A Birmingham-based drill rapper, Omar Abdirizak, known by his stage name Twista Cheese, has been convicted of posting a “menacing” video targeting former English Defence League leader Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, widely known as Tommy Robinson.

The video, which was shared on social media and garnered over two million views, featured Abdirizak referencing artillery, making a gun gesture, and shouting “pow, pow, pow.” Prosecutors argued these actions crossed the line from free speech to criminality under the Communications Act 2003. Abdirizak, 31, denied the charges but was found guilty after a two-hour trial at Birmingham Magistrates Court.

The video was posted amidst heightened tensions following summer riots targeting mosques and other institutions. Prosecutor Tim Talbot-Webb told the court the video’s content, including references to “pirates” and “artillery,” could cause apprehension of serious violence. The footage was reposted by Robinson, who claimed it was a murder threat incited by “media lies.”

Abdirizak defended his actions as a form of artistic expression, asserting that the video was “entertainment” aimed at promoting his music and addressing controversial public figures. He denied making direct threats or intending harm, stating that his gestures and references to firearms were linked to a Somali music video he encouraged followers to watch.

The court heard that Abdirizak’s video followed discussions in the media about societal issues linked to the riots, including debates between broadcaster Piers Morgan and influencer Andrew Tate. Abdirizak claimed his video was a response to Robinson’s rhetoric and intended to “put Tommy Robinson in his place.”

Despite the rapper’s claims of artistic intent, prosecutors emphasized the threatening nature of the language and imagery, particularly in the context of ongoing communal tensions.

Abdirizak, who also faces charges of cannabis possession and a racially aggravated public order offense, has been granted conditional bail and will be sentenced on February 12. The court has indicated it will consider his mental health and other potential “hidden disabilities” before passing judgment.

The case has reignited debates around the boundaries of free speech, artistic expression, and hate speech, particularly in the context of politically charged rhetoric. It also underscores the legal risks faced by individuals who create and share provocative content on social media platforms.

Devastating wildfires in Los Angeles disrupt the entertainment industry, forcing evacuations, canceling events, and delaying the announcement of the 97th Academy Awards nominees.

The entertainment capital of the world is grappling with an unprecedented crisis as wildfires rage through Los Angeles, disrupting lives, displacing residents, and bringing Hollywood to a standstill. As flames engulf large swaths of the city, the impact on the entertainment industry has been both immediate and profound.

Amid this catastrophe, the announcement of the 97th Academy Award nominees has been postponed, throwing the highly anticipated awards season into disarray. Film premieres and other major events have been canceled, and iconic locations like Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk have temporarily closed their doors. The wildfires have not spared the homes of celebrities, forcing stars like Jamie Lee Curtis, Mandy Moore, and Maria Shriver to evacuate.

The Pacific Palisades fire, one of the largest blazes, has devoured nearly 12,000 acres, affecting the scenic area that hosts numerous high-profile residents. Curtis, whose home lies in the fire’s path, shared her fears on social media, urging people to pray for the affected communities.

Authorities have called for the evacuation of over 100,000 residents, as relentless flames and strong winds continue to wreak havoc. With at least five fatalities and more than 1,000 structures destroyed, the human and economic toll is staggering.

The entertainment industry, a cornerstone of Los Angeles, finds itself paralyzed. Film permits have been revoked in Pasadena and other fire-hit regions, grinding productions to a halt. The wildfires coincide with the onset of awards season, adding an extra layer of disruption to a city already overwhelmed by natural disaster.

As residents and industry professionals await relief, the wildfires underscore the fragility of life in California’s fire-prone landscape. For Hollywood, the show may go on, but the scars of this disaster will linger long after the flames subside.

Muna Abdulahi uses strategy, community, and cultural identity to compete on The Mole, navigating stereotypes and reality TV’s challenges.

Muna Abdulahi, a Somali American poet from Minneapolis, captured audiences’ attention with her strategic gameplay and cultural authenticity on Netflix’s The Mole. Competing for a $154,000 prize, Abdulahi skillfully navigated the high-stakes reality game show while embracing her identity as a Muslim woman and a poet, breaking new ground for representation on mainstream television.

