17 May, 2011 — VTJP
News
International Middle East Media Center
Local Palestinian Elections Due To Be Delayed
IMEMC – Tuesday May 17, 2011 – 15:00, The Palestinian Authority has stated it will delay local elections due to be held in July. The elections are now due to be held on the 22nd of October in order to give time to allow for voters to be registered in the Gaza strip.
Israeli Demolitions More Than Double Since Last Year
IMEMC – Tuesday May 17, 2011 – 12:51, The UN Agency for Palestinian refugees has stated that Israel has displaced 149 children, through housing demolitions, in the West Bank so far this year. The figures show a stark increase on numbers displaced and housing units demolished for the same period last year.
Netanyahu Claims He Would Give Up “Isolated Settlements” For Peace
IMEMC – Tuesday May 17, 2011 – 11:15, Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that he would be willing to return some of the illegal Israeli settlement blocks established in the West Bank for the sake of peace. Netanyahu stated he would be willing to give up isolated settlements but not the major blocs. In what has been described by Israeli pundits as Netanyahu’s most “dovish” speech to date, the Israeli PM laid out his position ahead of a major address to US congress next Tuesday.
Israeli authorities cut off soldiers’ access to internet
IMEMC – Tuesday May 17, 2011 – 08:51, After a number of controversial posts on Facebook and other websites in recent months, the Israeli military has ordered its commanders to cut off access to the internet for nearly every computer accessed by soldiers.
Salfit area declared closed military zone
5/17/2011 – SALFIT (Ma’an)— Israeli forces declared an area in Salfit a closed military zone. Local official Nathmi Salman Deir Estaya said soldiers deployed and evacuated farmers. The soldiers in Wadi Qana refused to show documents explaining the ban, he said….
Palestinian Authority delays local elections
5/17/2011 – RAMALLAH (Ma’an) — The caretaker Palestinian Authority decided Tuesday to delay municipal elections until October 22, a cabinet statement said. The elections had been planned for July, but were postponed on the recommendation of the Central Elections Committee, the government statement said. Citing the 2005 elections law stipulating that elections must take place simultaneously….
Army dogs wage war on Palestinian workers
5/17/2011 – HEBRON (AFP) — Palestinians desperate for work in Israel will go to extremes to sneak past the West Bank barrier, but now they face a new hurdle — army attack dogs sent to sniff them out. Workers say the use of dogs to hunt down anyone trying to enter Israel illegally is a new phenomenon which has….
Arafat adviser: Mitchell resigned over deputy’s ‘bias’
5/17/2011 – RAMALLAH (Ma’an) — A political adviser to the late president Yasser Arafat issued a statement Tuesday, alleging that US Mideast peace envoy George Mitchell resigned because of the “extreme bias” of his deputy Dennis Ross. Bassam Abu Shareef said Ross obstructed all US initiatives aiming to achieve progress in the peace process, and blamed….
Israel expels 2 Palestinian returnees from Syria
5/17/2011 – JERUSALEM (AFP) — Two Palestinian protesters who entered Israel from Syria on Sunday during huge demonstrations on the armistice line were deported on Tuesday, a military spokeswoman said.” Two people who infiltrated the Golan from Syria were returned through Quneitra,” she said, referring to a crossing post situated on the United Nations-supervised armistice line between Syria….
Official: Malaysia flotilla to dock at Egypt port
5/17/2011 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — A Malaysian aid flotilla docked in the El-Arish port after Israeli forces forbade it from reaching Gaza, port director Maj. -Gen. Jamal Abdul Maqsoud said Tuesday. The Egyptian authorities will allow the flotilla remain in post until preparations are made to transfer the goods to the Rafah border crossing between….
Report: Hamas, Fatah ready to form government
5/17/2011 – CAIRO (Ma’an) — Egypt on Tuesday announced that Hamas and Fatah have reached agreements on all issues discussed in Cairo, particularly the formation of a new government. In a statement issued following their negotiations, the two Palestinian factions pledged on implementing everything they agreed on, according to a report in Egypt’s independent….
Witnesses: Israeli forces detain 6 near Bethlehem
5/17/2011 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) – Israeli forces raided the southern west Bank town of Al-Khadir near Bethlehem overnight Monday and detained six young men, local sources said. Al-Khadir resident Khalid Mahmoud Marzouq told Ma’an on Tuesday morning that Israeli forces ransacked the home of his neighbor Mahmoud Abdullah Subih shortly after midnight. Marzouq said….
Golan’s Druze community divided over protests
5/17/2011 – MAJDAL SHAMS, Syria (IRIN) — When thousands of Palestinian refugees gathered on the Syrian border with Israel near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights recently, local villagers were stunned. It was the first time in more than 20 years that there had been trouble on this border. As the crowd surged toward Israeli territory, the Israeli military shot….
Shaath: Slovenia to recognize Palestine before September
5/17/2011 – RAMALLAH (Ma’an) — Slovenia has promised to recognize an independent state of Palestine before September, a Fatah official said Tuesday. Nabil Shaath met with the Slovenian president and others during a visit to Slovenia heading a delegation of Fatah leaders. The Palestinians are planning a unilateral declaration of statehood at the United Nations General….
300 truckloads of goods enter Gaza as siege continues
5/17/2011 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Israel will permit 300 truckloads of goods and humanitarian aid to enter the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, Israeli officials informed Palestinian liaison officers. Palestinian official Raed Fattouh said the sole operating crossing, Kerem Shalom, would open for goods including 10 loads of cement for projects run by the German Development….
PA: Palestine may join Gulf Cooperation Council
5/17/2011 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — Palestine may join the Gulf Cooperation Council when it establishes its statehood, a Palestinian Authority official said Monday. PA cabinet chief Naim Abul Huomos said joining the council was important on political, economic and geographic levels. Jordan’s decision to join the GCC encouraged officials to seriously consider the move….
Abbas: UN statehood bid no ‘stunt’
5/17/2011 – NEW YORK (AFP) — President Mahmoud Abbas said Tuesday that his bid to secure international recognition for a Palestinian state was no “stunt” and would contribute to peace efforts with Israel. Plans to demand UN recognition of a Palestinian state in lands occupied by Israel in 1967 have drawn criticism from the United States and Israel….
Palestinian rights body slams Fatah, Hamas, Israel
5/17/2011 – JERUSALEM (AFP) — Palestinians face human rights abuses by Israel, the government of President Mahmoud Abbas and the Hamas rulers of the Gaza Strip, a Palestinian rights group said Tuesday. In its annual report for 2010, the Palestinian Independent Commission for Human Rights accused the Palestinian governments in the West Bank and Gaza of using torture….
Israel, Lebanon make rival UN protests over clashes
5/17/2011 – UNITED NATIONS (AFP) — Israel and Lebanon filed rival protests to the United Nations over deadly clashes involving thousands of Palestinian demonstrators who converged on Israel’s borders, diplomats said. Israel blamed Lebanon for the 10 deaths and hundreds wounded when its troops shot at the thousands of Palestinian refugees commemorating the mass displacements of….
Obama to meet Jordan’s King Abdullah
5/17/2011 – WASHINGTON (AFP) — US President Barack Obama is set to meet with Jordan’s King Abdullah II on Tuesday, kicking off a week of intense Middle East diplomacy at a moment of deep pessimism over prospects for an Israeli-Palestinian deal. Obama will also meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this week, with the leader staged….
Netanyahu: Palestinians rejected partition
5/17/2011 – TEL AVIV, Israel (Ma’an) — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel responded Tuesday to an op-ed by President Mahmoud Abbas, saying the Palestinians were the ones who rejected a UN partition plan in 1948. Netanyahu said that “Arab armies assisted by Palestinian forces were those who attacked the Jewish state with the aim of….
Gaza coast guards demand pay rise
5/17/2011 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Coast guards stationed along Gaza’s beaches protested Tuesday, demanding a salary increase. The workers demonstrated in front of the Ministers’ Council in Gaza city, raising banners reading “Pay us as much as we work.”Coast guard spokesman Omar Ayyash told Ma’an the workers had received….
President Abbas: Barcelona fan
5/17/2011 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — President Mahmoud Abbas hopes Spain’s Barcelona will win the Champions League final showdown against Manchester United. Abbas told the Italian sports newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport that “I follow sports especially football, basketball and volleyball. All of my grandchildren love Barcelona,” which is why he became a fan of….
Police seize expired food from Gaza markets
5/17/2011 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Police in Gaza have launched a campaign to remove expired food from markets across the coastal enclave. On Tuesday, police conducted surprise inspections and seized cheese and juice past their expiry date. Officers warned retailers that expired goods were a health and safety risk to residents….
