7 February 2012 — VTJP
News
International Middle East Media Center
“Death To Christians” Graffiti Found On Jerusalem Monastery
IMEMC – Israeli Police spokesperson, Micky Rosenfeld, stated Tuesday that Israeli extremists settlers, carried out another “price tag” attack, this time targeting a Christian Monastery in Jerusalem’s Valley of the Cross” Monastery. …
To Avoid Excessive Penalty, Family Members Start Demolishing Their Own Homes
IMEMC – After Israel informed them of its intentions to demolish their homes, members of the Hardan family in Al Fredees village, at the Mount Carmel in the north of the 1948 territories, started demolishing their own homes, east of the village, in order to avoid the unreasonable and excessive penalties and fines that would be imposed upon them. …
Netanyahu Slams Abbas For Doha Agreement
IMEMC – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu slammed Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas over the reconciliation agreement with Hamas, signed on Monday at the Qatari Capital, Doha. The deal between Fateh and Hamas head, Khaled Mashaal, states that Abbas would become the Prime Minister of the Unity Government until new elections are held. …
Ad-Dameer Laywer Visits Hunger-Striking Detainee
IMEMC – Lawyer of the Ad-Dameer Prisoner Support and Human Rights Association, Samer Samaan, managed to visit the ailing hunger-striking detainee, Adnan Khader, who has been on hunger strike for 51 days, despite the sharp deterioration in his health condition. Khader is currently at an Israeli Hospital in Safad. …
Miles of Smiles Nine Arrives in Gaza
IMEMC – Palestinian sources reported Monday that the “Miles Of Smiles 9” aid and solidarity convoy made it into the coastal region through the Rafah Border Terminal, between Gaza and Egypt. …
Rights group welcomes court victory for 1948 village
2/7/2012 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — The Civic Coalition for Defending Palestinian Rights in Jerusalem welcomed an Israeli court decision on Monday which ruled in favor of the last remaining Palestinian village from 1948, a statement said. On Monday, an Israeli court upheld a petition to stop the sale of Lifta village land and property to private…. Related: Civic Coalition for Defending Palestinian Rights in Jerusalem
Israel issues evacuation orders to Hebron farmers
2/7/2012 – HEBRON (Ma’an) — Israeli authorities issued evacuation orders to several Palestinian farmers in the village of Beit Ula, west Hebron on Tuesday. The land owners told Ma’an that they found notifications in their fields demanding that they evacuate 10,000 square meters of land. The orders were dated Feb. 6 and claimed that….
Israeli court ratifies detention order for Jihad leader
2/7/2012 – RAMALLAH (Ma’an) — Israel’s Ofer military court said Tuesday that an administrative detention order for Islamic Jihad leader Khader Adnan is in effect. The Palestinian prisoners society contacted the court on Monday to obtain a final decision regarding the order. The military court confirmed on Tuesday that the 4 month administrative detention….
Israeli settlers ‘put new homes on Beit Ummar land’
2/7/2012 – HEBRON (Ma’an) — Israeli settlers have set up two new homes on land owned by Palestinians in the Hebron district, a popular committee spokesman said on Tuesday. Under the protection of Israeli soldiers, they set up two caravans on land belonging to late Beit Ummar resident Muhammad al-Zaqiq, the local spokesman Yousef Abu Maria….
‘Death to Christians’ sprayed on Jerusalem monastery
2/7/2012 – JERUSALEM (Reuters) — A Jerusalem monastery, built on the spot where tradition holds the tree from which Jesus’s cross was made, was defaced with graffiti bearing the hallmarks of Jewish extremists, police said on Tuesday.” Death to Christians” was daubed in Hebrew on the outer walls of the Monastery of the Cross, an 11th-century…. Related: Jewish extremists spray racist slogans on mixed school and Settlers daub anti-Arab graffiti on Nablus village
Jewish extremists spray racist slogans on mixed school
2/7/2012 – JERUSALEM (Ma’an) — Jewish extremists sprayed racist anti-Arab slogans on the walls of a mixed school in Beit Safafa, East Jerusalem on Tuesday.” Death to Arabs”, and “Kahane was right” were sprayed in Hebrew on walls in the school’s playground, Israeli radio station Reshet said. Both Jewish and Palestinian students attend the…. Related: ‘Death to Christians’ sprayed on Jerusalem monastery and Settlers daub anti-Arab graffiti on Nablus village
Settlers daub anti-Arab graffiti on Nablus village
2/7/2012 – NABLUS (Ma’an) — Israeli extremists sprayed racist slogans on houses in a northern West Bank village overnight, a PA official said. Ghassan Doughlas said a number of settlers tried to enter al-Lubban al-Sharqiya village after midnight, and some were stopped by local guard committees. However, a number of the group had already daubed anti-Arab…. Related: Jewish extremists spray racist slogans on mixed school and ‘Death to Christians’ sprayed on Jerusalem monastery
Foundation: Israeli archeologists dig cave under Palestinian homes
2/7/2012 – JERUSALEM (Ma’an) — Israeli archeologists are continuing to excavate an ancient cave that runs under Palestinian homes in occupied East Jerusalem, the Al-Aqsa Foundation for Waqf and Heritage said Tuesday. Foundation representatives visited the al-Kittan cave, also known as Zedkiah’s Cave or Solomon’s Quarries, and say archeologists are digging under….
Farmers, internationals plant olive trees near Bethlehem
2/7/2012 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — Local farmers and international volunteers planted olive trees in the Bethlehem village of al-Khader on Monday as part of an ongoing advocacy initiative to protect Palestinian land. The Alternative Tourism Group and the YMCA-YWCA began the olive planting program on Feb. 4, and it will last until Feb. 13. On Monday….
Soldiers assault man in Jenin
2/7/2012 – JENIN (Ma’an) — Israeli forces assaulted a man in Jenin on Tuesday morning, witnesses told Ma’an. The unnamed man was stopped at a flying checkpoint near the Jenin village of Yabad. Witnesses said that soldiers took the man to a nearby area of olive trees where they began to assault him. They….
Haniyeh meets Kuwaiti leaders
2/7/2012 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Gaza premier Ismail Haniyeh met Kuwaiti leaders in a visit to the Gulf state on Tuesday, noting his commitment to the success of the deal to form a new Palestinian cabinet reached in Doha on Monday. Haniyeh met with Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Crown Prince Nawaf Al-Ahmad….
Officials to meet in Cairo to announce government
2/7/2012 – CAIRO (Ma’an) — A delegation of Hamas officials have arrived in Cairo as President Abbas and PLO members are expected to arrive within the next few days to announce the structure of a transitional government. Fatah leader President Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas chief-in-exile Khalid Mashaal signed an agreement in Doha on Monday which stipulated….
