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Business Recorder
08-05-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Decoding the patriarchal symbolism of ‘Operation Sindoor'
India attacked Pakistan on Wednesday, targeting several sites past midnight killing 26 and injuring almost 46 people, as reported by Pakistani sources. The midnight operation was named Operation Sindoor by India, claiming that the naming comes from widowed women of Pahalgam incident and is intended to take vengeance on their behalf. The codename prescribed to a military operation significantly indicates the underlying national narratives and social inclination. The case of Operation Sindoor, which is purportedly an Indian military operation explains this concept. The vermilion powder that Hindu women have traditionally used to symbolise marriage, known as sindoor, is a powerful symbol. Using this term for a military operation is a symbolic gesture that hints at a combination of nationalism, patriarchal beliefs, and objectification of an enemy territory as something to be claimed like a bride. 25 Indian drones shot down, at least one dead: ISPR The strategy of naming military operations is a war of narrative and perception building. Since 1989, US has been codenaming its operations in order to highlight the humanitarian, justice and peace factors in the operations. Some examples are 'Operation Just Cause' in the invasion of Panama, 'Operation Provide Comfort' in Turkey and 'Operation Uphold Democracy' in Haiti. All these names give a positive note to the operations and provide for the desired domestic and international narrative to benefit the country launching the operation. Professor Ray Eldon Hiebert highlights the importance of word choice and media presence for governments engaged in war, as he says, 'To win a war today, government not only has to win on the battlefield, it must also win the minds of its public.' The Indian perspective regarding Operation Sindoor is a symbolic revenge associated with military masculinity. It claims that the operation is a retaliatory action, which remains unfounded, which is a show of manly strength when national honour is thought to have been betrayed. Cynthia Enloe, a feminist scholar, contends that militarization is never gender-neutral since it depends on certain notions of masculinity. Moreover, the symbolism behind naming of the operation represents how intricately interlinked Hindu nationalism is with patriarchy and male dominance. This view is expressed by V. Geetha, an Indian feminist activist who writes on caste and gender, when she says that women are often used as objects to be protected or as mothers who send their sons to protect them. This notion puts women in a passive position and their symbols, like the widows of men in the Pahalgam incident, are used for a narrative propagated by the men in power. Another perspective to the codename is feminization of land and territory. Nations and territories are commonly personified as women across cultures and histories – a notion so deeply embedded that it is often overlooked. By tying political concepts like borders and sovereignty, to abstract and emotional terms such as honor, nationalist ideologies are propagated. The portrayal of state as a masculine proprietor or protector and the land as a feminised object to be defended, claimed, or abused, creates a metaphorical connotation. This makes geopolitical warfare a highly gendered act, involving control over the feminised 'other' as well as sovereignty. In this patriarchal claim of possession, Operation Sindoor implies the Indian state is symbolically 'marking territory' in Pakistan. In addition to being offensive, marking land symbolically in the same way that one would mark a woman serves as a reminder that both women and the land are all too frequently viewed as property in nationalist endeavours. 'Nationalism has typically sprung from masculinised memory, masculinised humiliation, and masculinised hope,' as feminist scholar Cynthia Enloe so eloquently stated. This phrase reverberates strongly in the wake of Operation Sindoor, which used both military force and symbolic possession and was played out on a stage still influenced by patriarchal vision. Conflicts today are nevertheless influenced by this history of gendered violence. Operation Sindoor capitalises on this custom by using marriage symbolism that taps into public emotions. It presents geopolitical aggression as an act of masculine assertion over a feminised, dishonoured adversary. Some critics referred to the term as 'aptly chosen', associating it with the restoration of patriarchal order and marital symbolism by avenging Hindu males who were killed before their brides. Some users called it 'marking of territory by India' through putting sindoor. Few criticized the notion as deeply patriarchal