Tolerate It
October 21st, 2024
World Events and Politics — Updates on the Middle East, New Prime Minister in Indonesia
Israel carried out continued airstrikes on Beirut, Lebanon, on Sunday, targeting what the Israel Defence Forces described as Hizbullah's intelligence headquarters and an underground weapons workshop. In Gaza, Hamas reported that Israeli strikes on Saturday hit a multi-story building in the northern region of the enclave, resulting in at least 87 fatalities. The Israeli military suggested that these casualty figures were inflated.
Reuters
Prabowo Subianto has been officially inaugurated as Indonesia's president. The former commander of the country's special forces achieved a decisive victory in the February election, where he campaigned on a platform of continuity with his predecessor, Joko Widodo (Jokowi). During his oath-taking ceremony, Prabowo committed to fostering growth in Southeast Asia's largest economy while expressing a desire for Indonesia to take on a more prominent role in global affairs. In contrast, Jokowi often avoided international engagements.
Science and Technology — Flooding in Bangladesh
AL Jazeera
Flooding in Bangladesh has devastated the agricultural sector, destroying an estimated 1.1 million metric tons of rice and forcing the country—one of the world's largest rice producers—to rely more heavily on imports, which is likely to drive up food prices even further. Triggered by heavy monsoon rains and significant runoff during August and October, these floods have not only resulted in at least 75 fatalities but have also impacted millions, particularly in the eastern and northern regions. The interim government faces the challenge of stabilizing soaring food prices, which have risen nearly 20% in recent months, while also addressing the broader implications of climate change that exacerbate such natural disasters. With rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns contributing to more frequent flooding, experts emphasize the urgent need for investment in agricultural research to develop flood- and drought-resistant crop varieties. This situation underscores the vulnerability of Bangladesh's agricultural landscape to climate change, threatening food security for its population of 170 million.
Business and Finance — Too Much to Bear
Reuters
Egypt's President, Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, has indicated that the country's $8 billion bailout deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is becoming increasingly difficult to manage and suggested that it "must be reviewed." Egypt, the most populous nation in the Middle East, has been grappling with a two-year economic crisis that has been exacerbated by the ongoing war in Gaza. This conflict has not only strained Egypt's resources but has also disrupted key revenue streams, including tourism and Suez Canal traffic, which are vital for the economy. On Friday, in response to these mounting pressures, Sisi's government raised fuel prices for the third time this year, further burdening citizens already facing high inflation and a rising cost of living. The United Nations estimates that the economic fallout from the Gaza war could cost Egypt between $5.6 billion and $19.8 billion over the next two fiscal years, translating to a potential GDP loss of up to 5.2%. As food and fuel imports become more critical and costly, the situation underscores Egypt's vulnerability to external shocks and highlights the urgent need for comprehensive economic reforms to stabilize the country amid these challenges.
Health and Wellness — Impact of Running on Knee Osteoarthritis (OA)
Sundried
A recent systematic review has examined the impact of running on knee osteoarthritis (OA) and found that, contrary to common belief, running does not worsen knee health and may even offer protective benefits. The review analyzed data from 17 studies involving nearly 7,200 runners and 6,900 non-runners. It revealed that non-runners experienced significantly higher levels of knee pain than runners. While one study noted a higher prevalence of certain joint changes in runners, most studies showed no significant differences in knee OA indicators or cartilage thickness between the two groups. Overall, the findings suggest that running is not associated with an increased risk of developing knee OA and may actually help reduce knee pain, highlighting the importance of physical activity for joint health. Go hit the pavement!
Cooking — Mango Passion fruit Pavlova
This mango passionfruit pavlova is the ideal summer dessert, showcasing the best of seasonal fresh fruits. The airy and delicate meringue base dissolves in your mouth like a large marshmallow. It is beautifully garnished with whipped cream, succulent mango pieces, and a drizzle of passionfruit purée.
Teak & Thyme
Song Recommendation — Tolerate It by Taylor Swift
Quote of the Day
“Great love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” — The Bible
I know my love should be celebrated, but you tolerate it. Enjoy your Americano!