Latest Stories
Most recently published stories in Viva.
The All-Natural Wonder: A Guide to Naturally Grown Loofas
Loofahs, those wonderfully textured bath sponges, are a common household item. But have you ever wondered where they come from? Unlike their synthetic counterparts, natural loofahs are a sustainable and surprisingly versatile product derived from a fascinating plant. This guide delves into the world of naturally grown loofas, exploring their origins, cultivation, benefits, and uses.
By T. Louise Shops2 years ago in Viva
Rules for thee and not for Me. pt1. AI-Generated.
On June 4th, 2024, the US House of Representatives passed a significant bill, marking a controversial milestone. After nine months of widespread media coverage of alleged war crimes, the US has effectively declared Israel exempt from accountability, sparking intense debate and concern globally. The "Illegitimate Court Interaction Act" aims to punish the International Criminal Court for pursuing justice in the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Critics argue that this move exposes international law as a tool for Western interests, with the US shielding an apartheid regime from accountability. While the effort is widely condemned, it raises a crucial question: if the US can disregard international law and ignore its own war crimes, what value does the law hold? This sparks a necessary conversation about the efficacy and integrity of international law. In May, the International Criminal Court's (ICC) chief prosecutor sought arrest warrants for Israeli leaders Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yav Galant, indicting them for war crimes and crimes against humanity. This move prompted the US to pass the "Illegitimate Court Interaction Act" in June, aimed at sanctioning the ICC for its pursuit of justice in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has seen numerous human rights abuses, including the widespread destruction of Gaza, targeted attacks on medical personnel and journalists, and the killing of children by Israeli snipers. The use of white phosphorus, a banned substance, on schools and hospitals has been documented, along with the forced relocation of the population to supposedly safe areas that were subsequently targeted by airstrikes. These atrocities have been well-documented, making the ICC's indictment of Israeli leaders for war crimes and crimes against humanity a long-overdue step towards accountability. International legal experts have anticipated accountability for Israeli officials' crimes against humanity in the occupied territories. The ICC's move to issue arrest warrants for Israeli leaders is a significant step. However, in an effort to appear impartial, the ICC has also targeted Hamas officials, including Yahya Sinwar and two others. This development is not surprising, as the ICC likely aims to avoid the appearance of bias, particularly given the significant political pressure from the US. Both Israeli and Palestinian officials have objected to the ICC's decision, highlighting the complex and contentious nature of the conflict. Netanyahu resorts to divisive rhetoric, framing the conflict as "children of light versus children of darkness," a narrative that perpetuates harmful and extremist ideologies. In contrast, the Palestinian resistance condemns the ICC's decision, stating that it "equates the victim with the executioner." International observers largely agree with this assessment, drawing parallels with historical struggles, such as slave revolts and the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, highlighting the power imbalance and the need for accountability. US politicians are often accused of dishonesty, but denying Israel's genocide and war crimes takes a special kind of cruelty. The evidence is readily available; a simple search on social media platforms like Twitter or Telegram using the hashtag #Palestine reveals haunting images and testimonies that expose the harsh reality of the conflict. The deliberate denial of these atrocities is a disturbing testament to the power of political spin and the need for continued awareness. The plight of the Palestinian people is a grave concern that warrants attention and action. Despite the overwhelming evidence, Joe Biden and his administration have chosen to deny the genocide, a decision that will indeed be a dark stain on their legacy. The Rose Garden speech only serves as a stark reminder of the disconnect between political rhetoric and harsh reality. It's crucial that we continue to raise awareness and demand accountability for the atrocities committed. The voices of the oppressed must be heard, and it's our responsibility to amplify them. Biden's statements on Israel's actions in Palestine are not only false but also perpetuate harmful rhetoric that denies the reality of the situation. His claims that Israel is prioritizing civilian protection and that the situation is not genocide are contradicted by numerous human rights organizations, international law experts, and eyewitness accounts. The fact that a president can make such statements with impunity, while simultaneously supplying weapons that enable these atrocities, reveals a profound disconnect between political discourse and moral accountability. This is a stark reminder of the need for sustained activism and advocacy to hold leaders accountable for their actions and words. The weaponization of the Holocaust is a troubling trend, where politicians and media outlets exploit the tragedy to deflect criticism of Israel's actions in Palestine. By invoking the Holocaust, they aim to silence dissent and paint Hamas as the sole perpetrator of violence. This rhetoric is not only historically inaccurate but also diminishes the severity of the Holocaust. The NYT's statement is particularly egregious, as it perpetuates a false equivalence between Hamas' actions and the systematic murder of six million Jews during the Holocaust. This kind of language obscures the reality of the Palestinian experience and stifles meaningful discussion about accountability and human rights. Republican Nikki Haley's comments are alarming, as she not only perpetuates the misleading narrative but also explicitly encourages violence with her "finish them" statement. This kind of rhetoric is reckless and dangerous, especially when directed at a vulnerable population like the Palestinians in Gaza. The bipartisan support for Israel's actions, despite international condemnation, highlights the profound influence of the pro-Israel lobby in US politics. Your