26 May, 2011 — VTJP
News
International Middle East Media Center
Israeli Vice-PM Shalom Against Opening Gaza Crossing
IMEMC – Thursday May 26, 2011 – 17:08, Israeli Vice-Premier Silvan Shalom has spoken out against the easing of the blockade on Gaza through relaxed restrictions at the Egypt-Gaza crossing at Rafah, according to the Jerusalem Post.
Israeli Miltary Carries Out Abductions In Hebron
IMEMC – Thursday May 26, 2011 – 16:18, The Israeli military has conducted raids in Ramallah and Hebron according to PNN and Wafa news agencies. As part of the raids the military abducted seven men in Ramallah and five in Hebron.
$1 Billion Investment Fund Announced For Gaza Strip.
IMEMC – Thursday May 26, 2011 – 14:53, Maan news agency is reporting that the head of the Palestine Investment Fund and potential candidate for role of Prime Minister in the new unity interim government, Mohammed Mustafa, has announced a $1 billion investment for reconstruction of the Gaza strip.
US To Fund Four More Iron Dome Defense Systems For Israel
IMEMC – Thursday May 26, 2011 – 11:26, US President Barrack Obama’s administration is to fund the purchase of four more anti rocket systems for the Israeli military. The US will help fund the short range anti rocket “Iron Dome” missile defence system as part of the $200 million Obama military aid initiative to Israel.
Qabha Demands P.A. To Release All Political Prisoners
IMEMC – Thursday May 26, 2011 – 11:07, Former Minister of Detainees, Hamas political leader, Wasfy Qabha, demanded the Palestinian Authority (P.A) in the West Bank to release all political prisoners, and to stop the arrests and interrogation of political activists.
Inauguration Ceremony For Jewish Only Settlement In East Jerusalem
IMEMC – Thursday May 26, 2011 – 10:26, Israeli government Ministers have inaugurated a new Jewish only settlement in East Jerusalem. A ceremony including Jerusalem mayor Mayor Nir Barkat and Environmental Protection Minister Gilad Erdan officially opened the Ma’aleh Zeitim settlement, in East Jerusalem’s Ras al-Amud neighbourhood.
CCR Launches Lawsuit In Connection With Last Year’s Raid of Flotilla Bound to Gaza
IMEMC – Thursday May 26, 2011 – 10:25, New York – PNN – Nearly one year after Israeli commandos stormed an aide flotilla that was in international waters and bound for Gaza, The CCR, the Center for Constitutional Rights has launched a Freedom of Information lawsuit. The lawsuit was launched in order to try and gain access to governmental documents that would show just how much knowledge the United States had of the attack.
Israel To Allow Nearly 300 trucks Into Gaza
IMEMC – Thursday May 26, 2011 – 10:15, Palestinian liaison official in Gaza, Raed Fattouh, stated that the Israeli Authorities decided to allow 290-300 trucks loaded with aid to the trade, agriculture and transportation sectors into the Gaza Strip through the Karem Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing, on Thursday.
Troops Kidnap Seven Palestinians In Ramallah
IMEMC – Thursday May 26, 2011 – 09:55, Israeli soldiers kidnapped on Thursday at dawn seven Palestinians in the central West Bank city of Ramallah.
Egypt Decides To Permanently Open The Rafah Border Terminal
IMEMC – Thursday May 26, 2011 – 09:23, The Egyptian Authorities decided to permanently open the Rafah Border Terminal with the Gaza Strip starting this coming Saturday in an attempt to ease the deadly four-year blockade on the coastal region.
MKs attend controversial settlement announcement
5/26/2011 – JERUSALEM (AFP) – The speaker of Israel’s parliament and two ministers attended the dedication on Wednesday of new Jewish settler homes in East Jerusalem in what an Israeli NGO called “a dangerous provocation.” Among the first of the VIPs to arrive at the site in the city’s annexed eastern sector were speaker….
Activists refuse to send Gaza aid via Israel
5/26/2011 – KUALA LUMPUR(AFP) — Activists on a Malaysian aid ship that had been bound for Gaza refused to hand their cargo to Egypt on Thursday, saying they feared it would end up in Israel. They had tried to land in Gaza last week but changed course when the Israeli navy fired warning shots. Matthias Chang, who….
Disabled man shaken after military assault
5/26/2011 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — “Ashraf was as usual near the shop. I heard a gunshot outside and then my son was shouting and trying to open the door. More than ten soldiers were behind him,” his mother told Ma’an on Wednesday. The day before, 23-year-old Ashraf Muhammad Suleiman Mousa, who lives with….
Eager anticipation for Rafah border opening
5/26/2011 – RAFAH, Egypt (Ma’an) — The siege on the Gaza Strip, maintained by Israel and Egypt for the past four years, will soon be significantly relaxed for would-be travelers, a decision that has Palestinians on both sides of the border waiting anxiously. From students to tunnel smugglers, opening Gaza will transform lives drastically impacted by…. Related: Hamas hails ‘courageous’ move to open Rafah border
$1 billion Gaza investment fund unveiled
5/26/2011 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Muhammad Mustafa, the Palestine Investment Fund president, announced Thursday the establishment of a $1 billion investment fund for the reconstruction of Gaza. The rumored top candidate for the role of prime minister in the new technocrat government arrived in Gaza on Wednesday, to coordinate reconstruction efforts and meet with prominent….
Families sit in for Hamas detainees held by PA
5/26/2011 – NABLUS (Ma’an) — Families of Hamas-affiliated prisoners in a Palestinian Authority jail in Nablus held a sit-in outside the facility Thursday, demanding their relatives be released following the unity deal between former rival factions Fatah and Hamas. Relatives carried slogans calling for all 140 prisoners to be released outside the Juneid prison in the….
Nasrallah: US, Israel dealt death blow to ’02 peace plan
5/26/2011 – BEIRUT, Lebanon (AFP) — Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah on Wednesday urged Syrians to back President Bashar Al-Assad while calling for the rejection of sanctions imposed on Damascus over a deadly crackdown on pro-democracy protests. In a televised speech, the head of the powerful Lebanese Shiite militant group also accused US President Barack Obama and Israeli Prime….
Hamas hails ‘courageous’ move to open Rafah border
5/26/2011 – GAZA CITY (AFP) — Gaza’s Hamas rulers on Thursday welcomed as “courageous” an Egyptian decision to open permanently the Rafah border crossing between the two territories. Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhum hailed the move as “a courageous and responsible decision which falls in line with Palestinian and Egyptian public opinion.” “We hope that it is…. Related: Eager anticipation for Rafah border opening
Top Fatah official arrives in Gaza
5/26/2011 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — A top Fatah official arrived in Gaza on Thursday, to discuss with Hamas leaders, factions and other figures a response to the Israeli prime minister’s speech and implement a reconciliation agreement. Nabil Shaath’s visit was also intended to move forward on a bid to achieve recognition of….
Israel continues to allow limited imports to Gaza
5/26/2011 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Israeli authorities announced Thursday morning that 290-300 truckloads of goods would be permitted into Gaza via the Kerem Shalom crossing, an official said. Palestinian liaison official Raed Fattouh said commercial and humanitarian goods would be allowed into the besieged coastal enclave. The limited shipment was set to include 20….
Report: Former Mossad chief supports Palestinian UN bid
5/26/2011 – TEL AVIV, Israel (Ma’an) — Former Mossad Director Meir Dagan came out against Israel’s prime minister on Tuesday, in a speech saying he was against blocking a Palestinian move to bring the issue of statehood to the UN. The speech,reported by the daily Ma’ariv,was delivered during a closed….
Spain police seize helicopters purchased in Israel
5/26/2011 – MADRID (AFP) — Spanish police halted the illegal export of nine Bell-112 military transport helicopters to Iran and detained eight people including three Iranians, they said Thursday. Interior Minister Alfredo Perez Rubalcaba said the group bought the helicopters in Israel, Iran’s arch-foe. Police seized the US-made helicopters and arrested five Spanish businessmen suspected….
Police investigating Tulkarem shooting
5/26/2011 – TULKAREM (Ma’an) — Witnesses reported Thursday morning the shooting of a Tulkarem man outside his house the night before. Locals identified the victim as Abdul Rahman Abdullah, and said he was shot in the right leg. Police, hearing the gunshot, had deployed in the area at the time, but found no evidence at the….
Expired food seized in Hebron
5/26/2011 – HEBRON (Ma’an) — PA police in cooperation with the tax office seized quantities of expired meat in Hebron on Wednesday, a report said. A police report said the discovery was made during a campaign targeting the markets of the Old City in Hebron, noting meat, yogurt, chocolate, cheese and cold-cuts were all seized for….
