Biden Addresses SOTU, Iran Holds Elections, Bosnia’s Pipeline Feud, and More
Feb 29, 2024
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Topics discussed include Biden's State of the Union address, Iran's elections and protests, Bosnia's pipeline feud, and NATO welcoming Sweden as a member. Highlighting political tensions, power struggles, ethnic divisions, and shifting alliances in the global landscape.
Iran holds elections amid protests, with focus on selecting the next Supreme Leader intensifying.
Deep dives
President Biden's State of the Union Address
President Biden delivers his State of the Union address amidst deep divisions in Washington. The speech aims to highlight Biden's vigor and may serve to dispel concerns about his age. Tensions are high amidst fast-moving domestic and international crises, with a focus on the performance and substance of the address.
Iranian Parliamentary and Assembly Elections
Iran conducts elections for its parliament and assembly of experts, with a backdrop of disillusionment among Iranians towards their government. Despite protests and political rifts, significant changes in leadership are not expected, with discussions around choosing the next Supreme Leader intensifying.
Bosnian-Herzegovina's Independence Day and Gas Pipeline Feud
Bosnia and Herzegovina commemorates its independence day amid a feud over a gas pipeline project. The country's deep ethnic divisions hamper progress on the pipeline, with conflicting opinions among ethnic leaders. The pipeline, aimed at reducing dependence on Russian gas supplies, faces obstacles due to ethnic rivalries and political complexities.
Sweden Becomes NATO's 32nd Member
Sweden's entry as the 32nd member of NATO strengthens the alliance with its military capabilities and resolve against Russian influence. Sweden's historically neutral stance shifts, aligning with NATO to bolster defense against potential threats. The inclusion of Sweden adds strategic depth and readiness to NATO's security posture.
U.S. President Joe Biden delivers his last State of the Union address before elections to a polarized Congress; Iran holds its first parliamentary and Assembly of Experts elections since the 2022 protests sparked by the death of activist Mahsa Amini; Bosnia and Herzegovina marks independence as ethnic divisions fester; and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) welcomes Sweden as its newest member state.