Category: News
Tony Baranek’s top 10 softball teams and 25 players to watch in the Southland for the 2026 season
Marist returns power-packed lineup, but Providence and Lincoln-Way East look to challenge.
Top 10 Teams
1. Marist (35-3): Junior Soleil Tate (Wisconsin) will be taking over as the staff ace for the RedHawks, who are looking to rebound from tough Class 4A supersectional loss. Headliners consist of junior catcher Lexi Kyros (Michigan), senior infielder Ellie Holmstrom (Saint Louis), junior infielders Mary Fortner (Northwestern), Layla Peters (Notre Dame) and Alia Rowles (Western Michigan) and sophomore outfielders Maddie Rogers and Layla Termunde.
2. Providence (26-12): The Celtics will match any team in the state experience-wise with nine returning starters. That list includes senior outfielder Angelina Cole (Western Michigan), senior infielder Bella Olszta, junior catcher/outfielder Mia Sanfratello, junior infielder/catcher Ava Misch, sophomore pitcher/infielder Macie Robbins and sophomore infielder Aleigh Hill.
3. Lincoln-Way East (27-7): The Griffins have a four-year starter in the circle with Audrey Bullock (Fairmont State). Behind her is some big-time talent in senior infielder/outfielder Mackenzie Bacha (Louisville), senior infielder Maddie Henry (Penn State) and senior infielder Cassidy Jagielski (Notre Dame).
4. Lincoln-Way West (23-12): The Warriors return their most experienced senior class since the birth of the program in 2009. Infielder Reese Rourke (North Carolina State) will be adding to records she has already established. Other key seniors include infielders Reese Cusack (Seton Hill) and Molly Finn (Valparaiso), catcher Reese Forsythe (St. Ambrose) and pitching ace Abby Brueggmann (St. Xavier).
5. Lockport (28-9): The Porters finished fourth last season in Class 4A. They’ll try again for state behind three key players — senior pitcher Bridget Faut (Maryville), senior infielder Alexis Vander Tuuk (West Alabama) and senior outfielder Taylor Lane. Senior catcher/infielder Olivia Picciola (Wayne State) is back after missing a season due to injury.
Lockport’s Taylor Lane (20) hits the ball to right field against Oak Park-River Forest in the Class 4A third-place game at the Louisville Slugger Sports Complex in Peoria on Saturday, June 14, 2025. (Rob Dicker / Daily Southtown)
6. Lincoln-Way Central (34-2): It’ll be tough to replace an impact player like Lisabella Dimitrijevic, the 2025 Daily Southtown Softball Player of the Year. The young arms in the circle will have plenty of talent behind them, however. They include senior infielder Ellie McLaughlin (Valparaiso), junior infielder Juno Lundquist and junior outfielders Mia Degliomini and Carly Karales.
7. St. Laurence (23-9): A strong core returns from last season’s run to a Class 3A fourth-place finish. That group features the pitching duo of seniors Maddie Misch and Breanna Cahue (Wisconsin-Oshkosh). Sophomore infielder Demi Lotus and senior infielder Vanessa Kates (Seton Hall) were both all-state.
8. Beecher (37-2): The Class 2A defending state champions are poised for another run, led by senior Taylor Norkus (Colgate), who pitched the final five innings of the state title game. Other key senior returnees include infielder Elena Kvasnicka and outfielders Makenzie Johnson (Northern Illinois) and Liliana Irwin (Millikin).
9. Richards (20-10): All-state pitcher Emily Chavosky returns for senior season. She’ll find support from senior infielder Mia Albon and senior infielder/outfielder Abbey Lichter. Piper Egan, a senior, can play both infield and outfield and will also help out sophomore Layla Kruse behind the plate.
10. Shepard (28-6): The senior leaders for the Astros are infielder Meghan Potenza (Illinois College) and outfielder Juliann Radz. Junior infielder Emma Gelecke and junior pitcher/outfielder Emrie Peterson are both tough outs, while sophomore infielder Carly Edmiston and junior catcher Grace Woolwine are impact players.
Shepard’s Meghan Potenza (8) throws to first base for an out against the host Vikings during the Class 4A Homewood-Flossmoor Regional semifinals in Flossmoor on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. (Vincent D. Johnson / Daily Southtown)
The 25 Players to Watch
• Samara Agredano, De La Salle, senior, infielder.
• Mackenzie Bacha, Lincoln-Way East, senior, outfielder/fielder.
• Emily Chavosky, Richards, senior, pitcher.
• Ana Cisek, Andrew, senior, infielder.
• Angelina Cole, Providence, senior, outfielder.
• Bridget Faut, Lockport, senior, pitcher.
• Reese Forsythe, Lincoln-Way West, senior, catcher.
• Molly Goyke, Evergreen Park, sophomore, outfielder.
