A Look-Back at 2015 Stories

At Consortiumnews, we mix today’s journalism with historical analyses on a wide range of topics, showing how current events fit into a larger context, an approach often lacking in the mainstream media. So a selection of our stories from 2015 is an intriguing way to look back – and to understand – the year just ended. “Rebuilding the…

Gun Sales Surge In Switzerland As Army Chief Warns "Arm Yourselves"

It would appear the people of Switzerland have been listening to their military leaders. Having recently been warned by the Swiss army chief of growing social unrest, SwissInfo reports applications for gun permits in Switzerland increased by 20% between 2014 and 2015, according to a survey conducted in 12 cantons. But while the army proposes "arm yourselves," Swiss crime prevention officials warn against the false sense of security that guns bring.

‘I Helped Create ISIS': Iraqi Veteran Claims US ‘Killing Innocent People’

A former US marine has made the revelation that he helped create ISIS. Vincent Emanuelle wrote the claim in an article recounting his tours in Iraq. RT reports: Saying he had “helped create ISIS,” an Iraq War veteran and US Marine is speaking out about the atrocities and criminal activities he and his fellow soldiers engaged in during the Iraq War, claiming he knew it would lead to “blowback” in the Middle East.

What’s Up With WhatsApp? Millions Unable To Send Messages

Popular messaging app, WhatsApp, was down on the busiest day of the year. Fans trying to send New Year’s Eve messages were left speechless, isolated and frustrated. Daily Star reports: The popular app went into meltdown earlier this evening leaving millions unable to use the service. The problems reportedly began shortly after 4.30pm UK time. It’s currently unclear what is causing the problems although it seems some users are now able to send messages. Twitter is jammed full of users tweeting about the problems with one simply saying: “Whatsapp is down.

Fire Erupts At The Address In Dubai

A major fire is raging at a deluxe skyscraper hotel in Dubai. The luxury Address Downtown Dubai hotel is on fire, just hours before a planned fireworks display. Crowds had gathered for the New Year’s Eve celebrations outside, when the fire broke out. Officials say that at least 16 people have been injured. mosalsalat hindiya YouTube video: Outlook India reports: Dubai’s government media office tweeted that a “fire has been reported in the Address Downtown hotel. Authorities are currently on-site to address the incident swiftly and safely”. The cause of the blaze was not immediately known.

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