8 chapters across the catalog
A group of orcas near Gibraltar has been intentionally sinking yachts, a behavior reportedly led by a whale named "Gladys." Experts believe the behavior may have started as a defensive reaction to a collision before being taught to other members of the pod. The hosts discuss the intelligence of orcas and recount historical anecdotes of the animals in captivity.
European COVID-19 Surge, Gibraltar and Ireland Vaccination Data
Health officials warn of a COVID-19 surge in Europe, citing waning immunity and relaxed mitigation measures. Data from Gibraltar and Ireland is analyzed, showing high rates of infection despite nearly universal vaccination of the adult population. The discussion questions the logic of continued mandates when hospitalizations are split evenly between vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals.
Brexit Transition Period and Border Disputes in Ireland and Gibraltar
The Brexit agreement establishes a 21-month transition period during which the UK will remain an EU member until July 2020. Key unresolved issues include the Northern Ireland border, fishing rights in UK waters, and the status of British territories like Gibraltar and Cyprus. The hosts describe the document as a "nothing burger" consisting mostly of agreements to make future agreements.
Nigel Farage addresses the European Parliament, accusing the EU of acting like the "mafia" by demanding a 60 billion euro "ransom" for the UK to leave. The hosts highlight the tension over Gibraltar and Farage's defiant stance against the EU's demands.
The status of Gibraltar becomes a point of contention as Spain suggests changing the rules of the territory's governance post-Brexit. A comparison is drawn between the British control of Gibraltar and the Russian annexation of Crimea. Angela Merkel's warnings that the end of the EU project could lead to war are discussed as a fear-mongering tactic.
Straits of Gibraltar, British and Russian Naval Positioning
British warships are reportedly conducting war games near the Straits of Gibraltar, a strategic chokepoint connecting the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. This naval activity is linked to the discovery of large gas deposits in the Mediterranean and the presence of Russian submarines in the region. The tension between the UK and Spain over Gibraltar is framed as a precursor to a larger conflict over energy resources and maritime access.
The discussion concludes with a focus on Jeremy Scahill's film "Dirty Wars" and its connection to the Bertha Foundation's executive producer, Neil Tabatznik. Speculation is raised that David Miranda's detention may have been part of a filmed documentary project involving Laura Poitras. The hosts sign off with a reminder to listeners to avoid Gmail and return for the Sunday show.
The Spanish Interior Ministry released video of a model airplane allegedly packed with explosives, claiming it was part of an Al-Qaeda plot to attack a shopping center in Gibraltar. The suspects were also reportedly training with motorized paragliders. The hosts criticize the story as a fear-mongering media meme.