Doha agreement divides political opinion
2/7/2012 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — The Doha agreement signed on Monday by President Abbas and Hamas chief Khalid Mashaal has been welcomed and criticized in equal measure by politicians and analysts. Hamas official Ismail al-Ashqar told Ma’an that the agreement “contradicted basic Palestinian law and overstepped the Palestinian Legislative Council.”He urged President….
Israel allows 220 truckloads of goods into Gaza
2/7/2012 – GAZA CITY (Ma’an) — Israel opened the Kerem Shalom crossing on Tuesday to allow 220 truckloads of goods into the Gaza Strip. Palestinian liaison official Raed Fattuh told Ma’an that one truck of flowers was also exported from the coastal enclave….
EU launches $2.8 million support to olive farmers
2/7/2012 – BETHLEHEM (Ma’an) — The European Union has contributed 2. 2 million euros ($2. 8 million) to support Palestinian olive farmers, a statement said Tuesday. The program, implemented by Oxfam GB and the Palestinian Agricultural Relief Committees, will increase the Ministry of Agriculture’s capacity to create a good business environment for producers, and….
Stolen calves seized in the West Bank
2/7/2012 – RAMALLAH (Ma’an) — Police in Ramallah seized 13 calves in the West Bank late Monday, after they were reportedly stolen from Israel. Over 70 calves were reported stolen in Israel, Ma’an’s correspondent said. Head of customs in Ramallah Hussam Khalayleh said only 13 had been recovered. An investigation has been….
Syrian forces kill 95 in Homs as bombardment resumes
2/7/2012 – AMMAN (Reuters) — Heavy bombardment of the Syrian city of Homs resumed on Tuesday after at least 95 civilians were killed on Monday in an offensive to put down a popular revolt against President Bashar Assad’s rule, activists and residents said.” The bombardment is again concentrating on Bab Amro. A doctor tried to get….
Gulf countries recalling ambassadors in Syria
2/7/2012 – DUBAI (Reuters) — Gulf Arab countries announced on Tuesday they were recalling their ambassadors from Damascus and expelling Syrian envoys in response to worsening violence in Syria.” The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, current head of the council, announces that the GCC states have decided to withdraw all their ambassadors from Syria and also demand that all….
International Solidarity Movement
Entering the deadly zone, demonstration in front of Erez
2/7/2012 – International Solidarity Movement – 7 February 2012, Chroniques de Palestine – Since 2008, demonstrations are organized in front of Erez in Beit Hanoun. This is in defiance of the “no go zone” imposed unilaterally by the Israelis. Any person who approaches the Green Line is under risk of being shot at. In fact many farmers; or rubble collectors have been…. Related: Chroniques de Palestine
In Photos: Settlers and Israeli military violently steal land in Kufr Qaddoum
2/7/2012 – International Solidarity Movement – 6 February 2012, International Solidarity Movement, West Bank – On February 5 the residents of Kufr Qaddoum noticed several soldiers and illegal settlers on their lands who were plotting how to illegally seize land from the village. Upon arrival, International Solidarity Movement received word that indeed the colonizers were planning an action to seize land today….
Palestinians demand justice: 52 days and Khader Adnan is dying to live
2/7/2012 – International Solidarity Movement – By Aaron, 7 February 2012, International Solidarity Movement, West Bank – On Monday and Tuesday Palestinians rallied for Khader Adnan and all political prisoners before regional offices of the Red Cross, demanding that the organization takes a solid stand for the rights of more than 5000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israeli prisons. Al Khalil…. Related: Take Action Now To Support Khader Adnan
Damascus faces diplomatic isolation as Gulf states expel Syrian envoys
The National 7 Feb 2012 – Russian foreign minister insists Bashar Assad has promised that all violence will end, reform is under way and he will talk to the opposition.
Recuperated FNC member is finally sworn in
The National 7 Feb 2012 – Ghareeb Al Suraidi suffered a heart attack and missed the first session.
Is Palestinian handshake much ado about nothing?
The National 7 Feb 2012 – It seems many observers – both Palestinian and Israeli – are unimpressed with a recent accord between Fatah and Hamas in Qatar.
Education minister faces grilling
The National 7 Feb 2012 – There were fears about pupils’ grades as FNC member raises concerns about three-term school year.
We’re not too posh to push, say mothers
The National 7 Feb 2012 – Doctors say the number of mums choosing to have cesarean sections is increasing at hospitals around the UAE.
Food-poisoning register in pipeline
The National 7 Feb 2012 – If two or more cases are detected from the same suspected source, the hospital must immediately report it electronically to the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).
RAK reverses cycle of energy use
The National 7 Feb 2012 – Case study will look at how homes in the UAE can be made more energy efficient and cheaper to run using a Swiss building standard.
On the campaign trail, India’s dynasty grooms the next heir
The National 7 Feb 2012 – Priyanka Gandhi brings Delhi sophistication to the family’s rural heartland, but it may be her less charismatic brother who gains.
Facebook user sent for psychiatric tests
The National 7 Feb 2012 – Police arrested the man, a graphic designer from Egypt, after being tipped off about the offensive posts.
Erdogan seeks allies in campaign to oust Assad
The National 7 Feb 2012 – Turkey launches a campaign for international cooperation against the regime of Bashar Al Assad, while continuing to support the Arab League’s efforts to stop the violence in Syria.
Citizens told ‘your vote protects Yemen’ in single candidate presidential election
The National 7 Feb 2012 – Abdurabu Mansur Hadi, the interim leader and vice president, has been endorsed by all parties represented in parliament and will be elected to replace Ali Abdullah Saleh on February 21.
Tamim’s father says there’s no justice
The National 7 Feb 2012 – Appeals court agrees Egyptian tycoon and former state security officer should not be executed for murdering singer in Dubai.
Colorado, Minnesota, Missouri vote for Republican Party presidential nominee
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Top officials at Zionist organization Hadassah probed over funds
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Israel’s treasury and unions in last-ditch attempt to prevent general strike
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Izabo band chosen as Israel’s rep in Eurovision
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Zahava Gal-On sweeps Meretz leadership
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Renowned Jewish film director questioned at Israel airport for sexual harassment
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
On U.S. visit, Israel’s Lieberman thanks Clinton for resolute stand on Iran
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Russian FM: Syria’s Assad willing to accept expanded Arab League mission
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Severe haze causes airport shutdowns across Israel
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Haaretz exclusive: Organizer of Gaza flotilla sought assistance from Assad’s office
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Russia FM meets Assad, seeking ‘swift stabilization’ in Syria
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Madonna to launch MDNA world tour in Israel
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Jerusalem monastery, Jewish-Arab school defaced in suspected ‘price tag’ attack
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Assad forces renew bombardment of Syria’s Homs, day after at least 100 killed
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
Iran calls U.S. ban on its assets an ‘antagonistic’ move
Ha’aretz – 7 Feb 2012
When life hands you fruit and nuts, make a Tu Bishvat Seder
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2012
Israel’s Grand Canyon town struggles to shake off sand
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2012
Rabbi Elyashiv, one of the most revered figures in ultra-Orthodox community, in critical condition
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2012
Israel’s last remaining abandoned Arab village, Lifta, gets reprieve as judge voids development plans
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2012
General strike set to cripple Israel on Wednesday
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2012
Public outcry forces Palestinian PM to suspend austerity measures
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2012
Israeli officials: Terrorists may get Syria’s weapons
Ha’aretz – 6 Feb 2012
Sinai Says: Maccabi Tel Aviv fans should appreciate Blatt
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – The criticism leveled at Maccabi Tel Aviv coach David Blatt over the past couple of weeks is truly baffling.