Here comes your non-violent resistance
Palestine Note 17 May 2011 – The Economist – For many years now, we’ve heard American commentators bemoan the violence of the Palestinian national movement. If only Palestinians had learned the lessons of Gandhi and Martin Luther King, we hear, they’d have had their state long…
Fatah and Hamas agree on details of new government
Palestine Note 17 May 2011 – Local elections to be postponed to give Gaza more time to prepare Al Masry Al Youm – Egypt on Tuesday announced that Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah have reached agreements on all issues discussed during the past two days in…
Lessons From Nakba Day Disturbances Go Unlearned
Palestine Note 17 May 2011 – Wise leaders in Jerusalem and Washington were given a great deal of very useful information yesterday in Israel when a popular action led to hundreds of Palestinian refugees crossing the border into Israel, leading to the deaths of ten of…
‘Dozens killed’ in Syrian border town
AlJazeera 17 May 2011 – Security forces killed at least 27 civilians in three-day attack on Tel Kelakh, a rights lawyer told Al Jazeera.
Mystery persists over Al Jazeera journalist
AlJazeera 17 May 2011 – Syria says Dorothy Parvaz was deported to Iran, but Tehran has not shed any light on her whereabouts or wellbeing.
Mubarak’s wife released from detention
AlJazeera 17 May 2011 – Suzanne Mubarak still faces investigation regarding wealth she amassed during time spent as Egypt’s first lady.
Bahrain accepts resignation of opposition MPs
AlJazeera 17 May 2011 – Resignations over crackdown leave lower house with just 22 members as more accusations of torture are levelled.
Syrian agents ‘break up Aleppo protest’
AlJazeera 17 May 2011 – Dozens of students reportedly injured in second-largest city as authorities continue to crack down on protesters.
Iranian aid ships turned back from Bahrain
AlJazeera 16 May 2011 – Two ships carrying Iranian activists return to docks after facing “threats” from warships en route to Bahrain.
Israel unblocks Palestinian funds
AlJazeera 16 May 2011 – Palestinian Authority set to receive $86m in taxes, withheld by Israel following unity deal between Fatah and Hamas.
The Israeli Knesset to Discuses New Law that Bans Muslim calls for Prayers
PNN – Bethlehem – PNN – Israeli sources reported on Tuesday that Anastasia Michaeli, from the right wing Israel Betanu party submitted a bill of a law that forbids using loudspeakers to call for…
Israelis Troops Arrest 11 Civilians from the West Bank; Tanks Open Fire at Gaza Farmers
PNN – Bethlehem/Gaza – PNN – Israeli troops arrested on Tuesday 11 Palestinian civilians during raids targeting West Bank communities. Six of those arrested were taken from the village of al-Khader, near Bethlehem in…
Gush Shalom Respond to Netanyahu’s Speech; the Root of the Conflict is the War of 1948
PNN – Jerusalem – PNN – The Israeli human right group, Gush Shalom, issued a press release on Tuesday titled The root of the conflict is the war of 1948, the resolution of the…
Munib Masri: “I will Pursue the Dream of Return”
PNN – Beirut – PNN – Munib Rashid Masri, the President of Palestine Forum, denounced the Israeli shooting of Palestinian demonstrators who joined peaceful marches on the Lebanese and Syrian borders and in the…
Tel Aviv University Promotes ?¢‚Ǩ?ìPro-Israeli?¢‚Ǩ¬ù Delegations to International Campuses
PNN – By Connie Hackbarth, AIC to PNN – An invitation to an information meeting about “pro-Israel” student delegations was sent by the secretariat of Tel Aviv University’s Department of Political Communications to all…
When Obama Blinked First, Mitchell?¢‚Ǩ‚Ñ¢s Mission was Doomed
PNN – By Daoud Kuttab – The appointment of George Mitchell as Special Envoy for Middle East Peace for the newly-sworn-in U.S. president was a source of much hope in the Middle East. Senior…
Palestinian Center for Human Rights
Young Man Killed in Family Dispute in Gaza
Palestinian Center for Human Rights Sunday, 24 April 2011
Unknown Persons Blow Women’s Beauty Salon in Rafah and Car of The Assistant Comptroller General of the Security Services in Gaza
Palestinian Center for Human Rights Sunday, 20 March 2011
International Solidarity Movement
39;Silwan is the next Hebron’ : an interview with a resident of Silwan
5/17/2011 – International Solidarity Movement – International Solidarity Movement – On 14 May 2011, the ISM went to Silwan, East Jerusalem after hearing about the tragic death of Milad Ayyash, a Palestinian teenager, who was killed during the Friday demonstrations against the Occupation in Batten Al Hawwa. Milad Ayyash was pronounced dead in the early hours of May 14. His death came….
Settler attacks with Molotov cocktails on Nakba day in Hebron
5/17/2011 – International Solidarity Movement – International Solidarity Movement – A Palestinian house was attacked by settlers from the illegal settlement of Kiryat Arba in Western Hebron on May 15, the Nakba day. Jamal Abu Saifan told the International Solidarity Movement that around 6. 30 pm on Sunday, four masked settlers appeared and started to throw Molotov cocktails and glass bottles towards….
Former IDF spokesperson and Southern Brigade Commander to testify final court hearing of Corrie civil trial on May 22
5/17/2011 – International Solidarity Movement – Rachel Corrie Foundation – Former IDF Spokesperson Brigadier General Ruth Yaron and former Southern Brigade Commander, Colonel Pinhas (Pinky) Zuaretz are both scheduled to testify on May 22 in what is anticipated to be the final hearing in the Corrie family’s civil lawsuit against the State of Israel. The lawsuit, filed in 2005 by….
Spirit of Rachel Corrie attacked by Israeli navy
5/17/2011 – International Solidarity Movement – 16 May 2011- Perdana 4 Peace – The Spirit of Rachel Corrie Mission, involving a Malaysian owned ship carrying aid for Palestine, has been intercepted and attacked by the Israeli naval forces in the Palestinian security zone this morning at 0654 Jordan time. Currently the ship has been forced to anchor in the Egyptian waters at…. Related: Perdana 4 Peace
Alternative Information Center
Hamas-Fatah Agreement and Palestinian Popular Mobilisation
Alternative Information Center – The Hamas-Fatah agreement signed in Cairo on 4 May ended five years of internal strife and division.
Tel Aviv University Promotes “Pro-Israeli” Delegations to International Campuses
Alternative Information Center – An invitation to an information meeting about “pro-Israel” student delegations was sent by the secretariat of Tel Aviv University’s Department of Political Communications to all of its graduates on Monday (16 May).
Abbas urges U.N. recognition of Palestinian state
Relief Web 17 May 2011 – Source: Reuters – AlertNet Country: occupied Palestinian territory Israel lobbying against Palestinian U.N. bid U.S. pressure on Israel failed to stop settlements-Abbas (Adds Netanyahu statement, Israeli official comment) JERUSALEM, May 17 (Reuters) – Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas urged the international…
UN humanitarian chief ends four-day visit to the occupied Palestinian territory
Relief Web 17 May 2011 – Source: UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Country: occupied Palestinian territory (Jerusalem/New York, 17 May 2011): United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator (ERC) Valerie Amos has just completed a four-day visit to the occupied…
Lebanon’s Palestinians bury victims of Israeli shooting
Relief Web 17 May 2011 – Source: Agence France-Presse Country: Israel , Lebanon , occupied Palestinian territory By Khaled Soubeih (AFP) TYRE, Lebanon — Thousands of bereaved Palestinians in camps in south Lebanon on Monday laid to rest victims of a cross-border Israeli shooting, as shops and schools…
Haifa university prevents Arab MK Zoabi from delivering lecture
17 May 2011 – Palestine, (Pal Telegraph) – The Haifa university administration disallowed a lecture for Arab MK Hanin Zoabi on the occasion of Nakba under the title of “No to racism on Nakba anniversary”.
Israeli army invades Qana valley
17 May 2011 – West Bank, (Pal Telegraph)-Israeli occupation forces invaded Tuesday at morning Qana valley near Deir Estia in Salfit city, declaring it as a military closed area.
Israel fires at civilians in Gaza Strip
17 May 2011 – Gaza Strip, (Pal Telegraph)-Israeli occupation forces opened fire today at Palestinian farmers in Al-Farahin area in the east of Khan Younis city, southern Gaza Strip.
Israeli forces detain Palestinians in Bethlehem
17 May 2011 – West Bank, (Pal Telegraph)-Six Palestinians were arrested Tuesday by Israeli forces from Al-Khader town in the south of Bethlehem, in the occupied West Bank.