and promoting rape-culture and honor-killings. Vaishna Roy, editor of Frontline, claimed that the term 'reeks of patriarchy, ownership of women… and other Hindutva obsessions', underscoring the negative ideology that emerged. Some even presented the official media briefing, which was led by two female officers, as a 'powerful message of gender equality'. Although it may appear progressive, this could also be interpreted as appropriating women's presence to justify a patriarchally charged operation while subsiding more deeper criticism. It calls into question how states truly view women. Ironically, women's symbolism justifies military operations while women's material needs – particularly those impacted by conflict – are not sufficiently met. Does this kind of symbolism actually result in support for women's safety, empowerment, or rights? The symbolic use of women frequently serves narratives rather than the interests of women, as many feminist critiques indicate. It is a strategy that uses female symbols for political purposes without making any effort to address gender inequity. While governments fail to uproot patriarchal structures, symbolic gestures can mask a lack of progress by giving the impression that the state is supporting women. This viewpoint has the potential to hide the complexity of international relations and desensitize viewers to the human cost of conflict. One can gain a better understanding of how nationalist discourses use gender to frame conflicts by critically analyzing the gendered language surrounding Operation Sindoor. This awareness is crucial in challenging narratives that dehumanize and objectify nations and peoples, and in promoting a more nuanced and equitable discourse on international affairs. The article does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Business Recorder or its owners
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Joel E. Town, Warren, Ohio
WARREN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Joel E. Town, known affectionately to all as Joel, or JT, embarked on his final adventure on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the age of 56. Born on July 6, 1968, in Findlay, Ohio, Joel's journey of life took a full circle as he peacefully passed away in Warren, Ohio, after a valiant battle with liver cancer. Find obituaries from your high school A man who lived with the kind of humor that could light up even the darkest of rooms, Joel's laughter will echo in our hearts forever. Joel's early days were marked by a daredevil spirit, as he and his brother, Jay, spent their youth attempting to out-jump Evel Knievel on anything with two wheels. His passion for motorcycles never waned and neither did his love for history. Joel could often be found engrossed in a documentary about World War II or passionately sharing little-known historical facts. A true gun enthusiast, Joel approached the hobby with the same precision and respect he applied to all aspects of his life. His sense of duty and service was unparalleled. Joel was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving as a Combat Medic during Operation Just Cause in Panama. His commitment to helping others began long before and continued long after his military service, as he became a staple of the community as a Volunteer Firefighter for Southington Township Fire Department early in his career and served as an Emergency Medical Technician for over 40 years, serving McKinley Heights Fire Department, Medstar Ambulance, where he spent the majority of his career, McDonald Village, Johnston Fire Department, Burghill-Vernon Fire Department and Physicians Ambulance Service throughout the years. He was the kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back. He loved to teach new incoming EMTs the skills and compassion he showed to every patient he encountered. Joel's family was the cornerstone of his life. He leaves behind his loving wife, Vicky Town (née Beveridge), who was both his anchor and his compass; his sister, Jeanie Town Mathison, with whom he was very close, will miss her brother's wise cracks and sage advice. Joel's legacy lives on through his son, Jordan Town and daughter, Genna Town, from previous marriages; as well as many nieces and nephews and of course, his extensive EMS family. Joel's father, Eugene L. Town, will forever cherish the memories of his son, who was as funny as he was wise. Joel was preceded in death by his wonderful mother, Janet M. Ash Town, who passed away in 2020 and his best friend and brother, Jay A. Town, whom he lost in 1981. Those who knew Joel knew that his humor was as much a part of him as his generosity and wisdom. He had a knack for making people laugh even in the toughest of times. Friends and family often joked that Joel missed his calling as a stand-up comedian, as he could effortlessly turn a eulogy into a