Former President Trump has urged Republican senators to pass the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent, citing potential reductions in crime and accidents.
Loyal customers of Cracker Barrel are expressing their desire for the restaurant to bring back discontinued comfort foods, including the Sunrise Sampler breakfast platter and black-eyed peas.
French DJ Hugel's hit song "Movin’ To The Sun" has reached the number one spot on the global Shazam chart, with "Jamaican (Bam Bam)" securing the second position, solidifying his presence at the top.
While the Sun appears as a round ball with a few spots in optical light, ultraviolet light reveals a much more vibrant picture, showing it bubbling, churning, and waving like an open sea, as explained on Latvian Radio's 'Known in the Unknown' program.
An Australian lifeguard has expressed surprise and concern regarding the prolonged periods Danes spend in the sun. He questions how they manage such extended exposure, given the risks of sun damage.
The sculpture 'Sunce ne bira koga greje' (The Sun Doesn't Choose Who It Warms) by artist Jelena Blečić, previously displayed in Zlatibor, now adorns Belgrade's Nikola Tesla Airport, where thousands of passengers pass daily.
An editorial in the Sunday Independent argues that implementing tax cuts will necessitate a fundamental shift in current economic and political thinking.
Scientists have long believed the Sun would expand and engulf Earth in its final stages, but a new study proposes that our planet might ultimately survive this event.
The elegant Art Nouveau city of Ålesund on the Norwegian coast, surrounded by fjords and the Atlantic, is still largely undiscovered by mass tourism. Rebuilt after a fire, it offers fresh seafood, 'Caribbean' beaches, war bunkers, and trips to the Sunnmøre Alps.
A recent scientific discovery highlights a tiny shrimp species capable of generating bubbles with temperatures exceeding that of the sun's surface through a process known as sonoluminescence.
Lollapalooza 2026 has begun, featuring performances from various artists including SB19, who made history as the first Filipino group to perform at the festival. The event has already seen notable moments, such as Charli XCX performing with Lorde.
Approximately 60,000 liters of oil have been removed from the wreck of the armored ship Ilmarinen. However, not all oil has yet been extracted from the sunken vessel.
The Sunila residential area in Kotka, Finland, recently designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, has already generated significant interest, including inquiries about housing and a surge in Aalto event ticket sales.
A recent solar eclipse has drawn attention to the ongoing exploration of the Sun's mysteries. Scientists continue to study various phenomena related to our star.
The Full Moon of the Red Deer, occurring tonight (July 29) in Aquarius in conjunction with Pluto, is set to bring radical changes, revelations, and reversals for all zodiac signs. The Sun in Leo meeting Jupiter is expected to directly impact the 12 signs, particularly those in fixed signs.
Montenegrin retailers are reportedly circumventing the Sunday work ban by exploiting legal exceptions, prompting the Chamber of Economy (PKCG) to call for urgent amendments to the law. The PKCG highlights increasing abuses of these exceptions, undermining the intended purpose of the ban.
The Greek Parliament has approved the concession of the SUNEL Arena to AEK until 2075, marking a historic day for the club which has announced plans for new investments and redevelopment projects.
The CEO of a $4 billion homebuilding company stated that new home prices in the Sunbelt region are experiencing a greater decline than what is generally reported in headlines.
Everyone is now well aware of the basic rules for maintaining skin health under the sun, such as frequent sunscreen application and avoiding exposure during peak radiation hours. This article provides further essential skincare advice for after a day at the beach.
An opinion piece in the Sunday Independent urges readers not to become complacent about climate change and environmental issues as a heatwave concludes, emphasizing ongoing vigilance.
A Lithuanian article presents the Sunday Gospel reading, featuring the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price, illustrating the value of the Kingdom of Heaven.
A travel article explores Provence, France, guiding readers through historical cities, spectacular gorges, and the sun-drenched coast of Southern France.
Ahead of a major reunion in Leeds, The Sunshine Underground performed their debut album ‘Raise The Alarm’ in full at an intimate warm-up gig in Manchester, marking their first show in almost 10 years.
Residents in western Iceland, tired of a lack of sunshine, can look forward to improved weather this weekend as the forecast indicates the sun will make an appearance.