Egypt, Tunisia finding road to freedom rocky
5/26/2011 – CAIRO (AFP) — After successfully dislodging decades-old autocracies, pro-democracy activists in Egypt and Tunisia are striving to protect their hard-won gains through fragile transitions dotted with setbacks. It took just weeks to unseat Tunisian strongman Zine Al-Abidine Ben Ali in January and Egyptian veteran Hosni Mubarak in February but that momentum seems to have hit a….
Citizen journalism keeps Syria uprising alive
5/26/2011 – BEIRUT (AFP) — Defying a state-imposed media blackout, Syria’s citizen journalists are keeping protest coverage alive, in a country that until only a few months ago barred access to social media networks.” With the efficiency of the networks that were developed over the past few weeks, through which we can now see into every….
Egypt activists detained ahead of Friday protest
5/26/2011 – CAIRO (AFP) — Egyptian authorities detained three activists on Thursday for putting up posters calling for nationwide protests on Friday, which the country’s Islamists have vowed to stay away from. The three, including film director Aida al-Kashef, were held by military police in central Cairo as they put up posters calling for the Friday….
Egypt ex-minister gets 5 years for fraud
5/26/2011 – CAIRO (AFP) — A Cairo criminal court on Thursday sentenced Egypt’s former housing minister Ahmed al-Maghrabi to five years in prison on corruption charges, a judicial source said. Judge Assem Abdul Hamid Nasr found Maghrabi guilty of the illegal acquisition of public property and wasting public funds worth 73 million Egyptian pounds (around $12….
NASA satellite ‘helps find 17 Egypt pyramids’
5/26/2011 – WASHINGTON (AFP) — Archaeologists have uncovered as many as 17 buried pyramids in Egypt with the help of NASA satellite imagery, according to a documentary to be aired by the BBC on Monday. Led by US researcher Sarah Parcak at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the team has already confirmed two of the suspected pyramids….
Former spy chief: Mubarak knew of ‘every bullet fired’
5/26/2011 – CAIRO (AFP) — Egypt’s ex-president Hosni Mubarak, charged with murder, “had complete knowledge of every bullet fired” at protesters, according to damning testimony by his former spy chief published in a state newspaper Thursday. Al-Akhbar daily reported that prosecutors partly relied on testimony provided by Omar Suleiman, the former head of intelligence and briefly….
Syria opposition reaches out to army
5/26/2011 – DAMASCUS (AFP) — Syria’s pro-democracy movement has reached out to the army ahead of Friday protests, urging soldiers to join their cause as a global rights group accused the military of a “shoot-to-kill” policy.” We urge our supporters to deliver a message to free soldiers in the Syrian army so that hand in hand….
$1 billion Gaza investment fund unveiled
Palestine Note 26 May 2011 – Ma’an – Muhammad Mustafa, the Palestine Investment Fund president, announced Thursday the establishment of a $1 billion investment fund for the reconstruction of Gaza. The rumored top candidate for the role of prime minister in the new technocrat government arrived…
Palestinian unity deal exposes divisions in Hamas
Palestine Note 26 May 2011 – Reuters – Divisions in Hamas have been brought to the surface by a reconciliation agreement with rival group Fatah, exposing splits in the Palestinian Islamist movement that could complicate implementation of the deal. It is the first time differences between…
Palestinians call on U.N. to implement 1967 borders proposal
Palestine Note 26 May 2011 – Los Angeles Times – Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas expressed disappointment with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to a joint meeting of Congress on Tuesday and said the Israeli leader’s comments had dealt a blow to efforts to resume…
Economic unrest making world less peaceful: survey
Palestine Note 26 May 2011 – Reuters – Social unrest is making the world less peaceful for the third year running and economic strains could point to rising risks in China , a think tank said on Wednesday. 2011 Global Peace Index from Vision of Humanity on…
G8 summit: Arab uprisings dominate Deauville agenda
Palestine Note 26 May 2011 – BBC News – World leaders are in the French resort of Deauville for a summit of the G8 bloc of wealthy nations. The leaders are discussing how to end the seemingly deadlocked Libya conflict, and their response to the revolutions…
Apartments Are Dedicated in Jerusalem
Palestine Note 26 May 2011 – New York Times – Senior Israeli government officials and dignitaries on Wednesday attended the dedication ceremony of a Jewish apartment complex in a hotly contested, predominantly Palestinian neighborhood of the city across the 1967 boundary. Participants saw the event as…
Egypt to Permanently Open Rafah Crossing
Palestine Note 26 May 2011 – Hamas hails “courageous” move New York Times – Egypt will permanently open its border with the Gaza Strip on Saturday despite Israeli protests, Egypt’s transitional government confirmed Wednesday, upending the dynamics of regional politics in a bid to shake up…
NATO air strikes rock Libyan capital
AlJazeera 26 May 2011 – Attacks come as UK gives clearance for the use of its attack Apache helicopters in ousting Gaddafi.
Iraq de-Baathification official gunned down
AlJazeera 26 May 2011 – Ali al-Lami, executive director of the Justice and Accountability Commission, is shot dead in eastern Baghdad.
Deadly street battles sweep Yemeni capital
AlJazeera 26 May 2011 – More than 40 killed and hundreds flee as fighters loyal to rival tribal leader clash with forces of President Saleh.
South Sudan leader against war over Abyei
AlJazeera 26 May 2011 – Salva Kiir calls on Khartoum to withdraw its troops from the oil-rich region to avoid further violence.
Egypt jails ex-housing minister over graft
AlJazeera 26 May 2011 – Ahmed Maghrabi given five year prison sentence and fined $12.6m for selling land below market value.
Sadr supporters rally over US troops in Iraq
AlJazeera 26 May 2011 – Iraqi cleric’s supporters march in Baghdad, threatening to take up arms if US troops stay beyond year-end deadline.
Egypt to open Rafah border permanently
AlJazeera 25 May 2011 – Palestinians welcome easing of four-year blockade on Gaza Strip, a sharp departure from policies of former president.
Blair: Obama Worried About Israel
PNN – London – PNN – Former British prime minister and current Middle East envoy Tony Blair said Thursday US President Barack Obama made his recent comments about the Israeli-Palestinian peace process out of…
Israeli Troops Arrest Seven Civilians from Ramallah
PNN – Ramallah – PNN – Palestinian sources reported on Thursday that Israeli troops arrested seven men from Ramallah area in central West Bank. Sources said that seven men were taken away by troops…
Israeli Military Asks Palestinian Detainee to Pay for Own Surgery
PNN – Jerusalem – PNN – The Palestinian detainees and ex-detainees society announced on Thursday that the Israeli military prison administration has asked Ahmed Assofor to pay the expenses of a surgery he needs….
PA Signs 3.5 Million Euro Deal to Enhance Local Facilities and Research
PNN – Ramallah-PNN- Dr. Ali Al-Jarbawi, Minister of Planning and development signed on Thursday a 3.5 million Euro agreement with the German Bank of Developed- KFW and the UN development program to support the…
Palestinian Leadership Throws Ball Back Into US and Israeli Courts
PNN – Ramallah – PNN – While it seems that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu succeeded in winning the hearts of US Congress members in his speech earlier this week, the Palestinian leadership came…
Capoeira Project Closing Ceremonies Held Wednesday
PNN – Al-Fawwar- PNN- Victoria Delacroix- Wednesday marked the ending of the Capoeira Pilot Project, where the Brazilian representative Office to the Palestinian Authority, representatives of the UK Charity and UNRWA. The project was…
Palestinian Center for Human Rights
Weekly Report On Israeli Human Rights Violations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (19– 25 May 2011)
Palestinian Center for Human Rights
Human Rights Council to hold its seventeenth session from 30 May to 17 June
Relief Web 26 May 2011 – Source: UN Human Rights Council Country: Burundi , C?¥te d’Ivoire , Georgia , Haiti , Mozambique , Myanmar , Nepal , Niger (the) , occupied Palestinian territory , Rwanda , Syrian Arab Republic (the) BACKGROUND RELEASE 26 May 2011 The Human Rights Council will hold its seventeenth regular session from…
Implementation of the European Neighbourhood Policy in 2010 – Country Report: occupied Palestinian territory
Relief Web 26 May 2011 – Source: European Commission , European Union Country: occupied Palestinian territory Brussels, 25/05/2011 SEC(2011) 644 JOINT STAFF WORKING PAPER {COM(2011) 303} OVERALL ASSESSMENT The Palestinian Authority (PA) and the European Community first established contractual relations in 1997 when the EC and the…
PCHR welcomes the Egyptian authorities’ decision to open all land and air passages for Palestinians to and from the Gaza Strip
Relief Web 26 May 2011 – Source: Palestinian Centre for Human Rights Country: Egypt , occupied Palestinian territory Thursday, 26 May 2011 10:30 Ref: 47/2011 The Palestinian Center for Human Rights (PCHR) welcomes the decision of the Egyptian authorities to open all land and air passages for…
EUBAM Rafah mission extended
Relief Web 26 May 2011 – Source: Council of Europe Country: Egypt , occupied Palestinian territory Brussels, 26 May 2011 10770/11 PRESSE 154 The Council has adopted a decision extending the European Union Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point between Egypt and Gaza, until 31…
ICRC striving to meet unprecedented needs despite funding pressures
Relief Web 26 May 2011 – Source: ICRC Country: Afghanistan , C?¥te d’Ivoire , Democratic Republic of the Congo (the) , General , Haiti , Iraq , Israel , Kyrgyzstan , Libyan Arab Jamahiriya (the) , Mali , Niger (the) , occupied Palestinian territory , Pakistan , Somalia , Sudan (the) Geneva (ICRC) – The lives of ever more men,…
West Bank Bedouin refugee appeals for recognition and protection
Relief Web 26 May 2011 – Source: UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East Country: occupied Palestinian territory 26 May 2011 New York Mohammed al Korshan, representative of the Bedouin community in the West Bank, spoke on Tuesday 24 May at…
Middle East: Ramping up disaster preparedness
Relief Web 26 May 2011 – Source: Integrated Regional Information Networks Country: Egypt , Jordan , Lebanon , Morocco , occupied Palestinian territory , Syrian Arab Republic (the) , Yemen DUBAI, 26 May 2011 (IRIN) – Several Middle East countries which over the years had failed to prioritize disaster preparedness have established…
Israeli Prison administration refuses to treat Palestinian Prisoner
26 May 2011 – Palestine, (Pal Telegraph) – The family of Palestinian prisoner Hamza Sam Qaaqour from Jenin Thursday called upon legal and humanitarian organizations to immediately intervene and save the life of their son, who is sentenced for eight years, in the Israeli Megiddo prison, according to prisoner’s Family.
