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  • ‘Real Time’ host Bill Maher did not rule out Trump’s plans for the Gaza Strip


    “Real Time” host Bill Maher didn’t completely rule out President Donald Trump’s plans for the Gaza Strip, siding with the idea that the war-torn territory “could be something else” in the future. 

    Trump made international headlines this week for saying the U.S. would “take over” and “level” Gaza after Israel ends its war with Hamas, displacing the Palestinian population to other Arab countries while developing what Trump called the “riviera of the Middle East” in order to bring stability in the region.

    During his panel discussion, Maher told his guest Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., that there was a “little daylight” between the two of them on the subject. 

    JOURNALISTS SOUND ALARM OVER TRUMP’S ‘PREPOSTEROUS’ GAZA COMMENTS, WARN OF ‘ETHNIC CLEANSING’

    “He said, ‘You know, it’s going to be the riviera-‘ okay, that’s a little ridiculous,” Maher said. “But you know, this idea that it could be Dubai instead of Haiti, which is really what it is. it’s just like Haiti, run by a criminal gang, by a terrorist mafia gang. That’s why it’s a hellhole, not just for the Israelis next door, but for the people who live there, who hate Hamas as well. And it could be something else.” 

    “This is something I read in op-eds in The New York Times, 10, 15, 20 years ago. Gaza does not have to be that. It could be something closer to Dubai. So the fact that Donald Trump, in his childlike way, throws that idea out there, is not the worst thing in the world,” Maher continued.

    “Real Time” host Bill Maher said President Trump’s idea about rebuilding the Gaza Strip is “not the worst thing in the world.” (Screenshot/HBO)

    The liberal comedian went on to call out Trump’s comments being “all over the map,” including when he suggested the U.S. would be responsible for clearing out the explosives hidden in Gaza’s infrastructure, sarcastically asking “What could go wrong?” 

    “And again, the kernel of an idea here is valid, but the idea, but introducing the notion of American troops, and also, wouldn’t this be kind of expensive for you America First people?” Maher asked Donalds.

    Puck News’ Tara Palmeri interjected, “It’s like Donald Trump wants to turn Gaza into Atlantic City, but like, let’s not forget how he left Atlantic City.”

    “I don’t know if I’d leave him to Gaza,” Palmeri told Maher. 

    BILL MAHER LAMENTS THAT EVERYTHING IN GOVERMENT IS ‘BROKEN,’ BUT IS CONVINCED TRUMP ISN’T THE ANSWER

    U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu answer questions during a joint press conference in the East Room at the White House in Washington, U.S., February 4, 2025 ( REUTERS/Leah Millis)

    Donalds pushed back, saying he’d rather have Trump call the shots with Gaza “than the Iranians.”

    “Even the American troops piece that has been pulled back. That’s not the case. But you have to have some vision for what that part of the region should be,” Donalds said.  “So is it [Israeli] involvement? Yes. Could it be Saudi Arabia as well? Could be. It depends on what the other nations in that region want, but what nobody wants is an Iran that is dominating that region.”

    “I agree with the notion that it’s good to open a window and let in some fresh air, because people do get locked into silly ideas that we then take as the group think,” Maher responded. “For example, Syrian Civil War, all those refugees, a million wound up in Germany. Saudi Arabia took none. And we all just pretend this makes sense? That no other Arab countries will take refugees who you say are your brethren?” 

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    Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., called out the “mislogic” from liberal leaders in the U.S. and Europe over their handling of Middle East turmoil. (Screenshot/HBO)

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    “I personally think that’s actually the mislogic of a lot of liberal-leaning leaders in Europe and in America,” Donalds continued, “thinking that you can just take refugees from these parts of the world and not think through the detailed steps of what it is for those countries to rebuild.”

    “And I’m not talking about nation building a la George W. Bush, I’m not talking about that, but you’ve got to have leadership in that region. There have to be peace accords in that region. And so when President Trump was leaving the first time, that was the premise of the Abraham accords. Have the Arab states with Israel actually work together in peace so you can actually develop a stable, political, religious, whatever they choose that to be, and an economic area so people can live in harmony and peace, period,” Donalds added. 