Bringing Poetry to Strategy

Abdulahi’s journey as a poet deeply influenced her approach to the competition. Growing up in Minnesota, she found a connection to her Somali heritage through poetry, a tradition revered in Somali culture. Inspired by a lack of representation in literature and media, Abdulahi dedicated her art to amplifying marginalized voices. This focus on storytelling and nuance became a cornerstone of her strategy on The Mole.

Game Strategy and Stereotype Subversion

Entering the game, Abdulahi deliberately leaned into stereotypes often associated with Muslim women—quiet, shy, and reserved—to encourage her fellow contestants to underestimate her. However, as the competition progressed, she adapted her approach, revealing a dynamic and observant side that made her a formidable player.

Her preparation included watching international seasons of The Mole, memorizing details to identify the saboteur, and developing adaptability—key to thriving in the game’s unpredictable environment. This adaptability allowed Abdulahi to challenge assumptions while remaining true to her values.

Navigating Cultural Boundaries

Unlike other reality shows like Survivor or Big Brother, The Mole provided a structure compatible with her values as a Muslim woman. This accessibility enabled Abdulahi to showcase the complexities of her identity while competing on equal footing.

“Preserving my values and playing the game were equally important,” she said, highlighting her careful balance of personal integrity and competitive strategy.

While Abdulahi initially focused solely on winning, she found herself forming genuine friendships with her fellow contestants. These connections, forged during off-camera moments, added depth to her experience. Abdulahi’s emphasis on community mirrored her poetry’s central theme—elevating the shared humanity that transcends cultural and personal differences.

A Symbol of Representation and Complexity

Abdulahi’s participation on The Mole offered a rare glimpse into the experiences of a Somali American Muslim woman in the high-pressure world of reality television. By embracing her identity and showcasing her multifaceted personality, she challenged stereotypes and provided an empowering representation of underrepresented communities.

Her family and community rallied behind her throughout the competition, cheering her on with the enthusiasm of a sports event. “It was beautiful,” Abdulahi reflected, emphasizing the importance of her support system in her journey.

Muna Abdulahi’s appearance on The Mole underscores the significance of representation in media. Her ability to balance cultural identity, strategic acumen, and personal authenticity serves as a reminder of the power of inclusivity in storytelling.

As Abdulahi continues to inspire through her poetry and public appearances, her time on The Mole stands as a testament to the importance of breaking barriers and embracing complexity in a world often quick to stereotype.

Earthquakes and potential volcanic activity prompt Ethiopia to evacuate 80,000 people while experts warn of infrastructure vulnerabilities and urgent preparedness needs.

Ethiopia’s recent spate of earthquakes has spotlighted the nation’s vulnerability to seismic and volcanic activity. With over 80,000 people evacuated, fears of a volcanic eruption in the Afar region have heightened the urgency of the situation. The tremors, including a 5.8-magnitude earthquake, have caused widespread anxiety, displacing thousands and damaging homes. While no casualties have been reported, the frequency and intensity of these quakes signal a growing crisis.

The earthquakes have not only disrupted communities but also exposed the fragility of Ethiopia’s urban infrastructure. Many buildings, especially in Addis Ababa, fail to meet seismic safety standards due to outdated codes and noncompliant construction practices. Experts warn that this poses a significant risk, particularly as seismic activity becomes more frequent in the tectonically active East African Rift region.

Beyond immediate concerns, the crisis underscores broader challenges for Ethiopia. Displacement has created humanitarian needs, while fears of volcanic eruptions threaten to disrupt critical economic activities in the Afar region, a key trade corridor. The government faces the dual task of managing emergency evacuations while planning for long-term resilience in a geologically volatile environment.

Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive action. Investments in early warning systems, stricter building code enforcement, and public awareness campaigns are vital. Additionally, international support and expertise will be crucial in strengthening Ethiopia’s disaster preparedness. As the country navigates this crisis, it must balance immediate relief efforts with sustainable strategies to mitigate future risks, ensuring the safety and resilience of its population.

Ethiopia and Somalia are navigating a critical juncture in their bilateral relationship, with the recent visit by Ethiopia’s Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed Mussa to Mogadishu signaling a potential thaw in relations strained by Addis Ababa’s controversial naval-base agreement with Somaliland. The visit highlights the multifaceted tensions in the Horn of Africa, where geopolitics, security, and sovereignty converge in a volatile environment.

