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News18
09-07-2025
- Politics
- News18
Namibia Honours PM Modi: Here's A Full List Of His 27 International Awards
Last Updated: PM Modi received Namibia's highest civilian award during his visit, marking his 27th international honor since 2014 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday was conferred with Namibia's highest civilian honour, the Order of the Most Ancient Welwitschia Mirabilis, during his first official visit to the southern African nation. The award was presented by Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at a formal ceremony in Windhoek, marking the final leg of PM Modi's five-nation diplomatic tour. During his speech at the bilateral talks, PM Modi said he was deeply honoured and described the award as a moment of pride for 1.4 billion Indians. This recognition is PM Modi's 27th international award since he assumed office in May 2014. It is also the fourth award presented to him during his current overseas trip, and the second within 24 hours. Below is the full list of international honours conferred on Prime Minister Narendra Modi by various countries: 2025 2023 2021 Bhutan – Order of the Druk Gyalpo 2020 United States – Legion of Merit 2019 Bahrain – King Hamad Order of the Renaissance Maldives – Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddin United Arab Emirates – Order of Zayed Award 2018 Palestine – Grand Collar of the State of Palestine Award 2016 (With inputs from agencies) view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 09, 2025, 19:50 IST News india Namibia Honours PM Modi: Here's A Full List Of His 27 International Awards Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Herald Scotland
20-06-2025
- Politics
- The Herald Scotland
No wonder Iran doesn't trust the US. Neither should we
America restored the tyrannical Shah to power. He lived in opulence and lavished enormous sums on vanity projects while his people struggled to afford the basics of life. Eventually, disparate Iranian groups from all across the political spectrum came together and drove the Shah out in 1979. Tragically, the ensuing power vacuum was filled by the clerics: Ayatollah Khameini is in power in Iran today because of what the US did over 70 years ago. Don't forget, either, isolated acts of brutality inflicted by America's powerful military. On 3 July 3, 1988 the USS Vincennes was in Iranian territorial waters when its captain, William Rogers, ordered his crew to shoot down an Iranian airliner that was en route to Dubai; there were 290 fatalities, 20 more than caused by the bombing of Pan Am 103 a few months later. Subsequently, Rogers was awarded the Legion of Merit "for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service as commanding officer… from April 1987 to May 1989". You can see why that might stick in the craw of those affected and why Iran distrusts America, as should we all while President Trump remains in office. Doug Maughan, Dunblane. Read more letters • Once again the Middle East has rapidly descended into the maelstrom of conflict. Britain must at this time studiously avoid supporting any of the protagonists. The times that we have previously intervened in Iran, the outcomes were not good. Back in 1953 both America and Britain decided to engineer the removal of the democratically elected President of Iran, Mosadeggh. He had courageously proposed that Iran's oil belonged to Iran and that Iran should control the marketing of it. However, the British and American oil companies did not see this as desirable. So they supported the imposition of the Shah on the Iranian people who was eventually overthrown. Apart from the Iranian intervention should Britain be supporting Benjamin Netanyahu, who seems to have no respect for the tenets of international law in regard to the conflict with the Palestinians? Sir Keir Starmer needs to show the world that Britain is prepared to take a moral stand in the Middle East. The first action must be to forbid the sale of weapons to any of the protagonists. This takes courage but he needs to show leadership on this matter. Ed Archer, Lanark. • When asked whether he had decided whether the US would be invading Iran, President Trump replied that he had not yet decided, adding: "Nobody knows what I'm gonna do". And we should be worried about an Iranian finger on the nuclear button? Tina Oakes, Stonehaven. A deliberate distraction Benjamin Netanyahu's war with Iran is a deliberate distraction from his Gaza war of mass murder, deliberate starvation and ethnic cleansing of civilians and children. The moment Iran retaliated against Israeli attacks, every western government which had begun voicing token criticisms and issuing token sanctions on Israel switched to saying they would help defend Israel if Iran attacked it. Keir Starmer has moved US military assets to the Middle East and