• Maddie Henry, Lincoln-Way East, senior, infielder.
• Makenzie Johnson, Beecher, senior, outfielder.
• Vanessa Kates, St. Laurence, senior, infielder.
• Lexi Kyros, Marist, junior, catcher.
• Demi Lotus, St. Laurence, sophomore, infielder.
• Ellie McLaughlin, Lincoln-Way Central, senior, infielder.
• Taylor Norkus, Beecher, senior, pitcher.
• Bella Olszta, Providence, senior, infielder.
• Claire Podrebarac, Lemont, sophomore, pitcher/infielder.
• Meghan Potenza, Shepard, senior, infielder.
• Taylor Purchas, Homewood-Flossmoor, sophomore, outfielder.
• Morgan Reczkiewicz, Oak Forest, senior, infielder.
• Addison Rizzatto, Joliet Catholic, senior infielder.
• Maddie Rogers, Marist, sophomore, outfielder.
• Reese Rourke, Lincoln-Way West, senior, infielder.
• Soleil Tate, Marist, junior, pitcher/infielder.
• Zoe Trunk, Sandburg, senior, infielder.
Tony Baranek is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/08/tony-baranek-2026-softball-preview-southland/
‘Dems Want Net-Zero… This Is It’: Secretary Wright Urges Indian Point Nuclear Plant Restart
‘Dems Want Net-Zero… This Is It’: Secretary Wright Urges Indian Point Nuclear Plant Restart
In a press conference at the shuttered Indian Point site, Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY) urged the immediate rebuilding and reopening of the Indian Point nuclear plant, framing it as a practical fix for New York’s self-inflicted energy woes.
“Nuclear power is the cleanest source of energy,” Wright stated. “The Democrats want to talk about net-zero carbon emissions — this is it. And they have a responsibility. If they are serious about bringing down costs, costs that they drove up, they have a responsibility to work with the administration, work with the local government to bring this back online.”
Rep. Lawler was more direct, “Hudson Valley families are being suffocated with rising energy costs because of Governor Hochul’s failed and disastrous energy policies. It is time to reverse course.”
The plant’s two reactors were once delivering over 2,000 megawatts of reliable, carbon-free baseload power, supplying about 25% of New York City’s electricity and roughly 10% of the state’s total needs before closing. That output equated to enough electricity for approximately two million homes. Closed in phases (Unit 2 in 2020, Unit 3 in 2021) under a deal cut with then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo over baseless safety and environmental concerns, Indian Point’s departure forced greater reliance on natural-gas plants.
The politically-motivated stunt has driven NYC electricity bills nearly 60% above the national average, spiked carbon emissions, and contributed reliability shortfalls amid surging demand from data centers and electrification.
New York Power Grid Stabilizes After Rare Energy Warning https://t.co/Vfj0crpyCA
— zerohedge (@zerohedge) June 25, 2025
Holtec International, which now holds the site, has signaled that a modernized restart with upgraded safety features is technically feasible, though it would require a roughly five-year, $10 billion rebuild. Still cheaper and faster than the disturbingly expensive and slow Vogtle plants…
NY Governor Kathy Hochul has already signaled firm resistance. In an October letter to Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins, she kept it simple, “Let me say this plainly: No.”
Hochul said there are “no discussions or plans” for reopening and she “would not support efforts to do so.” Hochul has called the original closure “done in haste” and lacking a solid Plan B, yet she prefers expanding advanced nuclear upstate and importing hydro power rather than reviving the downstate facility. This likely has more to do with the fact that most of the upstate districts lean Republican while the city leans Democrat, pointing to the Governor engaging in a whole other level of pandering.
Government shouldn’t delay growth — it should help drive it.
We are going to act boldly, building upstate’s first nuclear power plant in a generation.
Because if New York wants to keep being an economic powerhouse, we need clean, affordable, abundant power. pic.twitter.com/p23tIT0ieo
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) June 23, 2025
The brewing power struggle will pit federal against state authority. Wright’s Department of Energy can dangle incentives, loan guarantees, and NRC licensing pathways while spotlighting the plant’s role in national energy security. Hochul, however, controls key environmental permits, water rights, and the Public Service Commission, which is everything the state needs to block the restart.
Whether Hochul bends under mounting bill complaints and re-election pressure, or digs in and sparks lawsuits, regulatory delays, and congressional hearings, remains to be seen.
Tyler Durden
Sun, 03/08/2026 – 20:20
https://www.zerohedge.com/energy/secretary-wright-calls-indian-point-nuclear-restart
Big Ten Tournament: No. 4 seed Illinois men have a triple bye, while No. 15 Northwestern opens Tuesday
Michigan, Nebraska, Michigan State and Illinois received the top four seeds in the Big Ten men’s basketball tournament and will receive triple byes into the quarterfinals this week at the United Center.