12 Palestinians arrested by Israel in Hebron
16 May 2011 – West Bank, (Pal Telegraph)-Israeli occupation forces clashed Monday with residents of Al-Uroop refugee camp in Hebron, arresting 12 Palestinians who participated in the clashes.
Q&A with Luis Moreno-Ocampo, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court
The National 17 May 2011 – Luis Moreno-Ocampo, the Argentinian who heads the prosecution team at the International Criminal Court, believes the charges he¬øs brought against Colonel Muammar Qaddafi¬øs regime will set a precedent in dealing with crime internationally.
Syria was building atomic plant when Israel bombed site
The National 17 May 2011 – Satellite imagery, procurement, and infrastructure information points to destroyed building at Dair Alzour being ‘indeed, a nuclear reactor at an advanced state of construction’ says former senior UN nuclear inspector.
Suzanne Mubarak freed after she hands over millions in assets to Egypt
The National 17 May 2011 – Former Egyptian president’s wife freed by judge after she gave the Illicit Gains Authority power of attorney over a villa in Cairo and two bank accounts, worth up to $4 million.
Obama to talk of ‘historic change’ in speech on Middle East
The National 17 May 2011 – Commentators question what US president will say and whether he will speak specifically about the Israel-Palestine issue, so central to US opinion.
Bahraini protester tells court he was threatened with rape after arrest
The National 17 May 2011 – Human rights activist Abdulhadi al Khawaja said he was threatened with rape while in custody after he refused to apologise to Bahrain’s king over his role in anti-government protests.
Officials investigate graves found near Syrian protest city
The National 17 May 2011 – Up to 26 bodies discovered near Deraa, city where unrest first erupted in March, under mounds of earth in wheatfields.
Mahmoud Abbas warns Palestinians ‘cannot wait indefinitely’ for statehood
The National 17 May 2011 – Palestinian president renews call for UN recognition, days before the Israeli prime minister heads to the US to meet President Barack Obama and deliver a speech before Congress.
Diplomats and Yemeni opposition try to resurrect GCC plan for Saleh’s departure
The National 17 May 2011 – Modifications to deal would let the ruling party appoint a unity government for the transition period until elections and would also change which opposition representative would sign the deal.
Netanyahu: Abbas is distorting known historical facts
Ha’aretz – Responding to Palestinian PM’s New York Times op-ed, PM says Palestinian leadership sees establishment of independent state as a way to continue the conflict with Israel, rather than end it.
Obama: Israeli-Palestinian peace talks more vital than ever
Ha’aretz – Following talks with Jordan’s King Abdullah, U.S. president says Mideast talks should relaunch and create ‘two states living side by side in peace and security.’
Netanyahu’s former top aide leaked secret information to media
Ha’aretz – Uzi Arad, who was previously thought to have resigned, was fired from his post as national security adviser after he was found to have inadvertently leaked confidential security information.
Akiva Eldar / Netanyahu strays left while winking at the right
Ha’aretz – PM’s speech on foundations of final status agreement did not include the truly important things, such as recognizing 1967 borders.
U.S., EU planning new steps in response to Syria crackdown
Ha’aretz – Clinton says new moves planned for days ahead; Ashton: Syrian government must make changes now.
Bradley Burston / For Palestinians, every day is Nakba Day
Ha’aretz – We owe Palestinians what we demand of them: recognition of our right to an independent state, and compromise for the sake of a shared future.
‘Waqf Temple Mount excavation damaged archaeological relics’
Ha’aretz – State Comptroller’s report finds that the Muslim religious trust carried out works without permits and used heavy equipment damaging the Jerusalem holy site.
State comptroller: Many shortcomings in Home Front Command control systems
Ha’aretz – State Comptroller’s report says lack of communication between Home Front Command and other emergency services puts Israeli security at risk.
Palestinian Authority postpones local vote to give Gaza time to organize
Ha’aretz – Delay means the election will be held after September, when Abbas has said he will ask the United Nations General Assembly to recognize a Palestinian state.
Abbas urges UN: Recognize Palestinian state, pave way for legal action against Israel
Ha’aretz – In a New York Times op-ed, Palestinian President says a UN move to authorize an independent Palestinian state come September would rectify what he calls the ‘unfulfilled’ 1947 UN partition plan.
State comptroller: Barak did not act as expected of a minister
Ha’aretz – In a special opinion section of the annual State Comptroller’s Report, Micha Lindenstrauss blasts defense minister for deviating from public norms in regards to the consulting firm he transferred to his family upon entering the cabinet.
Jaffa gang suspected of plotting to kill sheikh, blame rightists for crime
Ha’aretz – Attorney Gur Finkelstein, who represents the Scientology Center in Israel, was detained several weeks for allegedly hiring this gang to help him with his own criminal endeavors.
Ireland mounts huge security operation ahead of Queen Elizabeth’s visit
Ha’aretz – Army destroys makeshift bomb found on bus in Dublin; the visit, the first by a British monarch since Ireland won independence from London in 1921, is designed to show how warm neighborly relations have replaced centuries of animosity.
Syria denies existence of mass grave near Daraa
Ha’aretz – Syrian and international rights groups say Syrian forces have killed at least 700 civilians across the country since protests first broke out in Daraa on March 18.
‘Mubarak to apologize to Egyptian people and plead for amnesty’
Ha’aretz – According to Egyptian daily, the former president will explain that some of his mistakes were due to ‘faulty information’; he will also reportedly tell the people that he is willing to give up assets pending investigations.
BOI Governor Fischer named as potential successor to IMF chief
Ha’aretz – Strauss-Kahn was arrested in New York for allegedly assaulting a hotel maid in the city, an arrest which rattled Europe, particularly France.
Mortgage demand down as housing grants approved
Ha’aretz – Gov’t puts last details on plan that would give money to young couples buying homes in periphery.
Teva seals takeover of Japanese generic power
Ha’aretz – Taiyo is country’s third biggest generic drug seller.
Netanyahu strays left while winking at the right
Ha’aretz – PM’s speech on foundations of final status agreement did not include the truly important things, such as recognizing 1967 borders.
Inspired by Arab Spring, Palestinian protest is bursting with new energy
Ha’aretz – The pro-democracy revolts in the Arab world have instilled a new sense of possibility among Palestinians, who had been dejected after two failed uprisings against Israeli rule and fruitless peace talks over the past 20 years.
TA court extends remand of Syrian who ‚Äòhitchhiked to city’
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Hijazi’s attorney calls on the state to release him and deport him back to Syria, saying there would be “no use in his continued custody.”
Justice Ministry confirms: Uzi Arad was PMO leak source
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Following Channel 10 report saying Arad was responsible for the leak, Justice Ministry confirms Shin Bet investigation led to nat’l security adviser.
Channel 10 claims Uzi Arad was source of PMO leak
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Report says Justice Ministry, Shin Bet fingered Arad as unintentional leaker of sensitive information, leading to his ultimate resignation.
Report: Uzi Arad was source of PMO information leak
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Despite passing polygraph, former nat’l security adviser resigned because he gave classified information to journalists, Channel 10 reports.
‘Haredi girls’ schools ‘fertile ground for discrimination”
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – State Comptroller report slams lack of procedures for acceptance into state-funded religious girls’ schools, leading to racial discrimination..
Cars trump guns as cause of death in Middle East
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – As UN begins its Decade of Road Safety, region has its work cut out for it; road deaths in Middle East occur twice as often as in US.
Ex-IAEA official adds weight to Syria atom suspicion
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Diplomats say Syria may be referred to Security Council; West, IAEA accuse Damascus of stonewalling nuclear probe; Syria blames Israel.
Palestinian rights group accuses PA and Hamas of torture
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Report warns against “security mentality” at the expense of rights, rule of law; points to fallen Arab dictators as examples of failed policies.
‘Tax Authority doesn’t use tools to chase debtors’
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – State Comptroller’s report criticizes Finance Ministry, urges Tax Authority to improve tender process, slams Housing Authority’s accounting for state assets.
‘70% of Palestinians expect third intifada if talks fail’
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Palestinian poll shows one quarter oppose new intifada, 70% oppose firing rockets from Gaza; majority believes Israel interested in peace deal.
‘Men are responsible for 74% of accidents causing injury’
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – CBS releases study comparing driving habits of Arab and Jewish citizens, old and young drivers, and those involved in fatal accidents.
Lindenstrauss submits longest-ever report to Knesset
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Report deals with issues including activities of gov’t ministers, treatment of elderly; Hasson: Report is one of the most severe to ever come out.
Washington blames Syria for ‚ÄòNakba Day’ Golan incident
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – White House: Damascus trying to distract attention from its own violent crackdown on protests; UN condemns Israeli fire in Lebanon.