Court rules against demolition of empty Lifta homes
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Tender canceled for construction of luxury villas in neighborhood on capital’s western slopes.
Orlev, Hotovely urge caution on cancelation of custody law
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – 50-year-old law automatically awards custody of children under six to their mothers in divorce cases.
‘25% of elderly forgo heating for financial reasons’
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – On February 1, electricity prices increased by 6.6%, meaning a 20% rise in total over the last six months.
Regulator approves first Beduin solar license
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Contract to develop solar field was first signed a year-and-a-half ago, will be funded by US gov’t agency.
Bill: Girls who lie about religiosity must serve in IDF
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Knesset panel drafts law that would force those found to have lied about their observance to dodge IDF service to enlist.
Rabbi Elyashiv, 101, in critical condition
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Generation’s top arbitrator of Jewish law on respirator, under anesthesia.
Hamas men who hid out in J’lem Red Cross are indicted
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – District Attorney indicts the two for membership in a military terrorist organization and illegally residing in Israel.
‘Come learn with us,’ says coexistence principal to vandals
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Executive-director of Hand in Hand bilingual school in J’lem says cooperation between Jews, Arabs bothers vandals’ perspective on life.
‘Elections won’t keep DC from pushing peace’
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Former ambassador to US Sallai Meridor says Washington concerned about Iranian threat no less than Israel.
Strike will ground 4,000 travelers at B-G Airport
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – IAA to operate a situation room to manage complications arising from strike, as well as handling of arriving, departing flights.
MDA proposes discounts on ambulance debts
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Members of the public owe Magen David Adom some NIS 300 million for emergency ambulance services.
‘Power flower’: Israeli ‘tulip’ sprouting solar energy
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Amid the cactus-strewn mountains of Andalucía, in southern Spain, a bright yellow Israeli tulip stands tall.
Who is expected to strike?
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – The following is a list of who will participate in the general strike; Egged and Dan bus companies to run as usual.
Pending breakthrough, general strike set to begin
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Histadrut, Finance Ministry hold late-night negotiations on status of contract workers.
Gal-On wins Meretz leadership race
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – MK takes some 60 percent of vote in battle against MK Ilan Gilon, vows to make Meretz “a large and influential party.”
Unity or peace
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – The idea that it’s impossible to reconcile a Fatah-Hamas unity deal with an Israeli-Palestinian peace initiative was not clear to all.
Candidly speaking: The erosion of Israeli leadership
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – If enough MKs were willing to prioritize the national interest, promoting electoral reform would be one of their greatest priorities.
Romney’s lead dips despite wins, poll shows
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Reuters/Ipsos poll shows 29 % of Republicans back Romney for president, Paul surpasses Gingrich for 2nd place.
Inside Out: Netanyahu’s ‘Sharon moment’
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Prime Minister Netanyahu, though not a celebrated general like Sharon, has proven to be a skillful politician and tactician.
In My Own Write: Of courage and comfort
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Suppose you never believed you had real control of your life?
‘Hezbollah will choose response to strike on Iran’
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Nasrallah says Tehran will not dictate to Hezbollah how to react to Israeli strike on nuclear facilities.
Lieberman: New Iran sanctions send ‘very important message’
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – On first official visit to Washington since 2010, foreign minister praises US measures against Tehran’s nuclear program in meetings with Clinton, McCain and Ros-Lehtinen.
PM: Strike won’t solve contract workers issue
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Eini, FM meet again before strike after earlier meeting produces no results; Finance Ministry prepared to negotiate all night.
Palestinians slam selection of Abbas as unity PM
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – “This is a scandal…it turns Abbas into an autocrat with absolute powers,” senior Fatah official says.
PA: Write only nice things about your leaders
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Palestinian Authority security forces monitor Palestinian Facebook activity, criticism should be directed only against Israel.
Boteach declares intent to run for Congress
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Rabbi would run as Republican in New Jersey’s 9th district, wants to “bring Jewish values into the political discourse.”
IDF faces near-shutdown come April 1
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Due to cuts to defense budget, Gantz tells officers they’ll need to reduce training exercises at start of April.
Israeli hackers take down Hamas website
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – “IDF Team” take responsibility for attack, warns that the website that hosted the Hamas site will be next target.
Gulf states recalling ambassadors in Syria
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announces that the GCC states have decided to withdraw all their ambassadors from Syria,” the council says.
State asks for hearing of Holyland witness
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Tel Aviv District Attorney submits request for preliminary hearing, citing need to ensure witness’ health for testimony.
Top 5 nature spots in Jerusalem
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Get in the spirit of Tu Bishvat and take a moment to experience the nature surrounding the city.
Dust storm from North Africa fogs Israel
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Environment ministry recommends those suffering asthma, the elderly and young children to avoid physical activity.
Chabadniks in India deny espionage charge
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Shneor Zalman, Yaffa Shenoi say they were invited to country by local Jewish community of Kochi.
Histadrut, Treasury meeting ends without progress
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Eini, Steinitz to schedule another meeting before strike; Finance Ministry prepared to negotiate all night.
Histadrut, Treasury meet before general strike
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Finance Ministry prepared to negotiate all night; workers to strike for change of contract workers’ employment status.
Queen of Pop busy as she readies for world tour
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Madonna to arrive in Israel 2 weeks before concert; producer: “It’s as if she is in the process of making ‘aliya'”
Eshel testifies over alleged harassment
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – PMO chief of staff arrives at the civil commision’s investigation’s branch after extending his leave from office.
Police: Only 10% of bank robberies end in charges
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Figures emerge during a special Knesset meeting; police seek doubling indictments to 20%.
Syria resumes assault on Homs as Russians visit
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, intelligence chief Fradkov arrive in Damascus for talks; over 95 killed in Homs.
‘Price tag’ vandals attack J’lem monastery, school
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – Anti-Christian graffiti spray-painted near Valley of the Cross Monastery; mixed Jewish-Arab school also attacked
Histadrut, Treasury to meet before general strike
Jerusalem Post 7 Feb 2012 – In protest of the employment status of contract workers, general strike is set to begin; Yishai: Contract work is “humiliating.”
Gov’t earmarks NIS 845m. for Dead Sea rehabilitation plan
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2012 – The plan will include renovations to tourist infrastructure at the Hamei Zohar and Ein Bokek areas.