Clashes reported in Silwan as Israelis inaugurate new settlement
26 May 2011 – West Bank, (Pal telegraph)-Palestinian residents clashed yesterday with Israeli forces, protesting the inauguration of a new settlement in Silwan town in the south of al-Aqsa mosque.
Israel demolishes Palestinian house in Negev
26 May 2011 – West Bank, (Pal Telegraph)-Israeli occupation bulldozers demolished on Thursday a Palestinian house in the Negev region south of the occupied territories of 1948, under the pretext of illegal construction.
Egypt to ease restrictions on Rafah crossing
26 May 2011 – Gaza strip, (Pal Telegraph)-According to Egyptian official sources, Rafah border crossing will be opened next Saturday permanently to facilitate the movement of Palestinian citizens and to improve the humanitarian situation in the blockaded Gaza Strip.
Most Israelis believe their PM should have said ‘yes’ to Obama says poll
The National 26 May 2011 – 10% of Israelis thought Benjamin Netanyahu should have declared his support for the president¬øs proposal on the 1967 borders question while another 47% said the Israeli leader should have expressed support ¬øbut with reservations¬ø.
Sadrists stage massive rally to demand US troops leave Iraq on schedule
The National 26 May 2011 – Up to 70,000 followers of the Shiite cleric Muqtada al Sadr joined in the peaceful demonstration through Baghdad, marching in tight, disciplined blocks.
Bahrain promises reforms and an end to state of emergency
The National 26 May 2011 – The Crown Prince of Bahrain, Prince Salman bin Hamad al Khalifa, says both sides made mistakes during the recent events but ‘substantial activity is under way to comprehensively address core issues of national and international concern.’
In protest-gripped Syria, respect for the law goes out the (illegally built) window
The National 26 May 2011 – With anti-government demonstrations now in their third month, Syrians are now ignoring the law in everything from driving through red lights to erecting unlicensed new buildings.
Israel’s PM and his US supporters engage in mutual back-slapping
The National 26 May 2011 – At the the annual policy conference of the America Israel Public Affairs Committee in Washington, the absolute, unquestioned support for Israel on display allowed for no contradiction.
Sheikh Ahmar says to Saleh ‘try to capture me’ as battles rage in Sana’a
The National 26 May 2011 – Opposition party calls for rivals to stop their fighting as massive rallies are expected today in several cities, with Yemeni clerics association urging people to protest, considering it a religious duty
Saleh picks fight with Hashed confederation, capable of rallying thousands of fighters
The National 26 May 2011 – Iraqi president has ordered the arrest of the tribe’s chief, Sheikh Sadeq al Ahmar, a key player in Yemeni politics, along with his nine brothers, accusing them of ‘armed rebellion’, as fighting raged in Sana’a between Ahmar’s supporters and security forces.
Abbas to push Palestinian unity government to accept Quartet demands
Ha’aretz – Obama has stressed that recent Fatah-Hamas reconciliation raises profound and legitimate questions for Israel as Hamas does not recognize Israel as a Jewish state.
Issacharoff and Harel / Criticism of Israel’s Gaza blockade may diminish due to opening of Rafah crossing
Ha’aretz – The opening of the crossing is part of a package of benefits that the new regime in Cairo offered Hamas in exchange for its agreement to reach a reconciliation with Fatah.
Zvi Bar’el / Is Egypt looking at its second revolution?
Ha’aretz – Egypt’s foreign ministry is examining the possibility of resuming diplomatic relations with Iran and decided to open the Rafah border crossing.
Anshel Pfeffer / Israel must stop overplaying the Holocaust card
Ha’aretz – We don’t have to give up on the Holocaust – it is our history and holds central lessons for all human beings – but we have to stop using it as a justification for Israeli policies.
Spanish police stop illegal sale of Israeli military helicopters to Iran
Ha’aretz – Five Spanish businessmen, three Iranians involved in sale of the helicopters, which is illegal due to UN sanctions on Iran, nabbed by Spanish police.
Israel denies helping Ofer brothers in Iran dealings case
Ha’aretz – The alleged business with Iran was done by the Singapore-based Tanker Pacific, one of the world’s largest shipping companies and an Ofer Brothers subsidiary.
Israeli cabinet may adopt new restrictions on smoking in public places
Ha’aretz – A 2010 study measuring Respirable Suspended Particulates in 33 pubs in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem found rates 6 times higher than those recommended by the World Health Organization.
Sarkozy: Palestinian unity agreement is ‘good news’
Ha’aretz – French president to send foreign minister to region next week to convince sides to return to the negotiating table.
IDF: Fogel family murderers planned another attack
Ha’aretz – Two suspects in the killing of the five family members last March in Itamar retracted their confession, but prosecution says it has solid forensic evidence.
Top Palestinian negotiator: Israel destroying two-state solution
Ha’aretz – Saeb Erekat condemns inauguration of new East Jerusalem settlement by Israeli ministers, says it presents an obstacle to negotiations.
Israeli killed by Palestinian police in Joseph’s Tomb officially recognized as terror victim
Ha’aretz – Nephew of Minister Limor Livnat shot by Palestinian policemen last month as group of Breslov entered West Bank site without permission.
IDF appoints first-ever female major general
Ha’aretz – Brigadier General Orna Barbivay promoted and nominated head of IDF personnel department in new round of changes within IDF general staff.
Male nurse convicted of raping unconscious patients sentenced to five years
Ha’aretz – Moshe Yeshua, who worked at Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem, was convicted of raping patients following surgery while they were under anesthesia.
Katsav lawyers ask court to delay rape sentence appeal due to family vacations
Ha’aretz – Request comes after court already agreed to delay the fulfillment of the former President’s 7-year jail sentence until after the Supreme Court ruled on his appeal.
Syria opposition calls on army to join uprising against Assad
Ha’aretz – Syria Revolution 2011 Facebook page announces Friday protests to honor ‘Guardians of the Nation’ in appeal to army; Opposition says regime targeting both soldiers and civilians.
Saudi Arabia extends detention of female driving ban activist
Ha’aretz – Saudi prosecutor general increases detention of 32-year old Mana al-Sherif while her case is under investigation; Al-Sherif was arrested after starting an internet campaign encouraging women to defy driving ban.
Serbia arrests Europe’s most wanted war criminal Ratko Mladic
Ha’aretz – Mladic, considered Europe’s most wanted war crimes fugitive, was responsible for the massacre of thousands of Muslims in the Muslim enclave of Srebrenica in 1995.
Israel could ban investment in Ofer Brothers over suspected tanker sale to Iran
Ha’aretz – The Ofer Brothers Group, who denies allegations of selling a tanker to Iran, is one of seven companies to be hit with U.S. sanctions for trading with Iran.
Fischer: Strong shekel is not hurting exports
Ha’aretz – Fischer says he is ‘pleasantly surprised by the behavior of exports,’ given the current exchange rates.
Cellular CEOs wailed about reform. That was then
Ha’aretz – Shed not tears for their lot: First-quarter profits did drop – by 4%, to a combined NIS 870 million.
Local grandmaster aims to be king of the Chess board
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Belarus-born Boris Gelfand to play for chess world’s top honor after winning six-game Candidates Final in Russia.
