Author: Steven Sahiounie

Trump Administration Conducts “Loyalty Checks” on National Security Council Staff The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated what has been described as “loyalty checks” for approximately 160 civil service employees within the National Security Council (NSC). This scrutiny forms part of a broader campaign by Trump aimed at restructuring the federal workforce. The strategy includes hiring supporters and simplifying the process to dismiss employees perceived as disloyal. Within the NSC, there are about 160 civil servants known as “temporary employees,” whose employment status is currently under review based on their “loyalty,” according to the news site Axios. An…

Stargate The Largest AI Infrastructure Project in History Explore the groundbreaking Stargate project, the largest AI infrastructure initiative under President Trump’s leadership, aimed at boosting U.S. technological prowess in AI. With Donald Trump officially taking on the duties of the presidency after his inauguration on Monday, all eyes are on his anticipated role in bolstering the artificial intelligence (AI) industry as part of his comprehensive economic strategy. In the context of fierce global competition, AI is expected to be a major focus for the new administration in efforts to enhance U.S. technological leadership. Trump, known for his economic policies aimed…

Russia and China Advocate for a Multipolar Global System In a significant video conference held on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized the comprehensive strengthening of relations between Russia and China, aligning with the developmental goals of both nations. Putin highlighted the crucial role that the foreign policy relations between Russia and China play in maintaining global stability. He addressed Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating, “I agree with you that the foundation of cooperation between Moscow and Beijing is a broad spectrum of national interests and a convergence of views on the nature of relations among major powers. We build…

Formation of New Lebanese Government Expected This Weekend The formation of Lebanon’s new government is expected to take place by the end of this week, according to a statement from Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati. In televised remarks, Mikati expressed optimism about the process, stating, “I do not anticipate any obstacles regarding the ministerial statement,” and emphasized the need for honesty and reconciliation among Lebanese political figures. He highlighted significant developments in Lebanese politics since the beginning of the year, aiming to share his vision candidly with the public. Last week, the Lebanese presidency announced that Nawaf Salam had…

Syria to Participate in the World Economic Forum Davos 2025 Syria is set to make a significant appearance at the World Economic Forum Davos 2025 in Switzerland. This announcement was made by Asaad Al-Shaibani, the Foreign Minister of the provisional Syrian government, on his official account on the social media platform “X” earlier today, Tuesday. Al-Shaibani stated that he would represent Syria during this international event. The Davos World Economic Forum kicked off on January 20 and is scheduled to run until January 24, featuring prominent political and economic figures from around the globe. Al-Shaibani emphasized the importance of the…

US Military Assessment Team to Visit Cyprus for Defense Infrastructure Projects The United States is poised to strengthen its military presence in Cyprus, with a US military assessment team scheduled to visit the island this week. According to Reuters, the team’s purpose is to evaluate projects aimed at bolstering defense infrastructure and improving cooperation with the US and its allies. Cypriot officials confirmed to Reuters on Tuesday that this military assessment team will be in Cyprus as part of ongoing defense upgrades. Konstantinos Letymbiotis, the Cypriot government’s spokesman, noted that the team, based in Germany, will provide expertise and recommendations…

Real Madrid Squad Against Salzburg: Key Players Missing In preparation for their upcoming UEFA Champions League match against Austrian side Salzburg on Wednesday, Real Madrid’s manager Carlo Ancelotti has revealed his squad list for this pivotal encounter. The game is part of the penultimate round of the group stage. The squad sees the absence of four prominent players: Eder Militao, Dani Carvajal, Eduardo Camavinga due to injuries, and Lucas Vazquez due to suspension. Here’s the full Real Madrid squad: Real Madrid has had a challenging season in their favored competition, the Champions League, securing only three wins out of six…

Ronaldo Leads Al Nassr Back to Winning Ways in Saudi Pro League In a swift return to form, Al Nassr reclaimed their winning streak in the Saudi Pro League with a convincing 3-1 victory over hosts Al Khaleej on Tuesday, in the 16th round of the Roshn League. The credit for this win largely goes to Al Nassr’s Portuguese captain, Cristiano Ronaldo, who netted the first and third goals in the 65th and 90+8th minutes, respectively. Sultan Al-Ghannam scored the second goal in the 82nd minute, sealing the victory for Al Nassr. Al Khaleej’s only goal came from a penalty…

US Might Buy Resources from Russia and China if Tariffs Imposed on Canada In a recent statement, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned that the United States might have to source resources from Russia, China, and Venezuela if President Donald Trump decides to impose tariffs on all Canadian goods. Trudeau told reporters, “President Trump has announced his intention to ensure a ‘golden era’ for the United States, which will require more steel and aluminum, more critical minerals, and more reliable and reasonably priced energy.” He added, “All these resources are available in Canada, and we are ready to work with…

Steven Sahiounie, journalist and political commentator US President Donald J.Trump is now in office, and the Middle East collectively is waiting to see what will the US policy be, and will it help or hurt. Lebanon holds strategic interests for the US, and has a new President and Prime Minister. With so many diverse issues at play in Lebanon, Steven Sahiounie of MidEastDiscourse interviewed well known Lebanese journalist and writer, Jamal Cheaib, to get his take on the key challenges facing Lebanon. #1. Steven Sahiounie (SS): Lebanon has selected the President of the ICJ, Nawaf Salam, as a Prime Minister…