    In a recent episode of Real Time with Bill Maher, the outspoken host did not shy away from discussing President Trump’s controversial plans for the Gaza Strip. Despite criticism from many, Maher did not outright dismiss the idea, stating that Trump’s unconventional approach may actually bring about some positive change in the region.

    The discussion sparked a heated debate among Maher’s guests and audience members, with some expressing concern about the potential consequences of Trump’s actions in Gaza. However, Maher stood firm in his belief that it’s important to consider all perspectives and not automatically dismiss ideas simply because they come from an unconventional source.

    As always, Maher’s willingness to engage in difficult conversations and challenge prevailing opinions made for a thought-provoking and controversial episode of Real Time. Love him or hate him, there’s no denying that Maher is never afraid to tackle the tough topics head-on.

    Tags:

    Real Time, Bill Maher, Trump, Gaza Strip, Israel, Middle East, Politics, Current Events, Talk Show, Television, Debate, Controversy, US President, Foreign Policy

    #Real #Time #host #Bill #Maher #rule #Trumps #plans #Gaza #Strip

  • Behind Closed Doors, Trudeau Says Trump Threat to Take Over Canada Is Real


    Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada on Friday made his first comments in response to President Trump’s repeated statements that he wants to annex Canada and make it the 51st state.

    Mr. Trudeau made clear that he did not regard Mr. Trump’s statements as having been made in jest and believes annexation is something Canada needs to treat as a serious threat.

    And he believes he knows why Mr. Trump covets Canada.

    “I suggest that not only does the Trump administration know how many critical minerals we have, but that may be even why they keep talking about absorbing us and making us the 51st state,” Mr. Trudeau told a gathering of company executives and business leaders in Toronto, according to people in the room who listened to his comments.

    The news media had been asked to leave the room at the time Mr. Trudeau delivered his comments, but at least two news outlets, The Toronto Star and the CBC, were able to hear them and record them. Mr. Trudeau’s office declined to provide details of what the prime minister said.

    “They’re very aware of our resources,” Mr. Trudeau added, “of what we have, and they very much want to be able to benefit from those.”

    And he continued: “But Mr. Trump has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country. And it is a real thing.”

    Mr. Trump has been talking about annexing Canada for weeks as he has laid the groundwork for plans to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canadian exports to the United States.

    On Monday, Mr. Trudeau and Mr. Trump agreed to a 30-day reprieve on tariffs after Canada pledged to adopt a more stringent plan to secure its border with the United States.

    During comments to reporters that day in the Oval Office, Mr. Trump again raised the statehood issue. “What I’d like to see, Canada become our 51st state,” he said. “I’d love to see that, but some people say that would be a long shot,” he added.

    Canada is home to 31 minerals considered critical for use in various industries, including for electric car batteries, solar panels and semiconductors. Of those, Canada is prioritizing lithium, graphite, nickel, copper, cobalt and rare earth elements as part of a strategy to position itself as a leader in the global transition away from fossil fuels.

    The supply chain is deeply integrated, and the health of the U.S. economy depends on Canada, said François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s industry minister.

    “This is about a confident Canada,” Mr. Champagne told reporters at Friday’s meeting.

    As part of its plan to fend off tariffs, Canada is implementing a border security plan in response to Mr. Trump’s accusations that the country is contributing to “massive” fentanyl trafficking to the United States, even though Canada is responsible for a tiny fraction of the fentanyl crossing the border.

    Those measures include 10,000 personnel assigned to the border, along with helicopters, drones and canine teams. The government also said it would name a “fentanyl czar” to lead the response.

    “We need to be very deliberate about how we continue to engage closely with the United States to make the case and demonstrate that Canada is responsible for a tiny part of the North American fentanyl problem,’’ Mr. Trudeau told the business leaders, “but that we are also bitterly touched by this tragedy.”



