Shadows of War
Latest on War News
From Frontlines to Headlines: An Ex-Rebel’s Journey to Intelligence Insider
What is the Latest on War News?
War continues to shape global politics, economies, and security as conflicts unfold across different regions. From territorial disputes to military interventions and shifting alliances, the latest on war news brings real-time updates on developing situations.
Whether it’s large-scale warfare, regional tensions, or covert operations, staying informed is crucial as events can change rapidly.
Stay Updated with Shadows of War | Latest on War News
The situation in global conflict zones shifts rapidly. This page provides real-time updates and insights, ensuring that the most recent developments in war and military affairs are always within reach.
How is the U.S. Military Responding to Global Threats?
As a major global force, the U.S. military plays a key role in international defense strategy. With ongoing deployments, military exercises, and evolving defense policies, the United States responds to emerging threats through strategic operations, partnerships, and intelligence gathering.
Whether through conventional military presence or special operations, its actions influence conflict zones and global security dynamics.
Stay informed with the Latest on War News!
What Are the Key Military Conflicts in the Middle East?
The Middle East remains a focal point for geopolitical tensions and military activity, with conflicts affecting both regional stability and international relations.
From armed confrontations to diplomatic negotiations, the situation is constantly evolving. Military actions, peace efforts, and power struggles between regional and international players continue to define the landscape of war in this region.
Latest on War News will keep you updated!
How Do Special Operations and Military Studies Shape Modern Warfare?
Behind every military operation is extensive research and training. Special operations forces, intelligence agencies, and defense analysts continuously study warfare tactics, soldier resilience, and combat effectiveness.
Research on military strategy, technological advancements, and psychological warfare provides insight into how wars are fought, won, and prevented.
Latest on War News—stay ahead!
State-Backed Femicide in Iran: How ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ Became a Fight for Survival
What Does 'Woman, Life, Freedom' Mean in a Country Where Women Keep Dying? “Woman, Life, Freedom” was never just a chant. It was a cry...
Latest on War News Global Conflicts
As of February 26, 2025, several global conflicts continue to reshape international security. The Russia-Ukraine war remains ongoing, with Ukraine targeting Russian infrastructure and the U.S. linking military aid to economic agreements. U.S.-China trade tensions have intensified, with new tariffs affecting global markets and increasing economic uncertainty. In the Red Sea, Houthi attacks on commercial vessels have disrupted shipping routes, prompting a multinational military response. Meanwhile, the Middle East remains volatile, with ongoing conflicts covered in a separate section. As geopolitical tensions evolve, staying informed is crucial in understanding the shifting landscape of global warfare.
Source 03-03-25 Council on Foreign Affairs
Counterterrorism & Global Security
Terrorism remains a persistent threat, with extremist groups adapting to new tactics and geopolitical shifts. Governments and security agencies worldwide continue to combat these threats through intelligence operations, military interventions, and counter-radicalization programs.
From terrorist activities in conflict zones to covert operations targeting extremist networks, global counterterrorism efforts play a crucial role in maintaining security. As new threats emerge, staying informed on policy changes, military strategies, and international cooperation is essential in understanding the fight against terrorism.
- Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 17, 2025by ISW Press (Feeds) on August 18, 2025 at 2:19 am
US officials acknowledged that Putin has yet to demonstrate a willingness to offer the concessions necessary to reach a peace agreement. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated in an interview with […]
- Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 16, 2025by ISW Press (Feeds) on August 17, 2025 at 1:43 am
Various US officials indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin may be willing to compromise on some war termination demands, but Putin's own statements and Russian official statements […]
- Key takeaways from the Trump-Putin summitby Matthew Lee, The Associated Press (Defense News) on August 16, 2025 at 6:05 pm
The much-anticipated summit ended with a thud after the two leaders conceded they had failed to reach any agreements on how to end the Russia-Ukraine war.
- Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 15, 2025by ISW Press (Feeds) on August 16, 2025 at 1:17 am
US President Donald Trump met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, on August 15. Putin said nothing in the joint press conference to […]
- Iran Update, August 15, 2025by ISW Press (Feeds) on August 16, 2025 at 12:22 am
Iranian-backed Iraqi militia Kataib Hezbollah Secretary General Abu Hussein al Hamidawi published a statement on August 15 in which he called for strengthening Iranian-backed Iraqi militias, likely […]
Countering terrorism extends beyond military action. Nations are targeting financial networks, border security, and cyber threats, while global intelligence-sharing remains crucial in dismantling extremist operations. Meanwhile, online radicalization has made the internet a new battleground, pushing governments and tech companies to curb extremist content.
As threats evolve, staying informed on security strategies and counterterrorism efforts is essential.
For the Latest on War News about Counterterrorism and Global Security see the feeds in this section.
- British Army to receive final Tranche One Jackal 3 4x4s by year-endby Richard Thomas (Army Technology) on August 15, 2025 at 4:12 pm
Manufacturing will now get underway on a 'top-up order for 53 Jackal 3 Extenda variants first ordered in 2024.
- Swap Around and Find Out: The New Rules of International Digital Economic Warfareby Adam Zarazinski (War on the Rocks) on August 15, 2025 at 7:30 am
On Feb. 21, 2025, North Korean state hackers linked to the Lazarus Group pulled off the largest digital theft in history, stealing around $1.5 billion worth of Ethereum from a cryptocurrency exchange […]
- The Chip That Crossed the Line? NVIDIA, China, and the Great Power Tech Raceby Brad Carson (War on the Rocks) on August 14, 2025 at 6:40 pm
We’re diving into a major development at the intersection of tech, trade, and national security: the U.S. government’s decision to allow NVIDIA’s H20 chips back into the Chinese market. Brad […]
- China’s Soft Power Tools and Whether They Workby Owen Daniels (War on the Rocks) on August 14, 2025 at 5:30 pm
The United States and China increasingly compete with each other around the world — both in terms of hard power and soft power. In the last two decades, China has shown increasing interest in […]
- Investing in Ukraine’s Defense Edge: A Conversation with Perry Boyleby Perry Boyle (War on the Rocks) on August 14, 2025 at 4:28 pm
This exclusive Cogs of War interview is with Perry Boyle, the CEO and co-founder of MITS Capital LLC, which is working to bring capital to the Ukrainian defense industry.From a distance, it’s hard […]
- Elbit Systems wins $1.64bn defence contract with European nationby Jangoulun Singsit (Army Technology) on August 14, 2025 at 1:55 pm
Israeli’s defence contractor Elbit Systems has secured a $1.64bn contract to supply defence solutions to an undisclosed European country.
- Rheinmetall to provide $292m maintenance for Czech tanksby Jangoulun Singsit (Army Technology) on August 14, 2025 at 1:49 pm
Rheinmetall has been awarded a service contract by the Czech Republic MoD for the maintenance of Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks.
What Are the Key Security Challenges in Europe & Eurasia?
Europe and Eurasia remain at the center of geopolitical tensions, military conflicts, and security challenges that shape global stability.
From territorial disputes and military buildups to cyber warfare and terrorism, the region faces constant threats requiring coordinated responses. Nations are adapting their defense strategies, intelligence operations, and counterterrorism efforts to address these evolving risks, while NATO and other international alliances play a crucial role in deterrence and security cooperation.