Israel again threatens to withhold tax funds to PA
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Steinitz: No funds if PA forms new gov’t with Hamas; official says there will be consequences if Hamas doesn’t accept Quartet principles.
Palestinian Authority delays local vote to October
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Delay was expected following unite deal bewteen Fatah and Hamas; PA spokesperson says delay intended to give time to organize in Gaza.
Bomb found near Dublin ahead of UK Queen’s visit
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Security tight after bomb discovered and destroyed; event marks first time a British monarch has visited Ireland since 1911.
Saudi Arabia opens world’s largest women’s university
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – But where will graduates of mammoth institution find jobs? Women only comprise 14.4 percent of the Saudi national work force.
Amidror denies he tried to have Obama’s speech altered
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – National sec. adviser says he did not try to convince White House to change president’s speech calling on Israel to return to 1967 borders.
Police: Mobsters planned to blame mosque bomb on far-Right
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Jaffa suspects allegedly hired by lawyer to kill Tel Aviv municipality official, bomb Scientology center; eight suspects, including brothers from two families had already prepared bomb.
Police: Mobsters planned to blame bomb on far-Right
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Jaffa suspects allegedly hired by lawyer to kill Tel Aviv municipality official, bomb Scientology center; eight suspects had already prepared bomb.
‘Mubarak to apologize to Egypt, plead for amnesty’
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Broadcast of former president apologizing for “any offense caused to the people” will be shown on Arabic channels, Egyptian report says.
Syria says report of mass grave in Deraa ‘untrue’
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Witnesses say 13 bodies uncovered in mass burial site; hundreds of Syrian refugees flee to Lebanon escaping violence in border towns.
More hotel rooms expected as tourists keep coming
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Number of foreign tourists has risen from 1.2 million in 2001 to 3.45 million in 2010.
Israeli chess player heads to FIDE Candidates final
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Boris Gelfand, a Rishon Lezion resident, will face off against Russian Alexander Grischuk to advance to finals; Ayalon sends congratulations.
Israeli couple names baby ‘Like’ in honor of Facebook
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Lior and Vardit Adler have 2 other children named Dvash and Pie; baby naming comes after man in Egypt named daughter ‘Facebook.’
Police to request remand extension for Syrian infiltrator
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Hassan Hijazi, 28, hitched a ride from Majdal Shams to Tel Aviv; two other Syrian infiltrators returned backed to Syria.
Egypt’s former first lady relinquishes her assets
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – Suzanne Mubarak returns Cairo villa, up to $3.4 million; doctor says former first lady too sick for transfer to prison.
Abbas: ‘Palestinian quest for statehood isn’t a stunt’
Jeruslalem Post 17 May 2011 – In ‘NY Times’ op-ed, PA president appeals to int’l community to support UN recognition of state after 20 years of failed talks with Israel.
Facebook tool inspires name for Israeli couple’s third child
The Guardian 17 May 2011 – Daughter named Like Adler adds to modern trend of inflicting unusual names on children The poor child got off lightly: she could just as well have been called Status, or even Poke. Instead an Israeli couple…
Hamas and Fatah can work together | Tareq Baconi
The Guardian 17 May 2011 – Both parties seek to strengthen Palestinians for future statehood. The EU, US and Israel should welcome this deal The recent reconciliation deal between Hamas and Fatah could hold more merit than past deals between the two…
Netanyahu and Obama: is this the final showdown? | Aluf Benn
The Guardian 17 May 2011 – This week, Israel’s PM goes to the US hoping for a diplomatic victory – but reality is decided on the ground, not Capitol Hill This week the Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu will fly to Washington…
Palestinian collaborator: ‘I am a traitor. I sold my people. But for what?’
The Guardian 17 May 2011 – New film The Collaborator and his Family charts informant’s dark struggle to make fresh start in Israel I went to see a film at DocAviv, the Tel Aviv documentary film festival, at the weekend about a…
Obama Faces Mounting Arab Disillusionment
IPS On the eve of a much-anticipated address by President Barack Obama on U.S. policy in the Middle East, a new survey suggests that disillusionment with both Obama and Washington’s approaches to the region are once again on the rise throughout the Muslim world.
Egypt Hunts Down The Right to Love
IPS Abeer Fakhry, a young Christian woman, had only wanted to live with a man who would love and respect her, and not with her abusive husband. But within months of trying to escape her marriage, and her faith, Abeer finds herself chased by her family, by the Orthodox Christian Church,…
Israel Prepares to Confront Historical Shifts
IPS Back in August 2000, just weeks after the failed Camp David peace summit and weeks before the outbreak of the second Palestinian Intifadah uprising, Marwan Barghouthi, leader of the Fatah armed forces, laid out his alternative strategy for ending the Israeli occupation.
Yemen Faces Older Birth Pangs As Well
IPS An estimated 2,555 women in Yemen die annually during childbirth because they do not have access to proper health facilities or experienced medical professionals.
[uruknet.info] Syrian refugees describe gangs fomenting sectarian strife
Uruknet May 17, 2011 – Since Saturday, thousands of residents of the besieged town have slipped into Lebanon, some braving sniper fire to cross the small stone bridge at Arida, others creeping through the rugged stony hills to find fordable reaches of the Kabir River. The refugees are bringing with them tales of bloodshed and terror that, if true,…
[uruknet.info] Killing Rachel Corrie Twice
Uruknet May 17, 2011 – On May 16, at 6:54AM Gaza time (3:54AM GMT), in international waters, an Israeli naval vessel attacked the Malaysian owned Spirit of Rachel Corrie ship (officially the MV Finch), carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza. More details below. Lawless Monday followed Nakba Day’s bloody Sunday, Israeli security forces assaulting unprecedented numbers of nonviolent demonstrators in…
[uruknet.info] Syrian activists call general strike in new tactic
Uruknet May 17, 2011 – Syrian protesters called Tuesday for a one-day nationwide general strike, urging students to skip school and workers to bring commerce to a halt in a new strategy of defiance against government crackdowns that appear to be turning more brutal and bloody. The strike, planned for Wednesday, marks a shift by opposition forces to strike…
[uruknet.info] The truth about civilized transitions’
Uruknet May 17, 2011 – “What about giving Gaddafi an exit strategy?” – Channel 4 News presenter to somebody or other, 16 May, 2011 . This is what it comes down to: A TV ‘news’ presenter reveals in all its starkness, how the Empire corrupts totally. Here we have an apparently intelligent and educated person dismissing the leader of a…
[uruknet.info] “Violent Crackdown” on Pro-Palestinian Protesters in Cairo Leaves Over 350 Injured
Uruknet May 17, 2011 – Egyptian police violently crushed a Sunday protest marking the anniversary of the 1948 establishment of Israel. At least 350 people were injured outside of the Israeli embassy in Cairo when police reportedly fired live ammunition, tear gas grenades and rubber bullets at the crowd. Meanwhile, former Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak is expected to plead…
[uruknet.info] Egypt watchdog slams teenager’s death sentence
Uruknet May 17, 2011 – An Egyptian rights group said on Tuesday it was “deeply troubled” by the sentencing of a teenager to death and called for the verdict to be overturned. A military court on Monday sentenced the 17-year-old and three other men to be hanged for kidnapping and raping a young woman, the Egyptian Initiative for Personal…
[uruknet.info] Analysis: The Nakba continues
Uruknet May 17, 2011 – Nakba, in Arabic, simply means “catastrophe” or “tragedy.” For Palestinians, it is the most tragic nightmare to happen to a whole nation in modern history. The irony is that while Palestinians commemorate the 63rd anniversary of their catastrophe, the Palestinian exodus, Israelis celebrate what they call “Independence Day.” Their independence was achieved by expelling…
[uruknet.info] Thousands at the border
Uruknet May 17, 2011 – I grew up in Lebanon during the civil war and the Israeli occupation of the south. During that time a revolutionary song by Julia Butros, “Wayn al-Malayeen?” (where are the millions), was continually heard. But as a child I never understood what she meant when she sang “Where are the millions? Where are the…
[uruknet.info] Israel to hand over Palestinian tax revenues
Uruknet May 16, 2011 — The Civil Servants’ union said the Palestinian Authority would pay government employees’ salaries on Monday, following confirmation that Israel would resume transfers of Palestinian tax revenues. A PA government spokesman, however, said he could not confirm the announcement, adding that the salaries would be paid when Israel transferred the cash…
[uruknet.info] Jane Mayer on the Obama war on whistle-blowers
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – In a just released, lengthy New Yorker article, Jane Mayer — with the diligence and thoroughness she used to expose the Bush torture regime — examines a topic I’ve written about many times here: the Obama administration’s unprecedented war on whistleblowers generally, and its persecution of NSA whistleblower Thomas Drake in particular (Drake exposed…