Top-seeded Michigan, the defending tournament champion, won the regular season title outright when it beat Illinois on Feb. 27. The Wolverines’ only loss in conference play was to Wisconsin on Jan. 10. They beat Michigan State 90-80 on Sunday to enter the tournament 29-2, 19-1 in the Big Ten.
Nebraska topped Iowa 84-75 in overtime Sunday to secure the No. 2 seed, while the Spartans will be the No. 3.
Illinois fended off Maryland on Sunday behind 22 points and 11 rebounds from David Mirković to secure the triple bye and the No. 4 seed. The Illini will play in a quarterfinal Friday at approximately 1:30 p.m. The Illini would face either No. 13 seed USC, No. 12 Washington or No. 5 Wisconsin.
Northwestern dropped to the No. 15 seed in the 18-tournament — and lost out on a first-round bye — after losing to Minnesota on Saturday. The Wildcats will play 18th-seeded Penn State in the first round on Tuesday at about 6:30 p.m.
Big Ten Tournament schedule
United Center
Tuesday’s first round
(16) Oregon vs. (17) Maryland, 4 p.m., Peacock
(15) Northwestern vs. (18) Penn State, 6:30 p.m. (approx.), Peacock
Wednesday’s second round
(9) Iowa vs. 16-17 winner, 11 a.m., Peacock
(12) Washington vs. (13) USC, 1:30 p.m. (approx.), Peacock
(10) Indiana vs. 15-18 winner, 5:30 p.m., Big Ten Network
(11) Minnesota vs. (14) Rutgers, 8 p.m. (approx.), BTN
Thursday’s third round
(8) Ohio State vs. 9-16/17 winner, 11 a.m., BTN
(5) Wisconsin vs. 12-13 winner, 1:30 p.m. (approx.), BTN
(7) Purdue vs. 10-15/18 winner, 5:30 p.m., BTN
(6) UCLA vs. 11-14 winner, 8 p.m. (approx.), BTN
Friday’s quarterfinals
(1) Michigan vs. 8-9/16/17 winner, 11 a.m., BTN
(4) Illinois vs. 5-12/13 winner, 1:30 p.m. (approx.), BTN
(2) Nebraska vs. 7-10/15/18 winner, 5:30 p.m., BTN
(3) Michigan State vs. 6-11/14 winner, 8 p.m. (approx.), BTN
Saturday’s semifinals
First two quarterfinal winners, noon, CBS-2
Last two quarterfinal winners, 2:30 p.m. (approx.), CBS-2
Sunday’s final
Semifinal winners, 2:30 p.m., CBS-2
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/08/big-ten-mens-basketball-tournament-seeding-pairings/
Wisconsin commit Soleil Tate is more than ready to take over in circle as junior for Marist. ‘It’s exciting.’
There are many reasons that Marist junior Soleil Tate loves softball more than any other sport she has played. One of the biggest, however, has nothing to do with pitching or hitting.
It’s the chants in the dugout.
“I love cheering,” she said. “It’s my favorite part of the game. It’s a great way to hype up your team. There was a time when my dad told me not to cheer anymore because I would tire myself out.”
This season, though, one thing can be shouted out loud and clear. When it comes to Tate pitching for the RedHawks, the Wisconsin recruit will be the team’s ace.
As a sophomore, Tate was part of a staff that included seniors Gianna Hillegonds (Bradley) and Mari Jarmoszka (Carnegie Mellon).
Now, the ball belongs to Tate, with varsity newcomers in junior Jenna Manfre and freshman Savannah Jones in the mix to help out.
Junior pitcher Soleil Tate talks about her role as the staff ace during a practice at the Marist SportsPlex in Palos Heights on Monday, March 3, 2026. (Tony Baranek / Daily Southtown)
“I feel good,” Tate said. “It’s sad that we lost our pitchers from last year, but it’s exciting to be recognized as No. 1 in my third season.”
Truth be told, however, Tate has been an impact player right from the start at Marist.
As a freshman, she hit .354 with nine home runs and 38 RBIs. She had a key hit in a supersectional victory over Lincoln-Way Central. In the circle, she went 10-2 with a 1.03 ERA.
Last season saw a big leap on offense, with a .446 average and 51 RBIs. Her pitching time also increased, with a 17-3 record and a 0.80 ERA.
Marist’s Soleil Tate (23) swings at a pitch against Lemont during a nonconference game in Chicago on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (Talia Sprague / Daily Southtown)
When she wasn’t pitching, she was the DH. When she was in the dugout, she was cheering — and watching.
“I guess there were times when I felt, ‘I should be in there,’” Tate said. “But then I sat back and thought about how much I could learn from Gianna. It was a time for me to get better and learn how to be an ace.
“It’s not just about your pitching style. It’s about your command on the mound with all of your teammates. Me, ‘G’ and Mari all had a great relationship. We had a talking circle, although there was some friendly competition.”
