Many countries in the world are pumping more water from their water aquifers than can be replenished which means that these supplies of fresh water are becoming less adequate over time. The effect of this activity will mean diminishing harvests of food, a trend that has already been observed in several countries already. It is very difficult to find “new” sources of water, so the trend is especially troubling for some heavily populated countries like China and India. But the situation is also acute in many areas of the US which enjoys the role of food supplier of last resort for the entire world. Another point is important: rising food prices are commonly associated with political protest.
The Syrian National Council–the coalition of anti-Assad rebels–has chosen a new leader, one more sympathetic to the views of Saudi Arabia. The move marks a defeat for the Qatari support for other factions within the rebel forces, a significant defeat given the huge financial support the Qataris have provided. It is not clear whether this change of leadership will make it more likely for Western powers to support the rebel forces, but it may represent a significant step forward in making the rebel forces more coherent and effective.
Since 2007, Chinese oceans near the Yellow Sea have been hit by extraordinary algae blooms (Enteromorpha prolifera). This year, off the coast near Qingdao, the blooms cover an area roughly the size of the US state, West Virginia. Nonetheless, some brave swimmers endure the foul-smelling mess and tried to enjoy the water.
World Politics News 
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