map
[22]: https://www.thecanary.co/editorial/2019/06/15/trump-talks-about-nations-of-terror-has-he-never-met-the-united-states/
[23]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/oso/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/05/us-veteran-against-trumps-iran-war-assulted/

Israel suddenly remembers what international law is now they’re ...

2026-03-04T12:56:56Z

Israel suddenly remembers what international law is now they’re the ones being bombed

In a strange turn of events, it seems Israel has realised that international law does, in fact, exist.

> BREAKING: There is growing suspicion that Iran used cluster munitions in their attacks against Israel.
>
> A clear war crime. [pic.twitter.com/TbXOMkzVpp][1]
>
> — Eyal Yakoby (@EYakoby) [March 1, 2026][2]

Technically, the 2008 Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) [prohibits][3] the use, production, stockpiling or transfer of cluster munitions and requires states to ensure that they claim no further victims.

However, neither Israel nor the US [signed][4] the CCM. That might have something to do with them being some of the biggest producers of the weapon. Obviously, the law isn’t important when there is money to be made.

> Hey, Eyeball – remember when the United Nations tried to ban cluster munitions and the US and Israel fought against it?
>
> Good times. [https://t.co/L3z3cCeEBP][5]
>
> — 99% Johnny Graz (@jvgraz) [March 1, 2026][6]

[According][7] to Oxford Public International Law:

> if widely implemented and adhered to, the CCM will dramatically decrease the harm to civilians caused by cluster bombs both during and after armed conflicts.

Of course, knowing what we know about Israel, it has no intention of minimising civilian casualties

## Israel playing the victim

But no matter whether they are illegal or not, Israel does not get to play the victim now that another country decides to play them at their own game.

We have to remember, this is after Israel [fired more][8] than a million cluster bombs into Lebanon:

> [pic.twitter.com/hjsoslAkDD][9]
>
> — melissa “cancelled student debt” byrne (@mcbyrne) [March 2, 2026][10]

Killed thousands of Palestinian children:

> You have no right of mentioning war crimes after killing 200.000 children in Gaza.
>
> Stfu
>
> — Parody Jeff (@BackupJeffx) [March 1, 2026][11]

Used white phosphorus on Gaza:

> Israel has always used white phosphorus on Gaza.
>
> And look who is talking about war crimes. [https://t.co/pAej5Sid2y][12] [pic.twitter.com/y4yzLBKj5X][13]
>
> — The Saviour (@TheSaviour) [March 1, 2026][14]

> Zionists who used internationally banned white phosphorus on the children of Gaza to burn them alive are now complaining about war crimes [https://t.co/EUFHTbltiO][15]
>
> — Fiza (@fizakkhann) [March 2, 2026][16]

Bombed schools, hospitals, [health workers and][17] [journalists.][18]

> Bombing a school in Iran while calling them war criminals is peak Israel. [https://t.co/BGVTegFsuF][19]
>
> — Walter Masterson (@waltermasterson) [March 2, 2026][20]

> The country that would never “bomb a hospital” is bombing hospitals again.
>
> Israel only feels alive when it kills.
>
> Israel only feels safe when it’s hated. [https://t.co/5w3IZiLhUC][21]
>
> — Bashar Zapen (@BasharZapen) [March 3, 2026][22]

Whilst [creating][23] and upholding a system of apartheid for years.

It’s one rule for Israel (and the US) and one rule for everyone else.

> the absurdity of these pro-genocide propagandists suddenly caring about “war crimes” isn’t an accident. they know what they’re doing. they just believe that israel should be allowed to commit crimes nobody else can [https://t.co/KleJmuBYYC][24]
>
> — matt (@mattxiv) [March 2, 2026][25]

Of course, Israelis want to talk about the law now bombs are [dropping][26] on Tel Aviv.

> Oh Israelis wanna talk about the law now [https://t.co/Qpe6Hq9CS8][27]
>
> — James[🔻] (@GoodVibePolitik) [March 1, 2026][28]

They had zero sympathy when the IDF was carpet bombing Gaza.

> International Law died under the rubble in Gaza, and these zionist rats genuinely think they have the right to speak [https://t.co/DY9JeUBaEg][29]
>
> — [📕] (@SwampCommunist) [March 2, 2026][30]

> MAN WHO HAS BEEN SLAPPING PEOPLE IN THE BACK OF THE HEAD FOR YEARS REPORTEDLY VERY ANGRY HE HAS BEEN SLAPPED IN THE BACK OF THE HEAD [https://t.co/ozrI5VgGAK][31]
>
> — AWSTEN KNIGHT (@awsten) [March 2, 2026][32]

Even Mark Carney, the Canadian Prime Minister, agreed that the US and Israel were breaking international law. But of course, because it’s the US and Israel, he’s going to look the other way.

> Asked about the illegality of the US-Israeli attack on Iran, Carney admits that “it appears that these actions are inconsistent with international law,” while simultaneously reaffirming that he supports it “in context.” This is not a principled foreign policy, it is a total mess. [pic.twitter.com/sjBuhDevZq][33]
>
> — Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East (@CJPME) [March 3, 2026][34]

Israelis are partying in bomb shelters. Do the people in Gaza, Lebanon, or Iran have bomb shelters? Do they fuck.

> Look at this. It’s worse than fiction. They truly don’t care what goes on outside.
>
> And how could they? They’ve had a genocide in their backyard for years now. [https://t.co/TDAxXgwGNG][35]
>
> — Shaun King (@shaunking) [March 3, 2026][36]

We have watched Israel commit war crime after war crime for two years. The terrorist state expects us to livestream babies being burnt alive, hospitals getting bombed, and journalists running from bullets and look the other way. Meanwhile, they want us to pay attention and join their cries of ‘international law’ when a couple of buildings get hit in Tel Aviv? Or when things don’t quite go their way?