At the heart of the dispute lies Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland, which involves leasing coastal land for a naval base and commercial port. Somaliland, seeking international recognition as an independent state, views the deal as a step toward its sovereignty. Somalia, however, considers Somaliland an integral part of its territory and perceives Ethiopia’s deal as an affront to its sovereignty.

The naval-base agreement has implications far beyond Ethiopia and Somalia. It positions Ethiopia closer to a long-sought maritime presence, addressing its landlocked status and enhancing its strategic capabilities in the Red Sea. For Somalia, however, the move not only challenges its territorial claims but also exacerbates internal divisions, emboldening separatist sentiments in Somaliland and potentially complicating Mogadishu’s governance.

Ethiopia’s Role in Somalia’s Stability

Ethiopia has played a pivotal role in Somalia’s security landscape, contributing up to 10,000 troops to the African Union’s AUSSOM peacekeeping mission. These forces have been instrumental in countering al Shabaab, an al Qaeda-linked insurgency that has plagued Somalia since 2007. The group’s resilience underscores the importance of regional cooperation in maintaining security.

Somalia’s threat to expel Ethiopian troops over the Somaliland deal highlights the delicate balance between bilateral grievances and shared security interests. A premature Ethiopian withdrawal could create a power vacuum, enabling al Shabaab to regain territory and destabilize the region further. Such a scenario would also strain the African Union’s peacekeeping mission, reducing its operational effectiveness.

Regional Rivalries and Geopolitical Implications

The naval-base controversy has ripple effects across the Horn of Africa, drawing in regional players like Egypt and Eritrea. Somalia’s pivot toward closer ties with these countries signals its intent to counterbalance Ethiopia’s growing influence. Egypt, in particular, sees an opportunity to strengthen its position in the Red Sea and Nile Basin disputes, while Eritrea’s involvement reflects its ongoing rivalry with Ethiopia.

Turkey’s mediation efforts reflect the international community’s recognition of the broader stakes involved. The Horn of Africa remains a strategic nexus for global trade, security, and geopolitics. Stability in the region is vital for maintaining the flow of goods through the Red Sea, combating terrorism, and fostering economic development.

Diplomacy and Strategic Calculations

The agreement to resolve the naval-base dispute through technical negotiations by February is a positive step, but significant challenges remain. Both Ethiopia and Somalia must navigate deeply entrenched positions while balancing domestic pressures and regional dynamics.

For Ethiopia, the naval-base project is a strategic necessity tied to its broader ambitions in the Red Sea. Addis Ababa must, however, tread carefully to avoid alienating Somalia and jeopardizing its peacekeeping role. For Somalia, asserting sovereignty over Somaliland is paramount, but it must also prioritize internal stability and the fight against al Shabaab.

The role of mediators, particularly Turkey, will be crucial in bridging the gap between the two nations. Any resolution must address Somalia’s sovereignty concerns while recognizing Ethiopia’s strategic needs. A balanced approach could involve Ethiopia reconfiguring its naval-base plans to emphasize commercial rather than military uses, with Somalia playing a more prominent role in oversight.

Regional Stability at a Crossroads

The Ethiopia-Somalia naval-base controversy epitomizes the complexities of the Horn of Africa’s geopolitical landscape. While the two nations appear committed to reconciliation, the stakes remain high. Failure to resolve their differences could undermine regional security, embolden insurgent groups, and strain international peacekeeping efforts.

The coming months will be critical. Both nations must leverage diplomacy to navigate their mutual grievances while fostering cooperation against shared threats. Achieving a sustainable resolution could set a precedent for addressing broader disputes in the region, ensuring that stability and collaboration prevail over division and conflict.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has confirmed that Shamsud-Din Jabbar, the suspect behind the New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans, acted as a lone wolf but was inspired by the Islamic State (ISIS). Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. Army veteran, carried out the deadly attack in which a rented truck was driven into a crowd of revelers, killing at least 14 people and leaving many others injured. The attack fits the profile of a modern lone wolf inspired by ISIS propaganda, an ongoing concern for counterterrorism agencies.

Evidence of ISIS Affiliation

FBI Deputy Assistant Director Christopher Raia revealed during a press conference that Jabbar had pledged allegiance to ISIS before the attack. In a series of online videos, he proclaimed his support for the group and expressed his intent to contribute to what he described as a “war between the believers and the disbelievers.” This messaging aligns with the tactics ISIS has long promoted through its propaganda, encouraging isolated individuals to take independent action.