No to a ‘brit mila’ ban
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – The rights of San Francisco’s Jews should be carefully safeguarded against anti-religious fanatics with a distorted conception of human rights.
Spain stops sale to Iran of helicopters bought in Israel
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Defense Ministry launches investigation after Spain says it detained group of suspects trying to sell US helicopters formally owned by Israel.
Temple Mount Faithful petitions for excavation report
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – MKs claim full publication will harm Israel, ask public to trust decision-makers.
Jonathan Pollard devastated by no update from PM
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – “I feel like I am being thrown out of the embassy again,” says Pollard; Esther Pollard: It is “torture” for Jonathan to be kept in the dark.
An accidental semester at Hebrew University
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Students evacuated from Cairo during the January 25 revolution reflect on their roller-coaster time in Israel.
IDF makes history: First woman to be made major general
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Defense Minister Barak approves appointment of Brig.-Gen. Orna Barbivai; Livni: “There is no rank that is too heavy for a woman’s shoulders.”
Top US Jews seek positives in Obama-Netanyahu ties
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Jewish leaders highlight the statesmen’s commonalities rather than driving home the differences in their policy statements.
As civil war looms in Yemen, leaders call for Saleh to go
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – At least 69 people killed in latest day of fighting; Israeli expert: Regime’s fall would undermine regional stability, provide al-Qaida haven.
‘G8 to threaten Syria with UN Security Council action’
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Draft declaration from G8 summit warns that if Assad gov’t does not stop crackdown, UNSC action will be considered, DPA reports.
Jerusalem to shine during third annual light festival
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – 200,000 tourists came to last year’s light festival; will cost NIS 7 million to produce, part of which is covered by sponsors.
Shaath: Unity deal will allow us to ‘liberate Palestine’
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Highest ranking Fatah official to visit Gaza since reconciliation with Hamas vows Abbas determined to go ahead with Palestinian unity despite concerns of Obama, Netanyahu; Sarkozy: Unity “good news” for peace process.
Analysis: Nasrallah comes to the rescue of Assad
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Experts say Hezbollah leader views Syrian president “as the lesser evil,” does not want to be implicated in violence against protesters.
Israeli-South African who hid Mandela dies aged 82
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Arthur Goldreich, who took part in struggle to end Apartheid, was jailed, sentenced to death in S. Africa but managed to escape to Israel.
White House says Libya ceasefire offer not credible
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Letter penned by Libyan PM proposes ceasefire monitored by UN, talks with opposition, and amnesty for all sides, reports ‘The Independent’.
Katsav lawyers ask to delay hearing due to vacations
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Lawyers say holding appeal hearing on rape conviction in August forces them to delay holiday plans which could bring emotional distress.
Egyptian activists ‘to form Nazi party’, newspaper reports
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – ‘Al-Masry Al-Youm’ report says Facebook pages launched to attract followers; Nazi parties operated secretly in Egypt during Mubarak regime.
Twisted ladies and men who feed butterflies
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Weekend highlights from the Israel Festival include a clash of opera and contemporary cabaret as well as a murder mystery.
The high price of protesting in Syria: jail and abuse
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – The fear of a hand, its owner invisible, snatching protesters from the crowd, looms large for those demonstrating against Assad.
The Weekly Schmooze: The Bibi drinking game
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – A ‘Jpost’ column wrapping up the hottest Jewish culture news worldwide:Justin Bieber’s new tattoo; superheroes survive the Rapture.
Chosen Bites: Blackberry upside cake
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Chef Laura Frankel introduces a modern version of the classic upside-down cake which tastes and looks amazing with fresh summer berries.
Spanish poet honors unsung Warsaw Ghetto heroine
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Irena Sendler, who saved 2,500 Jewish children by smuggling them out of the Warsaw Ghetto, wins Spanish poetry prize.
Off the Beaten Track: Trails and tribulations in the Golan
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – A new column: Travel expert Joe Yudin introduces “the road less travelled” as well as some new discoveries at more well-known sites.
Official: At least 28 killed in Yemen explosion
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Heavy fighting occurs near ministries in Sanaa; US orders non-essential staff, families to leave; Saleh says he won’t make anymore concessions.
‘Libya to offer int’l community ceasefire, concessions’
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Letter penned by Libyan PM proposes ceasefire monitored by UN, talks with opposition, and amnesty for all sides, reports ‘The Independent’.
Civil war looms as big blasts rock Yemeni capital
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Heavy fighting occurs near ministries in Sanaa; US orders non-essential staff, families to leave; Saleh says he won’t make anymore concessions.
Recycling bins in select cities receive ‘new look’
Jeruslalem Post 26 May 2011 – Bins feature sculpted blossoming tree branches on front of cage; new design comes after complaints that bins were dirty, “didn’t look good.”
Knesset panel: Kids with ‘orphan diseases’ don’t get help
Jeruslalem Post 25 May 2011 – MK says Health Ministry, National Insurance Institute discriminating against children born with very rare genetic syndromes.
Mideast Uprisings Underlie Falling Peace Index
IPS The world has witnessed a decline in global peace over the last year, according to the 2011 Global Peace Index, or GPI, released by the Institute for Economics and Peace Wednesday.
Nascent Independent Unions Play Key Role in Arab Uprisings
IPS In the Arab world, most trade unions are affiliated to governments, but independent labour organisations are starting to emerge.
OP-ED: The Sacred and the Secular – Promoting Muslim Democracy
IPS The presence of religion in public space challenges our ideas about the roles of faith in our lives and politics. Over the last centuries, proponents of secularisation have claimed that as societies modernise, the role of religion in public and private life diminishes. For them, modern rationality, science, and the…
EGYPT: Political Punch with a Religious Thrust
IPS More than three months since the fall of the Mubarak regime, Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood movement is well on its way to forming its first official political party since its inception in 1928. But while the nascent party is to be based on “the principles of Islamic Law and respect for…
[uruknet.info] Welcome to the Violent World of Mr. Hopey Changey
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – …The Nato attack on Libya, with the UN Security Council assigned to mandate a bogus “no fly zone” to “protect civilians”, is strikingly similar to the final destruction of Yugoslavia in 1999. There was no UN cover for the bombing of Serbia and the “rescue” of Kosovo, yet the propaganda echoes today. Like Slobodan…
[uruknet.info] Corrie lawyers expose army smear campaign against ISM
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – Israeli army spokesperson Brigadier General Ruth Yaron testified this week in what was expected to be the final hearing of the Rachel Corrie trial, now in its fifteenth month of oral testimonies. But once again, the conclusion of the oral testimonies has been pushed back and the Corrie family continues to wait for a…
[uruknet.info] Israeli ministers celebrate East Jerusalem settlement expansion
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – While Netanyahu was still reeling from his political victory following his US trip Wednesday, back at home, Interior Minister Eil Yishai and Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat and other government officials made good on Netanayhu’s promise to maintain the occupation in Jerusalem by staging a provocative ceremony to inaugurate 60 housing units already constructed in…
[uruknet.info] Netanyahu Spurns Peace
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – Calling for Palestinian capitulation, not peace and liberation, Netanyahu delivered a litany of lies, fabrications, misstatements, and half-truths to AIPAC members on May 23, saying: — “Israel is unjustly accused of not wanting peace with the Palestinians. Nothing could be further from the truth.” In fact, he once called the peace process “a waste…
[uruknet.info] Civil war looms in Yemen as fighting escalates
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – More than 40 Yemenis were killed in pitched street battles in the capital on Thursday as fighting aimed at ending President Ali Abdullah Saleh’s three-decade-long rule threatened to ignite civil war. Residents were fleeing Sanaa by the hundreds, hurriedly fastening possessions to the roofs of cars, hoping to escape the violence that has killed…
[uruknet.info] Iraq De-Baathification Panel Head Killed
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – The head of a committee tasked with rooting out Iraqis with ties to Saddam Hussein’s deposed regime and who was once arrested for alleged ties to Shiite militias was shot to death late Thursday in Baghdad, officials said. Ali al-Lami was a divisive figure in Iraqi politics who had close ties to neighboring Iran’s…
[uruknet.info] A Palestinian Revolt in the Making?