If Israel wants to fuck around, they’re going to find out. And we are not going to have sympathy for them when they do find out.

*Featured image via [Al Jazeera English/ YouTube][37].
*

By [HG][38]

[1]: https://t.co/TbXOMkzVpp
[2]: https://twitter.com/EYakoby/status/2028196983190466687?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://www.icrc.org/en/law-and-policy/cluster-munitions
[4]: https://opil.ouplaw.com/display/10.1093/law:epil/9780199231690/law-9780199231690-e2086
[5]: https://t.co/L3z3cCeEBP
[6]: https://twitter.com/jvgraz/status/2028237458056577293?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[7]: https://opil.ouplaw.com/display/10.1093/law:epil/9780199231690/law-9780199231690-e2086
[8]: https://www.haaretz.com/hblocked?returnTo=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.haaretz.com%2F2006-09-12%2Fty-article%2Fidf-commander-we-fired-more-than-a-million-cluster-bombs-in-lebanon%2F0000017f-e033-df7c-a5ff-e27b47270000
[9]: https://t.co/hjsoslAkDD
[10]: https://twitter.com/mcbyrne/status/2028286327578308757?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[11]: https://twitter.com/BackupJeffx/status/2028231839991673055?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[12]: https://t.co/pAej5Sid2y
[13]: https://t.co/y4yzLBKj5X
[14]: https://twitter.com/TheSaviour/status/2028249148101685305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[15]: https://t.co/EUFHTbltiO
[16]: https://twitter.com/fizakkhann/status/2028570125839040660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[17]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/01/israel-targets-health/
[18]: https://www.thecanary.co/global/world-analysis/2025/11/21/israel-kills-journalists-they-knew-we-were/
[19]: https://t.co/BGVTegFsuF
[20]: https://twitter.com/waltermasterson/status/2028287395284627491?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[21]: https://t.co/5w3IZiLhUC
[22]: https://twitter.com/BasharZapen/status/2028744179480764466?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[23]: https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/campaigns/2022/02/israels-system-of-apartheid/
[24]: https://t.co/KleJmuBYYC
[25]: https://twitter.com/mattxiv/status/2028494114992312826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[26]: https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/01/tel-aviv-boom/
[27]: https://t.co/Qpe6Hq9CS8
[28]: https://twitter.com/GoodVibePolitik/status/2028257142239621306?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[29]: https://t.co/DY9JeUBaEg
[30]: https://twitter.com/SwampCommunist/status/2028571028289417651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[31]: https://t.co/ozrI5VgGAK
[32]: https://twitter.com/awsten/status/2028472178719568062?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[33]: https://t.co/sjBuhDevZq
[34]: https://twitter.com/CJPME/status/2028960068272640410?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[35]: https://t.co/TDAxXgwGNG
[36]: https://twitter.com/shaunking/status/2028688243307188444?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[37]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkY2dazfOtY
[38]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/hg/

https://www.thecanary.co/trending/2026/03/04/israel-fafo/

Iran women’s football team refuse to sing national anthem amid ...

2026-03-04T09:56:05Z

Iran women’s football team refuse to sing national anthem amid US/Israeli attack

[iran]

The Iran women’s national football team refused to sing the national anthem before their Asian Cup match against South Korea.

> Iran’s women’s national football team refused to sing the anthem at the Asian Cup
>
> Before the match against South Korea, the players did not perform the national anthem. The team stood in silence, while head coach Marzieh Jafari was seen smiling during its performance.
>
> She… [pic.twitter.com/KYUgFUwPyT][1]
>
> — NEXTA (@nexta_tv) [March 3, 2026][2]

The team are in Australia for the tournament, and stood silently as the speakers played ‘Mehr-e Khavaran’ around the stadium.

Only one day before the game, US-Israeli strikes [murdered][3] Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He had ruled the country since 1989.

Iran lost 3-0, which is no surprise, given that the US and Israel are blowing their home country to smithereens.

## Iran deserve respect

After the game, journalists questioned the players at the press conference. The team coach, [Marziyeh Jafari, said:][4]

> We shouldn’t be talking about these issues at all now.
>
> Right now, the team is in a very important competition that holds great rights for women … next question.

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is reportedly monitoring the situation and will offer support to the players if needed.

Iran will face Australia on Thursday night, again on the Gold Coast.

Australian player Amy Sayer told journalists that the Iranian squad deserve respect for carrying on and playing, while the bombing of their nation intensifies.

> Our heart goes out to them and their families, it’s a difficult situation and it’s really brave of them to be able to be here and to perform.
>
> They played (on Monday), and they put on a really strong performance, even with the political climate that’s going on and the struggles that they might be going through.
>
> I think we’re excited and looking forward to the game on Thursday … the best we can do to contribute is to just give them the best game of football that we’re able and to show them the respect on the field.

The Iranian national team is showing up. And given how brutally the US and Israel are bombing Iran, just that is hugely courageous.

Donald Trump and Netanyahu want the Iranians silent and compliant – yet the team showing up to play and standing together during the national anthem shows that they refuse for everything to be business as usual.

*Featured image via [Guardian Football/YouTube][5]*

By [HG][6]

[1]: https://t.co/KYUgFUwPyT
[2]: https://twitter.com/nexta_tv/status/2028779922227892402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
[3]: https://www.thecanary.co/uk/analysis/2026/03/01/khamenei-healey-claims/
[4]: https://www.independent.co.uk/tv/sport/iran-women-football-team-national-anthem-video-b2931059.html
[5]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-VevT_fORYE
[6]: https://www.thecanary.co/author/hg/

https://www.thecanary.co/global/2026/03/04/iran-football/