    In a shocking revelation, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has admitted in a closed-door meeting that he believes President Donald Trump’s threat to take over Canada is real. The news has sent shockwaves throughout the country, as many Canadians are left wondering what this could mean for their sovereignty.

    Trudeau reportedly made the comments during a private meeting with top government officials, where he expressed concern over Trump’s increasingly aggressive stance towards Canada. The President has previously made comments suggesting that he could potentially take military action against Canada if the country does not comply with his demands.

    The revelation has sparked fears of a possible invasion or takeover by the United States, leaving many Canadians worried about their future. Trudeau’s admission has also raised questions about the state of Canada’s relationship with its southern neighbor, and whether the country is prepared to defend itself against any potential threats.

    As tensions between the two countries continue to escalate, Canadians are left to wonder what the future holds for their nation. Will Trump follow through on his threats, or is this just political posturing? Only time will tell, but one thing is for certain – the threat of a takeover by the United States is no longer just a distant possibility, but a very real concern for Canada.

    Tags:

    1. Behind Closed Doors
    2. Trudeau
    3. Trump
    4. Canada
    5. Threat
    6. Takeover
    7. Politics
    8. International Relations
    9. Security
    10. Government Relations

    #Closed #Doors #Trudeau #Trump #Threat #Canada #Real

  • How much does a Real ID cost in Illinois? – NBC Chicago


    Beginning in May, Illinois residents will need a certain type of ID in order to fly domestically.

    The U.S. government will require all those who fly within the country to use either a valid U.S. passport or a Real ID to board a plane starting May 7.

    With the deadline fast approaching, the number of people looking to book appointments with the Illinois Secretary of State’s office is growing.

    Such appointments are filling up “super fast,” Secretary of State officials told NBC Chicago.

    For those who have yet to get a Real ID, you may have plenty of questions – including how much one costs. The fee for a Real ID is $30 – the same as a regular driver’s license in Illinois.

    Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias said last year that his office was stepping up efforts to ensure that residents get Real ID-compliant identification prior to the May 2025 deadline, but acknowledged there are “tremendous concerns” about what will happen as the deadline arrives.

    “We feel pressure … Our facilities will swell up, and it will be a problem if people don’t get out and get their REAL ID’s,” he said at the time.

    According to state data, as of Dec. 31, 2024, the office has issued 3,295,078 Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses and state IDs. This represents just 25.34% of all currently valid driver’s license and state IDs. 

    How to get a Real ID

    The website for the Secretary of State’s office notes that new appointments are made available daily at 6:30 a.m., so booking one early can help.

    You can also get a Real ID at the 2025 Chicago Auto Show at the McCormick Place – without an appointment.

    Planning to get your Real ID soon? Find a checklist of everything you need to bring here.

    Running from Feb. 8-17, the Chicago Auto Show is once again offering residents the ability to receive their Real IDs with proper documentation at the event’s Secretary of State booth.



    The Real ID is an enhanced form of identification that will soon be required for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities. In Illinois, the cost of a Real ID is $30. However, this price may vary depending on factors such as age and whether you are getting a new ID or renewing an existing one. Make sure to bring all necessary documentation and payment when applying for your Real ID. Stay informed and prepared for the upcoming changes! #RealID #Illinois #NBCChicago

    Tags:

    Real ID cost Illinois, Real ID Illinois price, Real ID fees Illinois, Illinois Real ID application cost, Real ID requirements Illinois, Illinois Real ID cost 2021, How to get Real ID in Illinois, NBC Chicago Real ID Illinois cost

    #Real #cost #Illinois #NBC #Chicago

  • Cristiano Ronaldo: Real Madrid must let Kylian Mbappé be himself


    Cristiano Ronaldo has said Real Madrid must “look after” Kylian Mbappé and advised that the star forward must “do things his way” as he looks to follow in Ronaldo’s footsteps as a legend at the Bernabéu.

    Mbappé has already scored 22 goals in all competitions in his debut campaign at Madrid, having faced criticism for his performances earlier in the season.

