Trump Puts Venezuela on Notice… ‘OR THE PRICE YOU PAY WILL BE INCALCULABLE!’

President Donald Trump demanded on Saturday that Venezuela immediately accept prisoners and individuals released from mental institutions who have been sent into the United States. This call is part of the administration’s broader effort to tighten enforcement on illegal immigration and combat international drug trafficking.

In a post on Truth, Trump stated, “We want Venezuela to immediately accept all of the prisoners, and people from mental institutions, which includes the Worst in the World Insane Asylums, that Venezuelan Leadership has forced into the United States of America. Thousands of people have been badly hurt, and even killed, by these Monsters. GET THEM THE HELL OUT OF OUR COUNTRY, RIGHT NOW, OR THE PRICE YOU PAY WILL BE INCALCULABLE!” The White House confirmed the authenticity of the president’s post.

The Department of Homeland Security also issued a statement online reading: “Americanism not globalism.”

This demand followed Trump’s order on Friday for Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to destroy a drug boat. The administration has made fentanyl a central focus in its anti-drug campaign, with Trump signing multiple executive orders aimed at curbing the flow of the substance across both the southern and northern borders.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 105,007 people died of drug overdoses in 2023, many linked to fentanyl-laced narcotics. Cartels often mix fentanyl into drugs to increase profits, despite its lethality in very small quantities.

The White House has stated it is working with both Canada and Mexico to disrupt trafficking routes and interdict supplies. In addition to international cooperation, Trump has authorized the deployment of U.S. troops to certain areas. Troops have already been sent to Washington, D.C., and officials have suggested further deployments to cities such as Detroit, Portland, and Baltimore to combat violent crime.

The administration has also restructured parts of the federal government. Notably, the Department of Defense has been renamed the Department of War, reflecting Trump’s stated goal of rebranding and refocusing federal agencies on national security priorities.

Domestically, the administration has linked its immigration and drug policies to broader enforcement efforts. Illegal aliens have been removed from taxpayer-funded programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to approximately 42 million Americans. Other entitlement programs have also been restricted to citizens only.

Mexico’s cartels have been formally designated as foreign terrorist organizations. This move provides new authorities for U.S. agencies, including the power to impose sanctions, expand prosecution of cartel-linked activities, and limit financial networks associated with traffickers. The government has also imposed visa restrictions on family members and associates of cartel leaders.

These actions come alongside the annual release of the U.S. Department of State’s list of countries designated as major drug transit or producing nations. By linking international drug policy, immigration enforcement, and domestic security measures, the Trump administration has made clear that it views narcotics trafficking and illegal migration as interconnected challenges requiring aggressive action.

As of now, Venezuelan authorities have not publicly responded to the president’s demand.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/09/trump-puts-venezuela-on-notice-or-the-price-you-pay-will-be-incalculable/

Starmer confirms UK recognition of a Palestinian state

Keir Starmer has confirmed that the UK will recognise a Palestinian state in a historic, if largely symbolic, move. The British Prime Minister said the decision was intended to revive hope for peace between the Palestinians and Israelis.

The announcement comes ahead of the UN General Assembly this week, with other nations—including Australia and Canada—making similar recognitions shortly before Starmer’s statement.

The UK Government has acknowledged that recognising a Palestinian state will not ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza nor directly contribute to the freeing of hostages taken by Hamas. However, the UK believes the move is necessary to safeguard the prospect of a lasting two-state solution to the Middle East conflict, envisioning Israel existing alongside a Palestinian state.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu branded the decision “absurd” and described it as simply a reward for terrorism. In response, Starmer emphasised that Hamas is a brutal terrorist organisation and confirmed plans to increase sanctions on the group.

“Our call for a genuine two-state solution is the exact opposite of their hateful vision,” he said.

With the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalating and Israel advancing settlements in the West Bank, Starmer acknowledged that the hope of a two-state solution is fading but stressed, “we cannot let that light go out.”

He added, “Today we join over 150 countries who recognise a Palestinian state also—a pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future.”