- Episode Spécial 30 ans de Crisis Group : évolution du multilatéralisme et du maintien de la paix, l’analyse de Jean-Marie Guéhennoby nalberti (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
Dans cet épisode spécial d’Afrique 360°, Enrica Picco et Rinaldo Depagne reçoivent Jean-Marie Guéhenno, ancien président de l’International Crisis Group (2014-2017) et ancien secrétaire […]
- The DR Congo-Rwanda Deal, Trump’s Mediation and African Politicsby hschaub (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
This week on Hold Your Fire!, Richard speaks with Murithi Mutiga, Crisis Group’s Africa program director, about the DR Congo-Rwanda peace deal, what it says about the Trump administration’s […]
- Los turbulentos primeros 100 días de Trump: perspectivas desde distintas partes del mundoby eschelhaas (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
Desde que asumió el cargo a finales de enero, la segunda administración de Trump ha tomado medidas para cambiar drásticamente un orden nacional e internacional establecido desde hace décadas. […]
- Trump’s Turbulent First 100 Days: Views from Around the Globeby pfranz (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
Since taking office in late January, the second Trump administration has moved to upend a decades-old domestic and international order. Crisis Group takes stock of what the White House has done and […]
- Sans l’USAID, l’assistance humanitaire en Afrique est-elle menacée ?by scavrel (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
Dans cet épisode d’Afrique 360°, Enrica Picco et Rinaldo Depagne reçoivent Stéphane Doyon, membre du département des opérations de Médecins Sans Frontières, pour parler de la suspension de […]
At the same time, hybrid warfare tactics, including cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and economic pressure, are increasingly used to destabilize governments and influence public opinion.
As global powers navigate shifting alliances and military strategies, staying informed on regional conflicts, security policies, and defense initiatives is crucial to understanding the broader impact of these developments on Europe, Eurasia, and beyond.
For the Latest on War News about Key Security Challenges in Europe and Eurasia see the feeds in this section.
- Los turbulentos primeros 100 días de Trump: perspectivas desde distintas partes del mundoby eschelhaas (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
Desde que asumió el cargo a finales de enero, la segunda administración de Trump ha tomado medidas para cambiar drásticamente un orden nacional e internacional establecido desde hace décadas. […]
- Trump’s Turbulent First 100 Days: Views from Around the Globeby pfranz (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
Since taking office in late January, the second Trump administration has moved to upend a decades-old domestic and international order. Crisis Group takes stock of what the White House has done and […]
- عشرة صراعات تجدر مراقبتها في عام 2025by scavrel (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
تضيف عودة ترامب حالة من عدم القدرة على التنبؤ بالأحداث إلى عالم متقلّب أصلاً. ومع تصاعد التوترات العالمية، […]
- 10 конфликтов в центре внимания в 2025 годуby scavrel (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
Возвращение Трампа добавляет непредсказуемости в мире, который и без того нестабилен. На фоне усиления […]
- Dix conflits à surveiller en 2025by scavrel (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
Le retour de Donald Trump renforce l’imprévisibilité d’un monde déjà instable. Alors que les tensions mondiales sont de plus en plus vives, des mutations se profilent à l’horizon, que ce […]
- 10 conflictos para tener en la mira en 2025by tfuertes (RSS) on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
El regreso de Trump le suma imprevisibilidad a un mundo ya de por sí volátil. A medida que aumentan las tensiones globales, se avecinan cambios, ya sea a través de acuerdos o por la fuerza de las […]
Navigating Middle East Security: Addressing Conflicts, Terrorism, and Strategic Risks
The Middle East continues to grapple with complex security challenges that significantly impact regional and global stability.
Persistent issues such as sectarian conflicts, notably between Sunni and Shia factions, territorial disputes, and the influence of external powers contribute to a volatile environment. The rivalry between nations like Saudi Arabia and Iran further exacerbates tensions, leading to proxy wars and political instability across the region.
- UN highlights need for peaceful resolution, as Trump and Putin prepare to meet on Ukraineby News on August 15, 2025 at 12:00 pm
The United Nations has reiterated the importance of dialogue as US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin prepare to meet on Friday in Alaska, with Ukraine top of the agenda.
- UN warns Gaza crisis could worsen without safe, unrestricted aid flowby News on August 15, 2025 at 12:00 pm
Without an urgent and unrestricted flow of aid, Gaza’s already dire humanitarian crisis could deteriorate further, the UN warned on Friday.
- Trapped in Gaza: Palestinians with disabilities cannot reach aidby News on August 15, 2025 at 12:00 pm
When Israeli forces in Gaza issue a new displacement order ahead of an incursion into a neighbourhood or city, Palestinian civilians are expected to pack their bags and flee – perhaps for the […]
- Syria: Violence in Alawite areas may be war crimes, say rights investigatorsby News on August 14, 2025 at 12:00 pm
Top UN human rights investigators said on Thursday that war crimes may have been committed in predominantly Alawite areas of Syria in a wave of deadly violence earlier this year.