refused to rule out 'defending Israel'. Why should we help a government that is committing crimes against humanity in Gaza feel immune to the results of its own actions, ensuring it will continue both wars, when neither Hamas nor Iran could ever pose a credible military threat to Israel? The Ayatollahs are certainly a dictatorship, and hostile to Israel. But Israel and the US are massively militarily stronger than Iran. And the story that if the Ayatollahs get a nuclear weapon they'll immediately fire it at Israel, ensuring that all of them and their entire country will be wiped out in either the Israeli or US nuclear or conventional counter-strikes, is ludicrous. Certainly they praise 'martyrs' including suicide bombers. They're not so keen on personal or national suicide . Duncan McFarlane, Carluke. Our reputation is at stake Countries, like people, are often judged by the friends they keep. How then has the UK ended up being counted as an ally by the mad dogs of the Middle East, Israel, and insisting on our knees that we have a Special Relationship with the mad dog of the West, the USA under Donald Trump? These relationships are taken to extremes, with a willingness to pitch in with America's follies like the second Iraq war and unwillingness to call out unequivocally Israel's slaughter of Palestinians, Lebanese and Syrians, and to go along with the destruction by Mr Trump in his first term of the workable compromise with Iran on nuclear issues engineered by Barack Obama and supported by us. This cannot stand well with our international reputation, for the blood of other peoples does not seem to matter much to us. We should be grateful for an earlier Labour Prime Minister, Harold Wilson, who despite pressures from America, had the guts to keep us out of the disaster of America's Vietnam war. James Scott, Edinburgh. Donald Trump (Image: Getty) Labour's hypocrisy In January, when the Tories put forward proposals for a national inquiry to be held into the grooming gangs scandal, Sir Keir Starmer voiced his disapproval and accused those calling for one of jumping on a "far-right" bandwagon. When the submission went before the House of Commons, Joani Reid voted against. Just over a month ago, based on the review carried out by Baroness Casey, Sir Keir changed his mind and ordered that an inquiry be held. Lo and behold, the MP for East Kilbride and Strathaven changed hers as well and suddenly became an enthusiastic advocate for an inquiry. So much so that she made the following press statement: "If the Scottish Government does not intend to hold its own dedicated inquiry, we need some clear reasons why, not the vague responses we've had so far." This may sound like double standards to you and me but after all the broken promises to deliver change we should be used to rank hypocrisy on the part of the Labour Party by now. Alan Woodcock, Dundee. A dubious guarantee I note your coverage of the concept of a Minimum Income Guarantee (MIG) as a way of achieving the laudable aim of abolishing poverty. Gaby McKay explains the idea and gives some idea of the costs involved, Russell Gunson follows, enthusiastically promoting this benefit ("Call to move toward minimum income guarantee 'urgently'" and "There should be an income level below which nobody is allowed to fall", The Herald, June 18). However, as ever, the devil is in the detail. Firstly, although the word "poverty" is bandied around, what actually constitutes poverty? Mr Gunson defines it as living in a household where income is less than 60% of the UK average. To take an extreme example, if the average UK income was £100,000 per year, then as long as this 60% criterion applied, the poor would always be with us. Secondly, how would it be paid – what mechanisms would have to be set up to ensure its equitable and economical distribution? Thirdly, how would the MIG relate to other sources of income, such as other benefits, paid employment, pensions, dividends and interest? Would it be taxable, or set against these funds? In fact, could it be regarded as the Personal Allowance? I can see Rachel Reeves rubbing her hands with glee if she can start taxing people once their income passes £11,500, rather than the current £12,570. Fourthly, in their desire to talk up the positive aspects of MIG, I wonder if your writers have considered the possibility that the achievement of a modestly comfortable standard of living might, in some cases, reduce the incentives to seek paid employment? Finally, the cynic in me wonders how long it will be before the cry "it's not enough!" goes up, particularly when other figures regarding subsistence have been bandied around, such as the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association, which advises a minimum standard of retirement living requires an income of £13,400 (£15,800 for London dwellers) per year Christopher W Ide, Waterfoot.