Andrius Blaževičius' acclaimed love drama 'Divorce During Wartime,' which won a major award at the Sundance Film Festival in the US, is set to arrive in Lithuanian cinemas on September 18.
Weather forecasters predict a good chance for many in Reykjavik to see the sun this evening, with winds expected to decrease, though a wind warning remains for Snæfellsnes and Southeast Iceland.
A major forest fire in Spain's Guadalajara province, north of Madrid, has caused smoke to obscure the sun and spread the smell of burning across the region.
The Czech Republic has expressed significant interest and will participate in the investigation of a tragic yacht accident in Croatia. The Czech Ministry of Transport will attend a meeting regarding the sunken yacht incident.
Parts of Finland are expected to experience cool temperatures, with the mercury only rising to around 20 degrees Celsius in the sunniest western regions.
Skygazers in Europe will be delighted by a partial solar eclipse on August 12, with the sun completely disappearing in eastern Greenland, western Iceland, and parts of Europe.
As the Sun prepares to enter Leo, many individuals are feeling the need to conclude chapters, resolve relationships, or make decisions that will bring greater peace, marking the final days of the Cancer period.
Smoke plumes from Canadian wildfires, propelled by high-altitude winds, have begun to cross the Atlantic Ocean and are expected to travel thousands of kilometers to reach Europe, having already obscured the sun in parts of the US.
A mother in Florida has been arrested after allegedly chaining her 13-year-old daughter to a fence and leaving her in the sun without food or water, telling police she 'just wanted a break.'
An investigation by The Sun claims Vladimir Putin has launched a new 'war against death' with a billion-dollar program involving cryotherapy and deer blood baths, as his greatest desire is reportedly to live forever.
The Nigerian Bar Association presidential election continues, with members urged to cast their votes before the Sunday morning deadline, following earlier disruptions from a cyberattack.
Priyanka Chopra just turned 44 ... and she sure knows how to make our jaws hit the floor! We'll make any excuse to celebrate this stunning star ... but today's extra special because it marks another trip around the sun. The birthday bombshell has…
The Sundance double prize-winning documentary 'American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez', which tells the story of the Chicano activist and director, is beginning its theatrical rollout.
Blue Harbor Entertainment and Variance Films have secured the U.S. distribution rights for the Sundance comedy 'The Musical,' starring Rob Lowe, Will Brill, and Gillian Jacobs, with a theatrical release set for September 18.
An article discusses the relationship between children and technology, referencing Ernest Hemingway's "The Sun Also Rises" and the concept of a "lost generation." It explores societal views on youth and technological impact.
A major water main break has caused significant flooding on the streets of West Hollywood, turning parts of the Sunset Strip into a gushing river. The incident trapped cars and disrupted traffic, requiring emergency response to manage the deluge.
Despite Mercury being the closest planet to the Sun, Venus is significantly hotter, a phenomenon attributed to a runaway greenhouse effect trapping heat in its dense atmosphere.
The Sundance Institute and UCLA's School of Theater, Film and Television have established a five-year collaboration to nurture the next generation of filmmakers and storytellers, set to begin in September.
Palestinian writer Ghassan Kanafani, who died in a 1972 car bomb attack, has texts like 'Men in the Sun' that remain eerily relevant in their depiction of displaced people from an occupied land.
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Sunshine Protection Act, a bill that would make daylight saving time permanent across the country. The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Nickelback has announced their new album, 'Everything Under the Sun,' and released the single 'Rattle the Cage.' The band's latest offerings are generating excitement among fans.
The Sundance Institute has revealed the fellows selected for its upcoming Producers Labs. These labs will take place at the Ucross Foundation in Clearmont, Wyoming, with separate sessions for feature film and documentary producers in July.
After a long day in the heat, certain foods and drinks can aid recovery. Recommended items include watermelon, coconut water, melon, cucumber, and Greek yogurt.
An article discusses the historical and intellectual underpinnings of the Sundiata Post Model, emphasizing that institutional frameworks and ideas evolve from deep, structural conversations across generations.
A new article features philosopher and neuroscientist Anil Seth's views on why artificial intelligence is not conscious, presented alongside a review of the 1974 film 'Hószakadás' (Snowfall).