UN chief Ban ‘appalled’ by Syrian assault on Homs
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2012 – UN‘s Ban “strongly condemns” the mounting death toll, says Syrian violence “unacceptable before humanity.”
TA hands out saplings to children for Tu Bishvat
Jerusalem Post 6 Feb 2012 – Recipients include volunteer bodies, young students, therapeutic institutions and community centers.
Letters: Rights and protest in the Middle East
The Guardian 7 Feb 2012 – The press attache for the embassy of Israel claims Israel does not mistreat Palestinian child prisoners ( Comment , 2 February). But he cannot refute reports of the mistreatment of teenage Palestinian prisoners ( Special report , 23 January) or…
Bahrain Braces for More Shia Protests
IPS It is far from Pearl Roundabout, the scene of last year’s crackdown on pro-democracy protestors, but for now Mughsha, a village in the northern district of Bahrain, serves as the centre of the country’s ‘Arab Spring’ movement.
Europe Fears a Summer Attack on Iran
IPS The appeals to Israel by numerous European diplomats attending the Munich security conference last weekend have led to growing concern that Israeli plans to attack Iran are imminent.
2,600 Bedouins threatened with displacement as Israeli settlements expand
Uruknet February 7, 2012 – The “E1” area of the West Bank, comprising 12 square kilometers, lies between the Maale Adumim settlement and occupied East Jerusalem, curling around and separating the Palestinian towns of Anata and Abu Dis. While E1 is home to roughly 2,600 Bedouins, Israel has prevented any Palestinian development there so that Maale Adumim…
Palestinian rights group condemns Syrian war crimes’
Uruknet February 7, 2012 – Adalah – the Legal Center for Arab Minority Rights in Israel issued a press release on Tuesday denouncing the Syrian regime’s attacks on its own citizens. The organization – whose name means “justice” in Arabic – said that the attacks amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity, violating international criminal law…
Doha agreement divides political opinion
Uruknet February 7, 2012 — The Doha agreement signed on Monday by President Abbas and Hamas chief Khalid Mashaal has been welcomed and criticized in equal measure by politicians and analysts… Political analyst Mustafa Sawwaf, however, criticized the legality of the Doha agreement, saying it is “null because Palestinian basic law does not authorize the president to…
Top official: drone critics are Al Qaeda enablers
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – The New York Times Scott Shane reported this morning on the Bureau of Investigative Journalism study I wrote about yesterday, detailing that the U.S. drone program, as the NYT put it, “repeatedly targeted rescuers who responded to the scene of a strike, as well as mourners at subsequent funerals.” Shane’s article contains…
Military Resistance 10B4: Death by Prescription Pad
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – The American Civil Liberties Union asked a federal court Wednesday to force the Obama administration to release legal and intelligence records related to the killing of three U.S. citizens in drone attacks in Yemen last year. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, charged…
012 (Warning: Graphic Videos)
Uruknet February 6, 2012 -The number of martyrs thus far has risen to 74, among them 4 children and 4 women: 47 martyrs were in Homs, 12 in the Damascus Suburbs (Zabadany,Saqba, Madaya. Hazza, Daraya), 9 in Idlib, 3 in Damascus (Kafar Souseh,Dummar City), 2 in Aleppo, and 1 in Qalaat Madiq in Hama…Homs: A large number…
Video: Guantánamo Panel Discussion in Washington D.C. with Andy Worthington and Lawyers Tom Wilner, Darold Killmer and Mari Newman
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – … Introducing the Q&A session, I spoke briefly about the “Close Guantánamo” campaign and the now-closed petition on the White House’s “We the People” website, asking President Obama to fulfil his promise to close Guantánamo, and also reminded those attending that, while criticizing Congress for inserting provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act (…
Iraq: Shi’ite-Led Govt. Still Targeting Rivals, Even As Cabinet Drops Boycott
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – The Shi’ite-led government in Iraq has selected new targets for harassment: Iraqiya spokesman Haider al-Mulla and two other lawmakers. This comes despite recent efforts by Iraqiya to lessen political tensions that threaten to ignite a sectarian war. Meanwhile, at least two Iraqis were killed and 26 more were wounded over the last…
IDF Torturer Doron Zahavi Wants to Sodomize Arabs and Get Medal for It
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – Doron Zahavi, who still can be called only “Captain George” in the Israeli media, has gone public with his grievance against the IDF, which employed him to torture kidnapped Arabs who were thought to have intelligence about affairs in Lebanon or Syria, specifically Israeli prisoners of war. Among those he worked his…
Youth Conference and more
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – …On Sunday 5 Feb 2012, villagers from Al-Walaja and international supporters went to the area where the Israeli apartheid authorities were still destroying lands to build a wall that will isolate the villagers from their remaining lands and allow for further expansion of the illegal colonies of Gilo and Har Gilo. Already…
Otherwise Occupied / For the sake of his dignity
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – Khader Adnan has already broken a Palestinian record for the longest solo hunger strike. Yesterday he passed his 50th day as a hunger striker, protesting what he regards as humiliating practices exercised by Shin Bet security service interrogators. Posters displayed at support rallies have above his portrait the statement: “Dignity above food”,…
South Africa to step up cooperation with Palestine and increase sanctions against Israel
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – The South African government is looking at plans to step up its support for Palestine. The Minister of Arts and Culture, Paul Mashatile, made the announcement during a press conference in Pretoria last week to announce that a Palestinian delegation, including Mr. Mashatile’s counterpart, Siham Barghouthi, had met with representatives of the…
“Forget About Him, He’s Not Here” Israel’s Control of Palestinian Residency in the West Bank and Gaza
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – This report describes the arbitrary exclusion by the Israeli military of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians since 1967 and documents the impact that exclusion continues to have on individuals and families. The way Israel’s military has exercised its control over the Palestinian population registry – the list of Palestinians whom it considers…
Amnesty to Israel: Release or try Khader Adnan, gravely ill after 51 days hunger strike
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – Amnesty International today told Israel to release or try Khader Adnan, the gravely ill Palestinian prisoner who has been on hunger strike for 51 continuous days, ever since his arrest by Israeli occupation forces in the West Bank on 17 December. Amnesty’s demand came as Musa Adnan, Khader’s elderly father, announced that…
Mustafa Tamimi’s brother arrested in Nabi Saleh
Uruknet Mustafa Tamimi’s brother arrested in Nabi Saleh February 6, 2012 – Today, Ma’an News Agency reported on its Arabic site that a brother of murdered activist Mustafa Tamini was arrested last night in an Israeli raid on Nabi Saleh. An excerpt of the article translated from by Mira Nabulsi : Clashes took place last night in Nabi…
Hamas Leadership Leaves Syria
Uruknet Monday February 6, 2012 – The last member of the leadership of the Hamas party left Syria on Sunday, in an attempt to separate the party from the Syrian government’s crackdown on protesters. Previously, the Hamas party had not taken a strong stand on the Syrian government’s crackdown on protesters, and was criticized by the international…
U.S. drones targeting rescuers and mourners
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – On December 30 of last year, ABC News reported on a 16-year-old Pakistani boy, Tariq Khan, who was killed with his 12-year-old cousin when a car in which he was riding was hit with a missile fired by a U.S. drone. As I noted at the time, the report contained this extraordinary…
