US Involvement in Global Affairs Sparks Controversy
The United States found itself embroiled in several international controversies this week, ranging from security operations at the Winter Olympics to political influence in Iraq and criticism of media content.
Tensions arose between the U.S. and Italy after the U.S. announced it would send agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to assist with security at the Winter Olympics in Milan, scheduled to begin on February 6. According to BBC World, the decision sparked "alarm and anger" in Italy. Milan Mayor Beppe Sala told Italian radio, "This is a militia that kills... of course they're not welcome in Milan." Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani attempted to de-escalate the situation.
In Iraq, President Trump threatened to withdraw U.S. support if Nuri Kamal al-Maliki returned as prime minister, the New York Times reported. This intervention followed signals from Washington that it intended to limit Iranian influence in the next Iraqi government. The move came amidst other trade and tariff disputes, including threats to Canada and South Korea.
Meanwhile, criticism of American media also made headlines. A "Star Trek" actress, Gina Yashere, stated that conservative backlash was pushing the franchise to embrace a more progressive identity, Fox News reported. Yashere, who plays Lura Thok in "Star Trek: Starfleet Academy," responded online after White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller accused the franchise of abandoning its core audience.
Internationally, protests in Iran and the government's crackdown continued to draw attention. According to BBC World, protesters described a brutal response from security forces. Parisa, a 29-year-old from Tehran, told the BBC, "My friends are all like me. We all know someone who was killed in the protests." She stated that she knew at least 13 people who had been killed since the protests began in late December.
Finally, drama surrounding the television show "Yellowstone" also surfaced. Kelly Reilly, who played Beth Dutton on the show, called the behind-the-scenes conflict that led to the show's ending a "shame," Fox News reported. The conflict between lead actor Kevin Costner and series creator Taylor Sheridan resulted in Costner's early departure and a reworked final season.
Discussion
Join the conversation
Be the first to comment