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – At 10:30 on May 15, two battalions of Israeli combat soldiers opened fire with tear gas and rubber bullets on hundreds of unarmed Palestinian demonstrators at the Qalandia checkpoint dividing Ramallah from Jerusalem, sending people scrambling into the adjacent refugee camp. These were the opening shots of Israel’s response to protests commemorating the Nakba,…
[uruknet.info] The teen idol demise of Moqtada al-Sadr (though the press keeps the home fires burning)
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – I’m not really one for a press agent but have, at times in my career, had to retain a firm. And I wonder if Moqtada al-Sadr’s press groupies realize that they are short changing themselves by not charging Moqtada for all the free, fawning and inflated press they give him? This is ridiculous. If…
[uruknet.info] The Incarceration Society: California’s Overcrowed Prisons
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – Monday’s Supreme Court decision ordering California to reduce its overcrowded prisons by 30,000 inmates is as welcome as a ray of sunlight streaming through prison bars. State officials have known for decades of the horrific, if not criminal, neglect of prisoners. Five years ago, then Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger called their plight an “emergency.” Some “…
[uruknet.info] AI: Syria video points to shoot to kill’ policy of security forces
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – Amnesty International has obtained video footage that points to a “shoot to kill” policy being used by the Syrian security forces to quell reform protests. The footage, smuggled out of Syria by contacts of Amnesty International, shows protesters shot and beaten by security forces, soldiers conducting a night raid on the ‘Omari mosque in…
[uruknet.info] Hugo Chavez, Monthly Review, and the Syrian torture state
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – …It is doubly troubling to see Hugo Chavez participating in this sordid exercise. The Venezuela Foreign Ministry issued a statement on Syria that appears on MRZine today. All of it is garbage but this is particularly offensive: President Hugo Ch?°vez received from President Bashar al-Assad a complete picture of the real situation in this…
[uruknet.info] AIPAC official says Egypt’s commitment to peace demands blockade on Gaza
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – An official at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has warned that the Arab Spring revolutions might lead to the emergence of “regimes that are hostile towards the Israelis”. Executive Director Howard Kohr stressed to his organisation’s conference “the importance of Egypt’s commitment to the peace agreement with Tel Aviv”, so as not…
[uruknet.info] During Obama’s UK Visit, Shaker Aamer’s Children – and Campaigners – Call for His Return from Guant?°namo
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – On Tuesday, as President Obama, on his first state visit to the UK, was welcomed by the Queen at Buckingham Palace, campaigners from the Save Shaker Aamer Campaign and the London Guant?°namo Campaign were outside, on the Mall, making a noise about the need to secure the return to the UK of the last…
[uruknet.info] Israel’s siege freed Gaza’s youth
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – Palestinians were in disbelief over the news of a reconciliation deal between the two largest Palestinian factions, Hamas and Fatah, brokered by Egypt which, meanwhile, repeated that ending the siege is a priority. Palestinian youth living in the besieged Gaza Strip were quick to start envisioning a new life in a Gaza free from…
[uruknet.info] US Defense Secretary Gates urges post-2011 occupation of Iraq
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – Defense Secretary Robert Gates urged in a speech Tuesday that the US occupation of Iraq be continued beyond a December 31, 2011 deadline for the withdrawal of all American forces. He argued that the US military must remain on Iraqi soil to counter Iranian influence and maintain US power both within the country and…
[uruknet.info] The price of return
Uruknet May 26, 2011 – Seventeen-year-old Mohammed al-Saleh grew up in Burj al-Shemali refugee camp in south Lebanon, caring little about politics and more about football and FC Barcelona. However, when it came to Palestine, Mohamed’s 16-year-old cousin, also named Mohammed, described him as saying, “He would always say that Palestinians inside [under Israeli occupation] sacrifice a lot, and…
[uruknet.info] Existential Threat
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – There are 2244 articles in LexisNexis that contain both “existential threat” and “Israel”. The first time that this combination occurred was not surprisingly in a Jerusalem Post article dated March 7, 1989 … I find the use of the term “existential” quite troubling. Perhaps I would feel less revulsion if the bourgeois media used the…
[uruknet.info] Fact-checking Netanyahu’s Speech
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – NETANYAHU: “You don’t need to export democracy to Israel. We’ve already got it.” REALITY: For more than 43 years, Israel has militarily occupied the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem, a population now numbering 4.36 million people. Except for a few thousand Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem, this population has no voice in…
[uruknet.info] How Iraq’s Kurdistan Broke Up Two Months Of Protests
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – While on a visit to Doha in the Persian Gulf, Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Premier Barham Saleh gave an interview to a Qatari paper. He said that the protests that happened in Kurdistan were a sign of the power of the civil society in the region. He was quoted as saying, “We should not…
[uruknet.info] NATO goes Kosovo in Libya
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – … To go back to the Kosovo parallel, we should remember, with all due bitterness, that Serbia is a European country that is populated by white people. Despite that Eastern-Europeans are still often considered to be second-class Europeans, all this matters in the minds of European publics, and thus also in the minds of European…
[uruknet.info] Gaza: Revolution and change at the Rafah
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – He wore a black uniform and walked around self-assuredly, as he instructed weary travelers on their next moves before being allowed back into Gaza. On the other side of the border, in Egypt, there was much anxiety, fear and anticipation. “Things will get better,” said a Palestinian engineer from Gaza, who once studied and…
[uruknet.info] Obama Claims to “Reset” the Imperial Clock
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – Since when does the leader of an empire voluntarily “reset” to become a non-interfering power? Never. President Obama’s speech, last week, was mainly geared to maintaining U.S. supremacy in the Mideast and North Africa following the shock of the Arab Reawakening. Obama chided Arabs and Africans who believe colonialism is the root of their…
[uruknet.info] Iraq snapshot – May 25, 2011
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – Chaos and violence continue, US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates states in a speech that he wants the US military to remain in Iraq, the US and Iraq are supposedly in secret talks to extend the SOFA, US House Rep Brad Sherman speaks out on the issues facing the country and the press (outlets,…
[uruknet.info] Hamas Leaders At Odds Over Negotiations
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – After the Hamas political bureau chief, Khaled Mashal, said that the movement would give Israel a chance to prove its seriousness in peace talks, Hamas political leader, Mahmoud Zahhar, denounced the statements of Mashal. The recent statements are considered the first time that Hamas leaders express conflicting opinions. Hamas’ political bureau in Damascus was…
[uruknet.info] Nakba Denials Must Be Condemned
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – When Palestinian refugees were gunned down by Israeli soldiers upon marching towards their homeland during unarmed Nakba Day demonstrations, the floodgates of historic revisionism opened. What is this ‘Nakba’? Where did these refugees come from? Who should be responsible for them? Readers undoubtedly raised these questions when the spilled blood of demonstrators brought the…
[uruknet.info] Ahrar: Prisoner Rajoub on verge of death
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – Palestinian prisoners in the Israeli Ofer jail have appealed to all local and international human rights groups to save the life of their comrade Yasser Al-Rajoub after his health seriously deteriorated. Fuad Al-Khuffash the director of the Ahrar center for prisoners’ studies and human rights said in a press release on Wednesday that the…
[uruknet.info] A year of steadfastness in Israeli prison
Uruknet May 25, 2011 – A year of imprisonment has passed. To spend one year in prison is a high price to pay for Israel’s unjust rule. My share has been more modest compared to other prisoners who are about to enter their fourth decade in Israeli prisons. It’s true, one should not differentiate between the sentences the same…
Gadhafi forces bombard Libyan city of Misrata
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Forces loyal to Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi bombarded the rebel-held city of Misrata with mortars Thursday, and the U.S. said a fresh ceasefire offer from Gadhafi’s government was not credible.
Yemen fighting claims 40 lives, civil war looms
Daily Star 26 May 2011 More than 40 Yemenis were killed in pitched street battles in the capital Thursday as fighting aimed at ending President Ali Abdullah Saleh’s three-decade-long rule threatened to ignite civil war.
Mikati determined to conclude Cabinet quest
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Prime Minister-designate Najib Mikati vowed Thursday to spare no effort aimed at accelerating the formation of a new government in order to put an end to more than four months of power vacuum and paralysis of…
Hariri questions Nahas motives
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Caretaker Prime Minister Saad Hariri placed his trust in the judiciary Thursday, saying he had no problem with letting the institution address what he called an attempt by caretaker Telecoms Minister Charbel Nahhas.
STL chief urges an end to wrangling in Hariri case
Daily Star 26 May 2011 The legal wrangling concerning the disclosure of documents related to a former suspect in the United Nations-backed probe into the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri must be resolved by next month, the court’s president…
Gates: Hezbollah arsenal larger than thought
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Hezbollah has a larger arsenal than some states and constitutes the biggest military threat to Israel, U.S. and Israeli defense officials have said.
Aoun: Mufti Qabbani is exploiting false claims
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Free Patriotic Movement leader Michel Aoun criticized Thursday Mufti Sheikh Mohammad Qabbani for exploiting false claims by former Justice Minister Charles Rizk that Aoun had referred to Sunnis as animals and strangers.
Palestinian ambassador: Border marches part of resistance
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Palestine’s ambassador to Lebanon said Palestinian refugees could march to the borders with Israel more frequently to emphasize the right of return, while stressing that the action was part of a wider peaceful resistance taking place…
Nasrallah’s speech draws March 14 ire
Daily Star 26 May 2011 March 14 officials criticized Thursday the speech made by Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on the occasion of Resistance and Liberation Day.