She soaked in a lot. Tate’s pitching philosophy is pretty deep.
Marist’s Soleil Tate (23) delivers a pitch against Joliet Catholic during a nonconference game in Joliet on Monday, April 15, 2024. (Talia Sprague / Daily Southtown)
“When I’m in the circle, it’s not just about the next pitch,” she said. “If I’m in a game where I can’t strike everybody out, I think about what spin can get me a ground ball or a line drive to Layla (Peters) at first base because I know she can catch it.
“But also, sometimes you have to not be serious about yourself. You can get too much in your head thinking about, ‘Oh, how did I do on that?’ You have to put it away as quickly as the ball fell over the fence.”
Marist coach Colleen Phelan loves — and appreciates — Tate’s attitude.
“Soleil has always been just the ultimate team player,” Phelan said. “Her and Gianna were very good friends. We were so fortunate to have both of them. I think she was totally OK with sharing the pitching because she really liked to hit, too.
“Soleil was our No. 4 hitter. She was our power. She was our spunk in the dugout as the cheer starter. Whether it’s in the circle, the box or in the dugout, she’s just a remarkable young lady.”
Marist’s Soleil Tate (23) swings at a pitch against Joliet Catholic during a nonconference game in Joliet on Monday, April 15, 2024. (Talia Sprague / Daily Southtown)
And tough? Michigan-bound junior catcher Lexi Kyros learned about that early on.
“My freshman season we were at Pontiac,” Kyros said. “We were going to find to a place to warm up and we were hopping a fence. Soleil tried to jump the fence and caught her pants.
“When she got up, her pants were ripped. We were all worried but Soleil didn’t care. She got some duct tape, put on a pair of spandex under it and pitched amazing that day. She’s so resilient.”
And ready for anything. Well, almost anything. When she’s driving up to Wisconsin to start her college career, Tate won’t be stopping at one of its most famous food places.
“I’m allergic to dairy,” Tate said, laughing. “Technically, I can’t eat cheese. So I’m going to the cheese state and I can’t eat it.”
Tony Baranek is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/08/soleil-tate-marist-softball-wisconsin-commit/
Fox News apologizes for showing old video of a hatless Donald Trump at a dignified transfer ceremony
Fox News apologized for airing old video of a hatless President Donald Trump during coverage Sunday of his attendance at the dignified transfer ceremony for U.S. soldiers killed in the Middle East war, insisting it was an honest mistake.
In a polarized time, some online critics suggested without evidence that it wasn’t an error — that the network was trying to make Trump look better by not showing him wearing a baseball cap during what is considered one of the most solemn duties of a commander in chief. The return of the bodies of six soldiers took place Saturday at Dover Air Force Base.
But Fox News said archival footage of Trump at an earlier ceremony was inadvertently pulled up by a staff member and used on two Sunday morning telecasts. A spokeswoman noted the correct footage was used at other times, including on Saturday.
“We regret the error and apologize for the incorrect footage,” Fox said in a statement.
Fox News anchor Griff Jenkins issued an on-the-air correction Sunday, saying “we extend our respect and condolences” to the families of the service members killed.
The apology didn’t sit well with some critics. “If any other network did this it would be a huge scandal, Fox would lead the chorus of criticisms and faux-outrage, and people would lose their jobs,” said Mehdi Hasan, founder of the online site Zeteo.
Johnny “Joey” Jones, a veteran and co-host of “The Big Weekend Show” on Fox News Channel, said on social media that he was “embarrassed and ashamed” that this happened.
“My belief was that this was an honest mistake, but that doesn’t make it an acceptable one,” Jones wrote. “Few things are more sacred than our heroes who give their lives in the line of duty.”
Jones said that “if posting snarky comments and insults is your way of reacting to this, please direct them at me. I’m the one with sharp words on these issues. If you are using this as a way to take a partisan jab at my hard working colleagues, check your watch.”
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/08/fox-news-hatless-trump-dignified-transfer-ceremony/
Daily Horoscope for March 09, 2026
General Daily Insight for March 09, 2026
Cosmic wisdom can guide us to unexpected paths forward. With clever Mercury trining auspicious Jupiter at 1:23 am EDT, generous answers are more likely to appear when we ask. Morning conversations favor clear requests and thoughtful answers. Distractions may try to confuse us, but sticking to the practical facts should stop them from messing things up. Later, the Moon enters Sagittarius, inspiring us to open our minds and hearts. Learning arrives when we listen first, then ask questions as necessary. Opportunities are everywhere when we look.
Aries
March 21 – April 19
Day-to-day choices pack surprising potential for peace. Quiet reflection gains power as cerebral Mercury in your 12th House of Solitude trines jovial Jupiter in your comforting 4th house, guiding you through releasing past aches. You may sweep up at home or forgive yourself for a misunderstanding at work. It’s okay if your impact is subtle rather than drastic. When times are tough, keeping up the daily grind is a meaningful accomplishment. Give yourself extra room to breathe as you move forward.