Europe looks to the sky as the moon will darken the sun on August 12th. Information is provided on where this celestial event of the year will be best visible.
Much of Europe is preparing for a significant heatwave this weekend, with temperatures expected to reach up to 40 degrees Celsius in some regions. Forecasts indicate sunny and hot conditions across many countries, prompting concerns about health and drought.
Luke Steele of Empire Of The Sun has confirmed his use of artificial intelligence in music, stating that AI can empower artists who know how to utilize it. He believes AI is a valuable tool for creative expression in music.
An article discusses the importance of skin safety during summer, focusing on prevention, protection, and understanding the risks associated with sun exposure, emphasizing the need to redefine human interaction with the sun.
Rod Liddle, a prominent British newspaper columnist and broadcaster known for his irreverent style, has died at the age of 66 after a short illness. Liddle was a columnist for The Sunday Times and The Sun, among other publications.
A video of pop star Dua Lipa after a 5 AM outing in Albania went viral, sparking comments about her 'Balkan style' during her time at the Sunny Hill Festival.
Mercury will reach its greatest elongation from the sun this week, offering a rare opportunity for skywatchers to observe the solar system's innermost planet.
An opinion piece by Max Amuchie, part of 'The Sundiata Post Model' series, introduces the concept of the 'Realm of the Long Term' and discusses the sustainability of institutions.
August 2026 is predicted to be an extraordinary month for Leos, bringing a wave of self-confidence, business opportunities, financial gains around August 14, and overall success in all life areas, influenced by the Sun and Venus.
A new scientific study challenges the long-held belief that Earth will be engulfed when the Sun transforms into a red giant, suggesting a possibility for the planet's survival.
Emergency services in Kouvola, Finland, rescued a baby and a dog from a locked car after the keys were left inside and the doors automatically locked in a service station parking lot. The car quickly heated up in the sun.
The Sunday Gospel reflects on the unwavering nature of Christ's love, questioning what could possibly separate believers from it, such as tribulation, persecution, or danger.
A new memoir titled 'Tomorrow the Sun Will Rise Again' is highlighted for exposing the hidden struggles of addiction within families, offering a non-standard narrative.
The Sunila residential area in Kotka, Finland, has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List as an example of Alvar Aalto's architecture, attracting more than just Aalto fans.
An oncologist issues a warning that even sunscreen with SPF 50 does not offer complete protection against the sun and the risk of melanoma, emphasizing that tanning is a sign of skin damage.
A new heatwave has commenced this week, bringing intense conditions that were noticeable even at dawn. The article poetically describes the extreme heat, likening it to a plane melting under the sun's rays.
British media, including The Sun, are reporting on the case of 38-year-old British woman Elizabeth Ross, found dead in a suitcase in an abandoned building in Kypseli, Athens, focusing on her last movements, sent messages, and a three-day gap.
Actor Pedro Pascal was seen shirtless on a luxury yacht in Mallorca with male model Christian Hogue, soaking up the sun. This follows earlier reports of him on a yacht trip with Jennifer Aniston and Courteney Cox.
The Sundance Film Festival is expanding its footprint to Boulder, Colorado, with plans for new theaters and an increased number of competition slots for its 2027 event. Festival director Eugene Hernandez detailed the "unprecedented" work involved in this move, while also addressing the potential inclusion of AI-created films.
The dramatic mystery film "Islands" (also known as "Shadows in the Sun," 2025), starring Sam Riley and Stacy Martin, is set to premiere on Sunday, August 2nd, at 10:00 PM in Nova's Sunday Premiere slot.
The 'Flug og fákar' air and vintage car festival was held for the third time at Egilsstaðir Airport, attracting many attendees who enjoyed the sunny weather and diverse vehicles, including the President of Iceland.
A partial solar eclipse, where the Moon will obscure over 90% of the Sun's diameter in western Croatia, will be visible from the country on August 12, 2026, just before sunset, according to the Zagreb Observatory.
A dedicated teacher from Kolkata embarked on a mission to educate children in the Sundarbans, establishing a school that grew to serve hundreds despite facing challenges like cyclones and pandemics.
The Sunday Morning Movie feature presents 'Cwal' (also known as 'At Full Gallop'), a 1996 film described as being about horses, life, and living on one's own terms.