[uruknet.info] The Good Don’t Triumph and There is No Justice Brian De Palma’s “Blow Out” Thirty Years On
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – This July 21 is the 30th anniversary release date of Brian De Palma’s political/conspiracy thriller “Blow Out,” starring John Travolta, Nancy Allen and John Lithgow. Critics praised De Palma’s artful weaving of references to other directors and movies and real life events into “Blow Out” but audiences were turned off by the film’s ravagingly…
[uruknet.info] Update on Dr. Mazin Qumsiyeh
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – As of now at local time Monday morning 2 a.m. May 16, 2011, Mazin is still being detained. His cell phone battery died as he called and wanted me to write down the names and countries of the seven internationals that were detained with him so that I can get help calling their respective…
[uruknet.info] Libyan government asks why ICC isn’t also seeking to prosecute Syria
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – Libyan officials have described the international criminal court’s move to seek an arrest warrant against Colonel Muammar Gaddafi as irrelevant, claiming it would have little impact on the country’s embattled leader. Libya’s deputy foreign minister, Khaled Kaim, cited the continued liberty of Sudanese president, Omar al-Bashir, as an example of the ICC’s “impotence”, saying…
[uruknet.info] Horrific picture emerges of besieged Syrian town
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – Residents interviewed by The Associated Press on Monday as they crossed into Lebanon said their town, which has held weekly anti-government rallies, came under attack by the army, security forces and shadowy, pro-regime gunmen known as “shabiha.” Residents recognized the shabiha by their black clothes and red arm bands – apparently worn so they…
[uruknet.info] Proud to be Palestinian
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – It has been quite some time since I have swelled with pride at a collective act from my people. Yesterday, May 15, I was reminded of how it feels to burst with emotion and awe at the Palestinians. Yesterday, the day all Palestinians commemorate Al Nakba – the 1948 Catastrophe – throngs of Palestinians,…
[uruknet.info] Iraq snapshot – May 16, 2011
Uruknet May 16, 2011. Chaos and violence continue, Iraq continues to have no heads for the security ministries, Parliament gears up for their vacation, the governments in England and Canada reel from Iraq revalations, Nouri plans to shut down Camp Ashraf, and more… Nouri al-Maliki wants political blocs to consider the extension of US forces on the ground in…
[uruknet.info] Do to Libya what was done to Gaza and Iraq says head of UK army
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – As predicted by Stop the War, the Nato attack has already gone far beyond a no-fly zone, with the killing of eleven Libyan clerics the latest “collateral damage” caused by Nato bombing raids, of which there have been over 2000 in just two months. Now, the head of the British army, General Sir David…
[uruknet.info] Iraq’s current status quo will not continued
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – Those who believe that the current form of government in Baghdad – the outcome of the occupation of Iraq by American forces – is sustainable are hugely mistaken. This is exactly what worries the current nervous prime minister, who is working hard to strike a new deal that will give U.S. military presence an…
[uruknet.info] Exclusive: Shi’ite groups behind Iraq killings, officials say
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – Shi’ite militias rather than Sunni Islamist al Qaeda are behind a recent wave of assassinations of Iraqi government, police and military officials in Baghdad, security officials said. Militants have used silenced guns and bombs stuck to their targets to kill more than 38 officials in the last five months, according to Baghdad security operations….
[uruknet.info] Libya: Kwame Nkrumah Foresaw Western Re-Conquest of Africa
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – In the 1960s Kwame Nkrumah warned that unless the African continent united into a single continental government with a Africa-wide national army and command, the individual countries would never be able to protect their independence and secure their rich natural and mineral resources. NATO’s illegal war against Libya and the vicious bombardments is the…
[uruknet.info] MI6 made secret plan for anti-Saddam coup in December 2001
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – MI6 drew up proposals to support a coup against Saddam Hussein three months after the terrorist attacks on 11 September in the United States, previously classified documents indicate. The papers outline a proposal for regime change in Iraq backed up by airstrikes. The files were read by the then Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, who…
[uruknet.info] UN: Israel displaced 149 Palestinian children in 2011
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – Israel’s policy of demolishing Palestinian homes has displaced 149 children in the West Bank so far this year, figures from the UN agency for Palestinian refugees show. Between January and April, Israel destroyed at least 193 Palestinian structures, including 78 residential units, forcibly displacing 333 Palestinians, UNRWA said. The figures show a sharp rise…
[uruknet.info] Ayatollah: Iran’s president bewitched’ by senior aide
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad came under new pressure Sunday, as an influential cleric charged that he has been “bewitched” by a controversial senior aide and key lawmakers renewed their impeachment threat. Ahmadinejad is behaving “unnaturally” and needs to be “saved,” Ayatollah Mohammad Taghi Mesbah Yazdi, a former supporter of the president, told the weekly…
[uruknet.info] Former Israeli soldiers break the silence on military violations
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – Transgressions by the Israeli army in the occupied Palestinian territories will be disclosed by a group of former soldiers in an internet campaign aimed at raising public awareness of military violations. Video testimonies by around two dozen ex-soldiers – some of whom are identifying themselves for the first time – will be posted on…
[uruknet.info] 60 More Days in Libya: Obama Does Bush Lawyers Proud
Uruknet May 16, 2011 – Now we know why Obama has gone to such outrageous lengths to keep Bush’s lawyers out of prison, claiming powers of secrecy and immunity beyond Cheney’s wildest dreams and pressuring foreign nations to clamp down on any outbreaks of law enforcement. If the Bush lawyers who “legalized” aggressive war, lawless imprisonment, and torture were…
Obama: Middle East peace needed more than ever
Daily Star 17 May 2011 U.S. President Barack Obama said Tuesday it was more vital than ever to work to revive Israeli-Palestinian peace efforts even as political upheaval engulfs much of the broader Middle East.
EU, U.S. put Syria on notice
Daily Star 17 May 2011 The United States and the European Union said Tuesday they plan to implement steps against Syria soon if it does not abandon its brutal crackdown, and diplomats said both would impose sanctions on Syrian officials for…
As Nakba dust settles, Lebanon’s Palestinians adamant to return home
Daily Star 17 May 2011 When Abu Awasif left his home in Deir al-Assad, he was 11 years old. It was 1948, and Abu Awasif fled with his parents from their village near Akka to stay with friends across the Lebanese…
Flow of Syrian refugees into Lebanon dwindles
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Around 160 Syrians, mostly women and children, fled into northern Lebanon through the Hekr Jenin border crossing Tuesday, a senior security source told The Daily Star.
Talks on Cabinet formation resume after latest suspension
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Prime Minister-designate Najib Mikati resumed consultations with representatives from the Hezbollah-led March 8 alliance on the formation of a new government Tuesday night as Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Michel Aoun accused President Michel Sleiman.
Syrian refugees receive warm border welcome
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Rocking gently to and fro with her 2-year-old daughter in her lap and her 8-year-old son clinging to her side, Nibal, a Syrian mother of four, who fled to Lebanon from the besieged Syrian town of…
Al-Akhbar, employees fined for murder incitement
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Al-Akhbar newspaper and two of its employees have been fined a total of LL13 million for the defamation and incitement to murder of Sheikh Abdallah Hasan al-Hameed, also known as Dweik.
Putting smiles on the faces of critically ill children
Daily Star 17 May 2011 On a Friday morning in the pediatric unit of Geitawi Hospital, a dozen children are sitting at tables in a room whose walls are covered with children’s drawings.
Land mine victims share experiences at regional workshop
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Thirty-three land mine survivors participated in an innovative week-long training workshop and rehabilitation program aimed at assisting land mine survivors in overcoming their disabilities and facing the challenges.
Road safety as important as any issue in Arab world: Baroud
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Caretaker Interior Minister Ziyad Baroud said Tuesday at a conference on road safety that the crisis of traffic accidents is … as important as any other political, economic or security crisis in the Arab world.
Border shooting divides Lebanese politicians
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Lebanese political leaders and officials were divided Tuesday over their interpretation of the incident at the Lebanese-Israel border Sunday.
Lebanese-Syrian ties governed by Taif, Shami says
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Caretaker Foreign Minister Ali Shami said Tuesday Lebanese-Syrian ties were governed by the 1989 Taif Accord, which stipulates that Lebanon’s security is dependent on that of Syria and vice versa.