Jabbar’s statements suggested that his original plan involved targeting his own family and friends. However, he reportedly shifted his focus, aiming to garner media attention and highlight his ideological motives. This decision underscores the influence of ISIS’s strategic communication, which often emphasizes maximizing public impact and visibility over the choice of target.

The FBI confirmed that Jabbar acted alone, with no immediate links to external conspirators or accomplices. Surveillance footage revealed that Jabbar planted explosive devices in coolers on Bourbon Street and a nearby location before driving the rented truck into the crowded thoroughfare. Fortunately, these devices failed to detonate, potentially averting an even greater tragedy.

The investigation revealed that Jabbar had traveled from Houston to New Orleans on New Year’s Eve, meticulously planning the attack. His methodical approach highlights the evolving threat posed by self-radicalized individuals who operate independently but are ideologically aligned with global terrorist networks.

No Connection to Las Vegas Explosion

The Las Vegas Cybertruck Explosion: Investigations, Speculations, and Connections

The FBI has clarified that there is no evidence linking the New Orleans attack to the explosion outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas on the same day. While both incidents initially raised questions about possible coordination or shared motives, investigators have determined they were unrelated. The Las Vegas explosion involved a separate individual and circumstances that do not intersect with Jabbar’s attack.

The New Orleans attack underscores the persistent challenge of detecting and preventing lone-wolf terrorism. Despite acting independently, individuals like Jabbar often derive their motivation and tactics from broader ideological frameworks disseminated by groups like ISIS. The decentralized nature of this threat complicates traditional counterterrorism measures, as such individuals operate outside formal networks, leaving fewer detectable traces.

This case also highlights the vulnerabilities associated with online platforms. Jabbar’s use of social media to disseminate his intentions and pledge allegiance to ISIS exemplifies how digital ecosystems can be exploited to radicalize and mobilize individuals. It underscores the necessity for enhanced monitoring and cooperation between technology companies and law enforcement to identify and disrupt these threats.

The New Orleans attack reflects the enduring influence of ISIS’s ideological reach, even as the group’s physical caliphate has been dismantled. Lone-wolf attackers like Jabbar illustrate how the battle against terrorism has shifted from targeting centralized organizations to addressing decentralized, ideologically inspired individuals. As counterterrorism strategies evolve, a focus on early detection, community engagement, and digital intervention will be critical in preventing future incidents. The tragedy in New Orleans serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by extremist ideologies in the modern age.

Switzerland has entered 2025 with a divisive new policy: a nationwide ban on face coverings, commonly referred to as the “burqa ban.” Approved narrowly by referendum in 2021, this measure reflects the complexities of Swiss democracy, identity politics, and the broader global conversation on cultural integration versus individual freedoms.

The ban, rooted in a constitutional article, prohibits covering the face in public spaces, except under specific circumstances such as health, safety, or religious practices in designated places of worship. Fines for violations are minimal, capped at CHF 100 for administrative penalties, with a maximum penalty of CHF 1,000 for those opting for formal proceedings. While the law avoids explicitly mentioning Muslims, it is widely seen as targeting the Muslim minority, particularly women who wear the burqa or niqab, even though their numbers are strikingly low—only 30 women wear the niqab across Switzerland, and no women are reported to wear the burqa.

The legislation stems from a campaign spearheaded by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party (SVP), which framed the proposal as a stand against “soft extremism” and a step toward preserving Swiss cultural norms. The government initially opposed the proposal, emphasizing that personal attire should not be dictated by state intervention. Nevertheless, the referendum result (51.2% in favor) revealed a divided electorate, with nearly half opposing the measure as an unnecessary infringement on personal freedoms.

Switzerland’s direct democracy model often subjects contentious issues to public vote, reflecting the country’s commitment to grassroots decision-making. However, such referenda can amplify cultural anxieties, particularly when influenced by populist rhetoric. The SVP’s campaign capitalized on global tensions surrounding Islam and integration, even though the country’s Muslim population constitutes only about 5% and is largely well-integrated, originating from Turkey, Bosnia, and Kosovo.

The framing of the referendum as a matter of public safety and secular values contrasts sharply with the actual demographic realities. The extremely small number of niqab-wearing women underscores that the policy is more symbolic than practical, raising questions about the motivations behind its implementation. Critics argue that the measure perpetuates stereotypes and fosters exclusion under the guise of protecting cultural identity.

