Latest news with #YaLibnanEditorialBoard
Ya Libnan
28-05-2025
- Politics
- Ya Libnan
'Will Trump Finally Sanction Putin? The World is Watching and Anxiously waiting'
By : Ya Libnan Editorial Board President Trump's recent shift in tone toward Vladimir Putin — calling him 'absolutely crazy' following brutal Russian strikes on Ukraine during peace talks — has triggered speculation that the long-standing Trump-Putin honeymoon may finally be over. But words are cheap. What matters now is action — and Americans and the world are watching closely to see whether Trump will back his outrage with meaningful sanctions. So far, the signs are not encouraging. Today, Trump warned that Putin is 'playing with fire,' but still held off on endorsing any major new sanctions. Meanwhile, Republicans in Congress — once cautious about crossing Trump — are now sharply diverging from his hands-off approach. The shift intensified over the weekend after Russia launched its most aggressive wave of attacks since the war began. A bipartisan sanctions bill, aimed at crippling Moscow's war machine, now has 80 Senate cosponsors — more than enough to override a presidential veto. Yet Trump remains hesitant, as if still calculating the political fallout. But this is no time for posturing. A Pattern of Deference For years, Trump's relationship with Putin has been shrouded in mystery, discomfort, and deference. From his disturbing performance at the Helsinki summit — where he publicly sided with Putin over U.S. intelligence agencies — to his repeated delays or rollbacks of bipartisan sanctions packages, Trump has projected weakness in the face of Russian aggression. Even former FBI Director James Comey hinted at what many Americans feared: the possibility that Trump's behavior might not just be strategic, but compromised. Whether that's true or not, one fact is undeniable — Putin has never taken Trump seriously as a geopolitical adversary. Trump's record speaks for itself: In 2018, he blocked the implementation of mandatory sanctions passed overwhelmingly by Congress after Russia's interference in the U.S. election. In 2020, he downplayed intelligence reports that Russia offered bounties on U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan. In 2023, he resisted EU proposals to sanction Russian banks and oil exports, calling them 'destabilizing to the market.' And until just days ago, he continued to refer to Putin as a 'strategic genius.' That pattern doesn't inspire confidence now that Trump is suddenly changing his tune. Will Trump Match His Rhetoric with Action? The latest Russian strikes on civilian areas in Ukraine — launched during ongoing peace talks in Istanbul — reportedly infuriated Trump, who has staked part of his foreign policy legacy on brokering peace. But if he truly wants to reset his approach, he needs to go beyond angry soundbites and prove his seriousness through bold, coordinated action. The following questions now confront him: Will Trump endorse Senate legislation that imposes sweeping sanctions on Russian energy exports — the real engine behind Putin's war machine? Will he freeze Russian state assets and apply Magnitsky-style sanctions to Putin's inner circle? Will he work with European allies to present a united front — instead of undermining them with unilateral deals or isolationist rhetoric? Or will he again apply symbolic pressure just to create the illusion of strength, while leaving Putin's regime largely untouched? This Is a Test — and Trump Is on the Line This may be Trump's last chance to prove he is more than a bystander to history. If he fails to throw his support behind serious, bipartisan sanctions — like the Senate bill now backed by over 80 members — he won't just be letting down Ukraine. He'll be signaling to Putin, and to every autocrat watching, that American leadership can be bluffed, manipulated, and ultimately ignored. Reports from Moscow suggest that Russian officials have already begun mocking Trump behind closed doors — laughing off his latest remarks as empty threats. If he doesn't respond with resolve now, he won't just lose the respect of allies and adversaries alike. He'll become a mockery of leadership itself. This is more than a test of Trump's foreign policy. It is a test of whether he can finally shed the shadow of subservience that has defined his approach to Putin from the beginning.