Bristol cancels anti-Syrian regime meeting, cites neutrality
Daily Star 17 May 2011 A gathering of Lebanese activists in solidarity with demonstrators in Syria was called off by the management of Hotel Bristol Tuesday, after pro-Syrian groups warned against such an event.
Hoss: Cabinet delay is no longer acceptable
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Former Prime Minister Salim Hoss said Tuesday that the Cabinet delay is no longer acceptable.
Williams: Government must be formed soon
Daily Star 17 May 2011 U.N. Special Coordinator for Lebanon Michael Williams said the country faces major challenges, which necessitate a swift formation of the government.
U.S. eyes Syria unrest from the sidelines
Daily Star 17 May 2011 The United States continues to watch developments of the two-month-long popular uprising in Syria.
Teachers strike to vent anger at politicians
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Lebanon’s teachers are set to stage a national strike Wednesday, suspending classes in both public and private schools to protest the ongoing political vacuum in the country.
Omani youths vow protests over slow job creation
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Jobless Omani activists vowed Tuesday to organize more protests, complaining that not enough has been done to appease street protesters demanding better pay, more jobs and an end to graft in the country.
Libya’s top oil official defects, U.K. hits spy hub
Daily Star 17 May 2011 The chairman of Libya’s National Oil Corporation has defected from Moammar Gadhafi’s administration and fled to neighboring Tunisia, a Tunisian security source said Tuesday.
Mubarak’s wife released from detention, still faces probe
Daily Star 17 May 2011 The wife of Egypt’s ousted president was released from detention Tuesday after giving up assets but is still being investigated, said an official leading a probe into whether she amassed wealth illegally.
Yemen opposition to consider modified Gulf deal
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Yemen opposition leaders will consider modifications to a Gulf Arab plan that aims to ease the entrenched President Ali Abdullah Saleh out of nearly 33 years in power, an opposition leader said Tuesday.
Rights group accuses PA and Hamas of torture
Daily Star 17 May 2011 A human rights body Tuesday accused the Palestinian Authority of torture and arbitrary detention and warned it not to repeat the mistakes of Arab states by allowing security forces to become too powerful.
Thousands of Kurds attend funeral of 12 Kurdish rebels shot by Turkish police
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Reports say hundreds of supporters of Kurdish rebels attacked police with stones and fire bombs Tuesday following the funeral of one of 12 Kurdish rebels killed by Turkish troops as they attempted to sneak into Turkey…
Bahraini activist threatened with rape in custody: report
Daily Star 17 May 2011 A prominent Bahraini human rights activist said he had been threatened with rape while in custody after he refused to apologize to the king over his role in anti-government protests.
Five guards taken hostage by Salafist prisoners in Morocco
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Inmates at a Moroccan prison took five guards hostage Tuesday in a second day of unrest that appeared to spread to other jails in the North African country, the state news agency and an independent news…
Iran says Al-Jazeera reporter committed violations
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Iran said Tuesday that a missing Al-Jazeera reporter attempted to enter Syria last month with an expired Iranian passport and without proper press clearance, but offered no details on whether she is being held in Iran.
Iranian woman seeks 2 mln euros to spare attacker blinding
Daily Star 17 May 2011 It will cost an Iranian man convicted of throwing acid in the face of a fellow student 2 million euros to escape a court-ordered blinding, the Arman newspaper quoted his victim as saying Tuesday.
Mikati, Sleiman, Hariri blocking Cabinet: Aoun
Daily Star 17 May 2011 FPM leader says prime minister-designate and president conspiring with Hariri to keep country in a state of paralysis.
Number of Syrian refugees into Lebanon continues to decline
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Number of refugees crossing border continues to decline as Syrian authorities blockade several towns.
Pressure mounts on Mikati to form Cabinet or quit
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Former Prime Minister Salim Hoss adds to criticism of Mikati, saying failure to form government is no longer acceptable.
MPs urge Kuwait to cut ties with Syria
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Half of Kuwait’s MPs urge the government to sever ties with Damascus and expel its ambassador in protest at Syria’s deadly crackdown on anti-regime demonstrators.
Libya’s top oil official has left post: rebels
Daily Star 17 May 2011 The chairman of Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) has defected from Muammar Gaddafi’s administration and fled to Tunisia, a Tunisian security source said Tuesday.
Two Syrian Army defectors held in Lebanon: activist
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Two Syrian soldiers who escaped across the border to Lebanon are being held by the Lebanese army along with the body of a third, a human rights activist said Tuesday.
For Syria refugees, Lebanon provides sanctuary
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Exhausted, terrified and penniless, Syrians fleeing a deadly government crackdown have been finding sanctuary in north Lebanon, taking advantage of family ties that straddle the normally porous border.
Teachers to strike over Cabinet formation
Daily Star 17 May 2011 About 100,000 teachers in the private and public sectors are to stage a one-day strike Wednesday to put pressure on politicians to establish a new government.
Syrian activists call general strike in new tactic
Daily Star 17 May 2011 The strike, planned for Wednesday, marks a shift by opposition forces to strike at President Bashar Assad’s regime from new angles: its economic underpinnings and ability to keep the country running during two months of widening…
Court fines Al-Akhbar LL13 million for defamation, incitement of murder
Daily Star 17 May 2011 The newspaper and two of its employees have been fined over an article featuring Sheikh Abdallah Hasan al-Hameed, also known as Dweik.
Syrian crosses border, hitchhikes to Tel Aviv
Daily Star 17 May 2011 A Syrian man who crossed into Israel in a large crowd that breached a border fence this week hitchhiked across the country, even sitting beside Israeli soldiers on a public bus, to find the home he…
LF MP blames UNIFIL, Lebanese Army for border violence
Daily Star 17 May 2011 A key member of Samir Geagea’s Lebanese Forces party has placed blame with U.N. peacekeepers and the Lebanese Army for Sunday’s deadly border confrontation between Israeli troops and pro-Palestinian protesters.
Palestinians test tactic of unarmed mass marches
Daily Star 17 May 2011 Palestinian activists are calling it a preview of new tactics to pressure Israel and win world support for statehood: Masses of marchers descending on borders and military posts – and daring Israeli soldiers to shoot.
State Comptroller: Barak violated public norms
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – Micha Lindenstrauss fiercely criticizes defense minister for handing over his….
PA delays elections until October
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – Palestinian government postpones municipal elections by 3 months, arguing they….
Experts: Biometric database system unsafe
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – Information security experts warn government’s chosen storage method for….
Iran: Jewish MP slams killing of ‘Nakba’ protesters
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – Iran’s parliamentary representative for Jewish community condemns IDF actions….
Watch: Syrian army beats students
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – (Video) Human rights group claims Assad’s agents chase, beat down 2,000 students….
Conspiracy to frame rightists for criminal acts exposed
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – Major police operation uncovers plot to mask string of criminal assaults as….
Moshe Dayan named new Civil Service commissioner
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – Senior Appointments Committee unanimously approves former Justice Ministry’s….
Syrian infiltrator awaits remand ruling
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – As two Syrian infiltrators apprehended during ‘Nakba Day’ protests near Majdal….
Small Claims Courts term to end?
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – New government proposal could end judicial involvement in small claims cases in….
Obama’s draft speech to urge ’67 borders, negate PA’s state bid
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – US president’s coming speech about Washington’s Mideast policy to demand PA….
Abbas: Statehood bid no stunt
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – Palestinian president publishes NYT opinion piece, says ‘choice is not between….
IMF chief denied bail, jailed in sex assault case
YNet News, 17 May 2011 – Dominique Strauss-Kahn’s fight against assault, attempted rape charges takes….
Palestinian Information Center
Gaza government concerned over continued West Bank arrests
PIC – The Palestinian government in Gaza expressed concern over developments in the continued detention of elements from the Islamic Jihad movement by West Bank security agencies.
IOF soldiers fire at Palestinian farmers
PIC – Israeli occupation forces (IOF) opened machinegun fire at Palestinian farmers in southern Gaza on Tuesday while reaping their crops, local sources said.
Family says Israeli jailers poured boiling oil on its son
PIC – A Palestinian family said its son, Raf’at Bani Odeh, was exposed by Israeli jailers to excruciating physical and psychological torture at the time of his six-year detention.
Prisoners on hunger strike in honor of nakba anniversary martyrs
PIC – The Palestinian ministry of prisoners’ affairs said that the Palestinian prisoners decided to go on hunger strike on Tuesday in honor of the martyrs who were killed on the anniversary of the Nakba.
IOF rounds up 11, attacks elementary school in West Bank crackdown
PIC – The Israeli occupation force heavily targeted civilians in the West Bank following Nakba Day protests on Monday, arresting eleven “wanted” persons, among them three minors.