Two arrested over attack on Tripoli hospital staff
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Two men were arrested Thursday after they attacked the staff of a hospital in Tripoli Thursday. The two men, Khodr Khaled Nizam, known as Allemby, and Abdullah Burhan Sultan Qassem, allegedly attacked doctors and nurses of…
Project to involve expatriates in development enters 2nd phase
Daily Star 26 May 2011 The second phase of an U.N.-sponsored initiative aimed at engaging Lebanese expatriates to support local community-based development projects was launched Thursday to address urgent needs in the environment, education and health sectors.
Public buildings to go solar thanks to Italy
Daily Star 26 May 2011 The Environment Ministry is to build hundreds of solar water heaters on the roofs of public institutions, in a project financed by the Italian government.
Charity honors teen slain in road accident
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Zeina Kassar Kassem has had to live through every parent’s worst nightmare, tragically, and senselessly, losing a child.
Two found dead, one feared poisoned, another burned
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Police are investigating the death of a 45-year-old man in the village of Dleibeh in the upper Metn, security sources told The Daily Star. The body of the victim, identified by his initials A.Y.B, was found…
Police assist Army in removing illegal structures
Daily Star 26 May 2011 The police assisted the army in an operation to dismantle 30 illegal structures in the southern suburbs of the capital, the National News Agency reported Thursday.
Siniora’s wife recovering after hit-and-run incident
Daily Star 26 May 2011 The wife of a former prime minister was resting in hospital Thursday after she was struck by a motorcycle.
Hamas, EU hail Egypt plan to open Rafah border permanently
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Gaza’s Hamas rulers and the EU Thursday welcomed an Egyptian decision to permanently open the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and the Palestinian enclave.
Egypt’s army to maintain low profile during Friday protests
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Egypt’s military rulers said Thursday they would withdraw troops from streets where pro-democracy youth activists plan to hold mass protests Friday to demand a swift transition to civilian rule.
Saudi preachers denounce push for co-ed schooling
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Conservative Muslim preachers have pounced on Saudi Arabia’s Education Ministry to nip in the bud any possible move to modify the strict separation of boys and girls in primary school.
Civil war likely in Yemen unless Saleh steps down soon
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Yemen may have little chance of averting a tribal civil war as heavy fighting spreads in the capital unless President Ali Abdullah Saleh quickly resigns.
Libya’s Berbers find opportunity in uprising against Gadhafi
Daily Star 26 May 2011 On entering the building after the revolution began, the first thing Mazigh Buzakhar and his colleagues did was to unplug the surveillance cameras and switch the satellite Internet provider.
Shattered humanity inside Syrian security
Daily Star 26 May 2011 The young man was dangling upside down, white, foaming saliva dripping from his mouth. His groans sounded more bestial than human.
South Sudan president rules out renewed war with North
Daily Star 26 May 2011 The president of Southern Sudan said Thursday he will not return the South to war with the North over the disputed Abyei region even as the North was reportedly moving thousands of Arab tribesmen into Abyei…
Rush hour explosion wounds 7 near bus stop in Istanbul
Daily Star 26 May 2011 A bomb placed on a bicycle near a bus stop exploded during morning rush hour in Istanbul Thursday, wounding seven people, including a police officer, the city’s police chief said.
Syria opposition urges army troops to join revolt
Daily Star 26 May 2011 The Syrian opposition called on the nation’s army Thursday to join the uprising against President Bashar Assad’s regime, saying regime elements are targeting protesters and troops.
Gunmen kill head of Iraqi de-baathification panel, bomb slays 4
Daily Star 26 May 2011 The top military spokesman for Baghdad says that gunmen killed the head of a controversial committee tasked with vetting people for ties to Saddam Hussein’s regime.
Saudi Arabia extends detention of female driver
Daily Star 26 May 2011 A Saudi woman detained for defying the ultraconservative kingdom’s ban on female drivers will be held in detention for at least 10 more days, a lawyer and rights activist said Thursday.
Rifi accuses Nahhas of threatening security
Daily Star 26 May 2011 ISF commander says Telecoms Minister responsible for minor scuffle in ministry after security forces prevent Nahhas entering a sealed-off ministry facility said to house equipment of a third telecom network.
Yemen unrest timeline
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Key dates in the revolt in Yemen:
Gadhafi makes new cease-fire offer
Daily Star 26 May 2011 The government of Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi has contacted foreign states offering an immediate cease-fire, but there was skepticism that the proposal could end the three-month-old conflict.
Baroud absolves himself of ministerial duties
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Caretaker Interior Minister Ziyad Baroud said Thursday he was absolving himself of his duties hours after security forces prevented the caretaker telecoms minister from accessing a state facility.
5 staff members injured after fire at ACS in Beirut
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Students at the American Community School were evacuated safely after a small fire erupted at one of the school’s buildings, ACS said Thursday, adding that several staff members had been injured while trying to put out…
Mikati says he will exhaust options to form government
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Prime minister-designate says he will study all initiatives and options within the constitution, as country enters fifth month without a Cabinet.
U.S. presses Lebanon to sever ties with Syria: report
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Washington has bolstered efforts to sever ties between Lebanon and its neighbor Syria, diplomats and officials have told a U.S. newspaper.
Nahhas banned entry to ministry facility, describes act as ‘coup’
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Caretaker Telecoms Minister Charbel Nahhas accused Thursday a branch of the ISF of unlawfully preventing him access to facilities linked to the Telecoms Ministry.
March 14 criticize Nasrallah speech
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Officials from outgoing Hariri’s Future Movement and his March 14 allies say speech offered nothing new, sought to distract Israel from Syria.
Thousands rally in Iraq against US troop presence
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Iraqi Shiite militia fighters led a massive rally of followers of a hard-liner anti-American preacher Thursday, marching in Baghdad in a show of defiance as Iraqi leaders weigh whether to keep U.S. troops in the country…
Yemen says 28 killed in blast at weapons’ storage
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Yemen’s Defense Ministry says 28 have been killed in an explosion at a weapons’ storage facility in western Sanaa.
Bomb in Istanbul bus stop wounds seven
Daily Star 26 May 2011 A bomb exploded at a bus stop during rush hour in Istanbul on Thursday, injuring seven people.
Sanaa fighting a bid for Yemen leader to keep power: analysts
Daily Star 26 May 2011 Saleh may have provoked fighting with country’s most powerful tribal leader in a last-ditch effort to maintain power and weaken popular protests, analysts say.
Jerusalem to get $105M in development funds
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – Government to vote on new funds for capital’s development on Sunday. Western….
Fires erupt across Israel
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – Large firefighting units dispatched to extinguish blazes in Golan Heights,….
Erekat: Israel destroying 2-state solution
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – Chief Palestinian negotiator slams recent construction in east Jerusalem, says….
Report: Nabil Shaath visits Gaza Strip
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – Palestinian sources say senior Fatah member holding first visit by West Bank….
Suspects in Fogel family murder remanded
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – Samaria Military Court grants prosecution’s motion to keep Hakim Mazen Awad,….
Arab spring expected to top G8’s agenda
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – Group of Eight summit in Fracne to debate financial aid to budding Middle East….
Europe’s most-wanted war criminal arrested
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – UN war crimes tribunal urges Serbia to hand over Ratko Mladic, who fled genocide….
State declares Ben-Yosef Livnat terror victim
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – Decision made although IDF has not yet defined Joseph’s Tomb shooting as terror….
Flotilla to go ahead despite open crossing
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – Organizers of Turkish flotilla determined to go ahead with plans next month….
PA to collaborate on Gaza Strip restoration
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – West Bank delegation confers with Gaza businessmen to discuss reconstruction of….
Former Nazi jail hosts ‘prison parties’
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – Hotel in Germany, once POW prison, offers guests striped t-shirt, prison food,….
Europeans seek UN condemnation of Syria
YNet News, 26 May 2011 – Ahead of G-8 summit, key nations present resolution draft to UN Security….
Palestinian Information Center
Egypt to permanently open Rafah border crossing to Palestinians
PIC – Egyptian authorities have passed a decision to take effect this Saturday to permanently open the Rafah crossing on its borders with the Gaza Strip, except Fridays and official holidays..
Hamas lauds Egypt’s decision to open Rafah crossing
PIC – Hamas has lauded Egypt’s decision to permanently open the Rafah border crossing and further ease the flow of Palestinian commuters between Egypt and the Gaza Strip beginning Saturday.
Two women mark ten years in Israeli occupation jails
PIC – Palestinian female prisoners Sana Mohammed Shehadeh, 35, from the Shu’fat refugee camp in Jerusalem, and Irena Sarahna, 36, have marked their tenth year in Israeli occupation prisons..
US activist hospitalized after ‘brutal attack’ because of heckling Netanyahu
PIC – An American activist was “brutally attacked” by Jewish lobbyists after she interrupted a speech by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to US Congress.