Taurus
April 20 – May 20
Kindness can travel farther than you expect. Your 11th House of Friendship pairs up with your 3rd House of Chatter as talkative Mercury trines lucky Jupiter. Small gestures could inspire major support from your community. As such, consider sending a heartfelt note to a peer or complimenting teamwork whenever you see it. Your steady nature sets the pace, so people should hear you clearly. Keep your connections warm and consistent throughout the day ahead. Your reliability builds lasting bridges that support future goals.
Gemini
May 21 – June 20
Your ideas deserve a bigger stage today. With studious Mercury trining Jupiter, the Planet of Wisdom, in your 10th House of Drive and your 2nd House of Logistics, you gain a better understanding of what it takes to make yourself heard. You could share with a supervisor or mentor, or reach out to your peers for their advice. Your quick mind spots what to improve, and your confidence helps others get on board. For the best results, keep your goals simple and trackable.
Cancer
June 21 – July 22
A new view steadies your caring heart. This Mercury-Jupiter trine unites your distant 9th house and your personal 1st house, since Jupiter’s currently in your sign. That makes this an excellent time to explore different philosophies around your unique view on life. Even if you aren’t up to analyzing moral quandaries, you can experience personal growth by doing your best to discover something new today. Learn what you can, then share your ideal next steps with a trusted confidant. Your optimism attracts helpful allies.
Leo
July 23 – August 22
Certain truths are likely on the tip of your tongue. Your 8th House of Shared Resources steadies as informative Mercury trines idealistic Jupiter in your quiet 12th house. Their collaboration makes it easier to talk calmly about shared needs. You may propose splitting a cost differently — be sure to mention how this benefits everyone involved. Your generous spirit shines while you keep boundaries firm and respectful. Say what you need without overexplaining. Straight talk invites mutual respect and steadier cooperation.
Virgo
August 23 – September 22
Peace arrives through simple, honest dialogue. Cognitive Mercury is trining Jupiter, uniting your 7th and 11th houses — which both focus on your connections with other people. The 7th house is more about one-on-one bonds, while the 11th house magnifies the potential of a united community. A calm check-in with a collaborator can clear a snag and reveal what will work in reality. Your careful eye helps each person feel seen and respected. Shared effort moves any project toward enduring success.
Libra
September 23 – October 22
Regular systems should make your day feel easier. Your 6th House of Practice and your 10th House of Work alike benefit as Mercury trines Jupiter, emphasizing the power of simple routines. Reorganizing your personal to-do list could make it much less intimidating. Plus, in the workplace, a cooperative team all using coordinating methods is a great way to improve your results without needing a ton more effort. Showing appreciation is another important brick in the path to successful teamwork. Consistent gratitude transforms stress into momentum.
Scorpio
October 23 – November 21
Playing isn’t just for kids — it’s currently an extra valuable way to learn and grow. Creativity might feel like it’s erupting from your soul as chatty Mercury in your expressive 5th house trines blissful Jupiter in your curious 9th house. This is the ideal aspect for theatrical art pieces, though overall, it empowers art of any kind. Your intense focus gains joy when you let curiosity lead. Don’t get lost seeking nonexistent perfection; your work is all the more meaningful for its potential flaws.
Sagittarius
November 22 – December 21
Your home is your castle, so treat it well! This morning, Mercury and Jupiter embrace across your homey 4th house and your intense 8th house. Any efforts to improve your living space may need to be run by other people, like a roommate or landlord. Still, there are likely things you can do to up your dwelling’s coziness factor all on your own, like stocking your cabinets with your favorite snacks or investing in quality blankets. Strong foundations can carry big dreams without unnecessary strain.
Capricorn
December 22 – January 19
Your conversations are full of cosmic potential today! You may reply to a long thread and discover cooperation grows as soon as you summarize the potential next steps. With messenger Mercury trining Jupiter, the Greater Benefic — with Mercury in your communication quadrant and Jupiter in your amicable 7th house — social exchanges carry extra goodwill. Being patient is the best way to keep conversations on track without sounding harsh. Keep messages kind to maintain morale. Genuine compliments move work forward with steady grace.
Aquarius
January 20 – February 18
Certain purchases will support your values more than others at the moment. Your 2nd House of Resources and your 6th House of Wellness are stabilized by today’s Mercury-Venus trine. You’re ready to make grounded choices regarding your everyday finances. Analyzing a subscription or frequent purchase could give you valuable insight. It would also be wise to set up a regular time for a financial review, whether that’s a monthly meeting with an accountant or a weekly kitchen-table discussion. Build steady value with consistent attention.