In a video message, Sir Keir Starmer said:
“Today, to revive the hope of peace and a two-state solution, I state clear as Prime Minister of this great country that the United Kingdom formally recognises the State of Palestine. We recognised the State of Israel more than 75 years ago as a homeland for the Jewish people. Today we join over 150 countries who recognise a Palestinian state also. A pledge to the Palestinian and Israeli people that there can be a better future.”
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/starmer-confirms-uk-recognition-of-a-palestinian-state-1809431.html

Why Trump wants us to reclaim Afghanistan’s Bagram air base

**Why Trump Wants Us to Reclaim Afghanistan’s Bagram Air Base**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 21, 2025, 04:04 pm*

**What’s the story?**

United States President Donald Trump has called for the return of the Bagram Air Base in Afghanistan. “We’re talking now to Afghanistan, and we want it back, and we want it back soon,” he said. The base, once a key US military installation, fell into Taliban hands after the US withdrawal in 2021. On his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump also warned Afghanistan of “bad things” if they did not relent to his demand.

**Geopolitical Importance**

**Strategic Location of Bagram Air Base**
Bagram Air Base is situated about 60 km north of Kabul, making it a strategic hub that connects Iran, Pakistan, Central Asia, and China’s Xinjiang province. This prime location makes it an ideal launchpad for US military operations in almost any direction. The base is equipped with two major runways, including one nearly 12,000 feet (3,650 meters) long, capable of accommodating heavy bombers and cargo planes.

**Regional Surveillance**

Monitoring China, Russia, and Iran
Trump highlighted the base’s strategic significance, stating, “It’s an hour away from where China makes its nuclear weapons.” Its proximity offers the US a valuable advantage in monitoring Chinese military developments. Additionally, the base would enable Washington to track Russian activities in Central Asia and Iranian movements to the west.

**Economic Influence**

**Economic Significance**
Beyond its military value, Bagram is located near emerging trade corridors and a region rich in untapped minerals. According to the Economic Times, whoever controls Bagram can influence economic routes that China and Russia aim to secure. The presence of US troops would also strengthen regional counterterrorism efforts, enhancing the base’s overall strategic importance.

**Symbolic Significance**

**Challenges in Returning to Bagram**
The official US withdrawal from Bagram Air Base in July 2021 marked a symbolic end to America’s 20-year military presence in Afghanistan. However, any attempt to reclaim the base would face significant hurdles, including obtaining Afghan approval and managing complex logistics. Despite these challenges, Trump’s push to regain control of Bagram underscores its critical role in America’s global security strategy.

Bagram Air Base remains a focal point in the geopolitical chessboard, reflecting not only military interests but also economic and symbolic stakes in the region. Reclaiming it would mark a notable shift in US foreign policy and regional engagement.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/trump-warns-afghanistan-to-return-bagram-airbase/story

Why Israel should annex the West Bank, but doesn’t need to do so yet – opinion

**Why Israel Should Annex the West Bank, But Doesn’t Need to Do So Yet**

Anyone with even the most superficial understanding of the conflict knows that a Palestinian state has never been further from coming to fruition than today.

Earlier this month, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution endorsing the New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.

![UN General Assembly adopts a resolution](photo-credit-eduardo-munoz-reuters.jpg)
*Photo credit: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters*

By Aliza Pilichowski
https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-868240

Rajnath to visit Morocco, first by any Indian Defence Minister

**Rajnath Singh to Visit Morocco: First Visit by an Indian Defence Minister**

*By Snehil Singh | Sep 20, 2025, 02:54 PM*

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to embark on a two-day official visit to Morocco starting September 22. This marks the first time an Indian Defence Minister will visit the North African country, underscoring the importance of strengthening strategic ties between India and Morocco.

### Strengthening Strategic Ties

The visit aims to enhance defense cooperation and industrial collaboration between the two nations. During his trip, Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the Tata Advanced Systems Maroc’s new manufacturing facility for the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8 in Berrechid.

### A Milestone in Defence Manufacturing

The Berrechid plant stands out as a significant milestone — it is the first Indian defense manufacturing unit established on African soil. This development is a major achievement under India’s **Aatmanirbhar Bharat** initiative and highlights the expanding global footprint of India’s defence industry.

The visit follows an invitation from Morocco’s Minister Delegate of National Defense, Abdellatif Loudiyi, emphasizing the diplomatic significance of this engagement.

### Strategic Discussions and Cooperation

During the visit, Singh will hold bilateral talks with Minister Loudiyi to explore avenues for enhanced defense cooperation and strategic partnerships. Additionally, he is expected to meet Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, to discuss opportunities for industrial collaboration.

A key outcome anticipated from this visit is the signing of a **Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation**. This MoU would formalize bilateral exchanges, joint training programs, and industrial linkages between the two countries.

### Growing Diplomatic Relations

India-Morocco relations have progressively strengthened since 2015, following a notable meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and King Mohammed VI. Rajnath Singh’s visit is expected to inject fresh momentum into this growing partnership, particularly in the defense and strategic sectors.