IOF troops storm Wadi Qana, block entry of farmers
PIC – Israeli occupation forces (IOF) stormed the Qadi Qana region near Salfit and expelled farmers from it after declaring it a closed military zone.
Resheq: Hamas, Fatah tabled their nominations for new unity government
PIC – Ezzet Al-Resheq declared conclusion of two days of meetings in Cairo under Egyptian patronage of Hamas and Fatah delegations on the mechanism for applying the reconciliation agreement.
Jewish settlers storm Palestinian school in OJ, attack homes in Al-Khalil
PIC – Jewish settlers, escorted by Israeli occupation forces, stormed a school for orphans in occupied Jerusalem on Tuesday and assaulted a number of students.
Davutoğlu: We will continue efforts to incriminate Israel over flotilla attack
PIC – Turkey’s Foreign Minister has said that his country would not pull out from the investigative committee formed by the UN human rights council to probe Israel’s navy attack on the Freedom Flotilla.
Beitawi: Security apparatuses impeding reconciliation
PIC – Hamas MP Sheikh Hamed Al-Beitawi charged the PA security apparatuses in the West Bank with putting sticks in the wheels of national reconciliation.
Former Mossad chief: Resuming peace talks impossible
PIC – 17/05/2011 – 10:10 AM
IOF soldiers storm home of MP
PIC – 17/05/2011 – 10:12 AM
Six Jerusalemites arrested following firebomb attack
PIC – 17/05/2011 – 10:16 AM
Hamas and Fatah say their talks in Cairo very positive
PIC – 17/05/2011 – 10:49 AM
MP Attoun says the Zionist onslaught on Jerusalem constitutes a new nakba
PIC – 17/05/2011 – 12:17 PM
Palestinian officials Discuss Peace Process with Maldivian Foreign Minister
WAFA
Poll: Fayyad Best Candidate to Run New Government
WAFA
EU, UN Officials Highlight Difficult Life in Gaza
WAFA
Fatah Official Says Factions are Getting Close to Forming a Government
WAFA
PCBS: Half of Palestinian Households Have Computers
WAFA
PLO Intensifies Efforts at US Congress Prior to Netanyahu’s Visit
WAFA
Gush Shalom: Israel Should Withdraw from all the Occupied Territories
WAFA
Newspapers Review: Italian President’s Visit to Ramallah
WAFA
Palestinian Government Postpones Municipal Elections to October
WAFA
Turkish Red Crescent Donates Water Tank to Rafah
WAFA
Israeli Forces Fire at Palestinian Farmers in Gaza
WAFA
Weep Not for Strauss-Kahn
Intifada-Palestine: 17 May 2011 – By: : DIANA JOHNSTONE / Counterpunch In a flood of carefully designed public opinion polls, editorials, and books bordering on idolatry, the French communications industry had already settled next year’s presidential election. The loser would be Nicolas Sarkozy, sagging in the polls. The… more
Libya official, in Tunisia, may have defected
LA Times 17 May 2011 – The nation’s top oil official, Shukri Ghanem, is visiting the neighboring country on business, Libya says. But unconfirmed reports suggest he is the latest high-ranking official to abandon Moammar Kadafi’s government. Mystery surrounded the status Tuesday of Libya’s top oil official, Shukri Ghanem, who was…
Iran Says Missing Al Jazeera Reporter Committed Offenses
New York Times 17 May 2011 – Iran said Tuesday it was pursuing the case of a missing Al Jazeera reporter, saying she had committed “several offenses,” including traveling without a valid passport.
Iranian Flotilla Halts Bahrain Mission
New York Times 17 May 2011 – The Iranian government told the convoy, which included 120 students, clerics and activists, to abandon its plan to sail to Bahrain to support Shiite protesters.
ICC prosecutor demands arrest warrant against Gaddafi
WSWS – In proceeding as it has against Gaddafi, the International Criminal Court has revealed itself to be a pliant tool of US and European imperialism.
Israel’s border massacre and human rights hypocrisy
WSWS – The Obama administration’s reaction to Israel’s massacre of unarmed Palestinian protesters on its borders underscores the hypocrisy of those ascribing “humanitarian” motives to Washington’s predatory policy in the region.
Tunisian regime creates electoral commission amid mass strikes
WSWS – Last Monday, the Tunisian interim government announced the formation of the independent electoral committee to oversee the July 24 election of a constituent assembly.
Picking apart the New York Times Zionist narrative on the Nakba . . . using the New York Times
Mondoweiss – Yesterday’s deaths at various demonstrations commemorating the Nakba remind us of one all-important fact: without a just resolution to the Palestinian refugee issue, the state of Israel will never be welcome or accepted in the region. Those killed highlight the importance of a 63 year-old issue…
If Israel is the multicultural democracy it claims to be, why is it so afraid of the right of return?
Mondoweiss – Prime Minister Netanyahu, like other Israeli officials, routinely point out that about twenty percent of the population of Israel is Arab. Most often they go on to say that Arabs have significant roles in the Israeli community such as judges and physicians and hold elected seats…
Uzi Arad, Former National Security Advisor, Fired for Leaking Secret Report
Tikun Olam – ‘Uzi Arad leaked to an American journalist the controller’s report on the second Lebanon war—so Wikileaks reveals’ Uzi Arad Several months ago, Uzi Arad, former senior Mossad officer and then national security advisor to prime minister Netanyahu rather abruptly announced he was quitting his post. At…
Desmond Travers on Geo Mitchell: Irish-American Diaspora wanted an end to the troubles, Jewish-American Diaspora hasn’t opened its eyes
Mondoweiss – On Thursday night Col. Desmond Travers, the Irish member of the Goldstone mission, will be speaking in New York. (Click here or the image above if you want to get a ticket.) Yesterday I phoned him at his home in the Republic of Ireland to ask…
Liberal Tomasky’s advice to Obama: do whatever AIPAC wants
Mondoweiss – Further evidence of how slanted the mainstream American discourse is by the Israel lobby. Michael Tomasky is a liberal Democrat. But at the Daily Beast he tells Obama to get reelected by pursing the most conservative course on Israel— do whatever AIPAC tells you to do. ……
Tariq Ali speaks tonight in Brooklyn on Arab revolutions
Mondoweiss – Gosh I want to go to this. Tonight in Brooklyn , world intellectual Tariq Ali is speaking on the Arab revolution, from Cairo to Madison, A World In Motion. Madison, huh. Intriguing. It’s at the Galapagos Art Gallery in Dumbo. Talk starts at 8 p.m. If I…
AL-KHALIL/HEBRON: New video highlights the work of CPT Palestine
Christian Peacemaker Teams – Palestine – “I consider the presence of CPT really something great. They support the Palestinians and the nonviolent resistance,” says CPT South Hebron Hills partner Hafez Hereini in the new video, “An Introduction to CPT Palestine.” Produced, filmed and edited by journalist Catherine Rabenstine, the nine-minute film features…
HEBRON/AL-KHALIL: CPT Palestine updates now available on Twitter
Christian Peacemaker Teams – Palestine – Twitter account users may now access updates from the CPT Palestine teamsin Hebron and At-Tuwani at @cptpalestine.
JVP News, Spring 2011
Jewish Voice for Peace
Jews protest Christians United for Israel in Louisville
Jewish Voice for Peace
Interview with Milad Ayyash’s sister
Palestine Monitor – 17-yr-old Milad Ayyash died 13 May. His sister told Palestine Monitor that he hoped 15 May would be the start of something new. – In Focus / 3rd-col-1st-article , Jerusalem , Youth , Settlements , Arab Spring
Abbas Pre-Empts Bibi’s U.S. Visit in N.Y. Times Op-Ed
Tikun Olam – Mahmoud Abbas has pre-empted Bibi Netanyahu’s U.S. visit and May 24th address to a Joint Session of Congress with an eye-opening op-ed in today’s N.Y. Times. There is some interesting material in it. But the money quote is this: Palestine’s admission to the United Nations would…
Mossad Chief Names New Deputy
Tikun Olam – Israel’s recently appointed Mossad chief, Tamir Pardo, whose identity was reported here before being published in the Israeli media, has named his new senior command. His top deputy will be Yossi Cohen. NoIsraelimedia source has yet reported his name. Israel’s News1 , which calls him Y.,…
Qalandiya Nakba protest
Palestine Monitor – Photos from the front lines of the 63rd Nakba march in Qalandiya. – In pictures / 2nd-col-1st-article , Non-violent resistance , Jerusalem , Youth , Checkpoints , Right to entry , Occupation , Nakba , Palestinian unity
Second generation Nakba survivors tell their family’s stories
The Only Democracy? JVP 17 May 2011 – If you followed the protests all around the Palestinian Diaspora for Nakba Day, you saw how vividly this issue lives on 63 years later. This site hosts videos and tweets are one minute testimonials from second and third generation Nakba survivors, that is people whose parents…
Significant advances made in relationship between Hamas and Western states
Middle East Monitor 17 May 2011 – The Head of International Relations for Hamas has claimed that there have been “important breakthroughs” in the relationship between the Islamic Resistance Movement and “a number of Western countries”. Osama Hamdan also told Quds Press that “there is a European understanding of Hamas positions” although it…
Israel broke international law by firing at unarmed protesters
Middle East Monitor 17 May 2011 – A legal expert in Israel has said that the country’s soldiers “broke international law” by firing at unarmed protesters at the weekend. A large number of Palestinians crossed the borders between Syria and Israel, and Lebanon and Israel, to commemorate the Nakba, the catastrophe of the…
Egypt’s Second Grassroots Resurgence
Middle East Monitor 17 May 2011 – The Egyptian people must still yet overturn an overbearing force that has marginalized them for generations: top-down government control of budgets and local development. Egypt’s central government administration consumes the far majority of public resources, allocating just 15 percent for local administration spending, which is less…
Obama says Mid-East talks ‘vital’
BBC 17 May 2011 – US President Barack Obama says it is “more vital than ever” for Israelis and Palestinians to restart peace talks, following a meeting with Jordan’s king.
