The European Central Bank is expected to start its 2025 meetings with an interest rate cut, with markets pricing in at least a quarter-percentage point reduction. This would mark the fifth trim since June 2024, with further cuts expected in March and June meetings. Despite a slight increase in euro area inflation, weak business activity and tepid consumer confidence are prompting economists to forecast minimal GDP growth in the fourth quarter. ECB President Christine Lagarde may face questions regarding the bank’s divergence from the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy, as the Fed is expected to hold rates steady while the ECB continues its easing measures.
Full Article
Syria Druze, minorities facing violence, massacre
SummaryThe Druze community in southern Syria is facing severe persecution under the ISIS/Taliban regime, prompting Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar to call for international intervention to protect minorities. However, the author criticizes this appeal as ineffective and argues that Israel, as a regional power, must take responsibility for safeguarding the Druze by securing southern Syria to prevent further violence. The piece emphasizes the moral obligation Israel has to act decisively, as failure to do so...
Read more