Pisces
February 19 – March 20
Pisces, your voice can currently land with warm, clear intent. Your message can be heard and understood as mental Mercury in your sign trines fortunate Jupiter in your light-hearted 5th house, allowing you to shine with kindness and strength. In any circumstances, people should feel your sincerity when you speak from the heart. Your empathy becomes leadership as you set a compassionate tone that others can follow. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and make your true self known!
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/08/daily-horoscope-for-march-09-2026/
¿Quién es Mojtaba Jamenei, hijo del fallecido ayatolá y designado líder supremo de Irán?
Por JON GAMBRELL
DUBÁI, Emiratos Árabes Unidos (AP) — Mojtaba Jamenei, un hijo del fallecido líder supremo de Irán, el ayatolá Ali Jamenei, que fue nombrado su sucesor el domingo, era considerado desde hace tiempo un aspirante al cargo incluso antes de que un ataque israelí matara a su padre y pese a que nunca había sido elegido ni designado para un puesto en el gobierno.
Figura hermética dentro de la República Islámica, Mojtaba Jamenei no fue visto en público en los días posteriores a un ataque aéreo israelí dirigido contra las oficinas del líder supremo que mató a su padre, de 86 años, al inicio de la guerra. En ese ataque también murió la esposa de Jamenei hijo, Zahra Haddad Adel, que provenía de una familia asociada desde hace tiempo con la teocracia del país.
Mojtaba Jamenei tendrá ahora una voz central en la estrategia de guerra de Irán, con la poderosa Guardia Revolucionaria, la fuerza paramilitar iraní, rindiéndole cuentas. El anuncio de su elección llegó después de señales de una fractura entre funcionarios iraníes mientras Irán aguardaba la decisión de la Asamblea de Expertos, de 88 miembros, un grupo de clérigos que elige al líder supremo.
Su candidatura pudo haber recibido un impulso indirecto del presidente de Estados Unidos, Donald Trump, quien criticó a Jamenei en una entrevista con el sitio de noticias Axios el jueves e insistió en que debía participar en la selección del próximo líder de Irán. Trump afirmó: “Están perdiendo el tiempo. El hijo de Jamenei es un peso pluma. Tengo que participar en el nombramiento”, al referirse a su operación en la que el ejército de Estados Unidos capturó al exlíder venezolano Nicolás Maduro. Trump añadió: “El hijo de Jamenei es inaceptable para mí. Queremos a alguien que lleve armonía y paz a Irán”.
El perfil del hijo de Jamenei creció tras el ataque aéreo
La idea de que Mojtaba Jamenei reemplazara a su padre había sido criticada por la posibilidad de crear una versión teocrática de la antigua monarquía hereditaria de Irán. Pero su posición se fortaleció después de que su padre y su esposa murieran y se convirtieran en mártires en la guerra contra Estados Unidos e Israel a ojos de los sectores de línea dura.
Jamenei hijo ha ganado control no solo de un ejército iraní ahora en guerra, sino también de una reserva de uranio altamente enriquecido que podría usarse para construir un arma nuclear, si decide decretarlo.
Antes de su elección, Jamenei había ocupado un papel similar al de Ahmad Jomeini, hijo del primer líder supremo de Irán, Ruhollah Jomeini: “Una combinación de ayudante de campo, confidente, guardián de acceso e intermediario de poder”, según United Against Nuclear Iran, un grupo de presión con sede en Estados Unidos.
Nacido en la disidencia
Nacido en 1969 en la ciudad de Mashhad, unos 10 años antes de la Revolución Islámica de 1979 que transformaría Irán, Jamenei creció mientras su padre agitaba contra el sha Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.
Una biografía oficial de Ali Jamenei relata un momento en que la policía secreta del sha, la SAVAK, irrumpió en su casa y golpeó al clérigo. Al despertar después, a Mojtaba y al resto de los hijos de Jamenei les dijeron que su padre se iba de vacaciones.
“Pero yo les dije: ‘No hace falta mentir’. Les dije la verdad”, según habría dicho el Jamenei mayor.
Tras la caída del sha, la familia de Jamenei se mudó a Teherán, la capital de Irán. Jamenei terminaría combatiendo en la guerra Irán-Irak con el Batallón Habib ibn Mazahir, una división de la Guardia Revolucionaria, que vería a varios de sus miembros ascender a poderosos cargos de inteligencia dentro de la organización, probablemente con el respaldo de la familia Jamenei.
Su padre se convirtió en líder supremo en 1989, y pronto Mojtaba Jamenei y su familia tuvieron acceso a miles de millones de dólares y a activos empresariales repartidos por las numerosas bonyads de Irán, o fundaciones, financiadas con industrias estatales y otras riquezas que antes estaban en manos del sha.