- Peacekeepers find weapons trove in southern Lebanon, as drought threatens millionsby News on August 14, 2025 at 12:00 pm
UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon have uncovered rocket launchers, mortar rounds and other unauthorized weapons, while the country grapples with a severe drought, threatening millions with […]
In addition to traditional military confrontations, the Middle East faces non-conventional threats, including cyber warfare, disinformation campaigns, and economic coercion. These hybrid warfare tactics aim to destabilize governments and sway public opinion, complicating the security landscape.
The involvement of global powers, pursuing their strategic interests, adds layers of complexity to conflict resolution efforts.
To navigate these multifaceted challenges, regional and international actors must engage in coordinated responses, encompassing diplomatic initiatives, intelligence sharing, and counterterrorism operations. Understanding the intricate dynamics of Middle Eastern conflicts is essential for policymakers and stakeholders committed to fostering long-term peace and security in the region.
For those seeking direct and authoritative updates on Middle Eastern security issues, the following RSS feeds from reputable organizations offer valuable insights:
- Task Order awarded for HAZMAT Maintenance Facility in Kuwaitby Press Operations (Headquarters U.S. Army Corps of Engineers News Releases) on January 21, 2021 at 1:48 pm
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Middle East District (TAM) awarded a task order for a HAZMAT Maintenance Facility for the Kuwait Ministry of Defense, Jan. 20.
- TAM awards contract for Logistics Complex in the State of Qatarby Press Operations (Headquarters U.S. Army Corps of Engineers News Releases) on December 28, 2020 at 6:07 pm
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Middle East District (TAM) awarded a contract for a Trans-regional logistics complex center in the State of Qatar.
- TAM Awards Task Order for Saudi Arabia forcesby Press Operations (Headquarters U.S. Army Corps of Engineers News Releases) on November 5, 2020 at 7:19 pm
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District awarded a task order for AE services for the Royal Saudi Land Forces Aviation Command (RSLFAC) Master Planning and Construction Phase 2A […]
- Middle East District assists planning efforts with Lebanese Armed Forcesby Press Operations (Headquarters U.S. Army Corps of Engineers News Releases) on October 13, 2020 at 8:53 pm
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District has been working with the State Department's Office of Defense Cooperation-Lebanon to assist with planning efforts for various military sites for […]
- TAM Awards contract for maintenance/repair services in Kuwait.by Press Operations (Headquarters U.S. Army Corps of Engineers News Releases) on October 2, 2020 at 12:11 am
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Middle East District awarded a contract for maintenance and repair services at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait.
Arms Control and Military Alliances: U.S. Strategies for Global Stability
The United States plays a central role in shaping global arms control and military alliances, using diplomatic efforts and strategic partnerships to ensure international security. As a leader in NATO and other defense coalitions, the U.S. works to strengthen military alliances, deter adversaries, and maintain peace through a mix of defense treaties, security cooperation, and arms control agreements. In addition to traditional military alliances, the U.S. is actively involved in arms non-proliferation efforts, focusing on reducing the spread of weapons of mass destruction and maintaining global stability.
- Chaplain Corps Summit reinforces spiritual readiness, unveils new visionby Staff Sgt. Emmeline James (United States Space Force News) on August 15, 2025 at 7:49 pm
The Air Force Chaplain Corps wrapped up its annual summit, bringing together Religious Support Teams from across the Total Force to focus on spiritual readiness and alignment under the Chaplain […]
- Around the Air Force: REFORPAC Wraps, Deployable Combat Wings, Mapping Spaceby Senior Airman Akeem Campbell (Air Force Link News) on August 15, 2025 at 12:14 pm
In this week's look around the Air Force, REFORPAC 25 concludes after 30 days of exercising across the Indo-Pacific, Deployable Combat Wings reorganize forces to meet requirements in any theater, and […]
- US Space Force prepares X-37B Mission 8 for launchby DoD News (United States Space Force News) on August 14, 2025 at 12:51 pm
The US Space Force, in partnership with the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office and SpaceX, is making final preparations to launch the eighth mission of the X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle.