The Ministry of Defence also highlighted that Indian Navy ships have been making regular port calls at Casablanca in recent years. The new agreements set to be signed during this visit are anticipated to further consolidate maritime cooperation between India and Morocco.

This historic visit and the initiatives it heralds signify India’s commitment to expanding its defense diplomacy and industrial collaboration beyond traditional boundaries, paving the way for deeper bilateral engagement with Morocco and the African continent.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/rajnath-to-inaugurate-tasl-armored-vehicle-unit-during-morocco-visit/story

Former Jammu and Kashmir DGP on Yasin Malik`s claims

After Mehbooba Mufti urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to look into Yasin Malik’s case through a humanitarian lens, the former Jammu and Kashmir (J-K) Director General of Police (DGP) SP Vaid on Friday criticised JKLF chief Yasin Malik’s claims.

The former JK DGP revealed that Yasin Malik had briefed then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh after meeting Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed, calling it a “matter of shame” for the government at that time. Yasin Malik has been convicted in terror-related cases and is currently serving a life sentence in a 2017 terror-funding case.

Malik claimed in a sworn affidavit that he travelled to Pakistan, met Hafiz Saeed, and subsequently briefed Manmohan Singh, according to a report by ANI.

Speaking to the media on Friday, former JK DGP SP Vaid expressed shock that someone involved in killings could have been used for “diplomatic purposes.” He asserted, “What could be more shameful than this?”

According to ANI, Vaid said, “Yasin Malik’s affidavit states that he travelled to Pakistan, met with Hafiz Saeed, and subsequently briefed then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh upon his return. This means you are using a murderer like Yasin Malik, who killed five of your air force men and was responsible for the deaths of many Kashmiri Hindu pandits.”

He further added, “A murderer is being used as a diplomat to approach Hafiz Saeed, who is an India-hater and heads Lashkar-e-Taiba, responsible for killing thousands of Indians. I leave it to the people of this country to decide what kind of government they want. It is such a disgrace to have such diplomacy and government.”

A day earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chief Yasin Malik claimed before the Delhi High Court that, far from being a terrorist, he was repeatedly engaged by six successive Indian governments—from VP Singh to Manmohan Singh—to participate in peace initiatives concerning Kashmir.

Malik further alleged that the meetings facilitated by the Indian establishment were later “twisted” to portray him as a conspirator, ANI reported.

Currently serving a life sentence in a 2017 terror-funding case, Malik made these assertions in detailed written submissions filed in response to the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) appeal seeking the death penalty against him.

According to Malik, his engagement began in the early 2000s when then Intelligence Bureau (IB) Special Director Ajit Doval visited him in jail to convey the Vajpayee government’s interest in a peace process.

Malik further asserted that following his meeting with Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor set up a meeting with IB Director Shyamal Dutta and NSA Brajesh Mishra, who asked for his support for the Ramzan ceasefire.

(With inputs from ANI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/former-jammu-and-kashmir-dgp-on-yasin-maliks-claims-says-what-could-be-more-shameful-than-this-23594966

Donald Trump says China`s President Xi Jinping approved Tik Tok deal

Former US President Donald Trump recently stated that the United States will have “tight control” over the popular app TikTok, describing the arrangement as a “very good deal” for Washington.

“We are going to have very tight control. It is an amazing thing that has been created. I am a little prejudiced because I frankly did so well on it. It got me numbers that nobody has ever even heard before,” Trump said. He added that the app is highly sought after by young Americans and their parents alike.

Trump also highlighted the positive relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, saying, “So we were able to work out a deal with China. It’s a very good deal for us. I hope it’s a good deal for them. These are American investors. They are very famous people financially. They’ll have control of it. I want to thank President Xi because he was a gentleman. We just had a good relationship.”

The remarks came after a telephonic conversation between Trump and President Xi Jinping, during which they discussed various issues, including TikTok. The app faces the threat of a ban in the US following legislation passed by the Biden administration mandating that TikTok divest its ownership from the Chinese internet company ByteDance.

In response to the talks, ByteDance released a statement expressing gratitude to both leaders and affirming its commitment to complying with Chinese law to ensure TikTok continues operating in the US. The statement read:

“We thank President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump for their attention to TikTok. ByteDance will advance related work in accordance with the requirements of Chinese law, allowing TikTok U.S. to continue serving American users well.”