Yahoo
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Rev. James C. Reynolds, Youngstown, Ohio
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – A man of unwavering faith, musical legacy, military distinction, and civic dedication, Dr. James C. Reynolds entered eternal rest on Friday, April 11, 2025, at the age of 86. A beloved husband, father, pastor, veteran, and music legend, his life was a testament to service, excellence, and the transformative power of faith and purpose. Born to humble beginnings in Atmore, Alabama, James began life working the fields as the son of sharecroppers. His voice and vision would carry him far beyond those fields—from sharing the gospel in Youngstown, Ohio, to performing on iconic stages like the Apollo Theater, and mentoring generations from his pulpit at Early Morning Church of God in Christ. Find obituaries from your high school Scholar, Servent, Soldier, Shepherd: Dr. Reynolds earned his Associate Degree from Youngstown State University, followed by a Doctor of Divinity from Moody Bible Institute. He served faithfully in the United States Air Force Reserves for 37 years, retiring as Senior Master Sergeant, and later as a Chaplain during the Vietnam and Gulf Wars. His honors included the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, and Legion of Merit. A Voice That Echoed in History: As a founding and last living member of The Edsels, Dr. Reynolds helped pioneer the Doo-Wop genre. Their timeless hit 'Rama Lama Doing Dong' rose to the top of the Billboard charts, and the group performed on legendary programs such as American Bandstand and The Ed Sullivan Show. The Edsels would influence music greats like The Temptations and The Supremes, cementing Dr. Reynolds' place in American music history. Faithful Until the End: In 1972, Dr. Reynolds founded Early Morning Church of God in Christ, creating a spiritual haven where music, youth outreach, and community empowerment thrived. With his wife of 63 years, State Church Mother Louise Reynolds, he mentored countless ministers, musicians and leaders. His five sons formed The Reynolds Brothers, a nationally known gospel group born from their father's vision. Legacy of Leadership and Love: He is survived by his beloved wife, Louise, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a spiritual family that spans generations. Dr. Reynolds' leadership produced lawyers, doctors, musicians, educators, and servicemen – a living legacy that echoes through his church, city, and country. Arrangements are being handled by the L.E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rev. James C. Reynolds, please visit our floral 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
17-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Ex-US Attorney, Democrat Kevin Techau announces campaign against US Rep. Ashley Hinson
Democrat Kevin Techau, a former Iowa commissioner of public safety and U.S. attorney, has announced he will mount a campaign against Republican U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson in Iowa's 2nd Congressional District. 'I've spent my life fighting for what's right and serving my country and Iowa through the Air Force, Iowa National Guard, Iowa Department of Public Safety, and as U.S. Attorney for Northern Iowa," Techau said in a news release. "I'm fed up with politicians in Washington selling out Iowa working families and farmers by letting the billionaires and big corporations scam the system. Holding Washington accountable and making government work for people starts right here in northeast Iowa. And it's why I'm running for Congress.' According to a news release, Techau is a sixth-generation Iowan who worked on the assembly line at the Square D Company in Cedar Rapids and as a track laborer on the Chicago North Western Railroad to help pay for college at the University of Iowa. He served seven years on active duty in the U.S. Air Force before spending nearly 20 years as an officer in the Iowa National Guard. He retired as a colonel and received the Legion of Merit medal. As Iowa's commissioner of public safety, he oversaw state law enforcement under Democratic Gov. Tom Vilsack. And in 2013, he was nominated by President Barack Obama to become the U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Iowa, where he oversaw the prosecution of federal crimes for 52 Iowa counties. 'We're paying the price for downright corruption in Washington — driven by an unelected, unaccountable billionaire. The special interests are getting billions in special tax breaks — while we get stuck with the bill," Techau said in a statement. "Ashley Hinson marches in lockstep with Elon Musk and his reckless, ruthless war on the middle class. We just can't afford it any more.' More: Mariannette Miller-Meeks leads Iowa's US House campaigns in fundraising, topping $1 million Techau and his wife, Stephanie, have two adult children. National Democrats have added Hinson to their list of targeted Republicans as they look to win back seats in the 2026 midterm election. But the 2nd District is not expected to be as competitive as others in Iowa, such as the 1st and 3rd district races. Nonpartisan election analysts at the Cook Political Report and Sabato's Crystal Ball do not include the race as one of the competitive contests they're currently tracking. 'Kevin Techau is a radical Leftist who wants to return to Biden's open border agenda and push the woke policies that Iowans rejected in November," Hinson campaign spokesperson Addie Lavis, said in a statement. "Kevin is out of touch with Iowa values and would be a rubber stamp for AOC's squad of radicals in Congress. Iowans will reject a Hillary Clinton supporting, Obama appointee, Biden donor.' Brianne Pfannenstiel is the chief politics reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach her at bpfann@ or 515-284-8244. Follow her on X at @brianneDMR. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Democrat Kevin Techau to oppose US Rep. Ashley Hinson in 2026 midterms