- Space Systems Command, United Launch Alliance launch USSF-106 mission aboard Vulcan rocketby Space Systems Command Public Affairs (United States Space Force News) on August 13, 2025 at 5:59 pm
Space Systems Command and United Launch Alliance's launch teams successfully completed the inaugural launch of a Vulcan Centaur rocket, carrying the U.S. Space Force-106 mission into geosynchronous […]
- SIPRI brings responsible innovation into focus at global AI summitby SIPRI (RSS) on August 13, 2025 at 12:28 pm
On 8 July, SIPRI researcher Jules Palayer took part in the AI for Good summit in Geneva, speaking about the risks that civilian AI technology can pose to international peace and security.
Arms control initiatives, including arms reduction treaties, non-proliferation agreements, and global sanctions, are crucial in preventing escalation and promoting peace in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. The U.S. continues to adapt its defense strategies and alliance commitments to address new security challenges, from cyber threats to the spread of conventional weapons.
- Airmen rapidly deploy to support Philippine disaster relief effortsby 1st Lt. Cullen Drenkhahn (353rd Special Operations Group News) on August 1, 2025 at 7:42 am
Within six hours of notification, Airmen from the 353rd Special Operations Wing shifted from training operations in northern Japan to deployment for crisis response operations in the Philippines.
- USCYBERCOM Hosts Cyber Flag 25-2by USCYBERCOM Public Affairs (U.S. Cyber Command News) on July 22, 2025 at 4:03 pm
SUFFOLK, Va. — U.S. Cyber Command launched Cyber Flag 25-2 at the Joint Warfighting Center in Suffolk, Virginia on July 7. As the largest, recurring, multi-national cyber exercise, Cyber Flag […]
- 353 SOW welcomes new commanderby 353d Special Operation Wing Public Affairs (353rd Special Operations Group News) on June 24, 2025 at 2:41 am
The 353d Special Operations Wing welcomed its new commander, Col. Stewart Parker, during a change of command ceremony held June 18, 2025, at Kadena Air Base, Japan. Parker assumed command from Col. […]
- Submissions Open for Thunder Dome 2026 Innovation Competitionby DoD News (353rd Special Operations Group News) on June 10, 2025 at 4:16 pm
Are you an Air Commando with an innovative idea that gets after strategic competition but need funding? If so, now is your chance to submit your idea for the opportunity to receive capital. The […]
- USCYBERCOM Demonstrates Global Cyber Superiority with Cyber Guard 25-2by DoD News (U.S. Cyber Command News) on June 5, 2025 at 1:03 pm
FORT MEADE, Md. — U.S. Cyber Command launched its annual training exercise Cyber Guard 25-2 on June 2, reinforcing the nation's global preeminence in cyberspace operations.
Supporting Veterans: Mental Health, Research, and Recovery Programs
The mental health of veterans remains a critical issue as service members transition to civilian life. Many face challenges such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, and traumatic brain injuries, requiring specialized care and long-term support. Research continues to highlight the impact of military service on mental health, leading to the development of new treatment methods, rehabilitation programs, and policy changes aimed at improving care for those who have served.