Sectarian clashes continue in north Yemen, at least 55 killed
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – Fierce clashes flared up in the northern Yemeni province of Hajjah between Shiite al-Houthi followers and Sunni tribal alliance fighters, claiming the lives of at least 55 and wounding scores of others. Al-Houthi rebels carried out an offensive on Sunday and Monday on some Sunni-held posts in Kashar area of Hajjah; however,…
Breaking: Settlers and Israeli military move forward with plan to steal land
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – As of 2:00 PM today it was reported that two army jeeps were still on site in Kufr Qaddoum, in addition to one police jeep, while illegal settlers had left the scene of today’s violent incursion. Abu Ashraf, pictured below being dragged by Israeli military, is now in a local hospital with…
Profit Driven Prison Industrial Complex: The Economics of Incarceration in the USA For every 100,000 Americans, 743 citizens sit behind bars
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – For anyone paying attention, there is no shortage of issues that fundamentally challenge the underpinning moral infrastructure of American society and the values it claims to uphold. Under the conceptual illusion of liberty, few things are more sobering than the amount of Americans who will spend the rest of their lives in…
Judge tries to strip Iraqiya MP of immunity
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – Iraq is setting records for executions — over 50 this year so far. Al Mada reported on Thursday that the Iraqi Embassy in Riaydh (Saudi Arabia) was explaining that although they were carrying out death sentences, they did not have any Saudi prisoners who were of or worked for the royal family…
Israeli soldiers detain 60-year-old blocking settler tree planting
Uruknet February 6, 2012 — Israeli forces detained a 60-year-old man obstructing Israeli settlers from digging up land in Qalqiliya village Kafr Qaddum on Monday, witnesses and security officials said. Yaqoub Ishtawi tried to block a group of Israeli soldiers and settlers from razing village land, activist Murad Ishtewi told PA news agency Wafa. Soldiers beat Ishtawi…
Gunmen kill five Tawarga refugees in camp
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – Gunmen have killed five Libyan refugees at their camp in a Tripoli suburb, residents and hospital sources say, underscoring the volatility in the country months after Muammar Gaddafi’s overthrow. Residents of the camp, black Libyans originally from the town of Tawergha, say they are being persecuted over accusations they collaborated with Gaddafi…
American veto history: Protecting occupation, apartheid
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – A few comments criticized my post on Syria for comparing the Russian-Chinese Security Council veto on the resolution condemning Assad’s repression of the anti-government protest to American vetoes on resolutions criticizing Israel. See, for example, this strange blog post, which in the usual spirit of right-wing propaganda, accuses me of opposing the…
A Fatah-Hamas unity deal but celebrations in Gaza absent
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – Rallies, fireworks and traffic jams in support of the Doha Declaration, an agreement signed on Monday between Palestinian factions ruling the West Bank and Gaza, Fatah and Hamas, were unusually absent from Gaza city’s streets. Following previous announcements of unity between the two factions, Gaza city was witness to large-scale rallies. Monday’s…
Text of Doha Declaration of Palestinian Reconciliation
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – Under the patronage of HH the Emir of the State of Qatar and based on the reconciliation accord held in Cairo under the auspices of the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt between the Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Chief of the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Hamas Politburo Khalid Mishal, a meeting was held…
Interview with Injured French Activist in Nabi Saleh
Uruknet February 6, 2012 – Do you remember the moments right before the Israeli border police fired at us? Amicie: “I was discussing with Diederik [the Dutch activist who was injured in his waist] about when we were going to leave to Ramallah. We agreed to stay for five more minutes. I wasn’t aware of when I…
Bahrain releases Canadian pending protest trial
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 A judge in Bahrain has released on bail a Canadian of Kuwaiti origin who was jailed five years for his role in Shiite-led protests last year in the Gulf kingdom, his lawyer said Tuesday.
German court caps Jewish ghetto pension claims
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 Some 22,000 Jewish people confined to ghettos under the Nazis during World War II are entitled to smaller pension payments than they initially claimed, a German federal court ruled Tuesday.
Commerce returns to Iran-Iraq border river
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 Commercial traffic has resumed on the strategic Shatt al-Arab waterway after a three-decade break with the official opening of a port for oil giant Shell, an Iraqi official said on Tuesday.
US mother pleads guilty in meth breast milk death
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 A California woman accused of killing her infant son by breastfeeding him after she used methamphetamine has pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter.
Saudi Qaeda leader sentenced to death in Iraq
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 Iraq has sentenced to death a Saudi man who was an Al-Qaeda leader in northern Iraq, the Higher Judicial Council said in a statement released on Tuesday.
Syria ‘very different’ from Libya: US Senator Kerry
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 US Senator John Kerry said Tuesday that the crisis in Syria was “very different” from events that led to NATO-led strikes in Libya and called for a new push to get Russia and China to back…
French MPs storm out after opposition Nazi jibe
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 Members of France’s ruling UMP party stormed out of parliament in protest after an opposition legislator appeared to compare Interior Minister Claude Gueant to a Nazi for remarks he made that not all civilisations were equal ….
Yemen sole presidential candidate starts campaign
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 Vice President Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi, Yemen’s acting head of state since veteran leader Ali Abdullah Saleh agreed to step down, launched his campaign for a February 21 presidential poll.
Police, editor & regulator apologize over hacking
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 British police, an editor and a press regulator took turns to express regret over their role in the phone hacking scandal Tuesday.
Russia denies threatening Qatar in UN talks
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 Russia’s U.N. ambassador denied reports that he suggested Qatar could be “wiped off the map” during contentious negotiations over a Syrian peace resolution last week.
No cigar: Economic embargo on Cuba turns 50
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 When it started, American teenagers were doing “The Twist.” The United States had yet to put a man into orbit around the Earth. And a first-class U.S. postage stamp cost 4 cents.
Two arrested in Germany suspected of spying for Syria
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 German police arrested two men in Berlin Tuesday accused of spying on opponents of the Syrian regime in raids involving some 70 officers, federal prosecutors said.
Vandals attack Jerusalem monastery, school
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 Vandals attacked a monastery in Jerusalem and a prominent school with a mixed Jewish-Arab student body on Tuesday, and police said they suspected Jewish extremists were behind the violence.
Harry Keough of 1950 US World Cup team dead at 84
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 Harry Keough, who played for the U.S. football team that famously upset England at the 1950 World Cup, died Tuesday at his home in St. Louis. He was 84.