The legislation, passed in April 2024, aims to ban TikTok in the US starting January 19, 2025. However, the government has not yet enforced the ban as it negotiates a deal with China.

According to reports by The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, citing sources familiar with the discussions, the proposed agreement would grant a group of American investors control of 80% of TikTok, while the remaining 20% would remain with Chinese firms including ByteDance.

This development reflects ongoing efforts by the US to secure greater control over the platform amid national security concerns.

*Note: This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Mid-day does not accept responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. Mid-day management reserves the right to alter, delete, or remove content at its sole discretion without prior notice.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/donald-trump-says-chinas-president-xi-jinping-approved-tik-tok-deal-23594932

US President Donald Trump halts military aid package to Taiwan

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a telephonic conversation, Xinhua News reported on Friday.

Prior to the call between the two leaders, US media reported that President Trump declined to approve USD 400 million in military aid to Taiwan. This move is seen as part of his effort to negotiate a trade deal with China. Trump is also striving to arrange a summit with his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, according to US media reports. The Trump administration is generally seeking to soften relations with Beijing.

A White House representative stated that the decision regarding the aid package has not been finalized and may be reviewed.

According to local US media outlets, Trump and Xi were expected to discuss a deal to confirm the framework for separating the TikTok app from its Chinese owner, ByteDance, to avoid a potential US ban.

“We have a deal on TikTok. I’ve reached a deal with China. I’m going to speak to President Xi on Friday to confirm everything,” Trump told reporters outside the White House.

Last year, former US President Joe Biden enacted a law mandating that TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance—based in China—sell off the app or face a ban in the US due to national security concerns. A US federal law was scheduled to take effect in January this year, requiring the company to find a non-Chinese owner or face a ban in the US. Trump later extended this deadline.

Chinese and US officials recently held a new round of trade talks in Madrid, Spain, on Sunday and Monday, following earlier discussions in Switzerland, Britain, and Sweden.

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for the dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy of the text. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at their absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/us-president-donald-trump-halts-military-aid-package-to-taiwan-23594917

UAE Companies To Pour Investments Into India’s Infrastructure, Data Centres, Banking, Startups & Logistics: Commerce & Industry Minister Goyal

Dubai: UAE companies are exploring multiple sectors in India to boost their investments, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday. Sectors of interest include infrastructure, data centres, banking, startups, and logistics.

Goyal emphasized that both countries have reset their investment targets and are actively working to accelerate investments across various industries. Collaborations are also being enhanced in areas such as renewable energy, shipbuilding, retail, and pharmaceuticals.

“Infrastructure is one of the major sectors where the UAE sees huge potential. There is considerable interest in the banking sector and startups. Potential investors are keen on the logistics ecosystem and green energy in India,” Goyal told reporters.

The minister was in Dubai to attend the 13th India-UAE High-Level Joint Task Force on Investments. He led a 75-member business delegation during the two-day visit, which concluded on September 19.

Goyal highlighted multiple avenues to increase collaboration between Indian and UAE companies, noting the UAE’s unparalleled strength in investments. “The UAE is also investing deeply in high-tech areas, so we could look at serious collaborations in technology sectors,” he added.

He also noted growing interest from bankers to expand their operations in India. “One banker who met me is very keen to set up a new operation in GIFT City,” Goyal said. He pointed out that while the UAE is already among the top five to six investors in India, there is potential for much larger investment flows, given recent developments.

The UAE recognizes India as a key investment destination. “We expect to see much larger pools of capital coming into India, including both Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Foreign Institutional Investment (FII),” the minister said.

Regarding Bharat Mart, Goyal mentioned that the UAE has allocated land for the project and construction is expected to begin soon, with completion targeted by 2027. So far, about 9,000 companies have expressed interest in Bharat Mart.

India has received USD 24 billion in FDI from the UAE between April 2000 and June 2025.

*Disclaimer: This story is based on a syndicated feed. Only the headline has been changed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/uae-companies-to-pour-investments-into-indias-infrastructure-data-centres-banking-startups-logistics-commerce-industry-minister-goyal

Arab League summit in Doha leaves Israel with a choice – opinion

Arab League Summit in Doha Leaves Israel with a Choice

Israelis should realize that for many in the region, the Israel of the past three years is different from all previous ones.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met with the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha this week. The moment seems to call for Arab leaders to grant a series of in-depth interviews to Israeli TV channels, says the writer.

(Photo credit: Amri Diwan/Reuters)

By NIMROD NOVIK

https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-868020