roast, a skill he'd no doubt have wanted to be remembered for. As we bid farewell to Joel, we celebrate a life lived with laughter, love and selflessness. He was the man who could find humor in the mundane, the friend who always had a joke at the ready and the hero who didn't wear a cape but carried a medical bag. Joel's story is not one of sorrow but a reminder to appreciate the history we're living, to ride through life with the wind in our hair and to never take ourselves too seriously. Joel's absence will be felt deeply but the tales of his escapades, his laughter and his enduring kindness will remain with us. He was a one-of-a-kind soul who left an indelible mark on the world and on the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing him. So here's to Joel E. Town: kind, funny and wise beyond his years. May his journey be filled with the roar of motorcycles, the thrill of discovery and the kind of peace that comes from a life well-lived and a job well done. As he would say, 'Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened—and because I probably would've made a joke about it anyway.' Arrangements handled by Borowski Funeral Services & Oak Meadow Cremation Services. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joel, please visit our floral 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Al Jazeera
12-04-2025
- Politics
- Al Jazeera
‘Camouflaged invasion': Panama opposition slams security pact with the US
Opposition politicians in Panama have accused the United States of launching a 'camouflaged invasion' of the country after President Donald Trump confirmed the deployment of US soldiers days after the two countries signed a security pact. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday confirmed that deals, including a memorandum of understanding, were reached between the US and Panamanian authorities in efforts to secure 'the Panama Canal from Chinese influence'. 'The Panama Canal is key terrain that must be secured by Panama, with America, and not China,' Hegseth said in a statement on Wednesday during his three-day trip to Panama. Hegseth said a deal with the Panama Canal Authority would allow US warships and auxiliary ships 'first and free' passage through the canal that connects the Pacific Ocean with the Atlantic and is a chief conduit for global trade. He added that US troops would be deployed at three former military bases – Fort Sherman, Rodman Naval Base and Howard Air Force Base – as part of a deal signed with Panama's Ministry of Public Security, raising concerns in Panama. The last US troops were pulled out from the country in 1999. In a video posted on social media on Friday, Ricardo Lombana, the leader of the opposition Another Way Movement, called the memorandum of understanding reached between the US and Panamanian governments days earlier 'an invasion without firing a shot'. The agreement was reached after a three-day visit by US Defense Secretary Hegseth. On Thursday, President Trump confirmed that US soldiers and military personnel were deployed to Panama as part of the deal, telling reporters, 'We've moved a lot of troops to Panama.' Despite an insistence by the Panamanian government that these are not 'military bases' and that the deal is temporary, the opposition believes the US has re-established its military presence in the country. 'No matter what you want to call it, what we've read in this memo is the establishment of military bases,' said Lombana, the opposition leader. He added that the 'firm step' slogan that the government has been using in its political messaging now 'limps and kneels under pressure'. The last US military bases in Panama were evacuated in 1999 as part of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties signed in 1977 with the aim of handing control over the canal to Panama. The US also invaded Panama in 1989 as part of what it called 'Operation Just Cause' to depose leader Manuel Noriega. US troops were accused of killing thousands of civilians and destroying homes and infrastructure during the operation, leaving a controversial legacy. That is partly why frustration has been growing in Panama over Trump's declaration that he intends to 'take back' the Panama Canal. The US has refused to acknowledge Panama's ownership over the canal as part of the negotiations that led to the defence pact signed earlier this week. The Panamanian opposition, along with the local chapter of Transparency International, which works to promote more responsible governance practices, have called on the government to inform the country about the precise contents of the agreement with the US. China has heavily criticised the agreement, maintaining that it views the Panama Canal as a permanently neutral international passageway. The canal handles about 40 percent of US container traffic and 5 percent of global trade.