Hanle village in Ladakh, India, is attracting global tourists for its exceptionally dark night skies, offering pristine views of the Milky Way and establishing itself as India's first International Dark Sky Reserve.
The municipality of Vimioso, Portugal, is organizing activities for an upcoming solar eclipse, where the moon will cover 99.4% of the sun's light. The local council will distribute protective glasses, offer practical observation classes, and host astronomy and nature workshops.
Amir Hasičević, Minister of Trade for the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, presented data showing that Orašje municipality, the only one exempt from the Sunday non-working day law, has a lower turnover growth than the FBiH average.
While light takes approximately 8 minutes to travel from the Sun to Earth, new insights reveal that the photons we currently observe originated much earlier, even before the last ice age.
Nordson Medical, a company based in Boyle, Roscommon, successfully raised €110,438 through a summer fundraiser. The funds are designated for the Sunflower Children’s Hospice, which supports the Mayo Roscommon Hospice.
Today's astrological landscape, influenced by the Sun's difficult aspect with Chiron and Mercury's gradual restoration, advises caution in decisions and avoiding pressure.
The concept of the sun shining even at night is being explored. This suggests a discussion or article about innovative ideas or scientific possibilities related to light.
Scientists have provided the newest forecast for the Sun's activity, detailing its approximately 11-year cycles during which its magnetic field strengthens, weakens, and reverses, and the number of sunspots rises and falls.
Today's astrological forecast discusses the shift in zodiac influences as the Sun moves from Cancer to Leo, bringing a new wave of extroversion, alongside the effects of the Moon in Scorpio and retrograde Mercury.
A Republican rebellion, particularly from northern-state lawmakers concerned about children going to school in the dark, is threatening to derail the Sunshine Protection Act in the US Senate.
Jim Gilstrap, the acclaimed vocalist known for singing the theme song to the TV show 'Good Times' and contributing to Stevie Wonder's 'You Are the Sunshine of My Life,' has passed away at the age of 79 from natural causes on Saturday, July 18.
In the 7 June 2026 article which marked the formal unveiling of the Decoupling Sovereignty Index (DSI), I articulated a defining institutional proposition.
An upcoming solar eclipse on August 12th will see the Moon cover most of the sun's disk, creating a spectacular view at sunset. This article provides guidance on how to prepare and safely watch the celestial event.
A recent analysis suggests that as air quality improves, the Earth absorbs more solar energy, leading to an acceleration of global warming. This phenomenon indicates the planet is currently absorbing more energy from the Sun than in previous decades.
Preparations for the FIFA World Cup final are underway, with discussions focusing on player fitness, team dynamics, and the highly anticipated first-ever halftime show. Meanwhile, FIFA and the White House are monitoring the impact of Canadian wildfires on the event.
A documentary detailing the dramatic 2023 Battagram cable car rescue in Pakistan, described by filmmaker Naqvi as a 'Hollywood-style action thriller,' is set to premiere at the Sundance Film Festival.
Spain’s national football team practiced for the World Cup final in northern New Jersey under hazardous air conditions caused by smoke from Canadian wildfires. The sun was obscured by haze during their outdoor training session.
Billions in taxpayer income are leaving California and New York, with the largest net taxpayer losses concentrated in these two states as migration to the Sun Belt accelerates.
Palestinian writer Ghassan Kanafani's testimony about displaced people from an occupied land, 'Men in the Sun,' carries a pacifist message that remains eerily relevant today.
Authorities in Perak, Malaysia, have initiated an operation following an increase in complaints about wild monkey harassment affecting commuters at the Sungai Perak Rest and Recreation area.
A Dutch newspaper article describes a companion pointing to the sky, indicating the sun's position according to their phone app, behind some insulation foam.
Scientists have calculated that Earth's plant life may persist for approximately 1.8 billion more years, after which the Sun's increasing brightness will make conditions too harsh for vegetation.
US Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent Republican and ally of Donald Trump, has died at the age of 71. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from political figures, including Trump, and has ignited a scramble for his Senate seat.
A dermatologist discussed chemical and mineral filters, as well as UV protective clothing, as effective ways to shield children's skin from sun exposure, warning against the dangers of sunburn.