Putin meets Russian celebrities ahead of polls
Daily Star 7 Feb 2012 Russian strongman Vladimir Putin, who is seeking a third Kremlin term, met on Tuesday with a galaxy of celebrities in an apparent bid to secure their endorsement ahead of March polls.
Ecuador court fines journalists $1 million each
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – ….
Meretz names MK Gal-On new chairwoman
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – Head of party’s Knesset faction wins 60% of votes against MK Ilan Ghilon, Ori Ophir ….
Treasury offers additional NIS 200M to improve contract workers’ terms
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – ….
America’s Jews are worried
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – Op-ed: Israel’s Orthodox monopoly has changed from unpleasant annoyance to strategic threat ….
Israel embassies preparing for Iran strike?
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – Diplomats stationed in Israel request gas masks, prepare contingency plans in case of missile attacks; envoys fear that thousands of dual-citizenship Israelis will seek evacuation ….
Eini meets Steinitz in attempt to prevent general strike
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – ….
MK Zahava Gal-On elected Meretz chairwoman
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – ….
Ashkenazi: Israel should press for sanctions on Iran, keep military option
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – ….
Eshel denies harassment allegations
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – PM’s bureau chief questioned for nine hours but sources say he failed to provide ‘all the answers’; inquiry to continue Wednesday ….
Teen sprays tear gas aboard bus; 9 hurt
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – Police say incident was a prank, not attempted terror attack; witnesses claim Bedouin boy who fled scene is at fault ….
Vilnai to be named envoy to China
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – Minister for Home Front Defense Matan Vilnai to be named ambassador to China; Lieberman welcomes appointment ….
MK Tibi disciplined yet again
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – Arab lawmaker earns second suspension after he is banned from delivering speeches in Knesset for one month over rude comments made to Ethics Committee chairman ….
Meretz party electing new leader
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – MK Gal-On says under her leadership leftist party will no longer be just a ’boutique, north Tel Avivian movement’ ….
The Palestine business
YNet News, 7 Feb 2012 – Op-ed: Palestinians seem to have an economic interest in perpetuating conflict with Israel ….
Why Did Palestinian Refugees Come to Lebanon?
Intifada-Palestine: 7 Feb 2012 – Lebanon’s Palestinian refugees cannot return home, but are treated with disdain in Lebanon. How can an impossible situation change? by FRANKLIN LAMB Shatila Camp, Beirut During a workshop at the American University of Beirut last year on the subject of the… more
Neighborhood pays price of being on wrong side of Israel’s wall
LA Times 7 Feb 2012 – Residents of Kafr Aqab are cut off from most public services, even though they live within Jerusalem’s city limits. The once-upscale area is now a slum. With a fire extinguisher in his hand and a cellphone pressed to his ear, principal Sameeh abu Rameelh battled…
In Syria, a once-quiet village tips into revolution
LA Times 7 Feb 2012 – Anadan, in the shadow of Syria’s second-largest city, has expelled Bashar Assad’s forces. It’s another tug on the tightrope the president is walking. Off the main highway leading from the city of Aleppo, a handful of Kalashnikov-toting young men, some with their faces covered in…
Syrian opposition says dozens killed in attack on Homs
LA Times 7 Feb 2012 – A makeshift clinic that was treating the wounded was among the targets, activists say. The U.S. suspends embassy operations in Damascus. Syrian government forces pressing a ferocious crackdown shelled the central city of Homs on Monday, opposition activists said, destroying a makeshift clinic and leaving…
Egypt names 43 targeted in democracy groups inquiry
LA Times 7 Feb 2012 – Sam LaHood, son of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, and 18 other Americans are among those to be prosecuted on charges of violating foreign funding laws. Egyptian state media Monday published the names of 43 people accused in a politically explosive investigation of pro-democracy groups, saying…
United States Planning to Slash Iraq Embassy Staff by Up to Half
New York Times 7 Feb 2012 – The State Department is preparing to cut the huge diplomatic presence it had planned for Iraq, a sharp sign of declining American influence in the country.
Crisis in Iraq Lulls as Sunni Ministers Return to Cabinet
New York Times 7 Feb 2012 – The incremental step sets the stage for a national conference to seek a durable solution to a sectarian drama that erupted in December.
Russian Envoy Calls Syria Visit ‘Very Productive’
New York Times 7 Feb 2012 – With the city of Homs reported to be under renewed bombardment, a senior Russian envoy held talks with President Bashar al-Assad on Tuesday.
In Egypt, a History of Distrust of U.S.-Aided Groups
New York Times 7 Feb 2012 – Authoritarian rulers have long viewed pro-democracy groups financed by the United States with deep suspicion, but never has a government gone as far as Egypt’s.
Iran Parliament Summons President to Testify
New York Times 7 Feb 2012 – Lawmakers on Tuesday summoned President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to answer questions about “irregularities” related to his handling of the country’s struggling economy, the semiofficial Mehr news agency reported.
In Iran, Rising International Tensions Take a Toll
New York Times 7 Feb 2012 – A rising sense of panic has emerged among the middle class, which is bearing the economic burden as the West ratchets up pressure on the Iranian regime.
Merkel and Sarkozy Address Syria, Greece and French Election
New York Times 7 Feb 2012 – At a joint news conference, the two leaders pledged not to allow Russia and China to block international action to stop the bloodshed in Syria.
Khader Adnan, political prisoner held without charges, is near death after 52 days of hunger strike
Mondoweiss – (Photo: Sharif Solaiman/Addameer) Khader Adnan is on the 53rd day of hunger strike. Passing his 42nd day, the Palestinian political prisoner entered the fatal high-risk stage of starvation, where he is risking cardiac arrest and the inevitable shutting-down of major organs. The Palestine News Network reports…
Jewish Forward Attack on Penn BDS Neglects Iarael Lobby’s Restraint on Free Press
Tikun Olam – This past week, Penn students held a three day conference on the BDS movement. The conference had been preceded by coverage from the local Jewish community pro-Israel newspaper and the Penn student newspaper which was not only antagonistic and unbalanced, but specifically, a professor penned an…
Settlers spray ‘Death to Christians’ on a monastery, ‘Death to Arabs’ on a school and ‘Mohammad is a pig’ on village entrance
Mondoweiss – link to www.boston.com link to www.maannews.net link to www.ynetnews.com link to www.maannews.net link to theonlydemocracy.org link to www.imemc.org link to www.hrw.org link to feeds.latimes.com ‘–> link to www.maannews.net link to www.maannews.net link to www.palestine-info.co.uk link to www.palestine-info.co.uk link to www.palestine-info.co.uk link to www.palestine-info.co.uk link to www.alternativenews.org…
Leading Zionist historian was first to say ‘Israel Firster’– in 1960
Mondoweiss – A History of the Jews (1965) In recent weeks, the Israel lobby has drawn a red line on the use of the phrase “Israel Firster.” Supporters of Israel have lectured us that it is an “anti-Semitic trope.” Here, for instance, is Spencer Ackerman denouncing the use…
Beinart to cast Obama as caped hero of two-state-solution in forthcoming book
Mondoweiss – From the Amazon listing for Peter Beinart’s forthcoming book on Israel’s crisis, and American Jewry’s role in it. I guess this is a second-term book, a book envisioning a breakout role for Barack Obama in his second term, pushing Israelis to allow the creation of a…
Faith-based communities provide fertile ground for boycott movement
Mondoweiss – Martin Luther King Jr Last Saturday at the Penn BDS Conference, Susan Landau moderated a panel of religious speakers who are supporting boycott and divestment. Here are her opening and closing remarks. INTRODUCTION. The road to equality and justice is well lit by people of faith….