The ban has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations such as Amnesty International, which called it a “dangerous policy that violates women’s rights, including freedom of expression and religion.” Muslim advocacy groups within Switzerland have expressed concerns that the law stigmatizes an already marginalized community, portraying it as a threat to Swiss values.

The law’s selective exemptions—for health, weather, and entertainment purposes—further highlight its disproportionate impact on Muslim women. While Swiss authorities assert that the policy safeguards national identity and cohesion, opponents see it as an unnecessary imposition fueled by populist pressures rather than genuine security concerns.

The ban aligns Switzerland with other European countries like France, Denmark, and Austria, which have implemented similar measures. While proponents argue that such policies uphold secularism and gender equality, critics see them as discriminatory, disproportionately affecting Muslim women and curtailing individual freedoms.

This law also risks deepening divisions within Swiss society. By prioritizing a largely symbolic policy, it may alienate a small but significant segment of the population, undermining efforts to foster inclusivity in an increasingly multicultural society.

The burqa ban represents a contentious intersection of democracy, identity, and human rights. While framed as a measure to uphold public safety and cultural values, it disproportionately targets a minuscule minority, raising concerns about its true intent and broader implications. Switzerland’s decision reflects a larger European trend of grappling with cultural integration, but whether such policies promote unity or deepen divides remains a critical question. As the world watches, Switzerland’s approach will serve as a litmus test for balancing individual freedoms with societal cohesion in an era of increasing globalization.

Brad Spafford’s Stockpile of Over 150 Explosive Devices Sparks Concerns Over Domestic Extremism

The arrest of Brad Spafford in Virginia and the discovery of the largest cache of homemade explosive devices in FBI history underscore the escalating threat posed by domestic extremism and the dangers of lone actors with access to lethal materials. Spafford’s possession of more than 150 labeled explosive devices, combined with his expressed intentions and ideologies, paints a chilling picture of an individual preparing for violent action.

The discovery, made during a search of Spafford’s 20-acre property in Isle of Wight County, revealed a dangerous stockpile, including pipe bombs marked as “lethal” and found both in a detached garage and in a backpack adorned with far-right symbolism. The “#NoLivesMatter” patch on his bag, while not directly tied to evidence of broader extremist affiliations, signals an ideology associated with incitement to violence, criminal activity, and even self-harm, as highlighted by a threat assessment from New Jersey authorities.

The implications of Spafford’s case are multifaceted. The presence of explosives in such quantities suggests an intent far beyond personal defense or isolated survivalist preparation. According to court documents, Spafford’s neighbors reported troubling statements, including his belief in the necessity of political assassinations and preparations for an undisclosed event he claimed he could not execute alone. These statements, coupled with his targeting of public figures during shooting practice and his remarks following the attempted assassination of President-elect Donald Trump, signal an individual radicalized to an alarming degree.

This case also highlights the role of community vigilance in uncovering threats. It was a neighbor’s tip that initiated the investigation, allowing authorities to intervene before any potential attack could materialize. The neighbor’s cooperation, including wearing a recording device during a visit to Spafford’s property, provided critical evidence of his intent and capabilities.

Spafford’s actions exemplify the dangerous overlap of domestic extremism, access to weaponry, and disillusionment with political systems. His remarks, such as advocating for the return of political assassinations and targeting individuals like Vice President Kamala Harris, reflect a disturbing normalization of violent rhetoric within certain ideological circles. Such sentiments, amplified by echo chambers on platforms like Telegram, contribute to the radicalization of individuals and the proliferation of extremist movements.

The legal proceedings will likely focus on Spafford’s intent and the extent of his preparations. While he faces charges related to the possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle, the broader implications of his arsenal and rhetoric point to potential charges of terrorism or conspiracy. Prosecutors have emphasized the ongoing danger he poses, arguing for his continued detention.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing domestic threats. The FBI and other agencies are tasked with balancing civil liberties against the need for proactive measures to prevent violence. The Spafford investigation demonstrates the importance of community cooperation and intelligence-sharing in identifying and mitigating risks before they escalate.

As the country grapples with increasing polarization and the rise of violent extremism, cases like Spafford’s underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address radicalization, regulate access to dangerous materials, and foster community resilience against extremist ideologies. Failure to act decisively risks further incidents that threaten public safety and national security.