    Ronaldo — who is Madrid’s all-time leading goalscorer with 451 goals — was Mbappé’s childhood hero, and famously posed for a photo with Mbappé when the youngster first went on trial at the club as a teenager.

    “Look after the lad,” Ronaldo urged, in an extract from an interview with Spanish TV show El Chiringuito, due to be broadcast in full on Monday. “The fans need to look after him. He’s very good. The club have to help to protect him, I have no doubt he’ll bring a lot of joy to Madrid fans.

    “I love [Mbappé], not just because of his story as a kid, how he loved Cristiano, I was his idol,” Ronaldo said. “I think he’s a top player.”

    Ronaldo revealed he now tunes in to watch Real Madrid’s games because his son, Mateo, is a fan of Mbappé.

    The five-time Ballon d’Or winner said he feels Mbappé still needs some help in adjusting to his role in the Real Madrid team.

    “It’s complicated, because he doesn’t know how to play as a forward in my opinion — or rather, it’s not that he doesn’t know, but it isn’t his position,” Ronaldo said. “If I was at Madrid, I’d show him how to play as a number nine.

    “I wasn’t a forward. I got used to it, but I was a winger. People forget that. I was a forward, but not a typical forward. I think [Mbappé] shouldn’t be a typical forward, he should do things his way.”

    Mbappé has already won two trophies with Madrid, the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, and scored as Madrid were humbled 5-2 by Barcelona in the Spanish Supercopa last month.

    Madrid now face a testing few weeks, playing Leganés in a Copa del Rey quarterfinal before a Madrid Derby with Atlético Madrid on Saturday and then facing Manchester City in their Champions League knockout stage playoff.



    As one of the greatest footballers of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo knows a thing or two about what it takes to succeed at the highest level. And with rumors swirling that Real Madrid are interested in signing Kylian Mbappé, the Portuguese superstar has some advice for his potential new teammate: be yourself.

    In a recent interview, Ronaldo emphasized the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of pressure and expectations. He spoke about his own experiences as a young player trying to make a name for himself at Sporting Lisbon and later at Manchester United, stressing the importance of staying focused and not letting outside influences dictate his game.

    Ronaldo believes that Mbappé, who is widely regarded as one of the most talented young players in the world, has the potential to become one of the all-time greats. But in order to reach his full potential, the French forward must be allowed to express himself on the field without feeling the need to live up to anyone else’s standards.

    Real Madrid, with its rich history of success and star-studded lineup, can be an intimidating environment for a young player like Mbappé. But Ronaldo’s message is clear: embrace the pressure, but don’t let it change who you are as a player.

    If Mbappé can heed Ronaldo’s advice and stay true to himself, there’s no limit to what he can achieve in the game. And with Ronaldo’s guidance, the sky is the limit for the talented young forward.

    Tags:

    1. Cristiano Ronaldo
    2. Real Madrid
    3. Kylian Mbappé
    4. Soccer
    5. Football
    6. Player development
    7. Sports
    8. La Liga
    9. Transfer rumors
    10. Team dynamics

    #Cristiano #Ronaldo #Real #Madrid #Kylian #Mbappé

  • Cucho Hernandez to be transferred from Columbus Crew to La Liga’s Real Betis


    The Crew are nearing a deal to transfer star forward Cucho Hernandez to La Liga’s Real Betis in Spain, a source confirmed. The details of the deal have yet to be disclosed.

    Today is the final day of La Liga’s winter transfer window.

    Apr 27, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernandez (9) dribbles during the second half of the MLS match against CF Montreal at Lower.com Field. The teams played to a 0-0 draw.Apr 27, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernandez (9) dribbles during the second half of the MLS match against CF Montreal at Lower.com Field. The teams played to a 0-0 draw.

    Apr 27, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernandez (9) dribbles during the second half of the MLS match against CF Montreal at Lower.com Field. The teams played to a 0-0 draw.