Yahoo
03-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Country singer Craig Morgan thrilled Trump administration is bringing back 'pride in our nation'
Country singer Craig Morgan believes that President Donald Trump's administration has already brought about a surge of patriotism in America. During an interview with Fox News Digital, the 60-year-old musician, who is embarking on a tour with Blake Shelton and releasing his new EP "American Soundtrack," expressed his excitement over the many swift policy moves that Trump has made in the weeks after starting his second term. Morgan also shared his thoughts on the impact that the new administration is having on Americans, including members of the military. "I'm already seeing the changes that I'd love to see," he said. "I think the biggest thing is the pride in our nation." "And the pride that the men and women of our military have and should have and should be able to display," he continued. "They should be proud of their service to their country." Craig Morgan Says Military Service Is 'More Natural' To Him To Country Music Stardom: 'It's In My Dna' Read On The Fox News App Morgan, who has had a long career in the United States Army, told Fox News Digital that he believed that morale among soldiers has been boosted by the new administration. "When I was going through basic training, our motto was literally, 'Be proud.' And I've always said this, and I believe this to this day," he said. "And I feel like we're getting this back. That sense of pride – well-balanced with a sense of humility." WATCH: Country singer Craig Morgan says Trump administration is bringing back 'pride in our nation' "It's the only occupation in the world where pride and humility are so perfectly balanced. But we should be proud of our country. We should be proud of it." The "That's What I Love About Sunday" hitmaker shared his optimism about the state of the economy and national security under Trump. "Economically, everything that's going on in our nation right now, it's good," Morgan said. He continued, "It's not to say that we're not going to have hurdles. It's going to be difficult. It always has been and always will be. But I think the biggest thing is confidence in our stability – both financially and security as a nation. If we are not a secure nation, all of the other things don't matter." "So it's important that we maintain a sense of security as a nation," he added. "And I feel like we're seeing those things come around." Morgan's Army service began in 1989 when he enlisted. He was deployed to Panama as a part of Operation Just Cause, a U.S. mission that ended with the surrender of the Central American country's dictator, Gen. Manuel Noriega. He also served with 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions during his two deployments to Iraq during the Gulf War. After 10 years of active service, Morgan joined the Army Reserve as his music career began to take off. The singer-songwriter continued to serve in the reserves for another seven and a half years until he decided to commit himself entirely to music. WATCH: Country singer Craig Morgan shares two most impactful moments in his military career During his time in the military, Morgan served as a staff sergeant and fire support specialist. He has airborne, air assault and rappel master certifications. Country Star Craig Morgan Thanks Police For 'Quick Action' During Texas State Fair Shooting Even after he left the armed forces, Morgan always felt a calling to help people in need. In 2017, he traveled to Thailand with the nonprofit organization Exodus Road to rescue children from human trafficking. Morgan has also worked with the USO and has earned the Army's Outstanding Civilian Service Medal and the USO Merit Award. While reflecting on his military career, Morgan recalled the two experiences that stood out to him the most over his two decades of service. "No question for me," he told Fox News Digital. "Panama, 1989." He continued, "My very first single on country radio was a song called 'Paradise,' talking about my time serving in Panama. And as I reflect on my life, that was a very, very impacting time." "And because it was my first, whatever, my introduction to a conflict of such that everything after that conflict, even including any time in Afghanistan or Iraq or any place we ever went or I went, that was the one. That was the one memory. That era, that time, when I was serving with those people that I knew, my first platoon." "To this day, we're still in contact and very dear friends. A lot of that is thanks to the influx of social media. But because of Facebook and Instagram and TikTok now, being able to stay in touch with those guys." Like What You're Reading? Click Here For More Entertainment News "That one really does [stand out]," he added. "Secondly, was my re-enlistment back into the Army after I left the Army and kind of semi-separated the two lives that at one point were married. My military and my music, I was doing both at the same time." In July 2023, Morgan decided to re-enlist in the Army Reserve at the age of 59. He was sworn in again to the Army Reserve on stage at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, in front of a sold-out audience. "I stepped away from the military for a while to dedicate more time, effort and energy and resources to the music," Morgan explained. "And then I got to a point in that career where I was able to go back. And so, to be able to do that and remarry both of those lives, my music and my military on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry was a very special thing." WATCH: Country singer Craig Morgan shares inspiration behind his new album 'American Soundrack' Upon his return to the reserves, Morgan