The Sunlight T 58 Adventure motorhome, under 6 meters long, demonstrates how intelligent design can provide the spaciousness of larger models while maintaining the agility of a compact body.
Inspired by Ernest Hemingway's 'The Sun Also Rises,' English professor Bill Hillmann has pursued his dream of running with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, for two decades.
Singer Britney Spears was filmed performing stunts on a Los Angeles highway, including standing through the sunroof of a black car, raising concerns among her fans.
Pop princess Zara Larsson is making waves with a continuous stream of 'hot pics' showcasing her figure in bikinis and stylish outfits, creating a 'Eurosummer' vibe with each post.
A new startup is reportedly planning to control and monetize the sun's light using a fleet of giant space mirrors, a concept that has drawn skepticism.
Charli xcx, GloRilla, PinkPantheress, Tinashe, Rüfüs Du Sol, Empire of the Sun, and Sienna Spiro are among the artists expected to perform at Outside Lands 2026.
Leandro Leviste's promise to end energy poverty by 2022 through his solar energy franchise has not been realized, with the article reflecting on the current state of his venture.
The Times newspaper has released its daily selection of puzzles, including various Sudoku, Codeword, Futoshiki, and Sakuro challenges. These puzzles offer readers a range of mental exercises for entertainment.
Montenegro authorities have arrested three individuals and issued nearly EUR 90,000 in fines to businesses defying the Sunday trading ban. 118 shops were closed as part of the enforcement efforts.
The German Automobile Club (ADAC) conducted research to determine whether placing a windshield sunshade on the inside or outside of a car is more effective, and how vehicle color influences internal temperatures when parked in the sun.
A recent discovery reveals that pygmy hippos naturally produce a unique substance that acts as a sunscreen, protecting their skin from the sun's harmful rays.
This article explores why the traditional Hungarian krémes pastry is becoming more expensive and harder to find in good quality, while also discussing the decline of the Sunday cake-eating ritual.
Various celebrities, including Sydney Sweeney, Selena Gomez, and Rita Ora, were featured in hot photoshoots throughout July 2026, displaying their curves and sun-kissed bodies in athleisure and bikinis.
A scenic view captures the sun setting behind the Serra del Cadí mountain range, with the Pedraforca mountain barely visible and the bell tower of L'Esquirol in the foreground.
International pop star Dua Lipa is set to perform at the Sunny Hill Festival in Pristina, Kosovo, from July 31 to August 2, amidst anti-government protests in Albania.
Murtadha Gusau delivers a Friday sermon discussing the significance and established position of the Sunnah within the Islamic faith, emphasizing its role in legislation and preservation of religion.
Scorching temperatures pose risks for animals, including dehydration, heatstroke, and burns. Pastures and crops have been scorched by the sun, and the heatwave and lack of rain have particularly affected farms in the region, forcing farmers to use alternative feed.
An expert warns against three specific actions to avoid when leaving a car in the sun, as interior temperatures can quickly reach dangerous levels, even on moderately warm days.
Value stocks have seen a period of outperformance this year, as investors shift their focus towards companies with greater exposure to the real economy, moving away from other sectors.
A 130-square-meter screen is being erected in Parc Central, Kirchberg, as preparations are underway for the Sunset Cinema, which will feature 30 films over the next three weeks.
Residents of Warsaw and other Polish towns witnessed a rare total solar eclipse 175 years ago, on July 28, 1851, when the sun completely disappeared for 110 seconds, marking the last such event visible in the region.
The sun appeared in southwest Iceland today, drawing many people to Nauthólsvík to enjoy the pleasant weather, with some even moving their workplaces outdoors.
A fine was confirmed for a dog owner who left their dog in a hot car while they were in a restaurant, despite the owner arguing that the sun had not harmed the animal.
An opinion piece discusses the Sundiata Post Model, exploring how knowledge-producing newsrooms can adapt, survive, and remain relevant across generations in the long term.
Residents of Poland, Spain, and Iceland will be able to observe a significant solar eclipse on August 12. In Poland, the sun will be obscured by up to 88 percent, making it one of the most spectacular astronomical events of the year.
The Krakatau volcano in the Sunda Strait erupted on August 27, 1883. The explosion was so powerful that its sound was heard 4,800 kilometers away on Rodrigues Island.
