Tue Sep 10 16:50:22 UTC 2024: ## Democracy Now! Calls for Support Amidst Global Political Turmoil
**New York, NY** – In a call for support from viewers and listeners, Democracy Now! host Amy Goodman highlighted the crucial role of independent journalism, especially in the face of a tumultuous political landscape. The organization, which has refused government or corporate funding since its inception in 1996, relies on donations to maintain its editorial independence.
Goodman urged viewers to consider a $10 monthly donation, which will be tripled during a special extended match campaign.
The broadcast then featured an interview with renowned historian and activist Tariq Ali, who offered his insights on the current state of international politics, specifically focusing on the U.K.’s role in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the detention of former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, and the recent political developments in Bangladesh and France.
Ali criticized the U.K.’s decision to suspend some arms exports to Israel as “meaningless” and “purely symbolic,” noting that the majority of the country opposes the ongoing war in Gaza. He also pointed out the deep divide between Western governments and the Global South, particularly in their respective stances on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Regarding the detention of Imran Khan, Ali argued that the Pakistani military remains the dominant force in the country and has effectively made Khan a martyr by imprisoning him on bogus charges. He also raised concerns about the recent student-led uprising in Bangladesh, suggesting that the United States was not directly involved in the overthrow of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina but that the military remained the ultimate power behind the scenes.
Ali condemned French President Emmanuel Macron’s decision to appoint a conservative prime minister despite the electoral victory of the left-wing coalition, characterizing it as “appalling” and a worrying trend towards authoritarianism.
He also expressed concerns about the growing strength of anti-immigrant sentiment across Europe and the United States, warning that mainstream politicians are failing to effectively counter this dangerous narrative. Ali emphasized the need for a strong and united front against these divisive forces and the importance of challenging existing power structures.
Democracy Now! will continue to provide coverage of these issues and other pressing topics, relying on the support of its viewers and listeners to remain a vital source of independent journalism.
First Piper 