FPJS condemns IOF for raiding house of Palestinian journalist Alaa al-Titi
PIC – The Forum of Palestinian Journalists has condemned the Israeli occupation forces for raiding the home of Palestinian journalist Alaa al-Titi from the Al-Arub refugee camp..
Haneyya: We are committed to freeing all captives
PIC – The Prime Minster of the Palestinian government in Gaza said that his government is committed to the freedom of all Palestinian captives in Zionist occupation jails.
Specialists: 95% of Gaza water is not drinkable
PIC – During a workshop organised by the Mizan centre for Human rights held on Thursday in Gaza, Palestinian specialists said that 95% of groundwater in the Gaza Strip is not potable.
Sha’th in Gaza affirms commitment to reconciliation
PIC – Member of the central committee of Fatah, Dr. Nabil Sha’th, arrived in Gaza Thursday evening to discuss with Palestinian resistance factions the implementation of the reconciliation agreement.
Negev prison claims discovering a smuggling attempt of mobile phones
PIC – Zionist security sources claimed that the Negev prison administration discovered 50 mobile phones intended for Palestinian captives in the prison.
Israeli Forces Storms Madda Center for Children in Jerusalem
WAFA
Jewish Settlers Severely Beat Elderly Palestinian Shepherd in Nablus
WAFA
Palestinian Journalist’s Syndicate Calls for Releasing Journalist al-Nuwati
WAFA
77 Palestinians Arrested Recently in Nablus, says PPC
WAFA
Prisoner Zamel Shlouf’s Family Appeals to Save His Life
WAFA
Hotel Occupancy Down in First Quarter 2011
WAFA
Erekat says New Jerusalem Settlement Destroys Two-State Solution
WAFA
Appeal to Save Palestinian Prisoner’s Life
WAFA
Israeli Soldiers Demolish 3 Water Wells in Hebron
WAFA
PA Signs an Agreement to Support Local Councils
WAFA
NIMA SHIRAZI: Israel Always Needs an Existential Threat to Survive
Intifada-Palestine: 26 May 2011 – Nima Shirazi Interview by Kourosh Ziabari Nima Shirazi is a political commentator from New York City. His analysis of United States foreign policy and Middle East issues, particularly with reference to current events in Israel, Palestine, and Iran, is published on… more
The International Criminal Court – a Help or a Hindrance?
Intifada-Palestine: 26 May 2011 – It is pledged to end impunity for the most evil criminals… The Goldstone report accused Israel of a disproportionate attack designed to punish, humiliate and terrorise a civilian population. Photograph: Hatem Omar/AP “There should be no hiding place. But international law… more
Press TV Interview with Maidhc ?ì Cathail [VIDEO]
Intifada-Palestine: 26 May 2011 – Cathail is an investigative journalist and Middle East analyst, from Osaka. Maidhc ?ì Cathail on Press TV (TEHRAN / OSAKA) – An analyst exposes the parasitic links between Western organizations and pro-Israeli groups with dissidents who cause interwoven upheavals in Middle Eastern… more
URI AVNERY: Bibi and the Yo-Yos
Intifada-Palestine: 26 May 2011 – by Uri Avnery IT WAS all rather disgusting. There they were, the members of the highest legislative bodies of the world’s only superpower, flying up and down like so many yo-yos, applauding wildly, every few minutes or seconds, the most outrageous… more
Yemen forces rout opposition fighters from capital district
LA Times 26 May 2011 – Forty people are killed and scores of residents flee Yemen’s capital, Sana. Fighting between supporters of President Ali Abdullah Saleh and his onetime ally, tribal leader Sadiq Ahmar, has raised the specter of more bloodshed. Yemeni government forces pushed fighters opposed to President Ali Abdullah…
Fierce fighting continues in Yemen capital
LA Times 25 May 2011 – President Ali Abdullah Saleh appears determined to stay in power, as the toll reaches at least 40 dead in three days of fighting between his forces and opposition tribesmen. Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh blamed his foes for raging street battles in the nation’s capital…
U.S. presses Lebanon to distance itself from Syria
LA Times 25 May 2011 – The move is part of U.S. efforts to isolate Syrian President Bashar Assad’s regime and force him to end his violent crackdown on protesters. The United States is upping pressure on Lebanon to reduce its ties to neighboring Syria in an effort to further isolate…
Clashes in Yemen Spread to Tribes Beyond Capital
New York Times 26 May 2011 – Clashes between government forces and opposition tribesmen spread beyond the capital, Sana, drawing in new tribal factions and widening the civil conflict.
Evasions by Leader Add Chaos in Yemen
New York Times 26 May 2011 – Three times in recent days, as Yemen slips into bloody conflict, President Ali Abdullah Saleh has promised to agree to a transfer of power, only to back out at the last minute.
Libya Effort Is Called Violation of War Act
New York Times 26 May 2011 – House members say American involvement violates a 60-day deadline.
Egypt to Open Border With Gaza, in the Face of Israeli Objections
New York Times 26 May 2011 – The move by Egypt’s transitional government, in the face of Israeli protests, will be the latest geopolitical aftershock of the Egyptian revolution.
Ex-Insurgent Shot to Death In Baghdad
New York Times 26 May 2011 – The march by tens of thousands of Iraqis loyal to the anti-American Shiite cleric Moktada al-Sadr was to warn the government against asking the United States military to stay beyond Dec. 31.
Parties See Obama’s Israel Policy as Wedge for 2012
New York Times 26 May 2011 – The question of whether President Obama is supportive enough of Israel is behind partisan maneuvering that has potential ramifications for the 2012 election.
U.S. Announces Sanctions Against Israeli Company
New York Times 26 May 2011 – As the Israeli prime minister praised the United States for tough sanctions on Iran, the State Department announced sanctions on an Israeli company for dealings with Iran.
Czech Republic gets IAI electro-optics
Neged Neshek – The Czech Republic has installed Israel Aerospace Industries’ MiniPOP sights on its Pandur II infantry fighting vehicles. The sights will be used for the remote controlled weapon stations from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems that were contracted in 2006.
Settlers fabricate non-existent “eternal rights”
Mondoweiss – Yossi Gurvitz over @ +972 informs us a bunch of nutjob settlers are threatening to sue the UN over the insulting verbiage used to describe the West Bank as occupied territory. I kid you not! And that’s only the beginning… Well, the NRG article breathlessly informs…
Why did I disrupt?
Mondoweiss – By RAE ABILEAH Do you know that our Congress gave 29 standing ovations to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when he spoke in the Capital on Tuesday, May 24? I couldn’t watch this hero’s welcome for a man who supports the continued building of illegal settlements,…
Reality imitates the dream in the Rachel Corrie case in Haifa
Mondoweiss – The stage was set for the strangest of dreams but my dreams revolved around what was actually happening: I had arrived back on a night flight from a two-week pleasure tour of Andaluc??a and taken the train to arrive in Haifa at six in the morning….
In ‘The American Interest,’ minister’s kid Mead says God favors and protects Israel like he protects the U.S.
Mondoweiss – Here’s a piece called “The Dreamer goes down for the count,” Walter Russell Mead writing about Obama and Israel in The American Interest. You can safely ignore the first half of this. But starting at: “The President is now wandering across Europe…” Mead sketches a portrait…
On the strict American requirement of being ‘sufficiently pro-Israel’
Mondoweiss – Alan Levine is a NY lawyer who brought Debbie Almontaser’s lawsuit against the NY Dept of Education because of her dismissal from the Kahlil Gibran International Academy [KGIA]. Here he is in Haaretz , writing about the recent Tony Kushner honorary degree flap at the City University…
We’ve Moved!
Palestine Monitor – Visit our new website at www.palestinemonitor.org – In pictures / photostory
Former Mossad Chief: Mistake to Oppose General Assembly Vote on Palestinian Statehood
Tikun Olam – Former Mossad chief, Meir Dagan has sent a thunderbolt through the Israeli political and security establishment with his statement that opposition to Palestinian statehood in the form of the upcoming September vote before the General Assembly is a serious error of judgment (Hebrew) on Israel’s part….
Chile to buy Elbit UAVs
Neged Neshek – Flight International is reporting that Chile has selected Elbit Systems ‘ Hermes 900 UAV. Elbit has not yet confirmed the sale but, when confirmed, will mark the second UAV transfer to Chile in as many years. Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, who has a joint marketing contract…
BDS fears in the arms industry!
Neged Neshek – Yaakov Katz is reporting in The Jerusalem Post that “leading defense officials” are concerned that the possibility of a declaration of statehood by Palestinians this fall could lead to a boycott of arms sales due to the occupation. This follows last week’s statements by Defense Minister…
Elbit helping greenwash US militarism
Neged Neshek – Elbit Systems has been awarded a US Air Force contract as part of the Small Unmanned Renewable enerGy long Endurance Vehicle (SURGE-V) program.The $388,322 contract is to design a prototype propulsion system running on renewable energy. This is part of greenwashing militarism.