    Hernandez was the runner-up in the 2024 MLS MVP vote behind Lionel Messi and helped bring the Crew the 2023 MLS Cup and 2024 Leagues Cup titles.

    bmackay@dispatch.com

    @brimackay15

    This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Cucho Hernandez deal from Columbus Crew to Real Betis near final





    Reports have surfaced that Columbus Crew’s star forward Cucho Hernandez is set to make a move to La Liga’s Real Betis. The talented striker has caught the eye of the Spanish club with his impressive performances in Major League Soccer.

    Hernandez, who joined Columbus Crew in 2020, has been a key player for the team, scoring crucial goals and providing assists. His speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability have made him a fan favorite and a valuable asset for the team.

    Real Betis, who are currently in the top half of the La Liga table, are looking to strengthen their attacking options and see Hernandez as a perfect fit for their squad. The transfer is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, with Hernandez set to join his new club in the summer transfer window.

    Columbus Crew fans will surely be sad to see Hernandez leave, but they can take pride in knowing that their star player is moving on to bigger and better things in one of Europe’s top leagues. Best of luck to Cucho Hernandez in his new adventure with Real Betis!

    Tags:

    1. Cucho Hernandez transfer news
    2. Columbus Crew player Cucho Hernandez
    3. Real Betis signing Cucho Hernandez
    4. Cucho Hernandez move to La Liga
    5. Transfer update: Cucho Hernandez to Real Betis
    6. Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernandez
    7. Cucho Hernandez La Liga transfer
    8. Real Betis new signing Cucho Hernandez
    9. Cucho Hernandez transfer rumors
    10. Columbus Crew to Real Betis: Cucho Hernandez deal

    #Cucho #Hernandez #transferred #Columbus #Crew #Ligas #Real #Betis

  • Real Betis vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction and Betting Tips


    The 2024-25 edition of La Liga is back in action with another set of matches this weekend as Athletic Bilbao lock horns with Manuel Pellegrini’s Real Betis side in an important encounter at the Estadio Benito Villamarin on Sunday. Both teams have good players in their ranks and will be determined to win this game.


    Real Betis vs Athletic Bilbao Preview

    Athletic Bilbao are in fourth place in the La Liga standings and have stepped up to the plate this season. The Basque giants eased past Viktoria Plzen by a 3-1 scoreline in the UEFA Europa League in their previous game and will look to achieve a similar result this weekend.

    Real Betis, on the other hand, are in 10th place in the league table and have been inconsistent this season. The Andalusian outfit edged Mallorca to a narrow 1-0 victory last week and will be confident ahead of this fixture.


    Real Betis vs Athletic Bilbao Head-to-Head and Key Numbers

    • Athletic Bilbao have a good recent record against Real Betis and have won 19 out of the last 48 matches between the two teams, as opposed to Real Betis’ 14 victories.
    • After a run of three defeats in four matches against Athletic Bilbao in La Liga, Real Betis have lost only one of their last six such games in the competition, with their only such defeat during this period coming by a 4-2 scoreline in August 2023.
    • After a run of three victories in four matches away from home against Real Betis in La Liga, Athletic Bilbao have been winless in their last six such games in the competition.
    • Athletic Bilbao have lost only one of their last nine matches away from home against teams from Andalusia in La Liga.

    Real Betis vs Athletic Bilbao Prediction

    Athletic Bilbao have a good squad at their disposal and will be intent on cementing their place in the top four. Nico Williams and Alex Berenguer have been impressive for their side and will look to add to their goal tallies this weekend.

    Real Betis have been plagued by inconsistency this season and have a point to prove going into this game. Athletic Bilbao are in better form, however, and should be able to win this match.

    Prediction: Real Betis 1-2 Athletic Bilbao


    Real Betis vs Athletic Bilbao Betting Tips

    Tip 1: Result – Athletic Bilbao to win

    Tip 2: Game to have over 2.5 goals – Yes

    Tip 3: Athletic Bilbao to score first – Yes