Forbes
13-04-2025
- Health
- Forbes
Trump's ‘Excellent Health' Touted By White House Physician Who Praises His ‘Frequent Victories In Golf'
The White House released the results of President Donald Trump's recent annual physical exam Sunday morning, which claims the president is 'in excellent cognitive and physical health'—and praises his victories on the golf course—as Democrats and other Trump critics have publicly speculated about the 78-year-old's mental decline. President Donald Trump and his son Eric Trump drive in a golf cart at Trump National Doral Miami on ... More April 3 in Doral, Florida. The White House released a report on Trump's physical from physician Sean Barbabella, which says the president 'remains in excellent health, exhibiting robust cardiac, pulmonary, neurological and general physical function' thanks to his 'active lifestyle.' The report details a number of medical tests and blood tests Trump took at his physical Friday, all of which were normal, though he takes medication to control his cholesterol and rosacea. As vaccination and vaccine mandates have become increasingly controversial among conservatives, the report also notes 'all [Trump's] recommended vaccinations are current.' Barbabella said Trump underwent a 'comprehensive neurological examination' that 'revealed no abnormalities,' as Trump has faced criticism from Democrats and some health experts that his rambling speeches and 'bizarre speech' could exhibit signs of dementia. Trump's mental acuity was tested using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, which tests for early signs of cognitive impairment, with Trump scoring a 30 out of 30, according to Barbabella. Trump told reporters before the report was issued that he 'did well' on his physical and 'felt I was in very good shape' with 'a good heart, a good soul, a very good soul,' saying about his cognitive test, 'I don't know what to tell you other than I got every answer right.' Trump's 'active lifestyle continues to contribute significantly to his well-being,' Barbabella wrote. 'President Trump's days include participation in multiple meetings, public appearances, press availability and frequent victories in golf events.' Barbabella is an osteopathic doctor. He was a Navy emergency physician who completed tours of duty in Afghanistan and Iraq was awarded the Legion of Merit and a Purple Heart for his military service, according to his alma mater and the American Osteopathic Association. Prior to his White House appointment, Barbabella previously served as the commander of the Naval Health Clinic in Cherry Point, North Carolina. Trump has long denied accusations of his mental decline, bragging about his ability to score highly on cognitive tests and suggesting during the 2024 election he would take a cognitive test alongside then-rival President Joe Biden. The president claimed during the 2024 election that his tangential speeches during campaign rallies were not due to any mental decline—as critics have pointed to rambling speeches as evidence of cognitive impairment—saying he was instead 'do[ing] the weave.' 'I'll talk about, like, nine different things that they all come back brilliantly together. And it's like friends of mine that are like English professors, they say: 'It's the most brilliant thing I've ever seen,'' Trump said at a Pennsylvania rally. 'It's not rambling. What you do is you get off a subject to mention another little titbit, then you get back on to the subject, and you go through this and you do it for two hours, and you don't even mispronounce one word.' At 78 years old, Trump is the oldest president to have been inaugurated. (Biden was the oldest president while in office, but he was five months younger than Trump when he was inaugurated.) While Trump's most recent physical report is the latest in a string of reports proclaiming the president is in good health, his physical exams and reports of them have long been a source of scrutiny—ever since Trump released a report during the 2016 election that proclaimed he would be 'the healthiest individual ever elected to the presidency.' Trump's then-doctor Harold Bornstein later told NBC News in 2016 he wrote that letter in five minutes while Trump's limo waited outside—saying of his hyperbolic proclamation of Trump being the healthiest president, 'I like that sentence … and all the rest of them are either sick or dead'—before later confessing to CNN in 2018 that Trump himself wrote the letter. Trump's White House physician during his first term, Ronny Jackson, is now a GOP congressman. He was reportedly demoted from his Navy physician job after a 2021 inspector general report accused Jackson of 'alcohol-related misconduct'—including 'wrecking a government vehicle while intoxicated'—misusing Ambien and creating a 'negative work environment,' alleging Jackson 'disparaged, belittled, bullied, and humiliated' his subordinates. (Jackson has dismissed the report as being politically motivated against him.)