initially held the rank of staff sergeant before he was promoted to warrant officer in February 2024. Meanwhile, Morgan has also stayed busy with his music career and is now releasing his new EP "American Soundtrack." Morgan co-wrote five of the six songs featured on the record. Click Here To Sign Up For The Entertainment Newsletter During his interview with Fox News Digital, Morgan shared the inspiration behind "American Soundtrack." "Music," he said. "I know that might sound a little cheesy, but that's the truth. When we were doing this project – I always – like every project I've ever done, all I've tried to do is write and record and sing and produce music that I think that the masses of our audience would want to hear." He continued, "That's the truth. But this project, as we were doing it, I realized we were not just singing and writing what we believed to be great songs. We were singing and writing songs that we believed were a reflection of music and how it's impacted our lives. And, you know, the foundation of all my music has always been God, family, country." "I wish I could say that was intentional," Morgan added. "It started that way, and it's just kind of happened. And I think that has a lot to do with who I am, my lifestyle, my life's choices. Things have progressed throughout my career musically. But that's always kind of unintentionally been my platform. And this is a continuation of that platform. But really reflecting on the music and how the music impacts our lives." Morgan is also hitting the road, joining Blake Shelton on his 2025 "Friends & Heroes" tour, which kicked off in Lexington, Kentucky, on Thursday. The tour, which also features performances by Trace Adkins, Deana Carter and Emily Ann Roberts, will continue throughout the summer before wrapping on Sept. 6 in Lakeside Marblehead, Ohio. WATCH: Country singer Craig Morgan explains what he's looking forward to most on new tour with Blake Shelton, Trace Adkins Ahead of the tour, Morgan told Fox News Digital that he was looking forward to spending time with some of his closest friends while touring the country. "We've been dear friends for a long time," he said of Shelton. "I can honestly say he's one of my best friends in the music business. Maybe my best friend in the music business." "But we don't get to see each other like everybody would think we do," he continued. "We're not like hanging out together all the time. And we both have such busy lives, and we're doing different things. So it's really exciting to know that we're going to be able to see each other every day and hang out and visit." "And Trace Adkins as well, who is a dear friend and has been for a long time," Morgan added. "I have such a great deal of respect for Trace and his passion for our service members, our country, his love of God and family and country." "And I can say the same for Blake, but it's just going to be nice to be able to have some time to visit and hang out a little bit."Original article source: Country singer Craig Morgan thrilled Trump administration is bringing back 'pride in our nation'
Fox News
03-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Fox News
Country singer Craig Morgan thrilled Trump administration is bringing back 'pride in our nation'
Country singer Craig Morgan believes that President Donald Trump's administration has already brought about a surge of patriotism in America. During an interview with Fox News Digital, the 60-year-old musician, who is embarking on a tour with Blake Shelton and releasing his new EP "American Soundtrack," expressed his excitement over the many swift policy moves that Trump has made in the weeks after starting his second term. Morgan also shared his thoughts on the impact that the new administration is having on Americans, including members of the military. "I'm already seeing the changes that I'd love to see," he said. "I think the biggest thing is the pride in our nation." "And the pride that the men and women of our military have and should have and should be able to display," he continued. "They should be proud of their service to their country." Morgan, who has had a long career in the United States Army, told Fox News Digital that he believed that morale among soldiers has been boosted by the new administration. "When I was going through basic training, our motto was literally, 'Be proud.' And I've always said this, and I believe this to this day," he said. "And I feel like we're getting this back. That sense of pride – well-balanced with a sense of humility." WATCH: Country singer Craig Morgan says Trump administration is bringing back 'pride in our nation' "It's the only occupation in the world where pride and humility are so perfectly balanced. But we should be proud of our country. We should be proud of it." The "That's What I Love About Sunday" hitmaker shared his optimism about the state of the economy and national security under Trump. "Economically, everything that's going on in our nation right now, it's good," Morgan said. He continued, "It's not to say that we're not going to have hurdles. It's going to be difficult. It always has been and always will be. But I think the biggest thing is confidence in our stability – both financially and security as a nation. If we are not a secure nation, all of the other things don't matter." "So it's important that we maintain a sense of security as a nation," he added. "And I feel like we're seeing those things come around." Morgan's Army service began in 1989 when he enlisted. He was deployed to Panama as a part of Operation Just Cause, a U.S. mission that ended with the surrender of the Central American country's dictator, Gen. Manuel Noriega. He also served with 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions during his two deployments to Iraq during the Gulf War. After 10 years of active service, Morgan joined the Army Reserve as his music career began to take off. The singer-songwriter continued to serve in the reserves for another seven and a half years until he decided to commit himself entirely to music. WATCH: Country singer Craig Morgan shares two most impactful moments in his military career During his time in the military, Morgan served as a staff sergeant and fire support specialist. He has airborne, air assault and rappel master certifications. Even after he left the armed forces, Morgan always felt a calling to help people in need. In 2017, he traveled to Thailand with the nonprofit organization Exodus Road to rescue children from human trafficking. Morgan has also worked with the USO and has earned the Army's Outstanding Civilian Service Medal and the USO Merit Award. While reflecting on his military career, Morgan recalled the two experiences that stood out to him the most over his two decades of service. "No question for me," he told Fox News Digital. "Panama, 1989." He continued, "My very first single on country radio was a song called 'Paradise,' talking about my time serving in Panama. And as I reflect on my life, that was a very, very impacting time." "I'm already seeing the changes I'd love to see." "And because it was my first, whatever, my introduction to a conflict of such that everything after that conflict, even including any time in Afghanistan or Iraq or any place we ever went or I went, that was the one. That was the one memory. That era, that time, when I was serving with those people that I knew, my first platoon." "To this day, we're still in contact and very dear friends. A lot of that is thanks to the influx of social media. But because of Facebook and Instagram and TikTok now, being able to stay in touch with those guys." "That one really does [stand out]," he added. "Secondly, was my re-enlistment back into the Army after I left the Army and kind of semi-separated the two lives that at one point were married. My military and my music, I was doing both at the same time." In July 2023, Morgan decided to re-enlist in the Army Reserve at the age of 59. He was sworn in again to the Army Reserve on stage at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee, in front of a sold-out audience. "I stepped away from the military for a while to dedicate more time, effort and energy and resources to the music," Morgan explained. "And then I got to a point in that career where I was able to go back. And so, to be able to do that and remarry both of those lives, my music and my military on the stage of the Grand Ole Opry was a very special thing." WATCH: Country singer Craig Morgan shares inspiration behind his new album 'American Soundrack' Upon his return to the reserves, Morgan initially held the rank of staff sergeant before he was promoted to warrant officer in February 2024. Meanwhile, Morgan has also stayed busy with his music career and is now releasing his new EP "American Soundtrack." Morgan co-wrote five of the six songs featured on the record. During his interview with Fox News Digital, Morgan shared the inspiration behind "American Soundtrack." "Music," he said. "I know that might sound a little cheesy, but that's the truth. When we were doing this project – I always – like every project I've ever done, all I've tried to do is write and record and sing and produce music that I think that the masses of our audience would want to hear." He continued, "That's the truth. But this project, as we were doing it, I realized we were not just singing and writing what we believed to be great songs. We were singing and writing songs that we believed were a reflection of music and how it's impacted our lives. And, you know, the foundation of all my music has always been God, family, country." "I wish I could say that was intentional," Morgan added. "It started that way, and it's just kind of happened. And I think that has a lot to do with who I am, my lifestyle, my life's choices. Things have progressed throughout my career musically. But that's always kind of unintentionally been my platform. And this is a continuation of that platform. But really reflecting on the music and how the music impacts our lives." Morgan is also hitting the road, joining Blake Shelton on his 2025 "Friends & Heroes" tour, which kicked off in Lexington, Kentucky, on Thursday. The tour, which also features performances by Trace Adkins, Deana Carter and Emily Ann Roberts, will continue throughout the summer before wrapping on Sept. 6 in Lakeside Marblehead, Ohio. WATCH: Country singer Craig Morgan explains what he's looking forward to most on new tour with Blake Shelton, Trace Adkins Ahead of the tour, Morgan told Fox News Digital that he was looking forward to spending time with some of his closest friends while touring the country. "We've been dear friends for a long time," he said of Shelton. "I can honestly say he's one of my best friends in the music business. Maybe my best friend in the music business." "But we don't get to see each other like everybody would think we do," he continued. "We're not like hanging out together all the time. And we both have such busy lives, and we're doing different things. So it's really exciting to know that we're going to be able to see each other every day and hang out and visit." "And Trace Adkins as well, who is a dear friend and has been for a long time," Morgan added. "I have such a great deal of respect for Trace and his passion for our service members, our country, his love of God and family and country." "And I can say the same for Blake, but it's just going to be nice to be able to have some time to visit and hang out a little bit."