Abbas to Head Fatah-Hamas Unity Government Till Planned Elections
Tikun Olam – Khaled Meshal and Mahmoud Abbas meet in Qatar Mahmoud Abbas and Khaled Meshal have reached an agreement that would provide for Abbas to head a Palestinian unity caretaker government until elections, which would happen sometime in the coming months. The deal comes on the heels of…
ALBA countries join chorus condemning “Contras” interference in Syria
Voltaire Network 7 Feb 2012 – In a statement issued during the eleventh summit of the organization, the nine members of the ALBA bloc (Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America) rejected on Sunday the “systematic policy of interference and destabilization” that seeks to “impose by force on the Syrian people…
Egypt: Country Stresses Palestinian Inalienable Right to Establish Independent State
allAfrica.com 7 Feb 2012 – [Egypt Online] Ambassador Ahmed Fathallah, the 1st undersecretary for Foreign Ministry said on Monday 6/2/2012 that Egypt will not stand silent regarding the Palestinian status under the unjust Israeli occupation.
Tunisia: Growing Concern Regarding Fate of Country Diaspora in Syria
allAfrica.com 7 Feb 2012 – [Tunisia Live] Following the release of a statement by the Tunisian Office of the President – condemning the Syrian regime and announcing plans to expel the Syrian ambassador to Tunisia – several political parties voiced concern over the security of Tunisian nationals residing in Syria.
Tanzania: Iran Celebrates 30 Years of Islamic Revolution
allAfrica.com 7 Feb 2012 – [Daily News] THE Republic of Iran in Tanzania celebrated the thirty three years of Islamic revolution as well as the contribution of Imam Khomeini who is the founder of the Islamic revolution. The celebrations took place on Saturday in Dar es Salaam, where several people attended…
Tanzania: Cultivators to Boost Kilimo Kwanza
allAfrica.com 7 Feb 2012 – [Daily News] THE government of the Islamic Republic of Iran on Saturday donated 100 power tillers together with accessories and 100 units of trailers to Tanzania in a move that aims at reducing importation of wheat.
Re-branding Israeli newspapers to stay alive in a dying market
Joseph Dana 7 Feb 2012 – Newspapers are fighting to stay alive in the digital age. In Israel, the billionaire casino tycoon Sheldon Adelson has turned the newspaper market upside down with his free mass daily Israel Today. The paper is known for its strong right views and support of Netanyahu’s government….
Gulf states fuel Syria isolation
BBC 7 Feb 2012 – Gulf Arab states expel Syria’s ambassadors, accusing Damascus of shunning Arab efforts to end months of bloodshed, as Russian officials visit President Assad.
Iranian president summoned by MPs
BBC 7 Feb 2012 – Iran‘s parliament summons the country’s president for questioning – the first time this has happened since the 1979 revolution.
Iraq bloc ends boycott of cabinet
BBC 7 Feb 2012 – Ministers from Iraq’s Sunni-backed Iraqiyya bloc end their boycott of the cabinet, reducing fears that the national unity government might fall.
Egypt tycoon’s jail term upheld
BBC 7 Feb 2012 – An Egyptian appeal court upholds a 15-year jail term given to a property tycoon for ordering the murder of Lebanese singer Suzanne Tamim.
012!
US Campaign to End the Occupation 7 Feb 2012 – By Anna Baltzer, National Organizer Are you looking for opportunities to educate your community and advance a campaign for boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) against Israel? Or are you gearing up to launch such a campaign? Israeli Apartheid Week 2012 is a fantastic opportunity to do…
Articles
Hunger strike highlights forgotten tragedy of Palestinian prisoners
Aziz Abu Sarah, +972 Magazine 2/7/2012
Khader Adnan’s hunger strike reached its 52nd day with little international attention. Some might think this is due to his association with the Islamic Jihad. However, the Israeli military has not presented any formal charges against him. Adnan is one Palestinian prisoner among thousands, about whom little is known.
In Israel, many simply brush away the issue of Palestinian prisoners by declaring them all to be terrorists. However, they may be surprised to learn that Khader Adnan has not been charged in court, but rather is presently in administrative detention.
There are some 300 Palestinians in Israeli jails under administrative arrest. This form of arrest can last for years without trial. The prisoners do not know what are they suspected of. While holding prisoners indefinitely contravenes the 4th Geneva Convention, you won’t find international leaders calling for the release of Palestinian prisoners, as they called to free Gilad Schalit from the hands of the Hamas government in Gaza.
But even those who do end up in front of a judge find themselves in military courts where the judge, the prison guard and the prosecutor wear the same uniform. They quickly learn there is no hope for justice.
The story of Khader Adnan, who launched his hunger strike in prison 52 days ago, is not unique. A hunger strike is one of the few tools that Palestinian prisoners can use against the injustice they face in Israel’s penal system. Last October, 2,000 Palestinians launched a hunger strike against prison conditions. Khader Adnan, however, has become the face of the Palestinian prisoners’ dignity. Posters of his likeness have become common, with statements like, “My dignity is more important than food,” or ” For every gram you lose from your weight, we gain a thousand grams in our dignity.” Khader Adnan has become a Palestinian symbol against administrative arrest and against the norm of humiliating Palestinian prisoners. more.. e-mail
Yet Another War for Israel?
William A. Cook, CounterPunch 2/7/2012
Justifying Injustice
“Men use thought only to justify their injustices, and speech only to conceal their thoughts.” – (Voltaire: Dialogue XIV, Le Chapon et la Poularde)
Voltaire’s wit often illuminates truth. Consider this revealing “thought” as expressed recently in Alert, the voice of AIPAC to its membership: “Some Americans believe if the Israelis strike Iran, the U.S. will pay the political costs anyway, so it would be better for the Americans to do the job and do it properly. Their clock is a bit different from the one the Israelis hear. Because of their vastly superior firepower, the Americans could strike Iran later, more devastatingly and more sustainably.” How just is it for AIPAC’s mouthpiece to declare that America should “devastate” Iran because it has “vastly more firepower” than Israel and could “do a better job” and “do it properly,” as though this were a clean-up “job” of a waste dump and not an illegal invasion of a member country of the United Nations that has done nothing under international law to threaten the U.S. much less attack it, while the Israeli government and its IDF look on happily content that it is American boys and girls suffering the consequences of the unwarranted attacks and not Jewish boys and girls? Has it come to this, that unnamed Israeli spokespeople, voicing AIPAC’s policies, determine what nation the U.S. should invade without consultation with the representatives of the American people?