Mubarak’s wife turns over assets
BBC 17 May 2011 – Suzanne Mubarak, wife of Egypt’s ousted president, is released on bail after handing over assets as part of a corruption probe.
Syrian soldiers ‘held in Lebanon’
BBC 17 May 2011 – The Lebanese authorities have detained at least two Syrian soldiers and may hand them back to the Syrian regime, rights groups say.
Held reporter ‘used old passport’
BBC 17 May 2011 – Iran’s foreign ministry says detained al-Jazeera journalist Dorothy Parvaz entered Syria ‘on an expired passport’.
Nakba Day Killings: One More Reason to Boycott Bibi
US Campaign to End the Occupation 17 May 2011 – May 17, 2011,
Articles
The Nakba: What Does It Mean in Human Terms?
Sonja Karkar, CounterPunch5/17/2011
The Dead By Displacement
The Nakba is the Palestinian catastrophe. It means upheaval, violence and cataclysmic loss; it describes the terror, which drove almost one million people out of their homeland, as well as the perpetual terror in exile –displaced, dispossessed, stateless, lost and forbidden to return; it remains the multiplying injustice of another people’s sin burgeoning in our collective silence.
For 63 years, the situation has dragged on, men and women holding the papers and keys to their former homes, clutching the faded and cracked photos of happier days: everything rendered obsolete by the artificial creation of a state for a foreign people on land that has been home to Palestinians for millennia.
But if that is too distant in time and complex to touch your heart, then imagine for a moment yourself, wrenched from all that is familiar and everything you love, hastily running into the unknown grabbing only what you can carry from all the personal effects and mementos accumulated overyears, but sure that you will soon return, even if it is to pick up the pieces shattered by war or disaster and to begin again.
Think of yourself going back only to find someone else opening your front door and shamelessly banging it shut on the pleas you should not have to make.
Think of your street and neighbourhood, the same and yet not the same, as everything that once was so familiar is now given over to a people who have never walked before in the footprints of your forefathers. more.. e-mail
Israel’s Nightmare: Nonviolent Palestinians
Rami G. Khouri, Agence Global5/18/2011
BEIRUT — The simultaneous marches Sunday by thousands of Palestinian refugees who approached, and in places slightly breached, the Israeli borders, causing Israeli troops to open fire and kill over a dozen refugees, have been treated by Israel as an existential threat — which is exactly what this is. The fact that the grandchildren of the original Palestinian refugees made this symbolic gesture on the anniversary of the dismemberment of Palestine and the creation of Israel in 1948 should worry the Israelis deeply, because it speaks volumes about the state of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict today.
The symbolism of what happened Sunday is terrifying for Israelis, in fact far more terrifying than any military threat that Israel has ever faced, because it reflects three cardinal realities that mean only trouble for Israel. The first is that the element of time is working against the Zionist strategy of creating a powerful Israeli state that can either intimidate the Palestinians into forgetting about their rights to return to their homes in Israel, or simply generating hopelessness among the refugees that ultimately makes them give up their quest for repatriation or restitution. Time since 1948 has only turned the original 750,000 Palestinian refugees into 4.5 million refugees today whose attachment to their lands, homes and rights is stronger than ever.
In this respect, Israelis who take a moment to reflect on the meaning of what happened Sunday should see in the acts of the Palestinians a compressed historical image of the Jews’ own epic determination to return to their ancestral homeland in Palestine, after thousands of years of exile. The combination of historical memory, nationalist identity, and political activism is stronger than any military means that can be used to regain one’s national rights — as the Israelis should know from their own experiences and their own national struggle. more.. e-mail
Concluding Declaration of the Conference: A Joint Struggle for an End to the Occupation and Racism
Alternative Information Center5/8/2011
Over 300 Palestinians and Israelis met in Hebron on Saturday (7 May) in the first ever public conference between Israeli socio-political activists and the Palestinian political parties.
Towards ending Israeli occupation and racist policies. Towards a strategy of joint solidarity work to support the struggle of the Palestinian people.
1- The preparatory committee concluded the work of the conference under the slogan “A Joint Struggle for an End to the Occupation and Racism” on May 7th, 2011, following the presentations, discussion of the papers and recommendations of those attending the conference.
2 – The conference opened with the Palestinian National Anthem, followed by a moment of silence for the martyrs. The opening session included a welcome by the Alternative Information Center (AIC) and the conference’s preparatory committee, followed by a number of greetings by Hebron’s governor Kamel Hameed, Secretary-General of Palestinian People’s Party Bassam Salihi representing Palestinian progressive parties, representative of Tarabut-Hithabrut Johayna Saifi, and a message from Mizrahi Jewish activists to the Arab world.
3 – The conference sessions included the presentation of a number of papers covering the following dimensions:
– The current political situation: opportunities and challenges
– Popular resistance to the occupation and racism…. — See also: Over 300 Palestinians, Israelis Meet in Historic Conference in Hebron more.. e-mail
Toward a “Palestinian Spring”
Electronic Intifada: 17 May 2011 – Jamal Hilal The Electronic Intifada Palestinian youth are asking how the popular democratic uprisings in Arab countries can inform their national struggle. They launched the first intifada in 1987 and fueled the second intifada in 2000, and they believe they have a role to play in the Arab youth uprisings calling for democratic changes. Palestinian political and civil society organizations are also seeking answers to this question. The answers cannot be found abroad; they can only be found in an understanding of the Palestinian condition, which differs significantly to that of Arab states.more
Multinational companies mining occupied Palestinian land
Electronic Intifada: 17 May 2011 – Adri Nieuwhof The Electronic Intifada Documentation obtained by The Electronic Intifada confirm that HeidelbergCement and Cemex, two building materials industries from Germany and Mexico, respectively, are involved in the operation of quarries in the occupied West Bank.more
Interview with Milad Ayyash’s sister
Palestine Monitor: 17 May 2011 – 17-yr-old Milad Ayyash died 13 May. His sister told Palestine Monitor that he hoped 15 May would be the start of something new. – In Focus / 3rd-col-1st-article , Jerusalem , Youth , Settlements , Arab Springmore
Qalandiya Nakba protest
Palestine Monitor: 17 May 2011 – Photos from the front lines of the 63rd Nakba march in Qalandiya. – In pictures / 2nd-col-1st-article , Non-violent resistance , Jerusalem , Youth , Checkpoints , Right to entry , Occupation , Nakba , Palestinian unitymore
Discourse and Representation in the Post-9/11 World
Dissident Voice: 17 May 2011 – After 9/11, the collective representation of Muslims in the world has been mediated by a misleading, yet cogent public discourse. Underscored by a narrative of fear, this discourse is constructed and preserved by an opportunistic political class and a craven corporate media. The West—namely Europe and North America—has embraced a series of distorted representations of Muslims around the world. These distortions have perverted the language employed in the analysis of the broader public in order to make sense of 9/11 and its analogues. While accepting the 2011 Tikkun Award from Tikkun magazine, Shaykh Hamza Yusuf of Zaytuna College, and one of the most influential Muslims in the West, called upon the religious communities to deal with the ” negative externalities of religion .” An “externality” is an economic term used to refer to the unintended effects of a transaction, somewhat like how the term “blowback” is used in the intelligence…more
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The New Dark Age 