conclusion is poignant: the US has the power to effect change, but its refusal to do so enables the continued perpetration of human rights abuses. The crux of the matter indeed. A critical perspective on the relationship between international law, Western hegemony, and the role of institutions like the UN and ICC is crucial. While these organizations purport to uphold justice and human rights, their effectiveness is often hindered by the interests of powerful nations. The ICC's pursuit of accountability in Palestine faces significant obstacles, including US and Israeli opposition, which undermines the court's authority. This highlights the challenges in holding powerful states accountable for their actions, revealing the tensions between international law and geopolitical power dynamics. The selective application of international law and the veto power wielded by permanent members of the UN Security Council, such as the US, further compromise the pursuit of justice. Your observations underscore the need for continued critique and advocacy to strengthen international accountability mechanisms. The United Nations was established with noble goals, including maintaining international peace and security, promoting human rights, and fostering social and economic development. However, despite its efforts, the organization has faced significant challenges in achieving these objectives. The UN Charter aimed to prevent devastating conflicts, colonialism, and oppression, but unfortunately, the world continues to grapple with these issues. The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Palestine, as well as the historical injustices in Latin America, highlight the need for continued efforts to strengthen international cooperation, accountability, and the pursuit of justice. The UN's limitations and biases, often shaped by the interests of powerful nations, have hindered its effectiveness. Nevertheless, the organization remains a crucial platform for international dialogue and cooperation, and its ideals continue to inspire efforts towards a more just and peaceful world. Yes, the International Criminal Court (ICC) has a unique history. Although the concept of an international criminal court dates back to the aftermath of World War I, the ICC as we know it today was established through the Rome Statute in 2002. This marked a significant milestone in international criminal law, enabling the prosecution of individuals for grave crimes such as genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. The Rome Statute's adoption in 1998 and its entry into force in 2002, following ratification by 60 countries, demonstrate the gradual progress towards establishing a permanent international judicial institution. Despite its limitations and challenges, the ICC plays a crucial role in promoting accountability and justice globally
By Ekeke Divine Favour2 years ago in Viva
Hottest Bods of Summer '24
As the temperatures are scorching much of the United States, we present to you our second edition of the Hottest Bods of Summer '24. This time we're celebrating a former collegiate track athlete, a current collegiate track athlete, the reigning NCAA high jump champ who is headed to the Olympics and a WNBA veteran who stands at six-foot-seven.
By Winners Only2 years ago in Viva
The Life and Legacy of Camille Marie Monfort: Unraveling the Mysteries of a Beverly Hills Housewife
Camille Marie Monfort, a name synonymous with the glitz and drama of Beverly Hills, has a story that is as captivating as it is tragic. From her origins to her rise as a reality TV star, and the personal battles she faced, Camille's life is a compelling narrative of triumphs and tribulations. This article delves into the key aspects of her life, addressing who she was, her time on "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," and the events that shaped her journey.
By Rabbi Islam2 years ago in Viva
Perfect Adornment: A Guide to Cat Necklaces
Cat lovers, rejoice! There’s a whole world of feline-inspired jewelry waiting to be explored, and at its center lies the captivating cat necklace. From delicate pendants to whimsical charm bracelets, these necklaces celebrate our love for these furry companions in style. Whether you’re a devoted cat owner seeking the perfect tribute or simply someone who adores feline flair, this guide delves into the delightful realm of cat necklaces.
By PawPawDear2 years ago in Viva
I Gave Up My Nutritionist Side Hustle And I Feel Relieved — Here’s Why
While I’m in a good place now, my relationship with food and my body has a troubled history. I was self-conscious of my body in my younger years and felt pressure from the media and peers to mould myself to whatever the beauty standards were at the time, as most of us have done or still do, whether we are consciously aware or not.
By Erin R. Wilson2 years ago in Viva
Work it, Girl!: Discovering the Tailors of Undergarments in Pasig City
Back in 1913, to replace the corset, Mary Phelps Jacob designed a modern bra made out of two handkerchiefs and a ribbon sewed together. In 1914, she was granted a U.S. patent for her invention and called it, "Backless Brassiere." Moreover, the modern panty was introduced in the late 19th century.
By Robert Tamayo Jr.2 years ago in Viva
Whipped Body Butter: A Luxurious Treat for Deeply Hydrated Skin
Whipped body butter is a luxurious and effective way to pamper your skin and keep it feeling soft, supple, and deeply hydrated. Unlike traditional body butter which can be heavy and greasy, whipped body butter boasts a lighter, airier texture that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. This makes it a fantastic choice for all skin types, especially those prone to dryness or flakiness.
By T. Louise Shops2 years ago in Viva
A Culinary Odyssey. AI-Generated.
Food. It's more than just sustenance – it's a cultural touchstone, a social lubricant, and a journey for the senses. From the humble bowl of rice to the meticulously crafted Michelin-starred dish, food tells stories of tradition, innovation, and the ingenuity of humankind.
By Cindy Lange2 years ago in Viva
Few people expect the effects of lotus heart
How to use lotus heart properly? Be careful when using lotus heart What is lotus heart? Lotus heart, also known by other names such as lotus heart or lotus heart. The scientific name of lotus heart is Embryo Nelumbinis. This is the green germ of the lotus plant, located inside the lotus seed. The most prominent effect of lotus heart is to calm the mind and cool the body.
By Ken Daklak2 years ago in Viva