El poder crece junto al de su padre
Su propio poder creció a la par del de su padre, trabajando dentro de sus oficinas en el centro de Teherán. Cables diplomáticos de Estados Unidos publicados por WikiLeaks a finales de la década de 2000 comenzaron a referirse al Jamenei más joven como “el poder detrás de las túnicas”. Uno de ellos recogía una acusación de que Jamenei en realidad intervenía el teléfono de su propio padre, actuaba como su “principal guardián de acceso” y había estado formando su propia base de poder dentro del país.
Jamenei “es visto ampliamente dentro del régimen como un líder y administrador capaz y enérgico que algún día podría suceder al menos a una parte del liderazgo nacional; su padre también podría verlo de ese modo”, decía un cable de 2008, que también señalaba su falta de credenciales teológicas y su edad.
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Esta historia fue traducida del inglés por un editor de AP con la ayuda de una herramienta de inteligencia artificial generativa.
Operation Epic Fury – Déjà Vu
Operation Epic Fury – Déjà Vu
Authored by Martin A. Perryman via RealClearDefense,
In February, the Republican President, after conducting military operations against the government of a foreign power, appealed directly to the armed forces and to the citizens to rise and overthrow the regime. While this sounds ripped from Saturday’s headlines, it occurred in 1991, the President was George H. W. Bush, the foreign power was Iraq, and the encouragement was directed to the Kurdish population of the northern provinces.
The Kurds answered the call, believing the regime was ripe for change. In March and April, the uncoordinated uprising, consisting of several disgruntled factions, enjoyed initial success but failed to consolidate and organize. The regime, still formidable, rebounded and crushed the rebellion, leaving tens of thousands dead and nearly two million displaced. The U.S., after encouraging the uprising, stood quietly by.
While it is likely that the majority of U.S. citizens have long forgotten this incident, it is equally likely that the majority of the people in the Middle East have not.
This past weekend, President Trump, in coordination with Israel, ordered military strikes on military and leadership targets at multiple sites in Iran. Reports have confirmed that the Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed and there may be more leadership casualties in the wreckage. Like President Bush before him, he made a similar appeal to the Iranian military and people, once these initial strikes subside, to rise and overthrow the government.
This is unlikely to happen.
First, the Iranian regime is far from devastated. The 86-year-old Ayatollah most certainly had a succession plan in place, and the regime has a fairly deep bench. While the loss of critical leadership in its foreign proxies has dramatically limited its ability to conduct operations abroad, that does not hold true domestically. There are plenty of loyalists ready to fill any leadership gaps left by U.S. and Israeli strikes. While degraded, the regime will remain effective and solidly in power.
Second, the Iranian people have not forgotten the lesson learned by the Kurds, therefore an uprising is extremely unlikely. If it did take place, it would need logistical support, organization, and leadership to succeed. These appear to be in short supply. The U.S. is powerless to assist with more than token support.
This is because, unlike President Bush, who chose not to use the significant forces, to include ground forces available in the region, President Trump has limited forces and no ground forces available. He must rely on bluster and bombs. Air power, be it conventional, missiles, or drones, in isolation, has never achieved a strategic objective. The resulting mismatch in capabilities and objectives creates strategic over-reach.
This reality of geography helps explains several things. Iran is a large country, roughly the size of the U.S. state of Alaska. A sizable portion is mountainous. Those mountains define the borders of the country and help explain the longevity of political and cultural Persia across millennium. The territory is extremely difficult to invade and would be almost impossible to control for any amount of time. It is the reason this most recent incident will not expand into a larger regional war of any significance. It dramatically limits U.S. and Israeli strike options, and it precludes any significant external assistance to an internal insurgency.
The most likely scenario is a few more rounds of bombing back and forth. A few Americans serving in the region will die and so will many Iranians. Then the President will declare victory, rinse and repeat. There is no scenario where the U.S. will commit sufficient resources to a force a change in the internal dynamics of Iran. If those resources were to ever be sent for that purpose, recent history regarding Iraq and Afghanistan teaches us that it is most likely doomed to fail.
Martin A. Perryman, a retired U.S. Army Colonel, is a defense and foreign policy expert.
Tyler Durden
Sun, 03/08/2026 – 19:45
https://www.zerohedge.com/political/operation-epic-fury-deja-vu
Argentina logra repatriar de los EAU a 248 de sus connacionales y programa vuelos para 168 más
MONTEVIDEO (AP) — El gobierno de Argentina ha logrado repatriar a 248 connacionales desde los Emiratos Árabes Unidos, país que ha resultado afectado por el conflicto en Oriente Medio, informó el domingo el canciller de la nación sudamericana.
En total son 416 los argentinos que pidieron salir del país emiratí, añadió Pablo Quirno, ministro de Relaciones Exteriores y Culto de Argentina, en la red social X, y anunció que “hay más vuelos programados para los próximos días” con el fin de evacuar al 40% restante.
