Islamic State is back in the United States

On New Year’s Day Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old American, rammed a pickup truck into a crowd in New Orleans, killing at least 14 and injuring 35. The FBI says it was terrorism; Jabbar had an Islamic State flag. If Jabbar was inspired by the ISIS, the Jihadist group can add the attack to its recent successes. Exactly a year ago, an ISIS terrorist killed 95 civilians in Iran during a ceremony to commemorate Qassam Soleimani, a top general assassinated by America.

Sweden’s NATO Membership Rewrites Europe’s Military History

Sweden formally joined NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) on March 7, 2024, becoming the 32nd nation to do so. Sweden’s membership, which follows that of neighbouring Finland, is a consequence of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This move marked a major change in the country’s foreign policy and could influence the course of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Membership marks a clear break with the past when for more than 200 years Sweden avoided the military alliances and adopted a neutral stance even in the war times. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf kristersson handed over the final documentation to the US government on 7th march. This was the last stage in prolonged process in gaining support for joining the military alliance.