Ya Libnan
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Ya Libnan
The fuss over Qatar's gift makes no sense
The ruler of Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani is shown at Qatar Economic Forum during his opening speech By : Ya Libnan Editorial Board The uproar over Qatar's recent gift to the United States is unwarranted and unnecessarily politicized. The controversy raises a deeper question: why is this generous gesture from a close ally being twisted into a political issue? For over two centuries, America has accepted thoughtful and iconic gifts from its international partners—gifts that have helped shape the nation's image and soul. The Resolute Desk in the Oval Office, gifted by Queen Victoria in 1880, remains a symbol of enduring ties with the United Kingdom. Can we imagine New York without the Statue of Liberty from France? Or springtime in Washington, D.C. without the cherry blossoms gifted by Japan? So why is the gift from Qatar —a custom-made, American-built aircraft offered to President Donald J. Trump , now serving his second term—being treated differently? According to reports, some voices in Washington, allegedly influenced by pro-Israel lobbying groups such as AIPAC, have attempted to stir opposition in Congress. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is said to be concerned that this gift may increase Qatar's influence in Washington. But this narrative conveniently ignores Qatar's long-standing, deep-rooted alliance with the United States. Qatar hosts Al Udeid Air Base , the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East , and has been a critical player in U.S. diplomacy for decades. It is a country that has repeatedly proven its value as a partner—whether in counterterrorism efforts, humanitarian diplomacy, or regional stability. Let's also be clear: this gift is not about foreign influence. It is about shared values and mutual respect . The aircraft in question is designed and built in America , and is the same model used by U.S. presidents. Far from seeking to gain leverage, Qatar is celebrating American innovation—and honoring its strategic relationship with the United States. Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani , addressed the controversy directly during the Fifth Qatar Economic Forum: 'I am not comparing this gift to the Statue of Liberty… It is not something we are doing to buy influence. It is our duty to help when help is needed.' At the same time, Qatar has committed to investing $1.2 trillion in the U.S. economy —a move that will create American jobs and strengthen our industries. It has also placed the largest single order ever for Boeing aircraft , directly benefiting American workers and manufacturers. This is not a moment for political games. It is a time to show appreciation for an ally that is standing with America in real, tangible ways. Turning away a gift like this would be both diplomatically tone-deaf and economically self-defeating. Let's stop pretending this is about ethics or influence. This is about whether the United States can still tell the difference between a friend and a foe . Qatar has proven itself to be a friend—repeatedly, consistently, and at great cost. President Trump knows that. So should the rest of Washington . Did America forget how to be grateful and say Thank you ?
Ya Libnan
07-05-2025
- Politics
- Ya Libnan
Macron must demand accountability, not empty promises from Sharaa, during his visit to France
'In light of President Sharaa's upcoming visit to France, it is crucial for President Macron to use this opportunity not just for diplomatic pleasantries, but to demand concrete action from his regime. The international community can no longer tolerate empty promises—it's time for real change.' By : Ya Libnan Editorial Board As President Ahmed Sharaa makes his first official visit to a European nation, France must seize this opportunity to push for real commitments—not rehearsed platitudes. For far too long, his regime has marginalized minorities, many of whom now face an existential threat. France, as a nation that upholds human rights and democratic values, cannot afford to roll out the red carpet without demanding change in return. This visit should not be treated as a routine diplomatic engagement. It must be a test of Sharaa's sincerity as a unifying leader . Empty rhetoric cannot mask the suffering endured by vulnerable communities under his rule. If he truly seeks legitimacy on the global stage, he must show the courage to embrace reform and protect all citizens equally. In particular, the ongoing attacks against the Druze and Alawite communities must stop immediately. These groups have long been targeted, and their persecution has escalated in recent months. Those responsible must be prosecuted—not shielded by political convenience or sectarian bias. Moreover, Sharaa's self-appointment as both president and prime minister without any election speaks volumes about his true intentions. Claiming it will take five years to create a new constitution—something that could be achieved in days with the help of AI and modern legal expertise—is not reform; it's a delay tactic. Democracy cannot be postponed indefinitely. This is not a genuine transition—it is Assadism in a new package . France, alongside its European allies, should not only demand clear timelines for democratic elections and constitutional reforms , but also push for international oversight through the United Nations or the European Union. Independent monitoring and verification mechanisms must be in place to ensure that promises translate into real progress, and that the rights of all citizens—especially vulnerable minorities—are fully protected. Above all, France and the West must not rush to lift sanctions . These measures remain a key source of leverage . Any easing of restrictions must be conditioned on tangible, verified steps toward reform —including an end to repression, the protection of minorities, a credible constitutional process, and a clear path to free elections. To do otherwise would reward authoritarianism and betray those still fighting for justice and dignity. Now is the time for action—not hollow promises. Legitimacy comes not from foreign visits or speeches, but from the will of the people, freely expressed and fully respected.