Desde que Estados Unidos e Israel empezaron a atacar a Irán y éste respondió con ofensivas contra naciones cercanas, 630 argentinos solicitaron asistencia en la zona de conflicto, la mayoría de ellos en Israel, Qatar y los EAU.
“Seguimos trabajando con nuestros ciudadanos en los diferentes países para lograr su retorno al país de la manera más rápida y segura posible”, añadió Quirno.
La cancillería argentina había informado sobre dos vuelos de Emirates Airlines que partirían el domingo y el lunes desde Dubái, con escalas en Río de Janeiro antes de llegar a Buenos Aires, en medio del cierre parcial del espacio aéreo y la alta demanda de pasajes en la región del conflicto.
Continúan las gestiones para repatriar al resto de los connacionales, dando preferencia a menores de edad y personas con problemas de salud, agregó.
On 61st anniversary of Bloody Sunday, worries about the future of voting rights and calls to action
SELMA, Ala. — Sixty-one years after state troopers attacked Civil Rights marchers on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, thousands gathered in the Alabama city this weekend amid new concerns about the future of the Voting Rights Act.
The March 7, 1965, violence that became known as Bloody Sunday shocked the nation and helped spur passage of the landmark legislation that dismantled barriers to voting for Black Americans in the Jim Crow South.
The anniversary was celebrated in this southern city, that served as crucible for the voting rights movement, with events through the weekend and ending with a commemorative march across the bridge Sunday. But the commemoration came as the U.S. Supreme Court considers a case that could limit a provision of the Voting Rights Act that has helped ensure some congressional and local districts are drawn so minority voters have a chance to elect their candidate of choice.
“I’m concerned that all of the advances that we made for the last 61 years are going to be eradicated,” said Charles Mauldin, 78, one of the marchers beaten on Bloody Sunday.
Democratic officeholders, civil rights leaders and tourists descended on the southern city to pay homage to the pivotal moment of the Civil Rights Movement and to issue calls to action. Speakers warned of the looming court decision and criticized the Trump administration’s actions on immigration and efforts to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Standing at the pulpit of the city’s historic Tabernacle Baptist Church, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said that like the marchers on Bloody Sunday, they must press forward.
“Those who marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge deserve better than us cowering while the freedoms that we inherited and they fought for, are being ripped away,” Moore said.
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, speaking at a rally at the foot of the bridge, said racism is on the rise in America and “Trump’s Supreme Court is gutting the Voting Rights Act.”
“Let’s march forward today with the knowledge that we are the inheritors of the faith that brought marchers to the bridge 61 years ago. It is now on us to bend the arc of the moral universe toward justice,” Pritzker said.
The annual commemoration in Selma is a mix of a civil rights remembrances, church services and a street festival filled with vendors and food trucks. It is also part political rally with an eye on November’s midterm elections and a longer view to the 2028 presidential race.
The commemoration included a tribute to the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, the civil rights leader and two-time presidential candidate who regularly attended the annual Selma march. He died on Feb. 17 at age 84.
Yusef Jackson said his father’s legacy will be carried forward. “In November, we will go back to the polls and take our government back, setting our country on the right path,” Jackson said.
The looming court decision cast a shadow over the weekend festivities. Justices are expected to rule soon on a Louisiana case about the role of race in drawing congressional districts. A ruling prohibiting or limiting that role could have sweeping consequences, potentially opening the door for Republican-controlled states to redistrict and roll back majority Black and Latino districts that tend to favor Democrats.
U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures won election in 2024 to an Alabama district that was redrawn by a federal court to give Black voters a greater voice. His district will likely be targeted if the state gets the opportunity to redraw lines.
He said what happened in Selma and the subsequent passage of the Voting Rights Act “was monumental in shaping what America looks like and how America is represented in Congress.”
In 1965, the Bloody Sunday marchers led by John Lewis and Hosea Williams walked in pairs across the Selma bridge headed toward the state capital of Montgomery. Mauldin, then 17, was part of the third pair behind Williams and Lewis.
At the apex of the bridge, they could see the sea of law enforcement officers, including some on horseback, waiting for them. But they kept going.
“It wasn’t that we didn’t have fear, it’s that we chose courage over fear,” Mauldin recalled.
A crowd of several thousand filed behind elected officials on this Sunday for the march across the bridge, this time protected by state law enforcement officers.
James and Dianne Reynolds drove from Montgomery for the annual commemoration. James Reynolds, 79, was a high school student in Selma and worked with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee helping to set up demonstrations in Selma. He said he sees echoes of the past in efforts to restrict voting, such as curtailing mail-in voting and absentee voting.
“When you look at what’s going on today, we’re still fighting for the right to vote,” Reynolds said.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/03/08/bloody-sunday-anniversary-voting-rights/