Paris-based The Pool Films has acquired world rights to 'The Color of the Sun,' the debut feature film from Tokyo-based photographer and director Xavier Tera, ahead of its Venice Premiere.
Traders in the Sunyani Business Community have lauded the Bank of Ghana's measures to sustain the Ghana cedi coin as a legal tender, following a directive from the central bank.
Former Coronation Street actor Qasim Akhtar is set to receive 'substantial' libel damages from the publisher of The Sun newspaper to settle a High Court claim.
Indie band Teenage Fanclub has revealed details of their new album, 'Do Not Dare To Dream,' alongside the release of their single 'Day In The Sun' and plans for a UK and Ireland tour.
Authored by Jim Quinn via The Bruning Platform blog, the article warns that 'We've Already Entered This Fourth Turning's Global War,' citing 'THESE are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis'.
A new documentary titled 'If These Walls Could Rock' will explore the history of the Sunset Marquis hotel, featuring interviews with rock stars like Slash, Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, and Dave Grohl.
Customers entering a fish market in Zagreb's Kvatrić neighborhood are reportedly disgusted by a large accumulation of bird droppings on the canopy above the entrance, melting in the sun.
New computer simulations suggest that the Milky Way galaxy underwent a significant reorientation ten billion years ago after colliding with a dwarf galaxy, dubbed the Gaia Sausage, which had a mass exceeding ten billion times that of the Sun.
This opinion piece criticizes the perceived arrogance of Minister Fernando Alexandre, suggesting that moments like these call for humility rather than daily displays of pride.
The southern and western parts of Iceland will continue to experience wet weather, while the sun will shine in the north and east, with temperatures around or above 20 degrees Celsius.
More than 2,200 years ago, the ancient Greek scholar Eratosthenes successfully calculated the Earth's circumference using only a stick and observations of the Sun.
The Sunday Independent's View suggests that while Jennie's Law may be imperfect, it represents significant progress in addressing domestic violence issues in Ireland.
A 110-year-old pipe rupture in West Hollywood caused thousands of gallons of water to flood streets, leading to major road closures and forcing businesses like Dialog Cafe around the Sunset Strip to shut down.
Moments of panic occurred on the coast in the Venus resort after a one-and-a-half-meter snake was spotted among the sunbeds in the early morning hours.
Finland is experiencing its last day of warm summer weather on Friday, with heavy rain expected to arrive soon, marking a temporary end to the sunshine.
A three-level boat sank in the San Francisco Bay near Alcatraz, resulting in at least one fatality, 16 rescues, and three passengers still unaccounted for.
A year after the last eruption in the Sundhnúksgígaröð crater row began, land uplift continues at Svartsengi, with scientists and the Icelandic Met Office assessing further magma intrusions and eruptions as likely on the Reykjanes Peninsula.
Argentina secured a spot in the World Cup final after a thrilling victory over England in the semifinals, with Lionel Messi leading the team's performance. Celebrations erupted in Argentina following the win, as fans anticipate the final match against Spain.
Amidst a heatwave, workers in Šibenik were observed using umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun, demonstrating resourceful ways to cope with high temperatures.
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the Sunshine Protection Act, a bill that would make daylight saving time permanent across the country. The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration, with President Trump reportedly in favor of abolishing time changes.
Finnish divers have commenced operations to pump oil from the sunken armored ship Ilmarinen, described as the 'most dangerous wreck in the Baltic Sea'.
A 29-year-old woman was rescued from an Austrian mountain at night after waiting for the sunset in shorts and street shoes without a lamp, requiring mountain rescue assistance for her descent.
A luxury Ferrari Roma worth over Rs 3.5 crore crashed into an apartment gate in Hyderabad's Jubilee Hills, sustaining extensive damage. No injuries were reported from the Sunday accident.
An opinion piece from the Sunday Independent suggests that RTÉ is gambling on being too big to fail, but emphasizes the necessity for the broadcaster to significantly cut its costs and restructure.
This week, globally, themes of security, borders, logistics, economy, information warfare, and political statements may continue to arise, as the Sun and Mercury strengthen information flow, and Saturn's influence on Mars increases prolonged tension and military plans.