Ya Libnan
03-05-2025
- Politics
- Ya Libnan
Syria on the brink: Disarming minorities without protection risks fragmentation
File: A Druze woman holds up a sign reading 'no to sectarianism, long live a free and unified Syria' at a demonstration in southern Syria's Druze-majority Suwayda province, 3/1/2025 (Suwayda 24) By Ya Libnan Editorial Board Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has been calling on the country's armed minorities to hand over their weapons to the state. But what state is he referring to? Syria no longer has a functioning national army. Instead, its so-called security forces are a patchwork of Islamic extremists, many of them foreign fighters brought in from across the Islamic world. How can Syria's minorities—particularly the Druze and Alawites—trust a regime that cannot protect them? Who will shield them from the extremists once they are disarmed? Unless things change dramatically, Syria is heading toward fragmentation. The Druze and Alawite communities have already come under repeated attack. Hundreds have been killed. Despite this, President Sharaa continues to insist that minorities must disarm. Yesterday, prominent Druze leader Walid Jumblatt visited Damascus to urge President Sharaa to reconsider. Jumblatt made it clear: the Druze are not opposed to handing over their arms. But they need a real army—a national, unified military force—not militias and extremist groups masquerading as state security. Without this, disarming would be suicidal. Jumblatt's visit follows a powerful and unified statement from Druze community leaders, spiritual authorities, and prominent figures in Sweida. Speaking in the name of 'the spiritual leadership of the Druze community, its religious authorities, dignitaries, and the community at large,' they affirmed that the Druze are an integral part of a united Syria and reject any plans for division or separation. Their statement stressed an unwavering commitment to a Syria that includes all Syrians—free from destructive strife, sectarianism, personal grudges, or tribal vengeance, which they rightly described as legacies of ignorance. The Druze community has long played a decisive role in Syria's history. In 1925, Druze leader Sultan Pasha al-Atrash led the Great Syrian Revolt against French colonial rule, paving the way for Syrian independence. The Druze have historically been pillars of Syrian nationalism and unity. Their continued persecution would not only betray their historical contribution but also risk pushing them to the brink of secession. As Syria edges closer to collapse, sectarian tensions and foreign interference threaten to tear the country apart. Meanwhile, Syria's neighbors are watching—and exploiting—the chaos. Israel and Turkey are both actively seeking strategic gains from the weakening of the Syrian state. Iran, too, has long worked to shape Syria's future to suit its own regional ambitions. These powers have a vested interest in a fragmented Syria. If President Sharaa fails to act quickly and decisively to protect the country's minorities and rebuild a national army, Syria may be lost. The cost of inaction is not just political—it is existential. The failure to safeguard Syria's diverse communities could lead to irreversible fragmentation and fulfill the long-standing ambitions of foreign powers seeking to divide the country once and for all.
Ya Libnan
02-04-2025
- Business
- Ya Libnan
Time for a Smarter Trade Strategy: Fairness Over Tariffs
By Ya Libnan Editorial Board Historically, tariffs have failed to deliver their intended results. Instead of protecting domestic industries, they have often led to trade wars, economic instability, inflation, and even job losses. The effects of tariffs have been particularly devastating in the past, contributing to the Great Depression of the 1930s and economic downturns like the one in 1897. Today, as the U.S. faces trade challenges, there is a better path forward—one that prioritizes fairness and economic growth over punitive measures. Rather than imposing tariffs that create animosity and retaliation, the U.S. should focus on balancing trade with its key trading partners—roughly 20 to 30 nations that have the most significant trade relationships with America. The goal should not be to force an identical trade balance with every country but to encourage these partners to import more from the U.S. or, if they cannot, to invest in American industries. This approach offers multiple benefits. First, it strengthens the U.S. economy by increasing exports and attracting foreign investment in domestic manufacturing. If a country needs certain products that the U.S. does not currently export in large quantities, it can invest in factories within the U.S. to produce those goods—creating jobs, boosting industrial growth, and ensuring a stable economic environment for all parties. Diplomatic negotiations, rather than tariffs, can facilitate these agreements. Trade partners who truly value their relationship with the U.S. should have no issue with fair and reciprocal trade practices. Fairness, after all, is a universally understood principle. By pursuing such a strategy, the U.S. can foster mutual economic prosperity while maintaining stable international relations. If President Trump or any future leader embraces this pragmatic approach, they would be seen not as economic bullies but as champions of fairness and growth. Instead of engaging in damaging trade wars, the U.S. should lead through strategic partnerships that benefit all involved.