ADS working on a new UAV
Neged Neshek – Aeronautics Defense Systems has announced that it’s working on a new, jet-powered UAV. It will be ADS’s first jet-powered UAV and is expected to take at least five years to create. The European firm EADS, the US’s General Atomics and others have been working on jet-powered…
Mossawa Center Calls for Recognition of Unique Status of Arabs in Israel
Arab American Institute 26 May 2011 – The Mossawa Center is the leading advocacy organization for Arab Citizens in Israel. In light of recent speeches commenting on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by U.S. President Barack Obama and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the center has called upon leaders from both countries to recognize “the…
Gaza fishermen protest over daily harassment by Israeli navy
Middle East Monitor 26 May 2011 – EXCLUSIVE PICTURES Gaza’s fishermen have staged a sit-in demanding that the ban and naval blockade imposed on the sector be lifted. They also demanded international protection and an increase in the area in which they are allowed to fish. Currently Gaza’s fishermen are allowed to venture…
AIPAC official says Egypt’s commitment to peace demands blockade on Gaza
Middle East Monitor 26 May 2011 – An official at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has warned that the Arab Spring revolutions might lead to the emergence of “regimes that are hostile towards the Israelis”. Executive Director Howard Kohr stressed to his organisation’s conference “the importance of Egypt’s commitment to the…
Palestinian negotiator says Israeli Government is not a partner in the peace process
Middle East Monitor 26 May 2011 – A senior member of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization and Chairman of the Palestinian delegation for the negotiations, has said that the Israeli government is neither a partner in the International Quartet nor a partner with Palestinians in the peace process. Saeb Erekat…
Arab MKs call Netanyahu’s statements on Israel’s Palestinian citizens “misleading”
Middle East Monitor 26 May 2011 – Arab members of the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, have called Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s statements about the status of the Arab minority in the Palestinian “attempts to mislead and deceive”. Netanyahu made his claims in a speech to a joint session of the US Congress in…
Spain ‘stops Iran aircraft sale’
BBC 26 May 2011 – Spanish police say they have prevented the illegal sale of military transport helicopters to Iran and have detained eight people, including three Iranians.
Standing firm
BBC 25 May 2011 – Israeli PM buoyed by Congress, but can stance deliver peace?
(en) Egypt: Libertarian Socialist Movement
A-infos 26 May 2011 – We libertarian socialists struggle for a socialist society without classes, an anti- authoritarian society free of the repressive apparatus of the State and of Capital. We stand against the introduction of State capitalism, such as in the oppressive regimes that existed in “socialist” countries. We reject…
Occupation End Notes: Tired of Their Tune!
US Campaign to End the Occupation 26 May 2011 – May 26, 2011, This week, Congress and President Obama played disc jockey, spinning the same old tunes for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Stuck and skipping like the worn grooves of an old vinyl record, the 20-year-old U.S. “peace process” is mired in its old formulaic…
Hundreds Have Just Faced Up To AIPAC, But Together We Can Do More.
US Campaign to End the Occupation 26 May 2011 – May 24, 2011, Our Steering Committee Members Felicia Eaves and Phyllis Bennis celebrate a complete weekend of organizing, educating, lobbying and direct action, known as Move Over AIPAC, and ask… “If we can mount this much of a challenge to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (…
Articles
Obama bows to AIPAC’s will
Richard Falk, Al Jazeera5/24/2011
US media praised Obama’s speech for “challenging” Israel, but in reality, it is being rewarded for ignoring his demands.
On Sunday May 22, 2011, President Barack Obama spoke at an AIPAC Conference, three days after giving his pro-Israeli speech at the State Department on his broader Middle East foreign policy. It was a shockingly partisan speech to the extremist lobbying group that has the entire US Congress in an unprecedented headlock that has become the envy of even the National Rifle Association.
Of course, it is all about the presidential election in 2012, and the importance of Jewish electoral and funding support, but nevertheless it is such a blatant exercise of bad faith on the president’s part as to be worth noting. What is worse, the mainstream media typically misconstrued the event in a manner that compounds the outrage of the speech itself.
For instance, the NY Times headline says it all: “Obama Challenges Israel to Make Hard Choices for Peace”. As Obama points out himself, “there was nothing particularly original in my proposal; this basic framework for negotiations has long been the basis for discussions among the parties, including previous US administrations”.
The supposed hard choices involve Israeli withdrawal to the 1967 borders with agreed land swaps, only restating the generalised international consensus that has often been articulated by US leaders and in a variety of authoritative settings. This is hardly a hard choice, especially as interpreted by the White House’s former special envoy, George Mitchell, as including Israel’s perceived security requirements. more.. e-mail
Amidst long hours waiting to pass to Jerusalem
Shahd Abusalma, International Solidarity Movement5/25/2011
Last night, I went to bed at 11 pm, much earlier than I’m used to. I forced myself to stay under my blanket. The room was very dark and no sound could be heard but the sound of me moving in bed continually. I wanted to sleep so that 7 am today would come quickly, but all my attempts failed. Daydreaming in darkness conquered my mind. I dreamt about my travel to Jerusalem, the smell of its air, the view of its nature, its streets, and its people. My excitement to reach it kept me awake and I only managed to sleep at 4:30 am, then woke up again an hour and a half later.
Amidst this chaos and all the people around me who are chatting as an attempt to make time pass faster, I’m putting my headphones in my ears and listening to Fairoz, trying to live in my own world. I’m writing now from Beit Hanoun border or the so called Erez border. I’m sitting in a hall among lots of people, many of them patients and traders. Everybody has an excuse to go to Jerusalem and waiting to get permission to pass. My eyes are confused; one eye on the people around me and another on the fences that surround me from all destinations, laughing and sarcastically pitying the situation. Isn’t it funny that all of us here are waiting for hours to have a pass to go to our capital, Jerusalem? It’s not fair at all that I need an excuse to go there!
Now I’ve completed two hours of waiting and I don’t know for how much longer I’ll have to wait. While I was writing nonstop, an old woman sat next to me. Her traditional Palestinian dress lined by red embroidery attracted my eyes. The wrinkles of her face looked like she was bearing so many burdens that I thought she was older than only 66 years old. “Are you a refugee?” she asked. I smiled at her, nodding my head to confirm that. Then she said that she is too a refugee. That was the start of a very interesting conversation about our lands, which all Palestinian refugees were cleansed from in 1948. She was only three years old when her family was expelled from her original village, Acre…. more.. e-mail
Analysis: 29 years of nonviolent resistance to occupation
Mya Guarnieri, Ma’an News Agency5/25/2011
“Here comes your nonviolent resistance,” The Economist proclaimed in an article two days after the events of Nakba Day.
The writer pointed out that the demonstrations demanding an end to occupation and the right of return for Palestinian refugees that took place on May 15 were in the spirit of the First Intifada which was, by and large, nonviolent.
My colleague Joseph Dana voiced the same sentiment, in an article on Alternet:
“Many in the international press are claiming the Nakba day protests show that the Arab spring has arrived in Palestine…It was Palestinians who organized mass unarmed resistance against Israeli occupation in the late 1980s…It is in villages like Bil’in, Budrus and Nabi Saleh that Palestinians have continued this spirit of unarmed resistance every week for the past eight years despite continued Israeli attacks. The Arab spring has not arrived in Palestine; it has always been here.”
I endorse these articles. They offer important, nuanced takes on the Nakba Day protests, the First Intifada, and Palestinian resistance to the occupation.
But they’re both wrong.
Just as the siege on Gaza did not begin, suddenly, in 2006 as a tremendous majority of journalists and commentators say (the closure was gradual, starting with movement restrictions during the First Intifada. And economic de-development of the Strip began even earlier); neither did nonviolent resistance to the Israeli Occupation begin during the First Intifada. — See also: Amnesty calls for investigation into Nakba Day deaths more.. e-mail
Israel’s siege freed Gaza’s youth
Electronic Intifada: 25 May 2011 – Mohammed Rabah Suliman The Electronic Intifada Gaza Strip Despite its many severely negative results, Israel’s siege of Gaza has offered Palestinian youth a service none had offered before. It offered new paths for us in our struggle for freedom, deepened our patriotic sentiment and finally created an environment that fosters a collective sense of selflessness and cooperation. It has created a young generation that truly cares.more
Corrie lawyers expose army smear campaign against ISM
Electronic Intifada: 26 May 2011 – Charlotte Silver The Electronic Intifada Israeli army spokesperson Brigadier General Ruth Yaron testified this week in what was expected to be the final hearing of the Rachel Corrie trial, now in its fifteenth month of oral testimonies.more
We’ve Moved!
Palestine Monitor: 26 May 2011 – Visit our new website at www.palestinemonitor.org – In pictures / photostorymore
More material available from Vermonters for a Just Peace in Palestine/Israel – www.vtjp.org
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The New Dark Age 
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