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Time Is Money

Jul 31, 2024 • 5 min read

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Middle East Activity
Venezuelan Presidential Election

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Middle East Activity:

In the past 48 hours, Israel has conducted airstrikes that killed Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas, in Tehran, Iran, and Fuad Shukr, a senior Hezbollah commander, in Beirut, Lebanon. Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas, was killed in Tehran, Iran. In Beirut, Lebanon, Israel's military targeted Fuad Shukr, a senior commander of Hezbollah, with an airstrike. Shukr, acting Chief of Staff and a high-ranking official within Hezbollah, was a key military strategist. Hezbollah confirmed that Shukr was in the targeted building but has not confirmed his death, stating that his fate remains uncertain as workers continue to clear the rubble.
This strike in Beirut reflects ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. These targeted killings have led to widespread condemnation and increased conflict in the region. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the assassination of Haniyeh, calling it a dangerous development. Hezbollah has also issued statements condemning the attack on Shukr and has indicated a potential for retaliation. These events have sparked concerns about further instability and the possibility of broader conflict in the Middle East.
Additionally, the United States conducted a defensive airstrike in Musayibin, Babil Province, Iraq, targeting combatants preparing to launch a one-way attack drone. U.S. Central Command also reported the destruction of three Iranian-backed Houthi uncrewed surface vessels (USV) in the Red Sea over the past 24 hours. These actions are part of ongoing efforts by the U.S. to address security concerns in the region. The cumulative effect of these events has intensified the already volatile situation in the Middle East, increasing the potential for further escalations and wider conflict.

Venezuelan Presidential Election:

After the election on Sunday, significant events have unfolded in Venezuela. President Nicolás Maduro was declared the winner of the presidential election held on July 28, 2024, securing 51% of the vote against opposition candidate Edmundo González, who received 44%. However, the opposition claims that González actually won with 70% of the vote. The National Electoral Council, controlled by Maduro loyalists, has yet to release detailed voting tallies, which has fueled allegations of electoral fraud.
The announcement of Maduro's victory has triggered widespread protests across Venezuela. Opposition supporters, led by María Corina Machado, have taken to the streets, claiming the election was stolen. These demonstrations have been met with tear gas and rubber bullets from security forces, resulting in at least 11 deaths related to the election and subsequent protests. The public outcry reflects deep disillusionment and frustration with the current regime, as citizens demand transparency and accountability.
International reactions have been sharply divided. The United States, European Union, and several Latin American countries have expressed serious concerns about the fairness of the election and have called for a transparent recount. In contrast, Maduro's allies, including Russia, China, and Cuba, have congratulated him on his victory. The EU has stated it will not recognize the results until all votes are counted and records are shared. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing clashes between protesters and security forces and the international community continuing to pressure for electoral transparency.

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