- Uniting to Combat Hunger VFW Encourages National Convention Members to Participateby VFW at Work on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
In anticipation of the 2025 VFW National Convention in August in Columbus, Ohio, the VFW and Humana are continuing the Uniting to Combat Hunger (UTCH) program which has provided more than 5.6 million […]
- 'We Welcome Everyone'by VFW at Work on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
Earlier this month, VFW Post 837 came together to celebrate Victory in Europe Day - the day Germany unconditionally surrendered to the Allied Powers, effectively bringing an end to WWII in Europe. […]
- 'A Community-Driven Movement'by VFW at Work on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
VFW Post 3219 in Hampton, Virginia, will hold its fourth annual blood drive for its 2025 VFW National Day of Service event. By participating in and leading the blood drive, veterans continue their […]
- Rallying Point for Reliefby VFW at Work on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
On the night of Jan. 21, 2025, tragedy struck the Village of Ovid, New York. A devastating fire consumed a significant portion of the town's Main Street, reducing to ashes the only grocery store, a […]
- 'I Enjoy Continuing to Serve'by VFW at Work on August 17, 2025 at 10:07 pm
Raised between Scotland and Canada, Colin Anderson now lives in Hamburg, New York, with his wife, Sue. He has three grown daughters: Heather, Elizabeth and Colleen. Anderson joined the U.S. Army […]
Across the U.S., government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions are working to expand mental health resources, from VA healthcare services to community-based programs focused on suicide prevention, therapy, and reintegration support. Staying informed about the latest research, policies, and available resources is essential for understanding the evolving landscape of veteran mental health care.
- Survivor Benefits and Services for Veterans’ Familiesby Theresa "Tbird" Aldrich (HadIt.com’s VA Disability Community Vets helping Vets since 1997) on August 17, 2025 at 7:41 pm
Survivor Benefits and Services for Veterans’ FamiliesDownload the 2025 Survivor Benefits Guide. Learn about VA survivor benefits, DIC, pensions, and resources to support veterans’ families after […]
- US forces bomb al-Shabab in Somalia over eight daysby Nicholas Slayton (Task & Purpose) on August 17, 2025 at 6:59 pm
At least five American airstrikes helped Somalia’s military retake an important town from militants. The post US forces bomb al-Shabab in Somalia over eight days appeared first on Task & […]
- 3 states sending 700 National Guard troops to DCby Nicholas Slayton (Task & Purpose) on August 16, 2025 at 9:57 pm
At least 700 National Guardsmen will be sent to Washington, D.C., nearly doubling the number of troops already activated in the capitol. The post 3 states sending 700 National Guard troops to DC […]
- Air Force veteran hit with felony sandwich assaultby Patty Nieberg (Task & Purpose) on August 16, 2025 at 3:37 pm
“I did it. I threw a sandwich,” Sean Dunn told an officer. The post Air Force veteran hit with felony sandwich assault appeared first on Task & Purpose.
- Navy names new top enlisted leader sailorby Nicholas Slayton (Task & Purpose) on August 16, 2025 at 11:30 am
Fleet Master Chief John Perryman will take over for Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy James Honea, who announced his retirement in July. The post Navy names new top enlisted leader sailor […]
Available Now – Grab Your Copy!
" With every shadow, there is light—and it is in the interplay of both that our stories truly unfold."
We’re excited to announce that Shadows of Tehran is officially available! You can now purchase your copy in print or ebook format here. Don’t miss out on this gripping true survival story—order today and join the journey!
Nick Berg
Shadows of Tehran: A True Story of Survival and Resilience
Shadows of Tehran is more than just a book—it’s a harrowing true story of survival, defiance, and the pursuit of freedom. Born into a world of conflict, Ricardo’s journey takes him from the underground resistance in Iran to the elite ranks of the U.S. Special Forces. Facing relentless danger, betrayal, and the weight of his past, he fought not only for his life but for a cause greater than himself. This gripping account offers an unfiltered look into the brutal realities of war, the sacrifices of those who dare to resist, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through firsthand experiences and raw emotion, Shadows of Tehran immerses readers in a journey of survival against impossible odds.
Who Is Nick Berg? The Man Behind Shadows of Tehran
Nick Berg’s life is a testament to resilience, courage, and an unbreakable will to fight for what is right. From his early years in Iran, where he risked everything as part of the resistance, to his transformation into a U.S. Special Operations operator, his story is one of relentless determination. Berg’s firsthand experiences in war zones, intelligence operations, and survival against the odds form the foundation of Shadows of Tehran, his powerful fictional military memoir. Today, he shares his knowledge and experiences, shedding light on the realities of war, survival, and the strength it takes to keep going when everything is against you.