Not that this sentiment has not been expressed before. Netanyahu told Piers Morgan the same thing in an interview last year, as I have quoted in previous articles, noting Israel’s Zionist government’s desire to use America’s military as their own claiming that what is good for Israel is good for America. That protestation completes the wit contained in Voltaire’s quote: because Israel is America’s only friend in the mid-east, and the only Democracy, and the only nation in that part of the world aligned with the west, it alone deserves America’s “unquestionable” and “unbreakable” support. more.. e-mail
AIPAC Obtained Missile Secrets
Grant Smith, Antiwar.com 2/6/2012
Declassified State Department files newly relevant
Author Norman F. Dacey made powerful enemies. He turned the cozy estate-planning industry upside-down after publishing How to Avoid Probate in 1965. The book sold 2 million copies as Dacey barnstormed [.pdf] the country advising Americans how to structure their estates to avoid the costs, delays, and publicity of probate by setting up trusts. Dacey engaged in fierce battles with various bar associations who tried to shut down publication of the book by claiming he was practicing law without a license. The tenacious Dacey returned fire, filing scores of libel and First Amendment lawsuits.
Newly declassified U.S. State Department documents reveal a lesser-known but equally intense battle fought by Dacey. The chairman of the American Palestine Committee and close confidant of “Rabbi Outcast” Elmer Berger nearly succeeded in having American Israel Public Affairs (AIPAC) Director Morris Amitay prosecuted for trafficking classified national defense information in the mid-1970s.
In 1975, the Ford administration attempted to sell improved Hawk anti-aircraft missiles to Jordan and duly sent notification containing classified Department of Defense data to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee. AIPAC Director Morris Amitay reviewed the classified document after being informed of its existence “secretly by aides of Senator Clifford P. Case, Republican of New Jersey, and Representative Jonathan B. Bingham, Democrat of New York” according to the New York Times. Amitay and AIPAC quickly mounted a massive campaign in opposition to the missile sale, telling constituent public pressure groups that the weapons were capable of “providing cover for offensive operations against Israel.” After delays, Jordan considered acquiring a similar system from the Soviet Union. more.. e-mail
Stealing Palestine’s resources is illegal, despite Israeli court ruling
Electronic Intifada: 7 Feb 2012 – Charlotte Silver Ramallah 7 February 2012 Israel’s illegal acts of resource pillaging in the occupied West Bank are “benefitting” the Palestinian population, according to the Israeli high court.more
2,600 Bedouins threatened with displacement as Israeli settlements expand
Electronic Intifada: 7 Feb 2012 – Sophie Crowe Jerusalem 7 February 2012 Twenty Bedouin communities in the Jerusalem area, in which 2,600 persons live, are facing displacement to make way for Israeli settlement expansionmore
“Words flower from fragile bodies”: the poignant poetry of Lisa Suheir Majaj
Electronic Intifada: 6 Feb 2012 – Patricia Sarrafian Ward 6 February 2012 Poet Lisa Suheir Majaj writes exquisitely of the profound personal and collective loss that defines Palestinian history in her book, Geographies of Light.more
antiquities down a dusty lane
In Gaza: 4 Feb 2012 – Two years ago I wrote about Gaza’s antiquities , many of which were destroyed in the 2008-2009 Israeli war on Gaza. But until a few months ago, I hadn’t had the privilege of seeing one of them. Unexpectedly one day, while interviewing the Ministry of Agriculture on their many projects, I was taken by Tel Umm Amer, an archaeological site preserving fantastic mosaics and the monastery of St. Hilarion (which I wrote about here , thanks to Abeer Jamal’s information): Few outside of Gaza would consider its history much beyond the decades of Israeli occupation. But Gaza is a historical treasure house. Many of those treasures are now in Israeli museums, and those that remain are becoming difficult to preserve due to the Israeli siege. Gaza, set along the historical silk road and on the bridge between Africa and Asia, was host to civilisations, including the Pharaohs, Canaanites, Philistines, Crusaders, Mamluks, Romans…more
Targeting Syria: ‘Frighteningly Frank’ Plans
Palestine Chronicle: 7 Feb 2012 – By Felicity Arbuthnot ‘The very concept of objective truth is fading out of the world. Lies will pass into history.’ George Orwell – Eric Arthur Blair, 1903-1950 . For anyone in two minds about what is really going on in Syria, and whether President Assad, hailed a decade ago as “A Modern Day Attaturk”, has become the latest megalomaniacal despot, to whose people a US-led posse of nations, must deliver “freedom”, with weapons of mass, home, people, nation and livelihood destruction, here is a salutary tale from modern history. Have the more recent charge against Syria been based on US-UK government papers, only discovered in 2003 – and since air brushed (or erroneously omitted) from even BBC timelines, on that country? (1) In late 2003, the year of the Iraq invasion, Matthew Jones, a Reader in International History, at London’s Royal Holloway College, discovered “frighteningly frank” documents: 1957 plans between then…more
Media Distortions: Ignoring Truth about Syria
Palestine Chronicle: 7 Feb 2012 – By Richard Lightbown The British media was full of sound bites last weekend from politicians expressing outrage against Russia and China for blocking a UN Security Council resolution based on an Arab League proposal for the Syrian crisis. This is the same Arab League that called for the no-fly zone in Libya which precipitated events leading to a death toll five times higher than the current total in Syria. It is supported by the same United States administration which has ordered drone assassinations in Yemen and Pakistan, along with widespread human rights abuses around the world. Along with the same United Kingdom government whose shadowy spooks in MI6 helped to provoke the Libyan uprising, and train Palestinian security forces in the black arts of torture. It is the same French government which armed and trained Libyan rebels; acts which, in the opinion of the chair of the Security Council’s Sanctions…more
Palestinians in Israel – Book Review
Palestine Chronicle: 6 Feb 2012 – By Ludwig Watzal (Ben White, Palestinians in Israel. Segregation, Discrimination and Democracy, Pluto Press, London 2012, 128 pp., 13 Pounds.) With the signing of the Oslo Accords that led to the outbreak of the so-called peace process between Israel and the occupied Palestinian people, the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) abandoned its initial political goals (to realize the right of return of Palestinian refugees and to liberate Palestine from Zionist colonization) for some privileges and turned itself into an obedient servant of the colonizers. Whereas the PLO under the leadership of Yasser Arafat tried to get back some territory from Israel to establish a Palestinian state, Palestinians living in Israel, although suffering under discrimination as second-class citizens, demand Israel to become finally “a state for all its citizens” instead of staying a “Jewish State”. Since the establishment of the State of Israel, the non-Jewish inhabitants have been subject to a second-class…more
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The New Dark Age 